shindayyume

[shindayyume]

Death of a Wallflower ˚ ༘♡.

Minors DNI

Strictly NSFW between mine and @simmetrycal’s oc, William !

The Duke and Baron who are pathetically in love 🤍

It was near midnight, and a long day had it been. Especially for Felix.

He had spent his entire morning and afternoon buried within his work. Keeping up with unimaginable amounts of paperwork he had been procrastinating for so long. 

Now with the sun gone, he finally had the time to look out into his office window. 

It was dark, and filled with a thick silence. The house was already in bed, aside from Alexander, Felix’s most trusted Butler, who came knocking at the door.

It carefully creaked open, and Alexander bowed his head in respect. “Your grace, I had come to check on you after you had not attended dinner tonight. I assumed you were kept within your studies. Is everything alright?”

Felix tiredly smiled, waving his hand up in a playful manner. “I appreciate the care, Alexander. But I am fine, thank you. I think I’ll be heading to my bedchamber now, though.” 

He stood up from his seat, a groan following suit as he stretched out his back.

Alexander nodded. “I understand my lordship, however— Lord Berkshire is here without notice. He’s currently awaiting within the entree hall. Should I send him on his way?”

Felix’s attention immediately perked up. He’s here? So late at night without a single mention?? He could feel his heart beginning to excitedly race against his chest. 

“No- I’ll go greet him myself. The rest of the house has been laid down, yes? You should get some rest, Alexander. I’ll take it from here.” 

Alexander bowed again, “Thank you, your Grace. I shall see you in the morning.” After a quick goodbye, the butler was gone.

Felix only momentarily panicked, he didn’t have a mirror in his office, so he used the faint reflection on the window to mess with his hair. Hoping he looked somewhat presentable- and then, he was off downstairs.

William was waiting anxiously in the hall. Well, he was always waiting anxiously, no matter where he was. He always looked fearful, and uncomfortable in his place. Currently, he is doing exactly that. Nervously holding his hat within his hands, while staring at the nearest painting against the wall in hope to appear less.. vulnerable.

Felix stared at him from across the hall. Just for a second or two, smiling to himself as he watched William simply be himself. He always found it adorable. 

“Lord Berkshire, what a pleasant surprise. You never visit without a notice. Is everything alright?” He approached forward, speaking with each step. 

William turned his head, and like a puppy seeing its owner return home, he immediately softened.

His cheeks went red, and a smile converted with his nervous expression. 

“H-hello your grace. And no! No, everything is perfectly fine. I’m deeply sorry for the intrusion.”

Felix cocked his head, raising an eyebrow. “Oh? Then whatever could you be here for at this hour?”

William seemed to double down now, his head lowering in shame. “I just.. wanted to see you, your grace.” 

Felix’s eyes widened, then he bit on the inside of his cheek. Containing a laugh. He reached a hand up to Williams chin, raising his head back up from its gloomy drop. Then he gently kissed the scar against the other man’s lips. “What an honor..” 

If William were made of ice, he would have melted from the heat radiating off his own face. Though, the eyebags beginning to form under Felix’s eyes caught his attention. “I’m sorry again, for disturbing you. You look tired-“ 

“Ah, don’t apologize, William. I was just about to get ready for bed, unfortunately.. care to join me?” He watched as William’s expression blanked. With a smile, Felix took the other by the wrist, guiding him upstairs without needing to hear confirmation from him. 

To William, it will always feel foreign to step into the bed chambers of the Duke. Even if he was his lover. Felix’s status would always weigh on him, as if William was undeserving of such a successful person. Felix dropped his hand upon entree, sighing with ease as he made headway to the closet. Beginning to slip off his coat and undo the buttons within his vest and undershirt. 

William stood near the doorway cowardly. 

“You’re free to hang your coat and belongings besides mine, William.”

Felix glanced over, 

“Though I’d much prefer if you leave them on for me to undress you myself.” 

The sounds of war practically bombarded Williams' head after those words. He was always so forward.

Felix turned his back towards him, proud of his own ability to make the man such a mess with minimal effort. It really fed into his ego. 

Though out of his surprise, he felt a set of cold hands interrupt him in the midst of unbuttoning his shirt. William had walked up behind him, burrowing his nose within the crook of Felix’s neck while his hands looped around his waist. Assisting him in removing the rest of the buttons. Felix’s face reddened, feeling William’s hardened erection pressed up behind him. 

When they finally removed Felix’s dress shirt, William kissed the bare skin against his neck. Intaking his scent. He always smelt like whisky mixed within a fresh bouquet of flowers. It was the same perfume Adeline would always attend in. It was always his.

Williams' hands eagerly fiddled with the buckle along Felix’s belt. The more seconds that passed, the more desperate he became to intoxicate himself within that scent. 

Felix gasped as Williams Cold hand touched his bare skin, wrapping against the shaft of his dick. Moving in slow, passionate rhythms. There was never a moment of Lust between them, and William slowly began to gain more confidence in that fact. Felix reached an arm back, tangling his hands within William’s hair to hold him as closely as possible. He leaned his head off to the side, allowing more access for his kisses and pinches from his teeth. 

However, Felix felt the warm sensation of liquid run down his shoulder to his chest. Confused, he looked down

And saw red.

Though William seemed unphased, not noticing his own nose was pouring blood since his eyes were shut so tightly. 

Felix didn’t mind it, he was never disgusted by William’s unfortunate quirk. However in such a situation.. he preferred not to continue until he knew the other was okay.

“Uh- William.. you’re bleeding..” 

His eyes shot open, and within a blink of an eye he stumbled back, covering his nose within his hands in pure shame. He was frantically attempting to control it. But failing miserably. His embarrassment was through the roof. Even though this is not the first time this had happened during their intimacy. “I-I’m so sorry your Grace- I’m sorry-“ 

Felix turned around, quickly buttoning his pants back together with a smile. Hoping it would ease William to see he didn’t mind. “Don’t be absurd.. here,” He reached down, picking up the white dress shirt that had fallen onto the ground. Without hesitation, Felix attempted to reach the fabric upward to William’s face.

William pulled back, his eyes wide. “It’ll get ruined-“

“Oh shush” Felix pulled at William’s Wrist, not in an aggressive manner, but with little effort. Because he knew William would buckle down to his care. And he did. Felix held the shirt against Williams nose, using his other hand to push underneath his chin- forcing Williams head back lightly to hopefully stop the bleeding. “I’ll run a bath.” 

Felix held William by the shoulders, guiding the other towards the edge of the bed and forcing him to sit down. “Stay.”

William obeyed, sitting on the edge of the bed with his head uncomfortably tilted back. All while holding Felix’s shirt against his running nose. He didn't mind all too much, after all, the material was stained with that scent of floral alcohol. However, he did feel immense guilt. He had ruined everything. Again.

Felix quietly stepped out from the room, leaving William alone to himself for roughly 5 to 10 minutes. The wait was dreadful for the blood covered man. Sooner or later, Felix came back in, still with the dried blood against his shoulder. He hadn't bothered to clean himself off. “Did the bleeding stop?” His question was answered for him when he saw William seated on the bed, his head down and Felix's once white shirt now dyed red. Williams' own top was also ruined. Though, he was quiet. 

Felix’s footsteps were silent, without a word he looped his arm around Williams, guiding the other up and towards the room across the hall. He was led into the washroom, an expensive one at that. It was a rare delicacy, but now William understood why Adeline would always feel so fresh. 

The tub was filled with water so hot there was still steam pouring from the edges. Though now William knew what took so long. There were candles scattered about, dimly lighting the room with warm light. They released a sweet scent into the air. An aroma of Chamomile. 

“I Hope the temperature is alright. I typically enjoy my baths as hot as possible without it boiling me alive. Though if it's not to your standard, I can redo it for you.”

He turned, facing a completely red baron. William had his head droopy once again, staring at the floor. 

“William? Are you alright? It doesn’t hurt now, does it?” 

“No- no, of course not. I am just… deeply ashamed. I’m very sorry, Felix. Everytime we get intimate, I ruin it by bleeding. And then our moment together is gone. It is humiliating.. you must be disgusted by me.”

Felix could feel the heartbreak within his chest, of course William would feel this way. But it was all within his head. The room was silent. It was a thick tension William wanted to run away from. But then, the unexpected happened.

Felix’s lips collided with his own blood soaked mouth. It wasn’t a simple peck, either. William’s eyes widened, flustered when I felt Felix’s tongue enter his mouth, just to pull away moments later, all while he bit the bottom of William’s lip. 

His blood stained on the others face before Felix lazily wiped it off with the back of his hand. “I suppose that makes me disgusting too. Come, undress and get in the tub.” 

William swears that his heart stopped. He was so entranced by the other man that without a second thought, he was undoing the buttons on his pants. Holding himself back from another blazing erection after such a kiss. 

“I’ll be back in a moment. When I return you better be in that tub” Felix maneuvered behind him, shutting the door for the additional privacy after he left.

With Felix gone, William felt a tab bit of relief, just because he felt like such a fool if he were to continue embarrassing himself in front of the Duke. 

After undressing, he piled his ruined clothing within a near corner before slowly easing himself within the tub. 

He had to admit, he understood why Felix enjoyed the hot water so much. It released all the tension within his body in an instant, and he sank further into the water just to enjoy its hold. 

Felix was fairly quick to return, holding a fresh set of white towels within his arms. Upon seeing William in the water, he smiled. Glad that the other had managed to clean off all the blood on his face. “You clean up quite well, my lord.”

William looked up with a drum in his heart. Here he was, in the most elegant bathroom he had ever seen, soaking in a warm tub while Felix stood beside him with amenities. Calling him My Lord.

The Duke.

The Duke of crane was calling him My lord Like some kind of servant to him. A low baron. 

God, how he just wanted to rush up and bend Felix over within an instant. To fuck him senselessly until he had him whining out my lord again. 

Felix raised an eyebrow, staring back at a progressively reddening William. He looked as if he was going to start bleeding out again, lost in his own world. 

Whatever could this beautiful idiot be thinking. He thought, setting aside the towels on a nearby stool. “Do you mind if I join you?”

No response. 

“William?”

….

“William.” 

He blinked, finally snapping out of his daydream. “I’m sorry- did you say something?”

Felix nearly laughed, finding it utterly attractive. “I asked, May I join you, my lord?” 

William was in heaven. Absolute heaven. “Yes, you may..” 

His perverted eyes were glued onto Felix the enter time the other undid his bottoms. He was already topless, so it was a quick process of him lazily tossing his pants aside. Though William didn’t think Felix would actually join him. He didn’t realize that until the other man was sliding himself within the shared waters.

Luckily, the tub was quite large, with plenty of room for the both of them. But that hardly meant Felix was going to provide William with any space. No, of course not. Felix sat himself in between William’s legs, with his back comfortably pressed against the other's chest. Soon enough, Felix was resting back against William like a large pillow.

William decided to try and make it up to him, raising his hand to rinse off the blood he had gotten against Felix's neck to shoulder area. He watched as the other melted to the touch with a low moan.

Fuck.

Don’t do this. 

But how could he not. After hearing such a cry, he used his hands to wander elsewhere. provocatively roaming his hands from Felix’s chest, waist, and eventually- back down to his groin. Though there was hesitance. William sought his approval before he could break that barrier of desire. 

Felix’s voice was soft, but demanding. “Finish what you started, Baron..” 

It was at that moment when William realized Felix was hard. He was so good at hiding his sexual urges that it completely bypassed William- too focused on his own perverted thoughts. Though William had a guilty pleasure.

He loved when Felix would degrade him to Baron or Berkshire. As if it was his god given need to tend to his grace. The kisses along Felix’s neck returned, and so did William’s hand around his shaft. He started with slow jerks, which proved difficult against the water. Though eventually, they found a pace that had Felix’s chest beginning to rise up and down in unsteady breaths. William felt the pressure of Felix’s head press against his chest, flustered by the deep, quiet moans escaping from his mouth.

They nearly matched Adeline’s. Felix had an impressive vocal range, but never had William heard these sounds escape him before. They were soft, masculine, and erotic.

William could cum just by listening to them.

Felix’s arm extended behind him, his hand once again returning into William’s hair. The feeling was comforting, and urging him to go quicker. 

”yes, William, just like that,”

As the pace got quicker, so did the sounds and Felix’s unkempt breathing. It was the first time William had willingly touched him in this way, normally he was the one getting tended to. Though William found just as much satisfaction in it as any other way. His kisses became messy, introducing his teeth against his lover's skin. Biting at any spot he got the most reaction from. Felix’s hips bucked forward each time he felt Williams' other hand grope at his waist. William bit his ear lobe, whispering lightly,

“Cum for me, my grace..” 

Felix tightened his grip around William’s hair, almost seemingly attempting to hold himself back. “N-no, no not yet.. not—“ he felt the pace of Williams' hand speed up, edging the tip of his dick to an extent he could not keep up with. William felt Felix twitch in his hand, then a pulsing release. A series of moans and light gasps followed as he came against Williams palm. 

Felix still had his head leaned back, only slightly dazed and drunken with erotica. He hadn’t cum so quickly before in a very long time- it was oddly one of his most satisfying.

He needed a moment to catch his breath, a small laugh exiting in between. “Would you like me to assist you as well?”

William was silent. Then buried his face within Felix’s neck. He didn’t have the heart to admit he had also came around the same time Felix did. Without the need of being touched.

Felix only laughed more, Knowing what that silence meant. He gently patted the side of William’s head with his hand that had been buried in his dark hair. 

“… Felix?”

“Hm?”

William hugged his arms around the others waist, silently regretting opening his mouth. “We have never been.. intimate.. not- well- you know, direct- intercourse— fully-“

“If you are talking about penetration, William, I am aware.” 

“Is it because you believe I am disgusting?- in the past, we stopped our.. activities each time after my nose would bleed. It’s never gotten.. further Than that. Or this.” Williams' chest twisted within itself. Perhaps it was the post nut clarity kicking in, but he felt an immense amount of shame. Intercouse was always tricky for him. Especially with Catherine- She had always made him feel as if something was wrong with him.

Felix turned his head, confused, though mostly concerned. “What? Of course not, William. That is such a stupid assumption-“ he sighed “I have stopped progressing any further with you because.. I understand this is new for you. I don’t know exactly how you feel, but it is obvious from your body language that you’re learning to control and understand what you want. What you need, my dear. When we decide to get intimate, I want you to be your uttermost comfortable, and confident. I’ve just been waiting for you to be ready, William. Which is why I’ve only been taking small releases with you.. I have all the patience in the world for you, my lord.”

Guilt? No. Shame? No. Pure, honest love. That’s exactly what William felt. It was strange, foreign even. He had never even gotten nearly as close with Catherine. Only the exact opposite. She made him feel as if his body was a disgrace of his sex. But Felix made him feel perfect. Desirable and attentive.  

He knew what he wanted now.

They sat in silence for just a brief moment, before Felix spoke up. “Come on then, let’s get out of the tub.” 

…

William stood awkwardly in the center of Felix’s bed chambers. Wearing nothing but a towel around his waist. Meanwhile, Felix was only half dressed, shirtless as he rummaged through his closet. 

“I don’t believe I have anything that could fit your stature unfortunately… I can have one of the maids attempt to remove as much blood as they can, though I’d hate to wake them up at this hour.. even then, they will be wet.. Alexander won’t be available until sunrise to have him fetch you new clothes..” 

“It’s alright…” Honestly, William probably would have been fine just returning home in his messed up clothes, though Felix was persistent he didn’t. And of course, he always listened to the Duke. 

“Which only means..”

Felix peaked from the closet, giving William a mischievous grin. “You will have the unfortunate opportunity of.. spending the night with me?” 

Holy. Fucking shit. 

William wasn’t too worried. He doubted Catherine would even notice he had been gone. And if she did, he could always make an excuse that he simply left early in the morning to attend some fake duty. She would believe it. And he would get the bonus of sleeping underneath the duke's very roof. 

“That won’t be an issue.. I greatly appreciate it. Which- bedchamber will I be occupying?”

“Well this one of course”

No. This cannot be real. Felix had to be toying with him. He couldn’t possibly mean.. sharing a bed together? As married pairs frequently do? Together? Them? For the first time as themselves?.. William felt his heart thumping, and of course, Felix did too. Though he was a master at covering up his excitement. 

Felix gave up on trying to find anything that might suit William. There was no way he was bound to have clothing in his size. William was much larger, tall, bulkier.. and now that he was taking a good look at him, Felix spaced out over the rugged look. Williams' hair had been messed up and frizzed out due to his hand having been in it, and was now loosely fallen in his face. 

What a man. William displayed all the characteristics of the working class, though there was elegance blended in between. Beauty and strength conveyed all into one man. 

William noticed him staring, feeling his face heat up as he was just in a single towel. “Felix..?” 

He blinked. Snapping out of his trace with a lost smile. “Ah, sorry William. You’re quite distracting in nothing but your bath towel. Come, lay down. You must be exhausted after being out so late.” 

William shook his head, his legs with a mind of their own as he walked over without a second thought. “You are the one that should be exhausted, Felix.. Have you been working all day?” 

Felix nodded, “Yes, I have been. There have been loads and.. loads of paperwork, documentation, contracts, all sorts of things I cannot even process right now- but I’ve been procrastinating, and decided to deal with them all in one go. I haven’t slept in almost 24 hours.”

William Had not even realized it, but he was being guided into that bed. Like a cobra entranced by its dancer, His body moved without his control while he eyes stayed locked onto Felix. Somehow, they both ended up in bed. Felix sat up against a few pillows, while William had crawled over him like a desperate dog. 

In between Felix’s legs, he melted, low enough to nearly be laying within the other's lap. And instinctively, that’s what happened. William laid his head against Felix’s stomach, his hand gently holding along the inner part of the other’s thigh. 

He never understood what it was, that strange comforting feeling of resting in the man’s lap. Even when it was just Adeline, it made him swoon in an instant. 

Felix’s hand in his hair made it no better. His fingers rubbed into a gentle massage. 

“You deserve your rest, my grace.. I shall not bother you during the upcoming days.” 

“Don’t be a fool. Without your visitation, I would go mad.” He giggled, “I need it in order to survive.”

Luckily Felix could not see his face- since his cheeks turned a dusty pink. “You can always just imagine I am spending time with you..” 

“Oh. But I already do so.” 

Thump.

William bundled up the courage to ask.

“….what.. do you imagine, my grace?”

Felix was hesitant. It was a first for him, where William had caught him in shame. Though he was hardly discouraged from it. “Many things, William.. I imagine you coming over, the house would be empty for reasons unknown. It would be just you and I. We would talk, share a drink, perhaps over a game of chess. Though, you would be distracted of course. Because my foot would be underneath the table, teasing your calf and pressing against your erection. 

You would end up losing, of course. 

Sometimes I imagine you get frustrated and flip over the chess board. Just so you have space to get to me from across.”

While listening to the fictional story, Williams' ears started to burn. He began to kiss Felix's inner thighs. And his stomach.. and hips. Pulling down his pants little by little to get to the bare skin. 

“You would be fuming. Hot and agitated but not because you have lost, but because you are so desperate for release. I’d be cornered within the seat, and you’d be toppling over me with desperation in your eyes. The air is hot and electric.. with your face only meters away from mine.”

William slowly lifted himself up, his kisses rising along with him. He kissed up his stomach, chest, neck.. stopping when they were face to face. He was looming over him, with slightly droopy eyes. “Like this, my grace?” 

Felix’s face went red. He felt entrapped. Like a small rabbit that had just been tackled by nothing other than a huge werewolf. The thought made him hard. “Yes, William, just like this..” 

“And then what, my grace?” Williams' breath was low, almost at a whisper. It made Felix’s heart race. 

“And then.. we’d kiss.. you’d kiss me as if it were oxygen you were so desperate to intake..”

Their breaths synchronized for just a moment. Inches away from one another lips, teasing each other with their own yearning. Finally, William bellowed down. Interlocking his lips with Felix’s in a way that made it feel as if he was dying, and needed Felix to survive. 

Their tongues fought against each other, stealing each breath of air they tried gasping for in between lips.

William was hard. Painfully, aching hard underneath his towel. His cock throbbed in torment. 

Fuck, he was so needy. He needed this. He needed Felix. He needed to wet his cock, pumping it in and out of the other while he leaked out loads of his cum.

Fuck. He thought. 

He could not hold back any longer. 

“Felix,” He whined out in between panting, their lips never staying apart for more than a few seconds. Felix’s arms were looped around William’s neck, locking him close. 

“Yes- William..” 

“I know what I want now..” 

“And that is?” 

“You, Felix. It’s always been you..” 

His entire body melted from William’s words. He had little time to process them however, as William was desperately removing the trousers from his body. Then his own towel, quickly pushed off to the side as he regained this new profound confidence in himself. William grabbed ahold of one of Felix’s legs, raising it just enough upward so he could grind his erection against the other's entrance. Purposely teasing the both of them from the sensation.

William had broken the kiss, moving to Felix’s neck as he drowned himself within the now faint perfume. 

He bit against his neck, sucking on the skin until it became irritated and red. 

He wanted to mark him up all over, exposing Felix for what he really is.

His.

The Duke. Being marked by him. Showing everyone that they belong to one another, and that William is the only person ever capable of satisfying such a pristine man. 

Their heart rates were in sync by now. Pounding against one another in song. William caught a look of submissiveness in Felix’s eyes, just for a brief moment. He saw how the other desperately wanted this as well. He had been daydreaming about it all this time after all. 

William pulled back just a bit, enough so he could properly position himself. Slowly, he inserted the tip. 

He heard Felix’s breath come to a halt, making him freeze.

“Are you alright- am I hurting you?” 

Felix shook his head, eager to get his body relaxed as quickly as possible. “Ah- no, William, I am okay.. please, continue.” 

William took it slow, watching Felix’s expression intensely as he pushed further in. He felt a tight squeeze around himself, that alone would have been enough to make him cum. 

And oh, did he so critically want to. 

He waited, impatient. “Can I move, my lord? Please..”

Felix inhaled a breath, nodding. “Yes just- begin slowly, Baron..” 

Baron. Fuck, how could he hold back. 

He had to restrain himself. Slowly, he pulled out his erection, just to ease his way back in repeatedly. He wanted to make sure Felix felt every pulsing inch of him. 

“Please, Felix let me go faster,” he whined. 

Felix was holding back so much. He was biting harshly against his knuckle, with his back tensely arched back. It was proving difficult to be as quiet as possible. And he severely underestimated William's size. 

William leaned forward, his cock hitting against a sweet spot that made Felix nearly yell in pleasure. 

William looked at the other with puppy eyes, kissing his cheeks. “Felix, please.. please, let me..” 

Felix felt his body tremble, giving William a nod. “Go faster..” 

It was not something he had to be told twice. 

William held onto Felix’s waist, his hold tight enough to keep the other still and comfortable, but the pressure of his fingertips would definitely be leaving marks later. 

His pace started off sloppy, with no real rhythm besides the sound of their skin coming into contact back and forth. Gradually however, he found a pace that slowly began to build that tight knot within his lower stomach. 

William couldn’t hold back his own moans.

His eyes were shut loosely closed, with his forehead pressed against Felix’s own. 

He heard every little whine, groan, and cry from the larger man. He was like a dog in heat, hopelessly pumping his cock in and out of his lover. 

Felix’s eyes were the only ones slightly ajar, he was struggling to keep them open. Though, they widened when he saw streams of tears falling from Williams face, onto his own. 

He was crying. 

Sobbing even, since the water seemed endless, however he did not look saddened. It concerned him. Felix moved his hands- holding William’s face in his palms with delicacy. “William.. My dear, are you alright?” 

Williams' eyes peaked open as his movements slowed, confused as to why Felix would ask. He was enjoying himself immensely. Could he not tell? Was he doing something wrong? 

no, Felix’s moans proved otherwise. So then why-

It took him a moment to discover he had tears running down his cheeks, and that his vision was blurry from the water. It was an odd sense of freedom. for years he had lived, never experiencing the intimacy of it all.. the pleasure and sexual satisfaction. There was something deep within making the tears flow, though he did not care in the moment to figure out what. Or why. He simply just wanted to feel good with his lover. 

“yes, yes I’m fine, my grace.. you feel so heavenly.. I’m going to cum soon,” he whimpered out, filling Felix with long, deep strokes. 

Felix returned his arms around William’s shoulders. His nails sank deep within his skin, leaving behind scratches of red that left a sensual sting. “Ah- you may cum inside, my lord.. I want to feel you finish..” 

Williams' head was spinning like crazy. He could feel the tension building, which only caused his hips to move in a quick, unrhythmic pace. His spills of precum had already left behind its mess, dripping down Felix’s skin and onto the bedding. Neither of them cared however. All he could do was stare at the other’s flushed red body. Fucking him sensless and hard, over hearing the beds headrest bumping against the wall behind them. 

Then, Williams' breath hitched. And his chest tightened. He moaned out a strained sound, feeling his cock twitch as it came deep within Felix’s entree. 

He came a lot. Almost twice as usual, the orgasam itself felt as if it lasted for minutes. William made a broken cry, watching as his own member milked itself empty. As he pulled out, strings of semen followed with it.

The two rested in over stimulated silence, nothing but their panting shared between them. William noticed Felix had also came sometime in between- he could feel the hot liquid against his stomach, creating a mess of them both.

William gave them both time to intake the cold surroundings air that was attempting to regulate their body temperatures. He then leaned forward- kissing Felix’s lips softly. 

“I love you, William.”

His eyes shot wide- only having heard it once before from the other man. It still felt special, more intimate than sex itself. 

“I love you too, Felix.” 

They fucked endlessly for the rest of that night. Over the desk, against the glass window, on the bed once more, twice more, even a third time, and the chair within the corner of the bedroom. Williams' stamina and need for sexual release had never been so high, as if he were making up for lost time after all these years.

William hadn’t done much “sleeping over.” Needless to say. By sunrise, he had asked the house maids if they could clean his bloody clothes, or perhaps even find him new ones he could return some other day. 

He didn’t want to leave the house after that night. He didn’t want to leave Felix, but he also was terrified of gaining suspicion. So he was left with no other choice. He very exhaustedly, said his deepest goodbyes, then headed home.

Felix however, was bedridden. 

He ordered to excuse himself from any duties he had planned that day. Cancel any events or work, just to simply lay in bed after a good deep cleaning.

He slept the entirety of the next day from beginning to end.

That was until William stopped by again at midnight.

[shindayyume]

Shadowing Heart .𖥔 ݁ ˖🦢˚. ᵎᵎ

The newly season has begun. Where people may gather to find their most suitable match. Unfortunately, The Duke of Crane avoids marriage at all cost, but what happens when his heart is stolen by a simple baron? and even worse, what would he do if they were to discover Adeline?

Minors DNI

『••✎••』

That night was like no other. It was a rush of freedom, enchantment, and full of intolerable men. But there was one man in particular who had caught my attention. 

An elder lady approached the stage, speaking with her entire chest in order to grab the whole room’s attention. “Good evening Ladies and Gentlemen. I hope you are having a wonderful night with us today. Allow me to make it even more special.. with the beautiful and talented Miss Adeline..” Her words purred out from her throat, and a few crowded members cheered and applauded, eagerly awaiting the big reveal.

The knot in my chest unraveled itself, like a ribbon being plucked from an expensive gift. Ecstasy replaced anxiety.

My feet began to move forward, my clicking heels guiding me forward underneath the warm spotlight. I always adored it. It was as if I was being showered with a golden hug, followed by the applause and whistles of the guests below. 

And not a single one knew of the truth. 

“Good evening, my loves..” 

desperate stares and smiles glued themselves to me. Eyeing down my revealing dress as if I hadn’t purposely made it so provocative. 

I lived off of that attention.

Behind me, within the dark corners of the stage were the band members impatiently waiting behind their instruments. 

As I scan the room, I open my mouth to continue my introduction into the song, but my breath is caught in the back of my throat. 

As I become the one in admiration.

In between the many faces, I spot one I had never laid eyes on before. A very distinctive look. His hair was pulled back, clean and professional, but his features screamed of a rugged man hidden underneath.

The top of his lip was faintly scarred, and he had a beautifully crooked nose. Those imperfections weighed out any beauty standards. 

I found them remarkably attractive.

Our eyes meet for a split second, almost too quickly to process. But it was enough for me to pan the stranger up and down, then flashing a wink as I teased my bare skin out from the slit of my dress. My eyes cross over to a group of men across the room, just for a moment.

When I look back to the stranger who caught my attention, he was gone. As if a ghost the entire time.

Maybe it was my imagination.

…

Laughter fills the room, dimly lit candles scattered about as I sit within my sister’s vanity. She sits in front of me on a stool, helping remove the makeup from my face that she had plastered on just hours before. 

“And then what happened? Did you and Lord Charlotte…?” She shimmied her shoulders playfully, as if implying something.

I huff and roll my eyes, trying to cover the obvious grin on my face. “Of course not. Not after our last encounter together.” I quickly scanned the door, making sure it was shut and silent before leaning closer to my sister in a whisper. “He finished quicker than I could undress.. how embarrassing! I hadn’t even gotten my shoes off..” 

Eliza snorted, quickly rushing her hand to her face to cover her laughter. “I didn’t take lord Charlotte as the type! How scandalous~..” 

“His poor wife..” I add on with a giggle, watching as she sets down the cloth she had been using on my face. Eliza grabs my cheeks within her hands, pressing the sides of our faces together and turning our heads in the direction of the vanities mirror. 

My dark brown hair now laid short, mixing into Eliza’s elegant curls. 

“There you are, brother.”

I pause for a moment, a soft smile across my lips as I stare at our reflection. The dark curls of my wig laid neatly against the bed's edge behind us, with my red dress and corset lazily tossed right beside it. It felt good to breathe after being dressed up in such restrictive clothing. But looking into the mirror, I saw the lonely look of a man.

That being my own.

Eliza pulled back, still holding my face as she looked at me. “As beautiful as ever. Clean and freshly done for…. The first ball of the season?” She made a cheeky smile, as if egging me on.

I groaned, giving my eyes a roll as I reached to pull her hands away. “I am tired of attending these balls, Eliza. I don’t wish to marry. I’d be taking up space by attending those events and you know this. Alexander will attend with you on my behalf.”

“Oh come on! You know just as well as I do that your fate is inevitable. You will have to find a wife and bear an heir, or- you will die on the streets. Won’t you give it a try just this once? Please?”

“Eliza..” My smile diminishes.

She is right, to an extent. After our Parents passed, I was quickly given the title of Duke without a second thought. It became a surprise to all. Suddenly, I went from living in the shadows to the man of the house. People are always expecting more of me.

Some man I am, playing dress up to hide the fact that I am encased by sin.

“You could.. go as Adeline?” 

My back straightens out in surprise. Shocked that she could even suggest such an idea. Such a stupid and risky idea- “you’re toying with me. Are you insane? attend The first ball of the season as Adeline?” 

Eliza stood stern, serious with her idea. “Why not? Lady Adeline, my closest cousin. And my guest of honor. I will be there right beside you as your cover! As I have always been. I will protect you. And you.. can introduce yourself as you.”

I raise a brow at my sister, honestly considering the idea- then shake my head. “Absolutely not, it is too much of a risk. If someone were to find out-“

“No one will find out brother. I swear it.” She reached her hand out, placing it on top of my own. “Tomorrow. You will rise from bed, have breakfast, attend to your duties, and then spend the rest of your night introducing Miss Adeline to the most pristine guest of the gala.” 

Defeated, I regained my smile. It could work..

…

I have not said a word since we left the estate. My hands are clammy, and I can feel the nervous rattle of my bones in my legs. Awaiting to collapse at any moment. Thankfully, my arm is looped tightly around my sisters as she guides me through the hall. Our assistant, Alexander, walks behind us defensively.

I had never worn such a heavily layered dress before. The fabric is thick, modest, and weighing me down. And I could hardly breathe as the corset pinched my back. 

Eliza had managed to convince me to dress unlike I ever have before. Professional, as a true duchess. Expensive diamonds and jewels hung around my neck, and within my hair held millions of pins and clips that tied it back neatly. Heavy. Everything felt so heavy, and I carried the crushing weight of it all.

However, in such a scene, it caused many necks to snap in our direction.

And we had not even arrived at the main event yet.

Eliza whispered as softly as possible, feeling my tension radiating off. “Calm yourself, Adeline..”

How could she be so calm? As if she was the one hiding secrets in between her legs. No. I shut my eyes as tightly as possible, taking a large inhale.. then exhaling as my eyes open once again. And I am greeted by a large ballroom filled with the Ton of London.

Laughter is interrupted from the balcony, as a flock of women pull their attention to the entrance of the room. Eyeing a new lady in soft blue. “Oh my.. who is that?” Chirped one of the Ladies behind her fan. In front of her, Miss Berkshire turned to look down. Raising a suspicious brow at the pair of women breaking through the doors unattended. 

Her voice is snappy with malice.

“Who. is. That.”

It is quick to my understanding to realize the attention me and my sister have pulled in. Or rather so- the attention I have pulled in. 

Everyone was already aware of my sister, the Duchess of Crane. 

But for once, she was without the protection of her brother, the Duke. And now exposed with a strange woman of unknown origin. 

My eyes are darting all around the room. Picking out faces I was familiar with, and ones I had never seen before. Worried that they might find familiarity in me as well.

Then, Eliza steps in front of my view. Holding both of my hands steady. I assume she could feel their dampness even through my gloves. “Keep your head up, my sister. Just as we practiced.” 

She eased a large amount of my anxiety, and I nodded. Just then, a flock of women approached our side. It was Lady Harrington, Alexandrite, Hammington, and a few others I was unaware of. Their eyes took quick scans of me in interest, before bowing their heads in a sign of respect. Me and my sister follow the action before Mrs. Harrington speaks her mind.

“My grace, what an honor to have you attend. And we see you’ve brought a guest? To whom do we own the pleasure of?” 

“This is my cousin, Lady Delacroix. She has left her home in France, temporarily visiting us for this season.” 

I bow my head again after the introduction. “Lovely to meet you all.” 

And without hesitation, I am flocked by swarms of young women asking me all sorts of questions and spewing thousands of compliments. It is hard to keep track of surly, but I am relieved by the positive attention.

But within the shadows, there are many whispers over my appearance. Overtime I have mastered the elegance of a woman, however the way I display it is not as proper as these Lords and Ladies would prefer. above, in the balcony, are the elder women and mothers of the season. Making their nasty remarks to one another in secrecy.

My sister Eliza however, is blissfully unaware of it all. She prefers it that way. To ignore the glares and rumors. Being the duchess after all, many suitors ache for her hand. So her priorities lie elsewhere.

And without the Duke, there are many hungry sharks in open waters.

After some time, Eliza and I group together with a few younger ladies, mindlessly chatting about the ball's affairs. One lady in particular, Miss Claude, caught my friendly interest. She was going over her recent discovery of songwriting. 

I held my glass of champagne to my lips with interest, listening in as she explained the work of her most recent song, Titled Shadowing Heart. 

“Might I have a listen sometime? It sounds like a wonderful piece..” 

“Oh of course! Perhaps I could use a second set of ears to help me point out any errors. It would be a delight.” 

The group of ladies giggle along with me and my sister, until we are interrupted by the strong scent of rustic elegance. A tall man bows before us, introducing himself with a polite smile. “Lady Downberry, Claude.. Your Grace.” He bows again, and my sister follows suit.

Unintentionally, a switch flicks on in my head. I spotted his intentions from the start. And I recognized him within seconds. 

Lord Ellington. He has a very wide reputation of debt behind that display of wealth and confidence. I should know. I’ve lent money out to him before.

“Your grace, May I take this dance?” His eyes are glued to my sister, and I could tell by her own expression, she was nervously blindsighted by his looks. 

Just as she was about to reach forward and take his hand, my natural instincts had kicked in. “I do hope this is about your unpaid loan, Lord Ellington? After all, The Duke has been trying to get in contact with you for some time but alas letters have been left.. unanswered. I’m sure you’re eager to explain to Miss Calderón as to why.” 

As I stood with my chest puffed, I slowly began to realize my place. I am not the Duke. And suddenly, my world begins to grow dark and shaken as the air is left with a thick, silent tension that not even my sister could save. 

Ellington shifts uncomfortably, looking at me. “I’m sorry, I don’t believe I’ve had the.. pleasure to meet your acquaintance..?” 

Eliza grabs my forearm, pulling me a step backward. “Excuse her, my lord. This is my dearest cousin, Lady Delacroix.” 

“Pleasure,” he says reluctantly.

I do not respond. Instead, my sister takes her lead. “How about that dance?” And the two step away. The moment I watch her go, it is as if a cold air rushes up my back. I had messed up. 

“My, Lady Delacroix.. you certainly are forward.” 

I nervously smile, attempting to play it off. “I’ve done my research.” 

Just then, another man approaches. He is young, freshly groomed and polished. It catches my attention quickly as he bows his head. The entire time, his eyes are laid on me. 

The other girls seem to swoon and whisper their worried thoughts to one another. Clearly, this man is of high regard. I did not notice him at first, but then it came to me.

“Good evening ladies.”

His voice is charming, magnetic even.

“Lord Huntington,” One of the ladies responds. Ah. That’s where he is from. He is the Viscounts brother. 

Though he pays them no attention. His eyes set on the diamonds that decorated my neck. “Always a pleasure to see new visiting faces.” 

I nod, setting down my glass with interest. “I’m flattered. Delacroix.”

“Well, Miss Delacroix. May I have this dance?” He extends a hand, and I pause. Taking a long look at the perfectly white glove that covered his hand. With slight hesitation, I took it. And I am swept away onto the dance floor. 

It wasn’t my intention to agree to a dance tonight. After all, it is my first time dancing as a woman.

Though I am surprised to discover how gentle he is with me. As we begin our dance, I am focused on my footwork far more than I should be. And Lord Huntington begins to talk.

“Pardon the rush of pace, Lady Delacroix, I-“

“Please, just call me Adeline. I am not comfortable with formality.” 

He takes a breath, smiling. “Miss Adeline. I see you're friends with the duchess? Odd how you were never mentioned before.”

I nod, a knot forming in my throat as I try to keep as calm as possible. “Yes. We are cousins, and due to a family error.. I am visiting from France. I try to stay out of the spotlight.”

It was ironic for me to say. Afterall, the entire room had their eyes glued to the dance floor. Watching as Huntington's perfect form complimented my very own. Though, I had a strange feeling that there was a particular set of eyes on me… 

“A shame that is. A woman of such beauty as yourself shouldn't have to shy herself away.”

“Luckily for you, Lord Huntington, I am here.”

“That you are. And the Duke, are you also close with him as well? A bit odd he did not attend this evening.”

“We are not acquainted, no. It is very rare that I see the duke. He is known for his lack of attendance, which is nothing surprising. He is a busy man after all.” 

“Yes, a busy Rake indeed. I hear he is also well known among our lower class individuals.”

I swear I heard the band's music come to a halt. But it was just me as I stopped in place, looking at Huntington with a raised brow. “Whatever do you mean?”

He became reluctant to answer, stopping in the middle of a dance was sure to cause attention. But i knew the huntingtons. They were always so eager to gossip. 

He lowered his voice,

“Surely you are aware? The Duke is reluctant to marry, leaving one to wonder if he seeks out women at all.. He is almost sickeningly homosexual.. A poor display for his sex.”

The corset around my waist felt as if it was tightening itself. Leaving me unable to breathe. Frustrated, my brow frowned. He was insulting me to my face, and I would not allow it. “You yourself would make a fine addition to the very definition of it.” 

If I could, I would curse the man further, but with all eyes pointed within our direction. I knew the further my anger arose, the more at risk I was. 

Huntington stood in shock and offense, unable to make out his next words. I didn't wish to hear anymore anyways, so with a heavy shove against his shoulders, I moved past him and off the ballroom floor.

I cannot breathe. This corset isn’t allowing me to breathe. Through my overwhelming panic, I spot one of the server’s gliding through the crowd with a silver plate in hand. It held a few untouched glasses of champagne, and a tall bottle of the toxin itself. 

Through my slippery footsteps, I manage to steal the bottle as our paths cross. And straight ahead I am in sight of the empty hallway leading out. 

This is all too much for me. I couldn’t handle the singular mess up I had just done. Those glances worried me.. what if someone noticed? What if I was recognized? They will talk about my affairs. My disgust for women. Or worse– what if everyone wakes up tomorrow knowing that Felix Calderón, The Duke of Crane, is attempting to impose as a woman. 

I cannot breathe. 

As my heels march through the hallway, I enter the outdoors. And I am rushing into the open garden ahead, heels getting stuck within the soft grass and soil below me. I do not know where I am going, but I end up in front of a small pond. Staring at my reflection underneath moonlit waters. Frustrated, and gasping for a breath, I reach back and tear into the ties of my corset. Loosening the hold around my waist immediately allowed for me to take a gasp of cold night air. 

But my reflection still taunted me. I reach down, grabbing the side of my gown a few layers underneath the top one. Then- tear the seam apart. The dress is expensive, embroidered with the finest gems and fabrics. And here I am, removing layers of it to better suit my needs. At this moment I do not care. I simply tear away at the annoying extra fabrics until I no longer feel hot underneath.

Lastly, I remove the poking pins stuck within the curls of my wig, allowing the silk hair to fall gracefully in place as the tight hairdo undid itself. 

And finally, Adeline felt at ease,

After another long look into the rippled water, I use my teeth to pop open the cork from the bottle in hand. And take a long, deserved sip. 

“Ma’am, are you alright?”

I choke back the alcohol in my mouth, raising a hand to quickly wipe away any excess from the corner of my lips as I turn my entire body around to the surprise visitor. I swear I had run out alone, yet I was standing feet away from the very man who had left me stunned the other night.

I recognized the scarred lip and crooked nose instantly. 

With a bottle in my hand, and clothing ripped, my image was terrible. This was not good. “my apologies, I was not expecting an audience–” 

I attempted to cover the bottle behind my back, straightened myself upright in an attempt to save the little modesty I had left. 

“I- No, no it is me who should apologize. I do not mean to startle you.” There was a shakiness in his voice. One that intrigued me. Upon closer inspection, I noticed his hands were slightly trembling. It was easy to miss unless you were looking hard enough. Along with that, I could tell his jaw was clenched tightly after he had stumbled over his words. 

And just like that, I became a nuisance to the man. Taking a step forward, I leaned closer in his direction. “You- Are familiar.” I laugh, “Haven't I seen you the other night, at the parlor?” 

His stuttering was flattering. As if I had discovered his weakness, His face flushed a rosy color. I could tell by his simple expression that he was eager to deny it. 

He cleared his throat, frozen in place as I began to make steps forward. Like a lioness circling its prey.

To my surprise, however, the last thing he did was deny his presence. 

“Y-yes i had attended only for a mere moment.. Unfortunately I was– in a rush, and couldn't s-stay for long..” 

His gaze followed as I creeped around him, my hand gently guiding across his shoulders from behind. My own eyes examined him from head to toe, admiring the intricate embroidery of his coat. “I must say, my lord, you clean up quite well.” 

How exhilarating, I thought. I always adored a submissive man, one that was so easy to embarrass. It was open entertainment, and made me feel so… free. As I return back in front of him, I greet him properly with a curtsy. No longer caring about the bottle I attempted to hide. “Adeline Delacriox. Though you may just simply call me Adeline.” 

I wish I knew what he was thinking. To my assumption, it was definitely nothing pure. I tried not to laugh as I watched his eyes dart from the peaking of my leg stalking, to my eyes. He was struggling to hold as much respect as possible. 

Struggling to hide the imprint in his pants as well.

“Adeline..” I heard his whisper, as if the name belonged to a goddess. I noticed him start to scratch at his palm with his thumbnail, giving me a smile. “Berkshire,” He replied. “I had recognized you as you were rushing out from the banquet. Curious if everything was alright?” 

“Oh everything is just splendid, my lord.” I announce sarcastically. Raising my bottle of champagne to the air before taking another sip. I could tell he found it amusing rather than unflattering. What a strange man.

I swung back around, staring back at my reflection once again in the water. “I apologize. I am not fitted for this lifestyle of elegance. It became overwhelming, so I fled.”

“Do not be ridiculous..” He muttered, I could hear his footsteps finally making headway as he stood besides me. The both of us staring at the shared waters. “Y-you– make a fine addition to this season..”

I huffed a short laugh. “I doubt you came all this way to mock me.” 

“N-no! Of course not-” His reflection looked startled, clear that it wasn't his intention. I turn my head back to look at him, “so, Lord Berkshire. Why.. Did you come out here?” Just to make him weaker, I raised the rim of the bottle upwards. Pressing the cold glass near his lips. “For a drink?”

I could feel his body shutter even without me touching him. The man was smitten. And I knew I could have my fun with him. My eyes widened as he grabbed onto the bottle, our fingers lightly brushing against one another during the trade off.

With only minor confidence, he took a drink from it.

“The other night was only my second time performing at that parlor. It was recommended to me by a dear friend. My first performance was a roaring success, and I was showered by pure devotion. But as I debut here.. I feel misplaced. Do you also feel that way, my lord?” 

“I wish I could have stayed to partake.. And to an extent, yes, I do. I try not to mingle within the affairs of others. Each passing season is another birthing of scandals left and right. It becomes draining.”

“Ah yes, the chatter of the divine spread quickly, do they not? Luckily.. I'm quite good at keeping a secret.” My words purr from my lips as I reach to his cravat, adjusting the fabric. I could hear his breath hitch in his throat. “Have any of the ladies' debuts interest you, Berkshire? I hear the duchess has become quite popular..”

“Y-yes, she has–”

“She's caught your interest?”

“No! I mean, the duchess is a beautiful woman indeed, and of high honor.. Any man would be lucky to take her hand. However, She is not the one who captivates me…”

“And whom is it? The one who.. captivates you?” I can feel heat radiating off him. and I could hear the shingle of his chains that held him back from pouncing on me. My own heartbeat was racing. I was toying with a man I found so utterly attractive, and clearly, he felt the same. 

“Misses Delacroix…” he whined out, almost begging me to stop. Yet his body pleaded for more of me. I giggle, tracing my nail over the bump of his nose then stepping back. “You will visit again, won’t you? At the parlor?” 

“Most certainly.”

“Then I will arrange a private room for us. Where we may get to know one another a little better after my performance..” the corner of my lips turn up into a grin. And I watch as his face progressively gets redder. 

“Adeline! Adeline!” The shouting from ahead catches our attention, and Berkshire panics. He immediately takes a large step away from me, holding out his hands in panic to prove he hadn’t laid a finger on me. 

Though he had a death grip on the bottle's spout. It made me giggle.

Thankfully, the voice was only Eliza. She frantically ran up, holding the edges of her dress to not track mud. Quickly, she takes both my hands and examines me. “Oh my dear are you alright?! Are you hurt? Have you fallen?? My word, you look a mess- what happened?? Why are you out here unintended??”

“One question at a time please.. I am fine. I was only conversing with Lord Berkshire. He was.. assisting me during my distress.” I gave Eliza a specific look. One that could only be read by a sibling's understandment. 

“I see..” She hesitantly turned to Berkshire, and he bowed within an instant. 

“Your grace-”

“Lord Berkshire, I do wish you could prevent this from spreading. Lord knows what the duke may do if he were to discover us conversing in secrecy… Can I trust you to prevent others' acknowledgments?”

“Oh course, your grace. Your secrecy is safe with me.”

Eliza sighed, relieved as she bowed her head to thank him. She grabbed me by the arm, quickly rushing me forward. “If anyone asks- simply tell them we have been summoned by the duke to return home early. Do hope to see you again, Lord Berkshire. Thank you..”

“Wait- we are leaving?? It is still early and I was just about to–” Eliza shush’s as we hurried forward. With one last look behind my shoulders, I provide Berkshire with a farewell smile. He responds back with one of his own.

Eliza whispers to me as we make headway back to our carriage. “What were you thinking?? It is a relief no one else had found you two out there… and you look horrid! Come now, Alexander is awaiting us at the carriage..” 

As Eliza scorns me, I stare down at my shoes while we walk. All I can think about now is why I ended up this way in the first place. Confrontation. Secrets. Desire… I was afraid. 

 Ignoring her disarray, I interrupt. “Eliza,’

“I would like to attend the next ball as the Duke. And I would like to find a wife.”

[shindayyume]

I Miss Your High. 𓍯𓂃𓏧♡

Takashi and Kosuke move to Tokyo, and it’s the best four years of Takas life. Or.. was.

Enjoy Sims 😁🤍

『••✎••』

I promise I wasn't always like this. I mean, not this bad. All my life I've had to rely on medication. 

Syrups, pills, injections, you name it. I've tried it all. Only back then, it was to keep me alive. Nowadays, I wish it would kill me. 

I was born with a condition called Atrioventricular Septal Defect. In short, it means I was born with a hole in my heart. 

As you can imagine, it caused me a lot of problems. 

“Mommy.” wasn't so keen on dropping all her money on medical bills instead of drugs and alcohol. But luckily, she found value in me being alive. Sure, money was tight, but she now had a direct supply of medication to fill her cabinets. Once she found out that my condition had a small chance of fixing itself on its own, she took that as a get out of bills free card.

I never had the surgeries I was required to get, so it's a miracle I'm even alive to share it. But because of this, I suffered a great deal growing up.

“Mom!! Taka’s doing it again!” Kosuke shouted from across the house. He had kicked open the front door, his arms being occupied by his baby brother. Takashi, who was cradled within the 7 year olds arm, was breathing abnormally. His chest was firing up and down rapidly, trying to intake all the oxygen he could get. 

A Female wolf stormed from down the short hallway, upon seeing her children, her brow frowned. “Shit-” Quickly, she rushed over to steal taka from Kosuke. She had swiped him so fast, that Kosukes arms still held in place for a brief moment before he trailed behind her into the small bathroom. “Damnit Kosuke! I told you not to get him riled up! What, you want your brother to die?!?” Her voice was stern, Harsh enough to make Kosuke’s tall ears fold back in guilt. 

She laid her second child in the tub, then rummaged through the bathroom's medicine cabinet. 

“No.. we were just playing and then he got slow! Then he started breathing like that!” Kosuke glanced past her, watching the washed out grey pattern of Takas fur just barely peek from the tub's rim. 

“You're supposed to be watching him, Kosuke! Not starting shit!” She growled. It was one of the few things that ever scared Kosuke. An angry mother. Her snarl and open view of his brother's suffering startled him enough to run off into the living room. 

Finally, She grabbed a hold of a small glass bottle, and an already put together syringe that had been lying around in the same cupboard. “Here-”

Liquid Morphine. My killer.

At such a young age, I was never meant to be taking it. It wasn't like I was taking it regularly anyways. However, when my mom heard from a friend that it decreases heart rate and can help steady breathing, she thought it would be a good supplement for when I was out of my prescribed medications. 

I still remember how it made me feel all those years ago. Sometimes I wish I could relive the sensation of that needle piercing through my scruff. 

She measured an estimated amount, eyeballing the dosage as if it was like adding oil to a cooking pan. Then, she turned to the 3 year old in the tub and pinched at the skin behind his neck. Slowly injecting the liquid. And at an instant, Takashi's chest gradually slowed, and he gasped long breaths of air as if he could finally breathe. 

His pupils dilated as his body melted against the cold epoxy of the tub. 

Was it a cure? Most definitely not. But it was a sweet relief. I felt… real. From birth, it's been nothing but pain. Induce anxiety, struggling to breathe and eat, rapid heart rate, all torture. Nothing has ever made me feel more alive than the high of drugs.

At least.. Almost nothing.

Me and Takashi moved to Tokyo with our mom in our teenage years. Kosuke was 18, and I was 14. Just barely starting highschool, giving myself a fresh face as I begin my life. And Kosuke, had to leave all his hard work behind and graduate in a world that didn't want him. 

A part of me feels bad. He lost a lot. Friends, girlfriends, jobs, everything. But I struggled to really care. I was excited to start new. 

No one knew of my medical history there, and no one ever had to know. To many, I was just a foreign exchange student to gawk over. 

And, I was a hybrid.

The Schools bell echoed through the halls- actually, it had rang about 15 minutes ago. Meaning the first class of the new year was already in session. And young 14 year old Takashi was just barely arriving at school. Unfortunately for him, He had to rely on his brother to take him to class. And Kosuke was well known for waking up late. 

He quickly sped through the empty halls, reading the tagged numbers and letters displayed besides each door as he got closer and closer to the room he was assigned to. 

“Shitshitshit-” he muttered, his shoes slipping against the flooring as he came to a stop at the doorway. 

Class 2-B

Takashi carefully slid the door open, and was met with eyes from the entire class. The teacher was a tall crane, who was in the middle of her introduction. But surprisingly, she smiled at the sight of him. “Ah, young Yoshida! I am so glad you made it.” Her Asian accident was heavy, but she clearly had a good grasp of english. Taka was honestly relieved to hear it. His biggest worry about the move was the language barrier. The teacher beckoned her hand forward, forcing Takashi to walk to the front of the class with her. He crammed his hands within his pockets, watching eyes track his pace. 

“Class, Please welcome our newest exchange student, Takashi Yoshida.”

The class followed in synchronized japanese. It made one of Takashis ears fall flat in confusion. He assumed they were greeting him- 

“Hello..”

“Would you like to introduce a little bit about yourself?”

“Uh-” Takashi scanned the room, noticing a few people turning to their friends to whisper. Some in awe, others in disbelief. Hybrids are rare cases. In fact, it is more common to go an entire life cycle without ever meeting one. His nails dug into the palms of his hands that were hidden away in his pockets, almost getting.. Frustrated by the silence of the room. 

“No thank you..”

“Oh! Well that's completely fine. How about you have a seat besides Miss Kamado? She speaks English the best.” 

The students of the room all turned their bodies to glance behind or besides them, almost making a visual path for Takashi to reveal the most beautiful white wolf he had ever seen. 

She was sitting closest to the classroom widows, the light glossing over her curly fur like a river stream. Her ears Perked up from the mention of her name, making direct eye contact with Takashi. 

His body began to move on its own, approaching the empty seat that connected to her desk. The teacher took the opportunity to try and grab the class's attention again. Calling out and resuming her introduction in japanese. But Takashi had completely zoned it out, his eyes glued to the female wolf as he pulled open his chair. 

“Hey… I’m Takashi–” 

She made a quiet giggle, “I know. I'm Aurora Kamado. Nice to meet you. I like your feathers..”

Aurora. My living Morphine. She was beautiful. Indescribable beauty, actually. Her fur was a pure snowy white, but it curled at the ends, perfectly hugging her body like a silver picture frame. The light from the glass windows had some sort of effect on it. They reflected streams of green and blues, painting the Northern Lights directly on her fur. It must've been where her name was from. I don't even remember what class was about that day. We spent the entire time whispering back and forth to one another. Her voice was so soft and entrancing, that I couldn't hear anything else anyways.

Takashi Melted into that seat. And for the first time in his life, the loud drumming of his heartbeat was not quick, overpowering or fueled by anxiety. It was calm, but prominent. It was the first time he actually liked hearing it. 

“Thanks.. Aurora isn't a very.. Japanese given name.”

“Haha, no. I was originally born in Yukon Canada. My dads from here.. We moved here four or so years ago.” 

Takeshi's eyes widened. “Wait, seriously? I'm from Yukon too–” 

Aurora's tail began to sway from side to side, showing her excitement. “Really?? I've never met anyone else from Yukon before. You must not know a lot of Japanese, do you?”

“Ah- no, don't… just some basic.. Stuff.”

“Don’t worry. I'll teach you.” 

Ever since then, Aurora and I have become best friends. It was odd at first. Tokyo was such a huge adjustment that I didn't know how to fit myself anywhere. Especially being a hybrid, everyone wanted to pull me into their cliches for popularity bonuses rather than get to know me. Not Aurora, though. For some reason, she always made sure I was comfortable. 

But honestly, I don't think I would have fit anywhere else than with her.*

*She had introduced me to her friends that same day. A pair of siamese sisters, Akia and Akio. Creative, huh? They're also identical, so it really gets confusing. But Aurora seems to know who is who everytime without fail. Hell, sometimes I think they're really just one person who can move faster than the speed of light. 

And then there's Emiko. She’s a red panda, and Aurora's best friend. At first, I struggled to get on Emiko's good side. I think because she was just so protective of Aurora, and she wasn't the biggest fan of allowing a male wolf within their friend group. But after some time, we found each other entertaining. She warmed up to me after realizing I couldn't even order food on my own. Clearly I wasn't as dangerous as she had thought. 

Together, we would oftenly plan these “study groups.” aka, they would want to hang out after school and tease me over my poor japanese. As embarrassing as it was, they all collectively made it their mission to teach me. And I got a pretty good hang of it.

“Watashi no na–mae wa Takashi.. Yoshida Desu.“

Aurora clapped, “Yes, that was so good! Just- be more confident! Your pronunciation was there but you hesitate, why?” 

“Uh-” Takashis ears flattened back in embarrassment. Slow speaking was a bad habit of his, especially while learning a new language. It was mostly due to him growing up with a horrible stutter. Thankfully, he had ‘outgrown’ it. Though He always fears it’ll stab him in the back when he least expects it. “Sorry, I still feel like it sounds different from you guys.”

“Hm..” Aurora turned her head, watching the twins and Emiko kick around a soccer ball in the park's grass. Her and Takashi were seated on a throw blanket laid not far from them. Their work textbooks, pens and papers scattered around to indicate their study. “Maybe it's the accent? You sound a little.. Groggy.”

“What?? Do I really..?”

“Yea, sometimes. Like- sickly. Do you get sick oftenly?” 

Taka silenced himself, feeling his heart slowly accelerate. He didn't think he had been making it obvious. Though he couldn't help it if some days were tougher than others. He couldn’t survive without his pills. “Yeah, allergies or something. I get really bad rashes on my-”

“Gross! No more!!” Aurora reached over, judging Takeshi's shoulder. They laughed over it. “You think you'll be confident enough to take Mrs. Yuki's Test?”

“Well I-” Before Takashi could finish, Aurora's phone rang from her book bag. She was quick to search for it, answering the call in japanese. Takashi respectfully fell silent, unable to listen to the conversation but- he watched her expression get stern. The voice on the other end was of an older male. Her voice got softer, more obedient. 

Finally, she hung up. “My dad is on his way to pick me up.. I guess he needs me home early. We can reschedule another time to study. How about thursday? Just before the test?”

Takashi nodded, attempting to comfort her with a smile. He didn't know what her relationship was with her father. At times, he just seemed extra strict and protective. But she seemed to respect him to a high standard. “That would be great.”

After Everyone had parted ways from the park, Takashi took the lonely walk home. 

Opening the front door, before he could even close it behind his back, a heavy bag was thrown against his chest. Takashi huffed as the wind was knocked from his chest, catching the bag in his hands and looking down. It was Kosukes backpack.

And where there is Kosukes items, there is Kosuke.

 “Where the hell have you been?”

Takashi looked up, already expecting his brother's attitude. Ever since Kosuke discovered Takashi had been taking the time to study Japanese, he’s abused that skill by making Takashi ‘overlook’ his homework.

“At the park to finish homework..” 

“Tsk. Well from now on you’re not allowed to go out by yourself. You can do your nerdy ass assignments here.” 

Takashi ears pointed straight up- “what? Why?? I alwa—“

“Because I fucking said so, alright? Either I go with you, or you don’t go at all. You better come straight home after school.” Kosuke turned, disappearing into the house. 

Takashi froze and watched his brother march off to his room. And for the first time, his chest rise in heat. Frustration. Anger. Like a sudden a dial had been switched on within his head. His claws dug into the fabrics of Kosukes book bag, poking at the fabric almost enough to rip into it. 

The tension after 14 years of torment was finally reaching the surface. It was as if Takashi had learned what it felt like to be angry.

It was the first time Takashi had decided he was going to rebel against the very person he couldn’t ever imagine standing up to. 

I don’t know what made me think it was a good idea, but Kosuke denying me the simple joy of hanging out with friends sent me into a spiral. Surly, he didn’t know the truth behind it. He didn’t know I had become friends with an Arctic wolf, and her group of friends. But I always felt like he knew I was separating myself from him and our mother. And for some reason, he made it his goal to keep this “family” together. 

Anyways, there was no way I was going to tell Aurora I could no longer stay after class, so I conjured up a plan. Looking back on it, it was definitely a risk. 

Kosuke knew what times of the day I took my medications, and their drawbacks. My mid day pills would oftenly make me drowsy, and I’d lock myself away in my bedroom for a nap. He rarely bothered me during this time, because to him, it was always some open opportunity to bring a girl over and be as loud as possible without worrying about his baby brother listening in. 

So, I decided to.. skip my medication.

I’d pretend to take it, sometimes I’d even let Kosuke know I would be crashing out for the day. Then, I'd shape my pillows and blankets into a highly suspicious and obvious decoy. Kosuke just never cared enough to open the door and check. 

As you can predict, I would sneak out the window and meet Aurora wherever she wanted.

And boy, did I walk anywhere just to spend a few minutes with her. I had definitely explored half of Tokyo just to meet her at some niche cafe she saw online every other week.And surprisingly, I would genuinely forget to take my medications. Whenever Aurora would invite me out, I just.. didn’t feel the need for them. I was never anxious, or shaken. Talking to her was like.. reliving that fist needle to the back of my scruff. 

She was intoxicating.

Kosuke began to notice the change within Takashi. The way he talked, acted, ate and slept. He was actually becoming.. healthier. And to add even more suspicion, Kosuke started to see less and less symptoms of Takahis medication. 

And since it was Kosukes responsibility to sustain the house, help their mother with her own addictions, and find ways around scrapping for money, Takshis happy flourishing made him envious. And he was determined to bring his brother down with him.

After all, they do everything together, right?

In their second year, Kosuke found a way to fill his pockets.

Boxing.

While it’s not a very common sport within Tokyo, it’s still around. Both legally and illegally. And Kosuke wanted nothing to do with martial arts. He refused to be tied to Tokyo in any way possible. So he followed up on the American sport, and began to dominate his classes. 

And for the sake of grabbing a few extra bucks, he would join illegal clubs just for a fight in the ring. 

Kosukes success skyrocketed, and after a word with his coach, Kosuke started to force Takashi along to practices. 

.. 

“Stop being a fucking baby and hit the damn thing!”

Kosuke growled, irritated as he raised his voice to his brother. Awaiting for Taka to start striking at the punching bag ahead of him. 

“Kosuke I can’t just-“ Takashi was greeted in the face by Kosukes boxing glove. He stumbled back, somehow keeping his footing in check and raising his hand to his cheek. Silenced. He met eyes with Kosuke in shock, watching his older brother take a defensive stance.

“Cmon. Just like when we were kids.” 

Takashis pupils sharpened. Like a lazer locked in on its target. 

Ever since then, I started going with Kosuke regularly to his training courses. Which at first was fine. I kept it a secret at first, which was easy enough to hide from Aurora as she assumed I had taken extra time to start working out. But all that became a lot harder to cover once Kosuke started forcing me into the ring. 

My first fight was terrifying. I was going up against a bear. He was larger than me, and far more intimidating. There was no way I could have won against him.

But I did.

All because at my corner, I had Kosuke egging me on. Directing me and supporting my hits. When the referee came up to raise my arm in the air to claim success, Kosuke hopped over the rope and rushed to hug me. Then rewarded me with a knuckle to the head. It was the first time he had ever been proud of me. 

So I kept going. Just to relive that same feeling again. Just to make him proud of his little brother.

Me and Kosuke began to dominate the rings. We became popular within the sport, although I was young, Kosuke always managed to sneak me into the roster. 

However with any fight, you don’t come out clean.

“Ow ow ow-“ 

“We’ll stop moving so much! You’re making this difficult!” Aurora huffed, using a cotton pad to gently dab at the open cut over Takashi’s eyebrow. 

“Do you have to use alcohol?? It burns..” he pouted. His face was bruised and beaten, his fur stained with dried blood. 

He had just gotten out of a match. It was a long and rough battle against a tiger, who had shown Takashi a fair share of powerful hits. After winning, Kosuke stayed for the after party. And Takashi.. said he would rather go home and clean up. But instead of heading to their cheap apartment, he ended up seated on the bed of a pretty wolf.

“Yes, I have to clean it.” She sighed, digging through her first aid kit in slight frustration. 

Only recently did she discover Takashi had been attending these matches after all these years. And she wasn’t a fan of the sport. Maybe, just maybe if it was karate or kung fu instead would she be more inclined to support him. But boxing.. it just wasn’t the Takashi she knew.

Taka paused and watched her. Silently admiring how her furrowed, angry expression looked so cute on her. He tilted his head, slightly smiling. “You’re angry..” 

“I’m not angry Takashi.” Still refusing to meet his eyes, she poured a small amount of alcohol on a fresh cotton ball.

Takashi wanted to laugh, but stayed quietly smiling. “Can you do my hands next?”

“Sure..” she set down her items, taking one of Takeshi's paws and unwrapping the bandaging around his knuckles. Revealing the red joins to his fingers. Although he fought with gloves, he always managed to overdo his hits. Fighting as if his life depended on it. And the outcome always did damage to his knuckles.

She cleaned them off before adjusting his palm open. 

She massaged the inside of his paw, causing him to wince and follow it up with a chuckle. “That hurts!” 

She laughed at his reaction. “Well, guess you won’t be playing gong-gi anytime soon..”

“Hm?” Takashi cocked his head, finally getting her to look at him. He raised his brow, confused.

She looked at him In disbelief, finding it funny that he had no clue what she was referencing.

“You know? Gong-gi? What, you don’t know how to play?” 

Watching Takas expression dimmish made her look back down to his hands. Then it clicked. Takashi only knows how to play a certain way. “Oh..” 

she then smiled, and raised her own hands up to her face and a combat position. 

His ears perked up in curiosity. Then, he mimicked her with a cocky smile. “Come at me.” 

Playfully, Aurora started to aim light swings with her fist into Takas arms. The both of them laughed as he blocked her attacks and started to tower over him. Of course though, he wasn’t gonna let her win.

He started just barely tapping back. 

He found an opening at her side, taking the advantage and tickling her ribs. 

She laughed and shouted, “hey! Cheater!!” Before he could abuse her weakness, she tackled him against the bed. 

Taking both of Takeshi's wrist and suspending them over his head. Unintentionally ending up on his lap. 

Their laughter slowly died out as they realized their positions. 

And both of them discovering Takashis hard on against her rear end. 

His chest rose up and down heavily, maintaining this anxious yet intimate moment of silence between the two of them. After so many years of friendship, it was constantly filled with tense moments of their yearning for one another. But never having the guts to establish anything serious. 

And now with Taka off his medication, he was constantly thinking of Aurora in ways he shouldn’t.

He found himself aroused more often than he had ever expected it to be. Times where he would just be at home and think of her, imagining her warm body drowning him in elixir. He wanted to so desperately pump his cock into her until she was in tears. He wanted to hold her, caress her and grope at every curve of her body until she was overstimulated by his attention. He wanted her to be just as addicted to him as much as he was to her. 

And here she was. Sitting on his hard dick while she restrained his hands over his head. Her chest took up practically half his sight. And yet, he could not pull away from her eyes. 

She could feel it too. 

her chest filled with heat, matching Takashis soft beating heart rate. This was a first. and to add it all together, they had never even kissed before. Making this far more tense than intended. 

She slowly loosened her grip around his wrist, and a flood of embarrassment washed over her. “I’m sorry..” 

Before she could excuse herself and move off, his hands almost instinctively fell to her thighs. Neither of them wanted to move. At least not.. away from one another. Takashis hands gilded upward, his thumbs pressing into her thighs almost desperately until he grabbed her ass from underneath her skirt. 

“Go slow..” 

There was a brief pause of hesitation, but obedience. Slowly, Aurora grinded her hips in a soft motion. Rubbing herself against the tight bulge in Takeshi's pants. He threw his head back with a groan, keeping his hands on her ass to help guide her movement. 

The feeling was unreal. Hot and desperate. And oh so sensitive despite the layers of clothes. It was rare for Takashi to get worked up due to his medication, so every little sensation was like being kissed by heaven. 

“Just like that, baby..” 

words slipped past Takashis tongue without a second thought, like he was getting high off her body and no longer thinking clearly. 

Aurora's face flushed, her ears folding back as she began to feel herself dampen his jeans. Soaking through her panties in desperation to be fucked by his dick. 

“Takashi..” she whispered, leaning her face down closer to his. Their eyes both relaxed and filled with admiration. 

Kiss her He told himself. Kiss her. 

Show her.

Show her how much you love her.

Just before their lips could meet

Buzz buzz

Maybe it was just an ad from a notification.

Again, Takashi leaned forward and tried again.

Just one ki—-

Buzz buzz.

Buzz.

Buzz buzz.

Fuck.

Annoyed, Takashi groaned and threw his head back again. This caused Aurora to back away, sitting up straight on his lap. 

“I’m sorry just- one second..” he awkwardly searched through his pocket, removing his hands from Aurora's body and leaving her feeling cold.

she felt as if it was best to give him his privacy, quickly moving herself off his lap and embarrassingly adjusting her skirt. 

Frustrated, Takashi checked the millions of notifications being sent to him. “Shit.. I’m sorry it was just- my brother.” 

“Oh it’s alright,” 

And now both of them felt uncomfortable. As if they weren’t just on one another a second ago. Takashi sat himself up, about to reach over and rope her back in- but she ignored him. Starting to pack away her medical kit. “Is everything okay with your brother? Sounded like he really needed something..”

“Uh- yeah he’s fine. He was just asking me a stupid question.. guess he discovered this liquor and was asking if I wanted to try it for my birthday party.”

“Oh, you’re having a party this year? No fair, you told me you didn’t celebrate!” Thankfully, Aurora had this gift at easing Takashi’s tension. She always made things feel.. comfortable. As if neither of them had to worry about how they were just grinding against one another.

“I know I know. And I don’t. Trust me I didn’t want anything special planned but- I guess since it’s the big 18, he's obsessed with making it a big deal. He’s throwing a little party at our apartment.”

“Can I come?”

Then. Silence. 

Throughout all these years, Aurora has never once met Takashis brother. Not even seen the guy in person. Aurora always questioned Takeshi's home life, but he always avoided the topic or just straight up told her he would rather not talk about it. To her assumption, they weren’t exactly on good terms. And yet. Takashi would tell hundreds of stories about how the two are always together. She was curious, and wanted to be involved within his life. If only he would just… let her.

“I don’t know, Aurora..” 

“Oh come on! Please? You never let me come over! And it’ll be fun! I can finally meet your brother and we can celebrate together! I can even bring our other friends, they would love t-“

“No. Ah- no, don’t bring them.. it’s just- my brother is…” 

A sex addict who would hop on any pretty girl brought in his direction? Or perhaps an asshole with a huge ego and rabid anger problem?

“Kosuke is.. special.” 

“Please?” She frowned, folding her ears back into the most delicate puppy eyed expression. And Takashi melted.

“Oh no, don’t do that you know how I feel about that look-“ 

“Pleeease, Takashi! We’ll have fun, I promise! It’s your birthday!!”

Takashi groaned, smiling as he surrendered. “Okay- okay. You win. You can come. But don’t tell the others- I just want you there..” 

His hand raised up to her cheek, lightly dragging his knuckle against her fur to fix one of its curls. 

She cheered, excited.

This was an unimaginable step.

Until they both froze at the sound of the front door closing. Then, a voice. “Aurora? What’s with all the yelling? Are you okay up there?”

Shoot. Her father. 

Did I mention how.. Her dad hated my guts? Yeah. Despite me always being over at her place, I usually had to sneak in and out through her window. On rare occasions I’d just take the front door since both her parents would go out on frequent date nights. But after all these years.. her dad would give me the glare of a century when he would catch us together at school. Or when she would invite me out with the group. Crazy part is. I’ve never even said a word to the guy before.

“So Friday? You’ll text me the address?” 

Takashi was halfway out the window when Aurora had asked. Lightly whispering as she watched her Romeo make an escape.

His heart fluttered over her expression. The fact that he had now agreed to inviting her over.. maybe things will go differently than he expects. “Yes.. I’ll text you when I get home. See you Friday, Princess.” 

And as quickly as he got in, he was just as quick to leave. Disappearing before anyone could enter her room. 

—-

That Friday went by quickly. However that same night lasted for ages. 

Kosuke had set up a party bigger than Takashi had expected. Hell, there were people he didn’t even know or recognize there. He didn’t even know Kosuke knew that many people to begin with. But one day previously, Takashi had deep cleaned the entire apartment. There was no way in hell he was going to humiliate himself with his living space in front of the girl so he desperately had a crush on. So naturally, he was exhausted from it. 

He was seated at the kitchen’s tiny bar area, in one of their flimsy chairs with a beer bottle in hand. While not drunk, he had definitely gotten himself tipsy. And although he’s not normally a drinker, he needed something other than a heavy high to calm his anxious heart. 

The people around him and all over the apartment were having the times of their lives. Blasting music and in deep conversation. Kosuke was within the living room, celebrating with a group of friends in a game of beer pong.

And the birthday boy.. was just seated by himself in silence. Watching the door like a ticking time bomb.

The party had started a few hours ago, and he had heard no word from Aurora. Not even a text or call. His own have gone unanswered, making him assume she had just gotten overwhelmed and flanked out. Parties weren’t exactly her thing either. That was until, a faint knock at the door arose. Takashi had thought he had imagined it since no one reacted. Nervously scanning the room until he spotted someone get up to open the front door.

*Wait. Shit-*

The stranger peered the door open, revealing the guest of honor.

A beautiful, silky white wolf. She was wearing a tight slim dress that hugged around her frame perfectly. It’s black coloring made her shine like never before, and revealed maybe a little too much than what she was used to. A deep V neck, and a slit that teased up her leg. Takashi never recognized it. It was definitely something she had tucked away in the back of her closet for special occasions. 

“Hi um.. is Takashi here?”

Takashi swears he felt his heart stop. Like the wind had been taken out of his chest as he sat there, entranced by her. She was beautiful. From her curled ends to her perfectly brushed tail. She was-

Kosuke?

Takashi blinked as he snapped into reality. His sight of Aurora had been blocked. By no one other than his brother Kosuke, who practically teleported at the door when he saw a girl.

No.

“Woah, I didn't know my brother knew any pretty ladies.. you sure you’re looking for the right guy?”

Kosuke was uncomfortably close to her, leaning against the doorframe just to purposely block her from sight. 

She laughed nervously, automatically spotting the resemblance. Although she blushed, it was more out of discomfort. “He um.. invited me for his birthday. I’m a friend from school.” 

“Just a friend, huh? In that case, why don’t you come in?” He reached out, taking a finger underneath one of her dress straps and lightly tracing it down. “And I can show you who’s the better brother?” 

Her breath was caught in her throat. Even if she wanted to back up, she couldn’t out of fear. No one had ever been so direct with her before. 

And then, Kosuke was shoved back. Within a single blink of an eye, Takashi had turned up right in front of her, protecting her with his own body as he got in Kosukes face. 

His brows frowned as he met his brother with a stern expression. “Not her.” 

Everyone was taken back. Half of the people within the building froze as they watched. Even they knew, and no one could lay a hand on Kosuke and get away with it. Not even his own brother. 

But this was different. Kosuke stood in disbelief as he examined Takashi. The fur on the back of his neck was sticking up, and there was a low, intimidating growl within his throat. Kosuke had never seen his pupils so sharp before. Locked in on their target. It was the first time in Kosukes life where he felt like.. prey. 

“Watch yourself baby brother.”

Normally. Kosukes own stern voice would make Takashi back down. But it only caused his expression to get angrier. 

“Not. Her.” 

With everyone’s eyes glued on the two, Kosuke tsked. He raised his hands in a playful surrender. “Alright alright.” With a fake grin, he turned around to the crowd. “The hell is everyone looking at? Cmon! Have another drink!” And like scared townspeople, they all moved on. Takashis eyes tracked down Kosuke, but he was pulled back- Aurora's hand on his shoulder. She smiled, almost thanking him.

“Hey..” 

He blinked, the tension in his body fading as he turned to her. “Hey- hey.. you look amazing..” 

“Thank you. I got you a present!” She extended out a gift bag, excitedly smiling. 

“Aw cmon, you didn't have to get me anything .. seriously-“ 

“Yeah yeah, stop being so humble and take the gift. Open it! I want to see your reaction!” She forced the bag into his hand, causing him to laugh. “Here?? Right now?”

“Uh.. duh?” 

Takashi peered into the bag, seeing nothing but decorative paper at first. He then glanced over his shoulder- seeing the apartment filled with people. Then, he closed the door. Leaving the two outside the apartment. “Let’s go somewhere else.. and I’ll open it there with you.” 

She agreed, and soon enough was entrusting her life into Takashi. She never feared following him anywhere.

And soon enough, he was helping her climb onto the roof of the building. 

“Careful careful- one last step”

“I got it- thank you” He pulled her up, and she awed at the city view ahead of her. The night sky was filled with lights, making it a perfect display. They took the careful steps to the edge, seating themselves close enough. 

“Open it already!!” 

“Okay! Man, you’re pushy..” he chuckled, getting a playful fist to the shoulder from her. Finally, he opened the gift bag. Removing the paper and gasping- his eyes lighting up. “Woah-“ 

She couldn’t stop smiling while watching his reaction. Fueled by his own grin. “Do you like them?”

Takashi pulled out a pair of boxing gloves from the bag. They felt heavy, high quality and.. expensive. And their coloring was a soft baby pink. “Dude, these are sick..” through his admiration, he quickly rushed to try one of the gloves on, making a “oooo” as he felt the comfortable cushion.  

“I thought since you always manage to tear through your current ones.. you could use an upgrade. These should prevent your hands from aching so much afterwards..” 

”I love them..” The simple fact that he knew she hated his choice in boxing made the gift even more special. Because although she disapproved of it, she would always continue to support him. It’s what he loved about her. “Thank you.”

”you’re welcome. Happy sweet 18, Takashi.” 

I don’t remember how long we were out there for, but it felt like the entire night. We had a party of our own on that rooftop. Lots of me scaring Aurora by walking against the edge, people watching from below and laughing over the crazy looks, playing music of our own and sharing artists, and allowing her to take dozens of photos of my antics. Even a few calm ones of just us two. Happy. Together. 

After we were burnt out, we laid there on the cold roof. Star gazing.

Aurora pointed up at a constellation with a gasp. “Look, that one looks like a baby rabbit” 

Takashi followed right after her. “And that one looks like two lions fighting for a scrap of meat!” He laughed, unaware of her concerned expression towards him.

“Man, I’ve never done this before..”

“Really? My father and I used to do it all the time. Especially back in Yukon. We would lay in the snow and watch the northern lights..”

“You think you’ll ever go back? To Yukon?” 

She hummed, shrugging. “Maybe.. I miss it sometimes. I like to think that maybe if I ever get married, I’d like to go out there for my wedding. I’d like to get married under the lights..”

Takashi felt his heart race. Let’s do it. He thought. I’ll take you there. You can see them again. I’ll marry you. And we can kiss underneath that night sky. Me. Choose me.

He anxiously scratched at his own paws, the beating in his chest overbearing. “Maybe we should head back inside.. Kosuke might be looking for me..” 

She nodded, standing herself up and extending a hand out. “Cmon birthday boy, let’s go have some cake.”

—

Takashi opened the door for Aurora, but before she could really step foot inside, Takashi's arm was yanked away. 

“Taka! There you are! Thought you finally ran away from me you little shit” Kosuke laughed, digging his knuckle into his brother's head as he had his arm locked around his neck. 

“cmon! Let’s hurry this shit over with so we can get to the good part. Lukas!” Kosuke shouted over to the kitchen area, and soon enough- Takashi was being dragged over. 

Aurora went unnoticed, slightly smiling at the brotherly interaction between the two. It didn’t seem all that bad.. she instinctively followed with a group of others to the kitchen area. 

Flames reflected in Takeshi's eyes as he was faced with the largest cake he’s ever seen. There was practically a lit flare on top of it to make it worse. Takashi laughed at the ridiculousness of it all. “What the fuck?” 

Kosuke kept his arm around his shoulders, holding Taka close as he forced everyone to begin singing that ever so dreadful happy birthday song. Though it was fueled by laughter, and everyone howled excitedly. 

“Make a wish, big head” Kosuke grabbed Taka by the shoulders, and watched as he blew out the candles over the cake. Failing to take out a handful of them. 

“I can’t do any better than that without passing out-“ he laughed, and soon enough everyone cheered for a slice of cake. 

That’s when Takashi noticed. Aurora wasn’t next to him. He turned, trying to pick her out from the crowd- just to be met with Kosuke pressing a closed envelope against his chest. “Got you something special. Open it.”

Taka rolled his eyes excitedly, tearing an open slip into the paper. He assumed it would be cash or maybe some stupid card Kosuke found, but instead he pulled out what was seemingly a pair of tickets. 

Takashi continued to smile as he tried to read them over in pure confusion. “What’s this?”

“That baby brother, is a pair of one way tickets to Yukon. No return. Flight leaves tomorrow night. Awesome, right??”

Takashis smile slowly faded as he read the flight information to confirm Kosukes words. 

Suddenly, the world fell silent and froze in place. Like a heavy weight had just pulled him down to the bottom of the ocean. and then-

“Takashi?”

He turned around, his expression just as fearful as her own. Taka could hear the shatter in both of their hearts. The pain. The regret. Four years of desperation and yearning. Four years of being a coward. And all this time he could have had her. 

He was too late. 

I was too late.

Kosuke cheered with a bottle of liquor in his hand, “We’re going back home baby!!'

[shindayyume]

This is Home `✦ ˑ ִֶ 𓂃⊹

An introduction to Takashi, a hybrid who seeks comfort in bad habits.

Kosuke character rights belong to @simmetrycal

This fic follows 18+ and nsfw themes such as drug abuse, nudity, and strong language. Minors dni

『••✎••』

Takashi was locked within his bedroom, tearing it completely upside down.

“Cmon cmon cmon..” he repeated to himself, flipping over his bed and taking out all the drawers to his dressers. His room was a mess, with clothes and meticulous items scattered about. And still he continued to look through the hoard in a panic.

Standing still within the center of the room, his body still felt like it was bouncing around. And finally he came to the conclusion that he no longer had what he was looking for.

Pills.

The bottles of medication laid empty with the rest of the trash in the room. And Takashi couldn't survive without them.

He quickly grabbed one of his hoodies, throwing it on over his head before quietly opening the door to his bedroom.

He then made his way down the short hall, peaking around the open doorway to Kosukes bedroom. His brother. Who had just come out from a shower, towel wrapped around his waist as he scrolled through his phone in hand. He had not yet noticed Takashi. But Takashi noticed something highly important. Kosuke’s cross that laid on the top of the dresser besides the doorway.

There was a brief moment of hesitation, but after some back and forth debate, and anxious leg shaking, Takashi swiftly reached over to take it without going noticed.

He then cleared his throat, repositioning himself to seem as if he had just walked up.

“Hey, ‘Suke?”

Kosuke only slightly turned his head over, irritatingly tossing his phone onto his bed and instead picking up the pair of pants he had previously laid out. “What.”

Takashis head hung low, cramming his hands into his hoodie pocket as if too humiliated to speak. “My medication ran dry.”

“So? Just go get them refilled.” Kosuke kept his back turned to his brother, removing the towel and changing into clean clothes as if it was a regular occurrence for them.

“The pharmacy won't refill them until next month..”

“Why is that my problem?”

Again, taka shuffled uncomfortably, leaning a shoulder against the doorway. “Can I borrow some money?”

“What the fuck? No. Get out." It was obvious from his voice that Kosuke was gradually getting more annoyed. He pulled on a white tank for comfortability, then began to place a few of his belongings into his pockets. With a gut feeling that he was missing something.

“Please? Just fifty and i'll pay you back-”

“No! Now get the fuck out!” He groaned, turning up his blankets and pillows as he looked around for his missing item.

Takas' ears flattened back in response to Kosukes yelling. Then, after a brief fit of silence and watching Kosuke scavenge, he pulled out the necklace from his pocket. Holding it up, “How much do you think this’ll sell for, then?”

Kosukes pupils sharpened as he turned around. The cross that dangled from its silver chain was exactly what he was looking for. And it meant everything to him. “You little shit–”

Takashi hardly had time to react. Before he knew it, his brother was in his face. Kosuke grabbed the front of Takashi's hoodie, slamming the other back against the ridged doorway.

“Who the hell do you think you are, taking my stuff??”

The fear of physical brawl was enough alone for Takashi to allow Kosuke to swipe back his necklace from his hand.

Once he had it back, Kosuke pushed Taka out of the doorway and into the hall. He watched as Takashi stumbled over his feet and hit the ground, looking up at him like a shaken puppy.

“Its not my fault youd rather get high than get a fucking job. Fucking junkie.” a growl followed Kosukes words as he slammed the door in his brother's face.

Taka stared at the wooden door for a moment, listening to Kosukes footsteps get further away. He carefully pulled himself back up onto his feet, pulling over the hood to his sweater.

He was quick to exit the apartment, walking out into the darkened snow covered streets. He reached into his sweater pocket, pulling out a brown, halfly torn wallet. Opening it, revealed Kosukes ID and a few cards crammed on the side.

He had managed to pitpock Kosuke during his rampage, knowing the other would have come at him if he had threatened the necklace.

He opened it further, removing any and all cash that Kosuke had stored away. Then crammed everything back into his pockets as he walked further into the night.

Eventually, He ended up at a small home. In poor condition. The lawn was messy, unkempt. The windows were boarded up and the house itself looked like it was falling apart. Most importantly, a tall wired fence all around. This wasn’t an issue for Takashi, however. He climbed over, landing firmly on his feet.

Upon reaching the door, he gave it a knock.

There wasn’t an immediate answer, but he could hear clear shuffling on the other side, and heavy footsteps approached. Anxiously, he waited.

The door swung open, on the other side, a tall, large lion. “Who the hell is at my door at this hour- oh. Takashi.” He looked down in almost disgust, frowning his brow angrily. “You got any idea what time it is right now??”

“Sorry- I just.. need a refill. Please.”

“Tsk- you got money this time?”

Takashi nervously pulled out the cash from his pocket, handing it over to the larger male. It was swiped out of his hand within seconds. His leg bounced as he watched the lion count it.

“This isn’t shit. But Fine. Cmon.” He stepped off to the side, allowing the hybrid entrance into the house.

Takashi walked in as if he had been there before. Because he had, countless times. The inside was just as bad as the outside. Messy, cluttered, old and run down. Upon entering, he spotted two younger lions on the couch. They greeted him with angry expressions.

Though Takashi kept quiet, keeping his hands in his pocket as he allowed the first lion to pass through, and urged Taka to follow him into the kitchen.

The kitchen was drug ridden.

Needless, cigarettes, unlabeled bags and bottles all over. And the worst of it all was the smell. It always made Takashi's throat burn.

He watched as the lion picked up a small briefcase, opening it to bands of cash, where he hid away the money Takashi had just given him. “What you looking for?”

“Ah just- Morphine..” Takashi always made it his goal to not get too close to anything. Staying at the kitchen entrance while impatiently waiting.

“Simple kid. Let me have a look around.”

Taka only nodded, keeping his hands crammed into his pocket and his leg still shaking below him. While he was waiting, a strong whiff of rosy perfume hit him. And a lioness curled into his view. She was completely topless, and only in a thin pair of panties. “Takashi! So good to see you!”

Rose. Takashi was familiar with her. She was an older lioness, who always attempted to drag Takashi into bed with her. He uncomfortably took a step back, “hey.. good to see you too..”

She began to purr, attempting to rub her body against him like a cat in heat. “What brings you by? Planning on staying for a while?”

Takashi felt a rush of embarrassment fill his face. Attempting to keep his eyes anywhere but her naked body. “No, I’m just picking up and leaving..”

She whined, “aw, cmon baby.. don’t you wanna have a little fun with mama?” Her tongue licked over her canines as she boldly grabbed a hold of Takashi belt hoop, tugging him against her.

“Rosy! Get away from that man, dammit. You’re gonna scare him off.“

She growled, backing off from Takashi with a huff and crossing her arms. “Oh you never let me do what I want.”

The male lion stepped in between them, handing Taka a small black bag. “I put in something a little special for ya. If you like it, I got more. But it’ll be extra next time. Now get the hell out.”

“Thanks..?” Takashi grabbed the bag, stuffing it away before turning.

He was quick to leave.

…

Takashi tiredly opened the front door to his and his brother's apartment. It was dark, meaning Kosuke had left some time ago. It was almost a relief, that way he knew he could sneak Kosukes wallet back into his room with a lesser chance of getting yelled at for taking it.

He entered the bathroom, turning on the light and locking the door despite being the only one home. He pulled out the small concealed bag given to him, emptying it in his palm. Inside were the baggied morphine pills he had originally asked for. But he also found a second bag. It held two brightly colored and circular pills Takashi didn’t recognize.

Upon further inspection, he found they were also stamped with the letter “M.”

He couldn’t help being curious. Carefully, he took one. Letting it rest on his tongue for a moment and fizzle out before swallowing it.

Then slowly, he backed up against the wall. Sliding himself down onto the cold bathroom floor.

He doesn’t remember how long it took for the sensation to hit him. All he remembers is laying on the tile, his chest rising up and down in the slowest motion possible, and most importantly, that he stopped shaking.

His body felt still, and calm, like a smooth boat ride on breezy waters. Finally, he felt relaxed. All the anxiety in his chest had disappeared for this brief moment.

All his stress, fear and anger, now nonexistent. And the only thing that mattered, was the slideshow of childhood memories playing in his head.

The times he and Kosuke would be left alone in the house, bored and hungry. Kosuke always had the bright idea for the two of them to walk off into the nearby street market.

It was everything to Taka. Especially on one particular day.

Their mom had not been home for the past two nights, and they had looked through the kitchen countless times for something to eat. With Takas' medical condition, the lack of food was hard on him. And there were times like this, where he could hardly find the energy to get out of bed.

Takashi was about five years old, Kosuke 9.

Curled up on their makeshift bed of old blankets and pillows, Takashi laid sickly. His body ached, and his fur was a washed out grey. He hadn’t moved since yesterday morning. Kosuke walked up, seeing his baby brother struggling between breaths. With a scuff, he marched outside the home.

Young Taka could hear the sound of the door slam closed. And with that, he allowed his eyes to close. Almost accepting Kosukes abandonment. And then- it swung open again, and he could hear the light clashing of metal. Along with the squeaking of rusty wheels. Kosuke had dragged in a small red waggonwagon. He pulled it over to their bedding, collecting a few of their blankets and smallest pillows to fill the bottom.

Then, he moved his arms underneath Taka, and carefully lifted him up. Laying his baby brother into the nested waggon.

“Cmon, Taka. We're gonna go eat.”

Taka whined from the pain that the movement caused him, but nonetheless, he was thankful. Before leaving, Kosuke covered him in a thin sheet before dragging his brother off to the markets.

They were crowded as usual, but no one acknowledged the 6 year old boy who carried a wobbly waggon behind him. He shoved through crowds, avoiding being stepped on by anyone bigger. Takashi could hear the many voices just inches away from him. But he still felt secluded, safe, hidden underneath the sheet that only barely blocked sunlight.

Just ahead, Kosukes ears perked up at the sight of a booth, a fish stand. Displaying rows and rows of aquatic life on ice.

“Hey taka, you have it in you to stand and grab?”

He heard a light coo come from behind him in confirmation. Slowly, he approached the side of the stand. As quietly as he could, he left Takeshi's wagon pressed up against the side of the booth. Kosuke then walked to the very front, having to pull out a bucket from underneath to stand on. It was the only way he could get the attention of the salesman, a seal who didn't see the little hybrid at first.

“How much for a fish?”

The salesman almost laughed. After taking one look at Kosukes dirty clothes, he immediately assumed he didn't have any money. “It's nine dollars a pound, kid.”

“Oh. Well, I only have 3 quarters.”

The seal laughed, shaking his head. “That won't even get ya a bucket of chum.”

“Aw c'mon! Make me a deal here.”

“Where are your parents??”

Taka could overhear the conversation. Luckily, Kosuke was good at keeping people distracted. However, taka had to fight against his own body. He mustered up every last remaining ounce of energy to push himself up. Standing on his stubby legs and tippy toes. He stretched just enough to reach the top of the booth. His paws grabbed a hold of a fresh salmon, almost as large as he was. Thus being, taka was actually struggling to get it out of the ice.

“What about some shrimp?? A quarter per shrimp?? That sounds like a pretty good deal to me.”

Taka huffed, and braced himself. With one last tug, the fish practically fell onto him, making a loud thud as they hit the wagon bottom.

“Alright now you're just wasting my time. Go on an-” The seal's head turned in the direction of the sound. Luckily, Booth's tall support perfectly concealed the wagon from him.. Kosuke slammed his paws against the table top to regain his attention. “Hey c'mon! You're really gonna give me nothing??”

The salesman jerked his head back, not thinking anything of it but now, he was frustrated with the kid yelling in his ear. “Alright now that's enough, beat it kid!”

Kosuke huffed, jumping down from the bucket he had used as a stepping stool. “You're loss.” He turned the corner, grabbing the handle of his wagon and walking off.

The salesman watched, unaware he had it the whole time. Even more confused as to why it was full of blankets. He shook his head, returning to business.

Kosuke wandered off into an empty alleyway between shops, stopping the wagon excitedly. “Alright! We got a big one today! Lets feast” He pulled off the sheet Taka had been covering himself with. His excitement ruined by the sight of his brother lifelessly hugging onto the salmon in his arms. He had fully expected Takashi to be tearing into the meat, but instead, he found that Taka no longer had the energy to even eat.

He was dying.

This frustrated Kosuke. It made him angry. Like he just couldn't understand why Taka isnt eating. “Taka! You're supposed to eat! What, you want to starve and die?!” He growled, then paused. Despite Takashi having his eyes shut, Kosuke was taken aback as he noticed tear drops stain his pale fur.

He frowned his brow. “Tsk.” Reaching into the wagon, he grabbed the salmon and hoisted it over his shoulder. “Stay here.” again, he covered takashi with the sheet.

Takashi has no idea how long Kosuke was gone for, but it felt like forever. Eventually, he came back. Kosuke was now carrying a styrofoam container, and a sippy cup full of murky liquid. He sat himself within the waggon, taking the sheet and pulling it above the both of them in their own little fort. Setting aside the container, he pulled his brothers back against his chest and in between his legs. Carefully holding the others head up while urging the spout of the cup into his mouth.

Intense Flavor hit Takashis tongue. It was a warm, rich vegetable soup.

Kosuke had taken the salmon to a nearby restaurant, and got it traded for soup. All for his younger brother, who he could have left to prevent the extra hassle. The two sat in silence as Kosuke cradled his brother, holding up the sippy cup to feed him. He made sure Taka consumed as much of the liquid as possible. Taking refills from the container when needed. Even if it meant Kosuke was only left with the soggy carrots, spinach and squash at the bottom.

The walk back was also silent as the sun was nearly set. Only the squeaking from the cart's wheels accompanied them. They returned back to an empty home. Kosuke was tired from dragging Takashi around, so he immediately dropped the handle once inside, and picked up his brother. He returned taka to the spot he was previously laying, covering him in blankets so he could comfortably rest. His job was not done yet however. Kosuke walked into their mothers bedroom, crouching onto the floor by the bedside. He reached under and pulled out a small brown bag. Takas name was written on it in sharpee. Bringing it over, he took out about three different medications.

Kosuke plopped down next to his brother and began to use his teeth in order to pop open the containers. It was the only way to get around the “child proof” seals.

One by one, he fed Takashi each medication. “Here, you can take them now since you ate. But next time you gotta figure it out on your own!”

Taka nodded, making a disgusted face as the syrupy liquid hit his mouth. Kosuke then put away everything, shoving the brown paper bag underneath one of their pillows for the time being. “Go to sleep.”

Koske fell back with a huff, shutting his eyes almost immediately after telling his brother to rest. Taka stared at his older brother with a kitten's expression. Reliving the entire day within seconds. It was enough to make him smile, then curl himself closer to Kosuke for the extra warmth. Both of them fell asleep without another word.

Taka mimicked that same curl now. Hugging himself on the bathroom floor, as he replayed that day over and over again in his head. Like a bedtime story, until it was enough to get him to doze off. If only he didn't dread waking up.

[shindayyume]

Mixed feelings ⋆⁺₊❅.

Beaumont pov to @simmetrycal’s Snowboarding world!

18+ themes minors dni

『••✎••』

“Beaumont! Beaumont! —“

I can feel a cold chill of air blow between my fur, perfectly synchronizing with the hot breaths escaping my mouth and turning into mist.

My heart rate is ringing against my ears, overwhelming my head so much that I cannot even process where I am, or how I got here.

With my vision blurry, all I can make out is blue sky.

I am quick to realize one thing.

I’m in pain.

However, I am graced by the snow underneath me. The cold ice numbing below my leg where a strange tingle of annoyance pestered me.

I didn’t have the strength in me to sit up and inspect the damage. All I could do was lay still, listening to my own breaths heave out from my chest.

Through the whistling of wind, I can hear my name being called from a distance.

“Beaumont?!”

It’s getting louder.

“Beaumont!”

Obstructing my already blurry vision, comes in the worried face of a large cat.

I remember the look of terror in his eyes as clear as day.

“Sebastian!”

My breath hitches and my eyes dart open as I am suddenly awoken from my sleep. I quickly realize that I’m not laid in snow, but in warm bed sheets and blankets. Under the dimly lit roof of my home.

Ah. I tell myself

It was just a dream.

And still, I can feel that strange tingle in my leg. Only this time I am able to sit myself upright, and pull over the sheet covering me. In this moment of silence, I stared at the amputation that ruined my life.

And then, my bedside alarm sets off.

Another annoying beep to start my day.

I reach over to silence it, then menuvour my body closer to the edge of the bed. Where I had previously laid out my prosthetic leg.

I hesitate every time. Every single time.

15 years later, and I still hesitate to buckle the straps to my prosthetic.

With a sigh, I do so anyway, getting it on as comfortably as I possibly could so I can begin my day.

And finally, I can stand and stretch out my back. A yawn follows, which bares the large set of canines that inhabit my mouth. I can feel as they brush against my tongue, causing a discomfort in my head.

I’ve always disliked them. Having a felines mouth while the rest of me could easily pass as any ordinary buck.

But unfortunately,

I am cursed with mixed genes.

Now I can begin my usual morning routine. It starts with a steaming hot shower, followed by an extensive fur and teeth brushing. Unfortunately, as much as I hate the scattered spots among my pelt, and daggers in my mouth, I put quite the effort into making myself appear well presentable.

I don’t worry about clothing just yet, only putting on a comfortable pair of boxers in the meantime while I prepare for the worst part of my daily life.

Food.

Being born of herbivore and carnivore genetics does not magically make me an omnivore as one might assume.

It makes me picky.

Meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, plants and breads. It’s all a large buffet of slop. I suppose some things are easier to eat than others, allowing me just some basic joy. But all my life, I had always struggled finding favorite foods and making decisions on my meals. For the most part, I tend to stick with meat. It may not bring flavor, but it surely does bring a strange comfort to my fangs.

As I am preparing my eggs, toast, and sausage, my ear points behind me in the direction of a buzz.

I ignore it.

Then it buzzes again.

I can’t ignore it. With a sigh, I automatically assume it’s work related, so I take the quick trip to turn around and read off the text from my phone that had been laying on the counter.

An odd anxiety fuels me as I read the name tag,

“Cherry”

[Hey! I’ll be at the cafe in 5!]

[Do you have a table already??]

“Shit.”

Shitshitshit. I had a date.

The popping from the stove quickly took my attention away from the screen, and I quickly run over before my eggs could become a scrambled mess.

Immediately I am frustrated with myself, that I had been so distracted by work that I had forgotten I had set up a breakfast date with a doe.

Cherry is a Red tailed Doe. She’s quite beautiful, only a few years younger than me and a nurse at a local nursery. We had actually met only a week prior at the hotel's ski resort.

Her extended family were having issues checking into the hotel, and I had taken it upon myself to correct their reservation and provide them with a few courtesy calls for the inconvenience.

Cherry however, took this as a weird sign of me flirting with her.

Although I was only doing my job, she seemed to gravitate towards my hospitality and became really… present around the hotel she wasn’t even staying in.

I don’t mind however. After all, I am getting far too old to continue mingling with strangers. I decided 10 years ago that it would be time to settle down.

10. Years ago.

And I still haven't found a single soul to love. And no, I am not incapable of it. It's only that.. Everyone I come across has irked me the wrong way.

First, I tried other carnivores. In hope that I would present less intimidating to my partner, my thought process was that other carnivores would see me as equal due to my hybrid genetics.

I was wrong.

I had met a lioness years back when I first began dating. Her name was Sahara, and she was the queen of her very own pride.

Of one.

Her ego was just as huge as her stacure. Although she was still smaller than me, she made it a habit to make sure she felt bigger than the entire world. It drove me insane, hearing how strong, independent, and brave she was all the time. Her, her, her, her, her.

Then there was a Panther, by the name of Jessie.. He was a beautiful tint of black metallic.

But he had these enormous white fangs that I could not get passed. Each time Jessie would speak, my eyes were glued to them out of fear. It was the first time I had been intimidated by another carnivore's fangs, as if Jessie was waiting for the perfect opportunity to leap forward and attack me like wounded prey.

Okay… so scratching carnivores off the list, I attempted a more tame approach with herbivores.

I, mistakenly, tried to date a rabbit.

A highly energetic rabbit.

After my retirement, and at my old age, there was no way I could realistically keep up with the hare. Her name was Marie, and it was impossible to keep her still. Not only that, but Marie had a desire to explore the world, every. single. inch of it. Constantly going out on dates everyday was not up to my standard, so I backed out.

The worst of them all, was a Stallion, his name was Hans. Who at first, seemed promising enough. It had actually been going really well. Hans was a chef for a fairly well respected and rated restaurant. He seemed well competent, mannered, and quiet enough for me to settle down with.

After four months of casual dates and talking, Hans had invited me to dinner within his cando in town, so I agreed.

Only to be faced with the worst mess I have ever seen in my life. Clothing scattered about, papers and recipes overflowing trash cans, undusted shelves, and gods, don't even get me started on his kitchen.

Hans lived so disorganized and cluttered, that I immediately left minutes after I had entered.

And now, I am here, speed walking my way into the entree doors of the cafe Cherry had addressed me to. It was a small place, not very packed but still lively and welcoming. As much as I would love to enjoy it, the pain from my prosthetic was already beginning to ruin this date for me.

I had rushed to get dressed and leave the house, forgetting my cane at home. Although I can walk without it, it does relieve a great amount of pressure from my leg.

As I open the doors, a small bell rings from above, and I scan the cafe for a familiar face.

I spot her in a far corner, seated by herself at a booth as he gazes out the window's view.

The mix of guilt caused my ears to flatten, and I quickly straightened myself up before approaching her.

“Hello– i apologize for running late,”

Cherry immediately looks up from the sound of my voice, her face lighting up within seconds as she greets me with a smile.

“Oh it's okay!!! I started to think you weren't going to show!”

“Ha,” slowly, I seat myself across from her. “I got caught up with work.” I lie, hoping that she doesn't believe I actually had just forgotten. “How have you been?”

I should have not asked that.

“Oh ive been great! Well, now I am! The past few days have been hectic. The other day, while me and my mother were coming back from the salon, our car got stuck in snow! I guess I was going too fast downhill??? My mother was screaming at me to slow down but I just laughed and told her it would be fine. She said, ‘Cherry, get your hoof off the gas, you're going to get us killed!’ and i told her, oh please! You're just being dramatic!! And what do ya know- seconds after, we are sliding down ice! Oh it was so scary, terrifying even! Boy were we screeeeammming as I lost control of the wheel!! And my mom was yelling, ‘Che—”

My eyebrows slowly raise as Cherry continues on with her story. Her words almost become a jumbled mess of vomit. Through her story telling, I hear footsteps approaching the table. It is the waitress, kindly interrupting. Thank. God.

“Hey! Can I get you two started with anything today? Coffee?”

I do not turn away from Cherry as I am left like a deer in headlights. Stunned, and silent as I process the long speech I just received.

Cherry smiles, opening her mouth to speak out an order, though i intercept,

“No thank you. I was just leaving.”

“What??? You're leaving??” Cherry calls out, looking confused as I begin to stand from my seat. The waitress was just as lost.

“I have to- go.” I confirm.

Cherry seems panicked, and now the waitress is cornered in an awkward situation. It was almost funny. “Wh- oh okay- Is it work? How about we reschedule for another day? Or lunch- dinner– oh! Maybe I can even walk with you to work??”

“I think not. Gooday, Cherry.” Quickly, I walk through the pain in my leg and exit the cafe.

Already, I am developing a headache, and my morning has only just started. And now, I am faced with work. The ski shop, I am not worried about, but the hotel is where I receive the most issues. There are constant complaints and mishaps only I can properly deal with, so every morning as I step foot within the resort, I am immediately bombarded by the front desk.

I pray I go unnoticed this time, trying to sneak past and blend in with our guest as I attempt to head straight to my office. However, a small lamb picked me out from the crowd.

“Oh! Mr. beaumont! Mr. beaumont a moment-”

Crap. I can see her in the corner of my eye making her way around the desk, approaching me. Even still, I am b-lining it to my office door. “Good Morning Susan.”

“Mr. Beaumont- oh, goodmorning, um Mr.Beaumont there is a guest requesting to-”

“Is this urgent, susan? I have a payroll to compete and incentives.” I keep my head forward, lightly bowing as we pass guests down the halls. Susan tailing right behind me, fueled by anxiety.

“I-i know sir, and i apologize but i think you really need to take this into consideration, sir- this guest is-”

“Just refund them for the night. I'll be in my office.” After speeding to my office door, I grabbed a hold of the handle.

“Sir, that's the issue-”

The door swings open, and I am only able to take one step before I am frozen in place.

A small gasp escapes my mouth as I lock eyes on a tall, snowy white saber toothed cat standing dead center of my office. His stripes blending perfectly with the lighting in the room.

“T-the guest.. Is um.. In your office, sir..”

The cat's head turned, he had been admiring one of the trophies shelved along the wall. A smile curled around the large fangs held in his mouth, stopping my heart.

“Sebastian!”

And once again, I am a deer frozen in headlights. “Susan…. A moment, please.”

“Yes sir,” she mutters, before quietly leaving.

I am unable to move. Stuck in place with my hand still on the door handle, and the pain in my leg suddenly reduced to nothing. I cannot even tell if I'm breathing.

He points to the trophy he was previously looking at. “I remember this one. That night, your mother made us sushi rolls to celebrate and you nearly puked out an organ!” he laughed, staying within his place in the room, as if not to frighten me more.

Finally, I managed to speak a few words.

“Sylus… What a.. Surprise.”

He smiles, tilting his head like a confused puppy. “I hope I didn't come at a bad time. I know it's.. Been awhile,” he stretched his arm behind his head, almost nervous. “How've you been? You seem to be holding yourself up well. I mean, come on, you own this fancy place??”

I had opened my mouth to respond, but he beat me to it.

“I’ve heard all kinds of things about this resort! Owned by the infamous Beaumont, who once ruled over snowy hills and mountains.” Sylus followed his words with a small laugh, keeping his attention on the many golden medals I had hung on display.

“I used to know the guy, actually. For a hybrid, he was always more buck than feline. Stubborn and always went head first into a challenge. But when he was racing, he could hunt you down that hill better than any predator could.”

Gods, he never stops talking. It’s not like I had anything to say, however. I was still stuck in time, slowly gaining the courage to shut the door behind me.

Something told me to lock it as well.

Sylus finally turned back around, his chipped ear making a light flick in my direction. I recognized the behavior instantly. It was an old tick he used to do whenever he was nervous. And yet, he smiled at me with such confidence I had never seen before.

“What ever happened to the guy?”

I paused for a brief second, “It never leaves you. I’ve simply put my passion into other things, like..-“ My heart was caught in my throat again as I watched the large cat begin to walk forward. In my direction. “-the resort…-“ I don’t know if it was instinct or fear, but my body's reaction was to back up.

Into nothing but the shut door behind me.

“-and.. the ski- shop—“

With my back pressed against the door, he is now only inches away from my own face. Staring at me with the most starved expression I had witnessed from a carnivore.

Like I was injured prey. And he was leaping.

Sylus was much larger, bulkier, and definitely had the fangs to prove his strength. And yet, he greeted me with a gentle hug.

My eyes widened, stunned and confused as he pulled me into a hold. I had not seen this man in 10 years. And here he was, clinging onto me like a desperate child.

Hesitantly, I raised my hands to return the hug, lightly patting his back. At the same time, I noticed his ears flattening back as we confided in each other in a brief moment of silence.

That hug felt like it had lasted eternity. Until he swiftly pulled back, both of his paws held tightly against my shoulders as he grinned. “Wanna grab some hot chocolate??”

…

What a childish suggestion I think. As I hold a warm mug in the palms of my hands, raising the cup to my mouth for a brief drink while I listen to Sylus’s words. For the past fifteen or so minutes, he had been going on non stop about his life. After our initial split- my accident, and I had lost my leg, I had also lost my best friend.

I've always regretted the way I acted towards him. Sylus was always there for me, at least he tried to be. I became a shut in, and hot tempered. With the rage of losing my ability to snowboard, I would often take out my anger on the nearest person. And who was always by my side? Him. Though, I became too much even for a saber tooth to take down. Now, as I stare at him, all I can feel is guilt.

How annoying. How aggravating. I hate it. I hate how I am sitting here, with a smile on my face as I watch Sylus exaggerate words with dramatic hand gestures.

“You should have been there, Sebastian! I swear, I was practically flying during that tournament. The hills were massive! But ya know, i can handle anything so it was a breeze. I could snowboard on a mountain covered in rocks and sand like nothing.”

“Then it wouldn’t be snowboarding.” His gloating wasn't anything new to me. He had always been like this, and somehow, I have always tolerated it. Sylus grew up to become a world star snowboarder after my retirement. It seems my disappearance treated him well. Occasionally, I would follow up on news letters and live footage when I hear the mention of his name. The great cat that always lands on his feet. For over 10 years we have not spoken, and yet, I was always aware of how good life had been treating him. Though, there was one thing the media never covered. Like he was keeping a dirty secret from the cameras.

“Did you ever marry?”

His smile went from egotistical to hesitant, and he responded with a small head tilt. “Haha.. nah, i just- never had time for relationships, i guess. How about yourself? Surly you've got someone on your tail. That girl from freshman year? What was her name uh… Racheal?”

Ah. Of course he would mention her. He always held some sort of weird grudge over Racheal. Racheal is a mountain lion, who at the time, was my girlfriend. Up until my accident – She was another person i had driven away with my attitude. For the longest time, fans, media, even our family had become convinced we would marry, and live a prosperous life with children.

“No, we don't talk anymore.”

Sylus’s nail lightly tapped the table, as if a buzzer went off in his head. It was difficult to tell what that gesture meant- but he quickly covered it with a smile. “Aw, that sucks. Ya know, I’ve had loooads of offers. Ever since I started winning, it’s like girls would spawn at the finish line, and soon enough they would be spawning at my side! None of them have ever been perfect, though.” He laughed, though I could see right through his narcissism.

“Man- i've been talking this whole time, how about you?? How's Thee Beaumont been?”

“I’ve been fine.” That’s all I could say. I’ve never been one to talk in detail about myself, especially not now when my life has become so repetitive. Though, Sylus could see right through me just as easily as I can see through him.

“You were walking kind of tense on our way here. When was the last time you got your leg checked up? Seems like you might need a resize.”

My ears perked forward- I was surprised he had even noticed that. Since I’ve been doing the entire morning without my cane, the pressure has only been piling on.

“A week ago.”

“Liar.”

Hm. He’s right. I am lying. It had actually been a few years since I’ve visited the doctors. He was calling my bluff, and naturally, I needed to defend myself and excuse it. “I make sure to take care of myself, Sylus.”

My breath was caught stuck in my throat as I felt a graze against the inside of my leg. It was Sylus’ leg, leaning against my non-metallic one. As if it was on purpose. With sylus being much larger, he was easily able to push them apart. And suddenly, the heat from my mug Became unbearable in my face.

Sylus only smiled, tilting his head as if he was simply being playful. “Do you?”

What on earth is he doing.

His leg pulled away, as if it was some accidental touch. And I actually began to question if maybe it was.

Though, it had taken me so off guard that I became silent. Luckily, the cat never shuts up.

“You haven’t changed, huh? Ya know.. as I was waiting for you to come into work, I watched these two kids in suspiciously ski shop shaped polo shirts.. and I watched them run off with some gear after one of them prepped up the closed for break sign on the door.”

I immediately groan, knowing who Sylus was referring to.

Otis and Kenai. They are the two young adults who work at the ski shop within the resort. Otis is a large polar bear, with the most tamed heart. He is the golden employee, who I always could rely on in case a work emergency shows up. Kenai, on the other hand. Is a husky.

Which is ironic for a working dog breed.

However as a pair, they can be quite the party to be around. At times annoying, and others entertaining. But after so long, I can only ever trust those two with the shop.

“I could only find children who were willing to work there..”

He laughed, “they remind you of anyone? Remember when we used to ditch class just to go out and sled? Or when we’d sneak out of your moms place at night to race? I used to hate how your room was on the second story. I fell out of so many windows for your ass!”

The memories began to flood into my head. And a smile followed my face. The flashbacks of watching Sylus fall flat on his back from my window even caused me to laugh.

“Well if you hadn’t agreed to sneak out everytime I asked, you would have saved yourself many falls.”

“I would never turn down an offer so good! Sledding with you was like- falling in love!”

I swear I had heard string snap in half. I don’t think either of us picked up on it, but the tension his words brought was enough for us to pick it up again. By the look on his face, Sylus definitely had not expected those words to play out the way they did either.

He laughed, “anyways.. I was curious and decided to see what they had. The polar bear kid was impressive for such size! I actually even noticed a few of my own techniques in his play. But that husky- he’s got the same flame in him you did. You train him?”

Kenai? I felt almost offended he said that. As much of a great kid Kenai is, his ego is far too big. Though Sylus is right. He’s young, strong, and has a natural gift for the sport. But he’s too young and blinded by the rest of the world to ever impress me.

“No, I don’t. But I am aware of his talent.”

“Do you know if the kids ever done competitive?”

“Not that I know of, no?”

“Does he want do to competitive?”

I watch as Sylus digs into his inner coat pocket, then slides over two white envelopes. I take one look at the wax stamp marked on the both of them, and immediately recognize the crest.

They were personal sign up request for the upcoming yukon tournament. The biggest global snowboarding tournament.

My best games in history.

And also my most devastating.

“So you are here for recruits..”

“Well- no. I’m actually a coach for this prissy kid. But I just thought maybe.. there was a chance you got that dream of raising the next best.”

He remembers that?

I stare at the envelopes, then lightly reach my hand out over them. “Two each?”

Sylus nods, overly delighted as I slide the letters into my coat pocket.

“Yup! Your ticket is always free though, ya know. I’d love to see you there.”

“Likewise..”

the table fell silent again. That tournament held a lot of history for the both of us. Memories not just over losing my leg. But it’s where we had met as well.

“…hey you- still got that piano?”

…

Beaumont wasn’t entirely sure what compelled him to agree to invite Sylus over, but he knew he wouldn’t regret it.

Due to Beaumont having to finish with work, he had invited Sylus to his home for dinner that very night.

It was a perfect time. The food tasted flavorful, and the cold air from outside was unable to seep through the cracks. The two had opened a bottle of red wine.

And by the way it had tipped over without leaving a single stain, it was safe to say they emptied it.

“Let’s see here..” Sylus muttered as she shuffled through the many vinyls Beaumont had collected over the years. Finally he pulled one out- reading the cover. “No way, of course you have the cover version.”

Carefully, he began to place it on the record player.

Beaumont playfully rolled his eyes, too intoxicated to actually be annoyed. He just thought the pick was stupid for their setting as he heard the intro play.

It was Do I Wanna Know, Hoziers cover.

“I thought you were going to play something more uplifting and- exciting.”

“This is exciting. Come over here and flip this piano open” Sylus was already beating Beaumont to it, opening the piano and stepping aside for the other to sit. He didn’t even ask if Beaumont knew how to play the song, because it was obvious by the way Beaumont proudly stood up.

Without any hesitation, he seated himself in front of the keys, picking up on the current notes the vynl was playing.

And with ease, he began to follow it in perfect synchronization.

As if it were muscle memory, even drunk, his hands could not forget their placements. No matter the alcohol, it was obvious this song was a great deal to Beaumont as his focus settled onto the piano.

Have you no idea that you're in deep?

I dreamt about you nearly every night this week

How many secrets can you keep?

'Cause there's this tune I found

That makes me think of you somehow

And I play it on repeat

Until I fall asleep

Sylus per usual, was impressed each and every time he heard Beaumont play. As if he was the perfect being, capable of endless talent. He swiftly finished the last little bit of wine in his glass, before setting it aside. And then, he took a seat right beside Beaumont on the piano's bench.

Do I wanna know

If this feeling flows both ways?

Sad to see you go

Sort of hoping that you'd stay

Darling we both know

That the nights were mainly made

For saying things that you can't say tomorrow day

They were so close against one another now, that their legs brushed straight through each other. And to beaumonts surprise, with a light glance over, he watched as Sylus raised his left hand to the keys. Replacing his own- and following the next set of notes with him as his other half.

Crawling back to you

And with that, Beaumont was forced to lower his left hand into his lap as Sylus took over. Since their entire friendship, Beaumont has never known Sylus to ever touch a piano before. And yet here he was, perfectly matching his tempo to the music. And together, they followed the next set of lines.

Ever thought of calling when you've had a few?

'Cause I always do

Maybe I'm too

Busy being yours to fall for somebody new

Now I've thought it through

“Sebastian..” Sylus muttered under his breath, pulling his hand away from the instruments keys and allowing the record player to continue the song without them.

It always brought Heat to Beaumonts face whenever Sylus would use his first name. For so long, he was used to everyone calling him Beaumont that he had forgotten what it sounded like.

Beaumont came to a pause, curiously shifting all his attention onto Sylus’ next words. “Something wrong?”

Sylus’s ear flicked twice, then he lightly began to laugh. “Ya know, I forgot what I was gonna say! You still got it.”

A wave of disappointment filled Beaumonts chest, almost as if he had expected something different. He turned his head back down to the piano keys, “for such a large cat.. you are a coward.”

Taken aback, Sylus felt he had been attacked. And read right through. “What do you—“ Beaumont stood from his seat, “would you like another bottle? Perhaps that will raise your confidence.” As Beaumont turned away, his tail swayed underneath Sylus’s chin with a soft flick.

Sylus stood there dumbfounded as he realized what Beaumonts attitude was called for. He was coming into him.

20 years of pent up desire and withholding made Sylus almost want to get up and sink his fangs into Beaumonts neck. And finally, Beaumont was acknowledging it.

Or was it the alcohol talking?

As he watched Beaumont reach up to grab a concealed bottle from a high shelf, he caught a glimpse of a familiar spotted pattern due to his shirt rising up. As Beaumont began to read the name off the bottle, he left a warm hand tuck itself underneath his clothing. Sylus’ large claws tracing themselves up to his rib cage.

“How many more have you gained? You used to hate when a new spot would show up.”

Beaumont nearly dropped the bottle in his hand, “A lot—“

“Show me,” he begged out a whisper, curiously pulling down the waistline of Beaumonts plants to reveal the leopard pattern that flowed down his hips. To make matters worse, Sylus used his tongue to lick up the back of Beaumonts neck. His large teeth pressed right against his skin as if he was waiting for the perfect opportunity to bite.

“Is this really what you want, Sylus?”

He huffed, pressing his body weight against Beaumonts back.

“What I want? Sebastian.. what I want is to fuck you just as hard as I wanted to fifteen years ago.”

….

An annoying ring sung out on the front desk phone, and a small lamb picked it up. “Goodmorning, Susan speaking!

What-

Oh.. okay..”

Her chirpy attitude dropped as she slowly placed the phone down, in disbelief. Her Poodle co worker curiously looked over. “What was that?”

“Mr. Beaumont called out today..”

[shindayyume]

Delirious .·:*¨ ✘♚✘ ¨*:·.

An introduction to a new character. Dean Harrington is the son of an infamous scientist that was capable of changing their dying species for the better. Now, It’s Deans job to follow in his footsteps. Unbeknownst to him, he is just like the rest of the Freaks they seek to wipe out.

『••✎••』

Dean swayed in the cushioned swivel chair, side to side as if he was experiencing the most boring event in his life. Because he was. He had his shoes propped up against the meeting table, seated all the way towards the end as multiple other men and women in dark suits paid close attention to the white board ahead. Meanwhile, Dean's eyes were firmly set on the ticking clock at the corner of the room, watching the numbers count down right in front of him. Impatiently, he chewed at the end of his pink pastel pen, the muffled words of corporate numbers and business plans going into one ear and right out the other.

“Mr. Harrington? Mr. Harrington?? Harrington!”

The voice of an older man stretched across the board meeting, and every single eye in the room was pinned onto the youngster who had been lost in his own world. Dean's response was a quick “Hm?” scanning everyone's faces like a deer in headlights.

“.. yeah! Yeah, let's go with that.’ He laughed in between “uh… what was the question?”

The older man at the opposite end of the table was the only one up from his seat, the one going over the oh so important presentation. He sighed with annoyance. “Mr. Harrington, it's important you understand the gravity of the situation. Your father’s research is extremely important to our proposal, we need an update. Is it ready?”

Crap. He muttered to himself. His father. His father was all they ever mentioned around this place. Not only was his dad a highly presetine business man around the place, but he was also a very successful scientist. It's all he ever focused on throughout Dean's entire life. With the world changing, and becoming more destructive towards mankind, Dean’s father was the man in charge of chemical and biological “testing.” Dean could never remember the exact words for it, but his father was practically the Oppenheimer of his generation.

“Right! Cmon chief, don't sweat it. We're still working out the… kinks and symptoms.. I'll meet the deadline.” Dean stood from his seat, adjusting the cuffs of his sleeves to a comfortable fit. “I'd say this meeting is adjourned, don't you think? We’re what- thirty minutes past our scheduled time?”

“Mr. Harrington, we still have so much more to discuss-” Before anyone could even try and convince Dean to stay, he was already maneuvering his way towards the door.

“Mhm! Tell Martha to add the next meeting into my schedule! Busy man, ya know.” He flashed a wink towards the entire crew before practically bolting out that office.

The team could only watch in disbelief and frustration. They dare not to talk back to Harrington, even in death, they fear the consequences of his parents.

Dean strolled through the long halls of the pristine building he attended. “Morning Susan!” he tapped against the lobby's main counter as he rushed past, catching the attention of the clerk behind it. “Good Morning Mr. Harrington!” was her response back, trying not to choke over her own words while she caught his smile. But it was nothing special, He did that to everyone he stepped past.

“Hey, Jason, love the new hair!”

“Oh- thank you, Harrington! Someone noticed!”

“Sara, is that a new dress? That color looks great on you!”

“It is! Thank you, Mr. Harrington!”

“Clark, saw your new debut! You're doing great, man!”

“You really think so?? Thanks, Harrington!”

These were all one sentence conversations he was bypassing, giving flirtatious waves and smiles from across the room. No matter who he was talking to, their eyes always panned in his direction with desire. Dean was well known around his company, not just for being the son of a pristine family, but boy, did he have a face blessed by Aphrodite herself. Not only that, but no one had ever seen him angry or sad a day in their lives. He was perfect.

He exited the large glass double doors, immediately greeted by a younger woman in a tight fit dress and clipboard in hand. She seemed to stumble over herself as she attempted to catch up to him. “Mr. Harrington! I see your meeting lasted longer than planned- I had some extra time to work on your upcoming speech at the gala-”

“Oh Meave, you work too hard, tell me about it on the way!” His hand lightly rested on her lower back, motioning for her to step into the car that was patiently parked in the valet. A team of security protecting their surroundings, and holding open the backseat door for the two.

“But Mr. Harrington-” as she was motioned inside the car before him, her instinct was to scoot towards the other end of the backseat, leaving space for him besides her. She adjusted the glasses on her face, anxiously trying to get his focus straight.

“Yeah, I know? Don’t stress, I'll read it over when I get home. Woah! Bad hair day?” As he entered the car, he reached over to lightly fix the few fly away strands of hair that had escaped her neat bun. Tucking them behind her ear with innocence. Her face burned pink, attempting to recall what she was saying. “Mr. Harrington can we please stay on topic-” She was getting nowhere. Only able to watch as he stretched over to speak to the driver.

“Daniel hey, hi, can we put a rush on it? As fast as you can go without getting us pulled over?” He patted his hand against the chauffeur's shoulder, grinning before relaxing back into his seat.

“As you wish, master Harrington.”

Once Dean was finally seated and the car was in motion, his secretary once again tried to get his attention. ‘Um, Mr. Har-” her words were interrupted by his, “Its Dean, Meave. Just Dean,” he chuckled, turning his head to look at her. “Hey! Job for you, you think you can set up an appointment with marketing? They're all over my tail, I don't think I can reschedule for the third time. Also, see if you can ask my tailor to adjust the cuffs on this suit- the sleeves are bugging me like hell” He once again started to adjust the ends of his sleeves, twirling his wrist to stretch it.

Defeated, she began to write those notes down onto the clipboard in her lap. “Yes sir,”

Meave was new to being Harrington's personal secretary. Honestly, it seemed like he had a new one every week. It was impossible for him to keep a steady right hand man, mostly due to the fact that he would end up sleeping with them in a one night stand and they would soon become too clingy. Her and Dean have yet to run into that problem however.

As quickly as the driver could take them, they soon arrived at a large manor. It was protected by tall, shiny black gates that held the family crest right at the entrance. It was a symbol of a white dove being entangled by a large python. The car circled through the complex roundabout at the front of the house, stopping perfectly at the main doors. An older woman waited patiently outside, approaching the vehicle's back door and holding it open for the younger gentleman. Greeting him with a monotone expression, “Welcome back, master Harrington.”

“Thank you, Martha. Daniel, take Meave home for me, would you? We’re done for the day.”

The second he was outside the car, Martha reached for his coat, gently removing it from over his shoulders.

“Mr. Harrington, wait your sp-” The car's door shut in Meave’s face, silencing the rest of her concern.

“God that meeting took forever! I thought I was going to be late!” The house itself stood tall with confidence, as if it was alive and aware of who it was housing inside. As Dean walked through the hallways with Martha tailing right behind him, Their footsteps lightly echoed off the walls.

“Did you meet their expectations this time, master Harrington? And before you ask, yes, I had already set up the theater for you.”

“Ugh, Martha, I love you! Hey, you think we can have teriyaki for dinner? Janice brought a bowl for her lunch today and I cannot get it out of my head!” He laughed in the back of his throat, starting to undo the buttons on his dress shirt as he entered a large bedroom.

Martha stood patiently at the doorway, respectfully turned around to provide him with privacy. “That is actually something of importance we need to discuss. I will find you later after your show.” She knew who she was speaking to, and calmly began to walk off.

It hardly seemed like Dean was ever listening. He was always lost in his own world and priorities, humming the lyrics to ‘Bye Bye Bye’ by *Nsync as he stripped down his clothing. Leaving nothing but the silver cross that hung from his neck. He replaced his outer wear with a thin white robe that would nearly be see through if it wasn't for the intricate designs and patterns of gold embroidered into it. He raised his hands into his hair, ruffling it out from its neatly slicked back style into its natural golden fluffy look. “Finally,” he took a breath, glancing over to the king sized bed that was neatly done. Specifically looking at the dusty colored stuffed animal of a rabbit that drooped in between his pillows.

“Eh,” he shrugged his shoulders, exiting the room and slamming the door shut behind him.

Only to reopen the door within seconds, and grab ahold of the still plushie on the bed.

He seated himself comfortably in the center row, the room mimicked a small, more home settled movie theater. And of course, that slouchy rabbit had its own seat right besides him, both of their chairs reclined up. With one gentle push of a button, his arm rest opened to reveal a remote mechanically engineered into the seat itself. For an item so simple, it looks far too advanced to belong to his world. Looking blankly at the HDMI settings that reflected back to him, he clicked down to HDMI2, getting greeted by a ‘no signal’ warning once he pressed the confirming button. “Oh damn, wrong one.” Double taking after muttering to himself, he ended up figuring out the right settings.

And finally, the grand moment he had been waiting for all day. The one thing that he impatiently sat through the meeting for was now right here in his face.

The newest episode of love island.

. . .

“What?! No!! She got booted off?? But she was perfect!” He whined, at the edge of his seat as the ending of the show played through on the giant screen in front of him. “Uuuuggghhh..” He then slouched back, melting into the seat in anguish.

“Another week until the next…”

It wasn’t until now that he realized how silent the room was. Sure, the TV was still playing out its commercials and filling the background, but his voice was still the only real one in the room.

Uncomfortable silence.

He shifted in his seat, his eyes darting around the room while he thought of his next move. Then, an idea struck like a light bulb.

‘Bye bye bye’

He slid down the long hallway, fuzzy white bear shaped slippers gliding across the freshly mopped floor.

“-I loved you endlessly, When you weren't there for me

So now it's time to leave and make it alone,”

He had his fist raised near his mouth, holding an imaginary microphone that he was repeating lyrics into. In replacement for an actual microphone, was a short metal bat. It was not meant for baseball.

Making his way down the endless hallways, he energetically mimicked the proper dances to the song. The Lyrics dumped loudly throughout the house, playing from multiple speakers hidden around.

“Don’t want to be a fool for you,

Just another player in your game for two,

You may hate me but it aint no lie,

Baby bye bye bye.”

It is important to note, before this, Dean's bright idea was to partake in a few shots of strong alcoholic mixes.

He has stumbled his way to the end of the hall on the top floor, pushing open two large doors to reveal the biggest bedroom in the house. The room itself was cleaned, but untouched. As if it had been dormant for quite some time, even bits of furniture were outdated. Lined up against the walls, were displays upon displays of trophies and framed documents. They made perfect decorations around the large photo portrait of a man and a woman. Both equally resemble Dean in features.

“Don't really want to make it tough,”

He tightened his grip on the bat in hand, raising it to rest against his shoulder.

“I just want to tell you that I've had enough,”

He then twirled the bat like a baton against his fingers, confirming his grip with now two hands, and springing his arms back.

“It might sound crazy but it ain't no lie

Baby bye bye bye.”

With all the strength his drunken mind could manage, he took a heavy swing at the golden awards. Their shelves immediately broke and snapped, only progressively getting damaged as glass, wood, and other materials split into pieces from Dean's repeated aggression.

He bopped his head to the rhythm still playing throughout the house, a smile over his face to confirm how unaware he was of his own actions.

Unfortunately, nothing was safe within that room. He ran that bat through the expensive furniture that held up chairs and dressers, shattering glass that protected diplomas and displayed papers.

“I've lived for you and me

And now I really come to see

That life would be much better once you're gone,”

The room was quickly being torn into a mess. The floor now covered in scraps and damaged decor. The walls had its paint chipped and peeled, even a few holes smashed in from any impact. He mouthed the lyrics, raising his free hand to form it in the shape of a talking puppet as he stumbled over the trashed ground.

He came face to face with a specific shelf hidden in the corner of the room. It held up a few crosses and unlit candles. To pull it all together, right in the center was a framed photo of Dean around the age of 7-8, and his parents at each side. He huffed, chest raising up and down out of exhaustion while he stared back at the younger version of himself. The smile from before had now faded into a meaningless glare. The child's eyes could not mimic the older ones ahead. Their gloss faded, and his mind was not all that there.

“I'm giving up I know for sure

I don't' want to be the reason for your love no more

…

I'm checking out, I'm signing off

I don't want to be the loser, and I've had enough.”

He took another frustrated swing, destroying the shelf of its prayer. The frame cracked and split into two, hitting the ground with the old family portrait still intact.

Dean left no item unturned. Even the sheets to the bed were draped off, and its pillows bursted with feathers spilling out the ends. The old clothing from the closet was torn and thrown about, and there was always a crunch of glass and debris following Deans steps.

. . .

Martha had later approached Dean's bedroom. The door was firmly shut and she didn’t have to try the handle to know it was locked. She lightly knocked on the wood with the back of her knuckles, “Master Harrington? I would like to discuss tonight’s plans. If you’re- done.”

The door swung open, and out rushed a dazed Meave stumbling to stretch down her dress. Her glasses were framed crooked on her face, and she no longer had that neat bun as before. She lightly muttered a polite “excuse me” while she bypassed the housekeeper.

Martha didn’t even have to see her face to know her mascara was running.

Dean, still being in the room, was in the process of retying the loop to hold his robe together. A few strands of hair stuck to the sweat on his forehead as he innocently smiled.

“Martha! Yeah yeah, what’s up? I’m not busy, I was just about to run a bath. Oh! Martha, do me a huge favor and fire Meave. Lay her down gently for me,” He chuckled, lowering his voice to a secretive whisper. “She's a crier..”

“Right… Master Harrington, did you forget that you are scheduled to attend the ceremonial gala tonight? They are expecting you to give a speech on your latest product release…”

She watched as Dean waltzed into his connected bathroom, running the water to the tub just to get it to the right temperature before filling it up. He immediately groaned over this information,

“Uuuuggghhhhh…

I'm not going.”

“Master Dean, you cannot spend your entire life alone in a mansion watching reality TV and listening to boy bands.”

“Uh, yeah I can” He shrugged, adding bubble soap into the filling tub.

Once the tub was filled, and hot enough to release steam, he turned off the faucet. Now undoing the loose knot that held together his robe.

“Well if you ask me, It might be a good idea for you to attend. Gives you the opportunity of branching out. And meeting new people.” She stepped inside the room, politely turned away from the bathroom doorway.

“Pfft, okay? Everyone knows my face, I doubt it's any different than work or stepping outside. Isn't that what I need? Some peace and quiet, protecting myself from the disgusting anomalies out there? Like hell to think I want to end up on that missing persons list.” He slowly dipped himself into the water, before sinking in further until suds were at his chest.

Martha hummed, grabbing ahold of one of the super hero figurines that had been displayed on his counter. Lightly dusting it off with the end of her apron before placing it back in its rightful spot. “You are not leaving the border, Master Dean. And besides, it’s not like you to turn down a party. Did something happen at work?”

“Uuhh-“ Resting his arms along the edges of the tub, he had a brief flashback to a few weeks ago- he had been downstairs in the lab with a few other crew members, and “accidentally” single handedly caused the contamination and destruction of their medical research planning to cure super viruses.

They were not the most thrilled.

“Nope! Just don’t think our product release is ready yet. Maybe for the next one!”

She sighed, giving her head a light shake from side to side in disappointment. “As you wish, Master Dean. But.. do take it into heavy consideration.” She began to make her way out the room, briefly stopping at the doorway. “Your father would be proud.”

Within seconds after, she quietly closed the bedroom door.

Dean sat in silence, using the nail at his fingertip to scratch at his thumb until the skin was red. He made yet another long whine, holding his head in his hand. “Martha! Can you please iron my suit? And have the car ready, I like when the A/C is blasting.. thank you!”

. . .

Dean swiftly stepped out from the limousine's backseat door, which had been respectfully held open by a security guard. Immediately, he was greeted by camera flash and microphones. Paparazzi shouted and catcalled to grab the attention of the face of Harrington enterprise.

Dean's smile was enough to make them all go wild. Not to mention that his golden hair was neatly slicked back, perfectly blending with the white tux hugged around his triangular frame. With a wave, he walked down the velvet carpet.

“Aww, I love you guys too! Stop, you flatter me!” He laughed, his words purring into the ears of the audience as their cameras followed his every step. However, they would soon lose sight of him the moment he stepped through the large glimmery double doors.

On the other side, was a grand ballroom filled with the most expensive looking people.

They laughed and few even danced, intertwined with each other like the perfect society.

Many of them caught eyes on the new arrival through the thick crowd. It was the same routine as work, where people would step out of the way for the young man, greeting him with high regards. And Dean fed into it. He loved stopping to have a quick chat about his oh so busy, perfect life, or to stop and share a drink with the sexy marketing director.

“Harrington!”

A voice from halfway across the giant room called for him, making Dean turn his head from the group of ladies that had roped themselves into his arms.

The second the corner of his eye spotted the dusty brown hair, he muttered a brief “shit” under his breath.

“Harper! Hey! Don’t tell me you’re-“

“Coordinating the speeches for today? Yes, I am. We were expecting you to ditch on us again.” A young male approached the other, he was smaller compared to Dean, with a more feminine look to him. Even so, Dean would be lying if he said he didn’t find the guy attractive. Harper had long, Lusciously styled hair. The tips and ends a chocolate brown, while the roots gleamed almost creamy white. Today especially Dean could not avert his eyes. Mainly due to the fact that Harper was wearing an extremely low cut V neck.

“Haha- whaaaat? No way, I wouldn't have missed it for the world!”

“Really? So did your 15th new assistant provide you with a proper speech this time? Or did you.. make this one yourself. Again.” Harper raised a brow, crossing his arms together.

Dean laughed, cursing at himself in the back of his head. He should have listened to Meave in the car this morning. “Oh you know me, I speak for myself. Sooo.. where did you place me in the presentation?”

“Last.”

“Huh?! Last?? Harper, I don’t know if I should thank you or send a mutant to your house! You’re going to keep me here all night??” He slouched like a sad puppy.

The smaller man shrugged, the corner of his lips smugly turning up. “Like I said, no one expected you to show. And that’s what you get for ghosting me. Besides.. I have a very important run down for you about how this is gonna go, so listen up and listen well.”

Dean gave a slow, fake smile filled nod, his eyes darting around the room for an easy escape- Harper was on a ramble.

Behind his ear, like a cold whisper, the orchestra's music hit the back of his mind. Though, it wasn’t the instruments that caught his attention. It was the voice that echoed from the center of the stage.

Suddenly, his entire world became silent. Harper’s voice drained out with the hundreds of others around him. Except for one. A singular female voice flowed against his ears like ocean waves. At first, he tried to blink away the odd sensation, only for it to grow louder, and more clear. He could’ve sword he even heard his own name being called through it. He eventually gave his body a turn around, the crowd now full of blurred faces and dark shadows. All accept.. For the bright spotlight that showered over the lady in a dark seafoam dress. Her extended hair was loosely pinned back, held by clips that mimicked seashells and starfishes. Even so, it was a perfect silky black that waved at the ends.

And oh did that dress hug her in all the right places, draping as low to the ground, with a small train right behind her. The poor standing microphone was a victim of her entrancement, her lips being mere meters away from touching it.

She was as beautiful as her voice. And to Dean, it felt as if she was singing directly to him.

Snap

Snap

Snap

“Harrington?? Harrington?? Dean!” Harper snapped his fingers once more, finally getting the attention of the blonde in front of him, who has been long spaced out.

The many voices in the room filled his head again as he looked back, as if he had been dreaming previously.. Everything felt real again. “Huh? Hm? Yeah, yeah I'm paying attention- hey um, who is that” He gawked over the pretty performer once more, starting to walk closer to the center stage where the orchestra resided.

Harper rolled his eyes, following. “You don't know her? Now that's surprising. That's Lady Odessa, a famous musical artist around these parts. She's got a pretty good voice, don't you think?”

“Odessa..” he repeated, keeping his eyes pinned straight on the lady as he politely excused himself through the crowd. He was just steps away from the stage, her eyes shifting from her audience to the singular man approaching her side.

But then, Dean was stopped by a very tall security guard. He was large, with darkened brown hair tied into neat braids. The most obvious feature about him was the disgusting scar that stretched across the bridge of his nose. All the guy had to do was place his hand against Dean's chest, blocking his view from Odessa.

Dean had to turn his head upwards for once, making a very nervous chuckle as he surrendered his hands up. It seems like Odessas security was not one to mess with.

“Hey big guy- woah, nice scar? Where'd you pick that one up? Ya know, I got a few around if you ever wanna take a-”

“Shut up and step back.”

Dean froze for a brief moment, staring dumbfoundedly at the larger man that had a very intimidating glare across his face. No one had ever told him to shut up before.

“haha- “

Dean felt another hand on his shoulder, pulling him back. It was Harper, with an irritated look on his face. “Don't be dumb. Besides, I need to talk to you more. I have a gift,” Harpers words sung out from his lips, dragging his hand upwards under Dean's chin to pull him into a trance.

Dean was enough of an idiot to completely forget about the lady on stage after that, raising a curious brow to Harper. “Oh? You didn't have to get me anything, birdie..”

“I know, you don't deserve it,” Harper hooked his fingers underneath Dean's bowtie, dragging him away from the stage like a dog on a leash. He pulled him into a more secluded area, hidden in one of the halls that only one or two other people passed down.

“Woah, don't you think we’re still out in the open? Maybe there's a bathroom or storage closet near by-”

“Shush, think with your head for once. Here,” Harper pulled out a small box from his pocket, carefully handing it over to Dean. “That's what I wanted to give you. As a- good luck charm. It was pretty obvious you were avoiding this presentation so.. Maybe it'll help boost your confidence.” Harper crossed his arms behind his back, looking up to Dean with a faint smile.

Dean instinctively took the box, he was a sucker for gifts and trinkets of all sorts.

Opening it, it revealed a shiny silver band, sitting on a dark blue cushion.

“A ring? Woah, Harper, you're not getting on a knee for me, are ya?”

“Of course not, I'm not that desperate. The ring is actually blessed by a magical entity.. It gives the wearer the ability of enhanced strength, knowledge, power, like an anomaly.”

Dean and Harper had a thick moment of uncomfortable tension between them. Until they both broke out in laughter “good one! You had me scared for a second there”

Harper laughed, waving his hand. “I’m just teasing. It’s from my family's collection, go on, give it a go.”

Dean removed the ring from its protective case, taking a closer inspection. Inside the ring had the tiniest engravings he had ever seen. With the words written,

‘Till death’

Yeah, not creepy at all. At this point he really was questioning if Harper was trying to sneak in a proposal. He should really start paying attention to the documents he signs blindly- but the ring itself showed no flaws, it was beautiful. Though, it seemed a little too big for his finger. Curiously, he slipped the jewelry onto his ring finger, and was surprised to find it was a perfect fit. He could have sworn it was a size too big, but it seemed to just.. adjust itself perfectly. Must be a trick of the eye.

He stretched out his hand, admiring how it perfectly blended in with his other rings.

“Charming.. Thank you, Harper. Does this mean I owe you one?”

Harper made a “tsk” sound with his tongue, shaking his head. “Consider it a thank you, for even showing up. Can’t wait to see your presentation. Which reminds me- I have to start the ceremony, don’t forget you start in 30!”

Harper was quick to trail off, giving Dean a wave goodbye as he disappeared into the crowded abyss.

Dean hummed, inspecting the ring once more. He swore that he saw the spotlights reflect off its surface, glimmering with.. approval.

He shrugged it off, turning to return back with the many people who now had all their attention on stage.

“Alright! Everyone give a round of applause for the lovely Odessa, her performance was breath taking!”

The crowd cheered with applause as she lightly bowed her head in thanks before she was escorted off the stage by her security. Alas- Dean saw his opportunity.

“Excuse me- ‘cuse me, thank you,”

Odessa had now been pulled onto the floor, still guarded, but open to interactions as she accepted a wine-filled glass from one of the bypassers.

“H-hey! You were stunning up there..” he cleared his throat, pressing his hand against his own chest as he introduced himself. “Dean Harrington, Billionaire, bon vivant, inventor, playboy, and the Capitals most eligible bachelor, like, five years in a row now-”

“I know who you are, Dean.” With a laugh, she returned a light smile to him, taking a drink from her glass out of interest.

His head cocked to the side, the expression on his face a tad shocked as she called him by his first name. No one ever did that. “Oh I'm sure you do. Oddly enough, I've never seen you before.. I guess I must be a lot farther behind in today's media than I thought. Even so, I've never heard a voice as entrancing as yours..”

She nodded, with another laugh. “Oh, you flatter me! It's truly an honor to make my way up to such a luxurious event. I was starting to get bored actually, but i've seemed to run into quite the sailor..” She inched herself closer, clearly enthralled by Dean's simple words. She pulled back when she noticed a shine from Dean's finger, “Oh- oh I'm sorry, I wasn't aware you were..” She pointed to the ring.

“Huh- oh- OH, no no, i'm not-” he cleared his throat, attempting to figure out a more professional explanation. Truly, he wasn't going to just expose that it was a gift from an ex. “I'm not tied down or anything, it's only a fashion statement. A gift- from a family friend, if you will.”

“I see… so, the capital's number one bachelor is.. Available?” her lips turned upwards again, lightly dancing her fingertips against the collar of his shirt. Dean felt his heart thump against his chest, his eyes tracking down every move she made.

“Far more than available, Miss Odessa.. You know, I know of a pretty secluded–” at the corner of his eye, he caught a glimpse of her hand. Her fingertips were suddenly stained back, like dark charcoal. His immediate reaction was to jerk himself away, blinking his eyes in a panic.

“Mr. Harrington? Is everything alright?”

Like nothing ever happened, her hands were completely normal. He could have sworn, he spotted an anomaly.

“I, yeah I,”

Then, there was a cold touch against his back. He could feel the palm of a person phase right through him, grabbing a hold of the breath in the back of his throat.

“Harrington! Harrington, there’s been an urgent change of plans, we need you up there first.”

It was Harper. He had grabbed Dean by the coat, forcibly snapping him back into reality. “Do you hear me?? We need you up there now!”

Odessa smiled, taking the open opportunity to excuse herself with her security “Goodluck up there, Harrington. I look forward to seeing you around.”

No one was giving him anytime to process. He felt hot, and panicked. But his mind was blank. “What?? Now?? Seriously?”

“Yes! Now cmon! The president is watching.” Harper pushed and shoved against Dean's back, getting the gears in his legs moving. Before he knew it, he was escorted backstage with minimal downtime. “Wait wait wait- but my tech, I didn’t bring any?? And the presentation is halfway done, I can’t just-“

“Martha sent it all to us.” As the opener on stage gathered the crowd, he spoke loudly through the microphone. And Harper was quickly adjusting a clip on mic to Deans collar.

“Attention! Attention ladies and gentlemen. It is an honor to have you here, and as you may have heard.. We have gathered a collective group of leaders, scientists, doctors, and senators to present to you.. the first look into our future. Ever since monsters and demons have awakened from our land, we have been at war. Determined to reclaim our home, and stand on top, everyone here today has taken a step forward. One more. Step forward. Into the downfall of anomalies.”

The audience roared and clapped, this was no ordinary Gala. This was the event Dean had been avoiding his entire life. A chance to prove one’s worth, in the eyes of the Capitals president himself.

“She.. brought it? She brought it??” Dean's voice lowered into a stern whisper.

“Yes. Leave it to me. Now go! You’re up!” With another Shove, Dean could step nowhere but into the spotlight.

“I’d love for you to all give a warm welcome to our first presentation of the night. The son of a man who changed the way we create. Changed the way we live. A legend among mankind.. he is here to follow in his footsteps, and enhance our world for the betterment of humanity. I present to you, Dean Harrington!”

Dean's eyes were flashed by cameras and glowing smiles. They gave their cheers and undivided attention as if he was in the center of a gladiator ring. His smile came naturally, raising his hand as a greeting while he walked in front of the podium centered on stage.

“Thank you, Thank you, everyone..”

His own breathing overwhelmed the crowd's voices. But soon, they settled into respected silence. Awaiting his next words.

Frozen, Dean's hidden hands trembled behind the podium. He had not taken Meaves suggested speech, and was nowhere near ready to commit to his project. But he had no choice.

“It is.. an Honor to be here, and your support is all too welcoming..” He paused again, his eyes covering over the entire room with fear. Then, he took a breath.

“As you know, my father was an amazing scientist. Him and my mother risked their lives, spending days, weeks, months- years. Researching outside of our walls. Obtaining all the knowledge they can on the dangers of the world. Our world..” behind him, displayed a large screen. Playing videos of the two parents he was mentioning and their success.

“My father used the biology of anomalies to better our own. For our medicine, weapons, and protection.”

Dean caught the reflection of the screen against the newly obtained ring on his finger. Meeting eyes with his own father.

~

“You don’t understand, Nancy, he is utterly obsessed with them. No matter how hard I try, all he wants to do is help it.”

“He is only a child.. he’s just- different.”

“No, Nancy. Our son is a Freak.”

The young eleven year old boy sat on the cold floor. His knees hugged close to his chest as he attempted to comfort himself in the dark room. His only light source coming from the cracked doorway. Even then, the shadows of two adults stood at the other side, blocking the light. Their voices stayed at a whisper, but it was still loud enough for the kid to hear.

Dean dropped his head down, sniffing tears away as he sobbed over the robotic rabbit at his feet. It had been crushed into pieces.

~

And then, a new person arose through his confidence.

“And yes, a great man he was. But what if I told you, we can do better.” He looked down to the microphone clipped to his collar, carefully removing it. Now presenting with his loudest voice, he held the tiny object up into the air.

“This is our future. This. will protect us from monsters.”

The crowd blinked, in uncomfortable silence. Honestly, there might have been a few laughs.

“I know it doesn’t look like much. I mean, how is a tiny microphone meant to save humanity against a beast with claws and razor sharp teeth? Because this, is a shield. A suit of armor. A sword. And a heart.”

The microphone burst itself into hundreds of tiny mechanical pieces. They were like millions of baby spiders, that seemed to duplicate and expand. like magic. Like living cells. They clustered around Dean's hand and forearm, gradually growing. And mimicking his clothing into hard metal.

“This. Is Nanotechnology.”

Within seconds, the mechanical organisms flowed down Dean's torso, to his legs. Within a blink- Dean was raised higher. They formed bridges underneath his feet. Creating stepping stones for him as he began to walk into the crowd. Above their heads.

“Like stuff out of books and movies, from prosthetics to a new level of transportation- If you can think it, nanotechnology can make it.”

The presentation that had been behind Dean began to display a collage of concept arts and designs. Suits of armor made up of the technology. Vehicles that could easily replace their current ones. Homes and buildings repaired and built to house the lower districts. And even Medical Devices that could flow through one’s blood stream and repair a virus within minutes. These were all the possibilities Dean wanted to share with the world. And these, power hungry humans got front row seats.

“No more second guessing! No more salving away in labs and offices. Look no further, than to the tiny robot that will cater your every need.”

They had lost their minds. Completely enthralled with the nanobots as they carried Dean effortlessly through the crowd. They scaled along the walls, holding him upside down as he confidently was carried on the ceiling, being taken back to the stage. If their cheers weren’t loud before, their gasp and awes covered it.

“And the best part? We no longer have to rip apart anomalies. We no longer have to tear into their biology! Nanotechnology is all of us. These bots are linked and transfused with my DNA. And they can be linked with yours too. One hundred and ten percent pure, human DNA. This, is our own source of energy to the world. Our chance to connect and expand- we no longer have to be afraid of what awaits us outside!”

Back onto the framed structure, the bots formed a tall, bold statue of a warrior. It covered the presentation that was once following the story.

And Dean stood in the center of it all, raising his hands with pride. “Together, all of us, can live in this world as equals. We can be stronger than what we are now. With nanotechnology!”

He huffed, waiting for the hundredth round of applause. But his smile began to fade, as he realized the admiration of voices were whispers and judgmental faces.

“He wants to be equal? With monsters..?”

“He’s trying to kill us, getting us out of these walls..”

“The lower districts do not deserve such a gift..”

“He wants us to live with those.. things out there?”

“What a Freak.”

Deans brows furrowed with uncertainty. What was happening? Why were they.. getting angry? Dean took a step back, hearing footsteps quickly approach his side. Harper had grabbed ahold of his arm, trying to drag him off the stage in a panic.

The audience grew snappy, with irritation in their voices. Booing and mocking the young male.

Their words painfully replayed in Deans head. He couldn’t hear anything else, let alone understand what he did wrong. All he could do was feel his body temperature slipping away, and his vision become too blurry to see through. He knew Harper was calling his name, and he knew he was being escorted to his car. But.. he could not respond.

“What did I do?”

He wasn’t even sure how he got within his seat, but now in the back of his limousine, a crowd covered each window. Paparazzi and news reporters shouting their questions and concerts like an angry mob.

Their faces looked distorted, resembling those of blood thirsty demons and creatures. His mind scrambled and shaken, he felt like he was on a roller coaster.

Dean watched as the vehicle drove through them, and they slowly faded out of view.

Dean did not wait for anyone to open his door. He had stepped out of a halfway moving vehicle, stumbling his way into his house while his chest racing with his mind. His lungs on fire, and his heart drumming in his ears.

“Master Harrington? Master Harrington? Dean, is everything alright??”

“Y-yeah Martha I just, I just need to lay down..” Dean used the walls as his support, dragging his feet down a hallway he felt he was phasing through. Eventually he made it to his bedroom, the corners of the walls draped in shadow. Yelling back at him with curses and angry tones.

He fell onto the mattress, his chest rising quickly with each breath he took. He could still hear it, their voices. The crowd mocking him and harassing his mind.

Before he knew it, his vision became nonexistent, fading into a dark cloud of black. He had only made it halfway onto the bed, with his feet still dangling off and his arm hanging off the edge.

A bright shine twinkled over the ring of his finger as his hand drooped off the end of the bed.

*.·:·.✧ ✦ ✧.·:·.*

[shindayyume]

Starry Starry Night .・。.・゜✭・.

A story about the beginning of a life long friendship, and the impact of one particular painting. {OCs}

『••✎••』

“What made you pick the name Vincent anyways?”

.. “He had pretty art.”

⋆｡𖦹°⭒˚｡⋆

“She’s a weird kid. Her hair is always messy, and she always tears her dresses because they’re too long. And she doesn’t talk!”

The five year old sat at the end of his bed, holding out one of his legs while his mother slipped on the toddler sized sneaker over his foot.

“Oh c'mon now, Haru, that’s not very nice to say. Maybe she’s just.. struggling to find herself.”

She laced up one shoe, and then began working on the other.

“What do you mean?”

“Well, sometimes not everyone is born knowing who they are… Maybe Scarlet feels out of place in school? Maybe she just needs a friend to understand her.”

“But the other kids said she bites and scratches.. I think she likes to be alone.”

He pouted, almost pitying the other kid.

“That could be true too. I’m sure either way, she might just need some time getting to know everyone. Don’t take it too personally, sunflower.”

“Humph,” Haru took a look at his sneakers, clicking the tips of his shoes together. He giggled as the bottoms twinkled with lights. But, for a five year old whose priority should be showing off his new pair of light up sketchers, he was pretty stressed over the fact that there was a new kid in his class.

Haru was well known around his school. He was a teacher's pet, had the highest grades, attended every event he could, and was the most popular kid on campus.

Everyone loved him. It was like his presence could magically light up a room.. Your morning could start off gloomy, but running into Haru was like witnessing the sun peak out from underneath those rainy clouds. The other kids would smile and cheer, always eager to play with Haru or even sit with him at lunch. He didn’t mind any of it. In fact, he enjoyed making other people happy.

That was until he was challenged. A new girl came along.

It was already the middle of the semester within their first grade class, so no one expected a new student to appear out of the blue.

Haru remembers that day vividly. It was only a few weeks ago, where this small girl was being introduced at the front of the class.

⋆｡𖦹°⭒˚｡⋆

“Everyone take your seats!” Shouted the teacher from the head of the class. All the young kids giggled and muttered between one another as they took their places, setting down backpacks and lunchboxes while making themselves comfortable. Haru being one of them.

He was always seated at the very front, and had already been put in a good mood after saying hello to some of his friends.

“Today, we have a new student! I would like you all to meet your new classmate,

Scarlet Fox.”

As the teacher gestured her arm out towards the door, everyone’s head turned in the direction. Watching as a little girl shyly stepped into the classroom from the hallway.

Harus smile faded within seconds. Not out of disappointment, disgust, or anger.. but because of how.. pulled in he felt. His curiosity for a person had never been so strong before.

She walked in wearing a white sundress that flared out just below the knee, almost long enough to hide the scruffy, coffee colored tail behind her. It looked recently brushed out. Though, it matched perfectly with the poofy set of pointy ears on her head.

Her hair was pulled back into a neat ponytail, decorated with a red bow to tie it all together.

Fox? Haru thought, observing her as she walked up to the teacher's side.

She didn’t really look like a fox. More of a.. wolf, or scary dog.

She was very intimidating. Her eyes were sharp and bright red, perfectly matching the symbols of flame on her forehead and cheeks. Her expression looked almost angry. Like she already hated being there.

Haru couldn’t help but notice other details about her. Her hands were wrapped in bandages. And her legs had a few healing cuts and bruises on them, causing her dainty shoes to look out of place. And she had this scar that was impossible to miss. It started at the corner of her mouth, stretching all the way to her ear lobe..

“Scarlet, why don’t you introduce yourself? Let the class get to know you.”

The room fell silent as everyone stared. A kitsune in the classroom wasn’t anything they questioned. Afterall, many of the other kids were hybrids as well. To them, she was just another child with a painfully aggressive aura to her…

She didn’t say anything, not even a single look towards the teacher. Just her eyes glancing over the other students one by one.

However, there was always one kid capable of cutting through uncomfortable silence.

“Are you hurt?”

Harus words are loud enough for the whole classroom to hear. The two made eye to eye immediately. Scarlet stood just inches away from him, causing a gap of tension.

Then, unexpectedly, there were a few giggles in the distance. A couple of kids snickering and whispering to one another towards the end of the class room. It caught Scarlet's attention, her eyes darting over and reading their body language. With her ears pointed in their direction, it was a no brainer that they were talking about her. She could feel their mockery within their laughs.

She looked back to Haru- her fluffy ears flattening back as she gave him a glare. Then she maneuvered her arms behind her back to hide the white bandages.

Haru felt a bit taken back. All he wanted to know was if she was okay. It’s not his fault they were laughing- he truly didn’t understand why she gave him such a hateful look.

“Right.. um- how about we just give Scarlett some space? Why don’t you go find a seat, and we can begin today’s lesson.” The teacher nervously smiled, placing a hand against Scarlet's back as if to give her a gentle nudge forward.

After a brief moment of hesitation, Haru watched as she tailed past. Going all the way to the back of the classroom to pick an empty seat.

“Alright! Now, let’s start where we left off yesterday, hm? Today, you guys will be-…”

The teacher's voice began to drift and fade from Harus head. He was too focused on the new girl. Still turned in his seat to look at her- watching as she pulled off the backpack from her shoulders and placed it on the ground at her desk. She didn’t even bother to open it like everyone else.

He just stared, and watched her.. alone, in the corner, picking at the wraps on her hands.

⋆｡𖦹°⭒˚｡⋆

“Have a good day at school, sweetie!”

“Bye mom, love you!” Haru hopped out from his mother’s vehicle, closing the door behind him as he ran towards the building entrance with the other kids.

Following his usual path towards his classroom, he gave his hands a wave as he passed by a few friends.

“Hi Ricky, Hi Kenny, Hi Jessica!”

All the other first graders always responded with a “Hi Haru!” of their own, most already ganged together in their little cliches and friend groups.

“Good Morning Mrs. Parker!” Haru held his palms closely together, forming a single rose just within his hands. As he approached the teacher at her desk, he held it out to her with a wide smile. She returned the grin, kindly accepting the flower with a ‘thank you’ before he ran off to his seat.

Harus joy was cut short as he approached his desk, pulling off his backpack only to spot Scarlet already in the room. She was sitting alone, per usual, at the farthest desk in the back. Haru allowed the brightly colored bag from his shoulders to slowly fall down his arms and onto the floor. Blindly staring while Scarlet was in her own world, peeling at the badges that dressed her hands. He completely ignored his friends coming into the room, taking their seats next to him all while trying to grab his attention.

“Alright everyone! Take your seats please.” called the only adult in the room. It made Haru snap out of his little trance, pulling out the kiddy sized chair before occupying it.

That day in class was like every other. Kids would shout and interact with whatever Mrs. Parker had on the board, excitedly answering her questions. And Scarlet still sat in the back of the class, a ghost to everyone while she scribbled over her desk with pencil.

Then, it was time for lunch.

Per usual. Haru sat dead center at the most populated table in the cafeteria. Despite this, he had a clear view of the tables further back. Zoning out all the yapping children next to him while he focused on the fox in the corner. It was always the same routine. She would sit at the lonesome tables by herself for a few minutes, always with her own packed Fox and the Hound themed lunch box that she never opened. Maybe every now and then to grab her juice box but that was it. Haru never saw her with any food.

And after about five or so minutes passed of her boredly playing with the bag's charmed zipper, she would take her lunch box with her out to the playground. She was always the first kid out because she never ate, Haru always assumed she must just really enjoy playing outside…

After Haru was done with his meal, he was quick to clean up and run outdoors with everyone else. They always raced one another to the swings and monkey bars, but today Harus footsteps slowed halfway there. He came to a stop as his friends continued ahead of him, turning his attention over to a grassy area near the shrubs and bushes. A few voices caught his attention- two older kids were making a ruckus. They were huddled over something Blurry. Whatever it was, Haru was too far away to make it out. But besides their feet, he recognized a familiar lunchbox. The once clean cartoon print now covered in dirt..

“Are you really playing with bugs? Gross!”

“What a weirdo.” The older kids laughed and cackled, kicking dirt over a small anthill to bury the insects in their own home. At least.. They were trying to. Instead, they were kicking dirt and small stones into the face of a mangy fox. Scarlet was huddled over the ant hill, trying to protect the ant's home with her entire body. She wasn't making a sound, no cry for help or even an attempt to fight back. Fully allowing herself to get covered in dirt and bitten by the small bugs she was trying to protect.

The other kids seemed frustrated by this, continuing to spit out stupid comments only elementary schoolers were capable of making. All while striking dust up into her face.

All their noise made them blind to the upcoming footsteps behind them. To their surprise, one of the bullies was pushed forward, causing them to stumble over their feet and quickly turn around with a glare. “Hey! What gives-”

Their demeanor instantly switched at the sight of Haru. A familiar face no ones ever seen angry before.

And yet there he stood, eye level with the other children. He clenched his fist together, and a sudden rise of weeds began to snake around their ankles. They grew with thorns, prickling at the older children's legs.

“Leave her alone. You're hurting her.”

Haru was one of the few children to obtain his powers early. Sure, it may have been something seemingly harmless, no one ever imagined the young boy being capable of sprouting poisonous plants and sharp thorns.

The plants obeyed him, a set of flaming flowers that blazed in anger. That Is what scared the 2nd graders. There were no more daffodils and peach trees. Haru was serious. Scarlet raised her head, poking her eyes out just enough to watch as her bullies squirmed to get away.

“Ew ew eeeww!”

To avoid getting entangled in vines, the two quickly scurried off. Harus head followed as they fled, watching them run in tears to the nearest bathrooms. When looked back, he was surprised to find Scarlet calmly seated on the ground. He never knew it was possible to get her dress even more dirty than it already was. But clearly, she paid no attention to the sticks and stones stuck in the fabrics of her dress and fur.

Her back was now facing him, and the ant hill stood unharmed. She held a piece of food in her hand, seemingly part of a sandwich. Haru assumed it must've been from the half open lunch bag beside her, that was now just as filthy.

“Are you okay?” he asked, standing behind her while patiently waiting for a response. He was returned with silence. Confused, he raised a brow. Maybe she can’t speak? Or hear? She doesn't even cry…

She really is weird…

“Um.. do you need to clean up? You got pretty dirty.. I have wipes in my bag if you don't like water?”

Again, no response. Her attention was completely focused on the ants, watching them rip little pieces of bread and meat off her sandwich from the palm of her hand.

He took a few careful steps forward, squatting down beside her to watch. He's not entirely sure why he felt so compelled to talk to her, or why he was now watching bugs in the dirt with the weird kid. But, it seemed to light up something entirely new in his world. He enjoyed it.

“My name’s Haru. I know your name. Mrs. Parker told everyone.”

He looked over, watching the expression on her face. There was his heavy weight of sadness in her eyes. However, her red pupils glimmered with awe. Haru could almost see the reflection of ants in them.. They must really mean a lot to her. It clicked in that moment for him. None of the other kids never took the time to listen, they didn’t know how to listen to her. She was silent, always in her own world. And that world was a tiny dirt hill, guarded by an army of insects.

…. “Do you wanna be friends?”

That question seemed to catch her attention. Causing her to finally turn her head and lock eyes with the freckled face besides her.

⋆｡𖦹°⭒˚｡⋆

The school bell echoed through the halls, and soon enough the voices of students filled them.

Kids flood the once empty halls as they all eagerly try to escape through the main doors. Many other 8th graders are picked up by their parents, waiting within the roundabout area for their cars to appear.

One of these kids just so happens to be Scarlet.

Her head hung down, staring at the concrete ground beneath her shoes. Watching the pair of ants maneuver around her feet.

Then, there was an aggressive push and pull against her back. The sundrop child coming from behind her to hug an arm around her neck.

“Scarlet!! You're so mean, you didn’t wait for me after class!” He pouted dramatically, still unable to knock off his dimpled smile.

“You take too long.” she replied, her voice always so much lower in volume compared to his.

“I had to say bye to everyone! By the way, are you going on the field trip? I think you should come this time!”

With his arm still hooked over her shoulders, she shrugged.

He whined, “Come on! It'll be fun! You like to paint and stuff, so a trip to the art museum is perfect for you! Plus, I'll be there.” he continued to grin, attempting to persuade her further.

“You alway go to those things, it's not special.” she muttered, thinking it over. He wasn't completely wrong, she would oftenly doodle in the middle of class, or leave school early just to finish a painting. It was her way of unwinding.. but attending an art museum? That wasn’t necessarily something that caught her interest.

A paper was shoved in her face, forcing her to grab it and read it over. It was a permission slip for the upcoming field trip to the national art gallery museum.

“Have your dad sign it. Deadline is tomorrow so I better see your paper in the bin!”

Her eyes glossed over the words with hesitation. Haru always did this. She's thrown out many slips before, mostly because she was never interested in the idea of a school field trip. But something felt.. Different this time. Less overwhelming than the trips to amusement parks and aquariums. Maybe it was actually something she could take into consideration. No, even with a second thought, she had no desire to leave home.

Before she could deny his request, she heard the familiar rumble of a car engine approach. That loud roar from an old school 1967 chevy impala could be heard from down the street, barely turning into the school zone. The closer it got, the redder her face. It was always so embarrassing the way it dominated over everyone's voices. She hated this loud vehicle.

“Looks like your dads here. See you tomorrow?”

“Yeah.. see ya.” She stepped off the curb, approaching the black car closing in.

Haru smiled and waved as she popped open the door to the backseat.

“Hi Mr. Fox!! Bye Scarlett!”

She quickly slammed the door closed behind her to avoid people's stares.

“Hey Kiddo! How was school?” asked an older voice from the front seat.

“Fine.” setting her backpack into the empty seat beside her, she reluctantly clipped on her seatbelt.

You know, for a car that was deemed cool and eye-catching, the man behind the wheel was anything but that.

Clint Fox. a Character she has always had a difficult time trying to understand. Painted to be her father, many people always assume that was correct.

She could see why. Afterall, they were both foxes. Him, a little more so with his coloring and additional fur patterns. But that's all. They weren’t related in the slightest, and the fact that Scarlet had to call him “dad” always irritated her.

Clint was her adoptive father. At first, she took him as someone intimidating and worth respecting. After all, he’s a tattoo artist, and always driving around that sleek impala. At times he would pick her up from school after being covered in car oil, or even on a motorcycle decked out in gear.

But the guy was a total softie.

He was so bright and giddy, always trying to lend out a helping hand as if it could make a big difference.

Scarlet had never even once seen the guy angry. Everytime she did something out of line, sure he would be disappointed, but he always forgave her. She just couldn’t understand why he cared about her so much.

With a huff, she tried to zone out the car's engine, staring off outside the cars window on their way home.

Finally, when they walked through the home's front door, she immediately headed straight upstairs for her room. Leaving Clint to sigh as he watched her lock herself away.

She tossed her bag onto the bed filled with blankets and pillows, only now realizing she still had the permission slip in hand..

She crumbled it up and tossed it into the small bin next to her desk. Then, pulling out the seat tucked under, she stared at the many unfinished canvases looking back up at her. Each one a different insect, halfly painted just enough to get the silhouette and colors jotted down.

Carefully, she began rearranging her paints and brushes. Prepping colors so some of these canvases can be marked down for completion. Even while trying to occupy her mind, a lingering feeling weighed in her chest. On occasion, she would glance down to the trash can at her feet.

Downstairs, Clint was at work in the kitchen. Lightly humming the melody to Modern Takings infamous Cheri Cheri Lady, all while he plated the cutlery with fresh food. The aroma of homemade pasta filled the entire house, mixing perfectly with his dimly lit candles. He never actually used the main lights the house was built with, always complaining about how they were never warm enough.

“Scarlet! Dinners ready!” He called out, filling two glasses with their preferred drinking choices. Water for the kid, and sweetened tea for himself.

Still lightly singing to himself, he carried both plates over to the small kitchen table in the dining room. His music cut short as he was startled to find a tiny Fox that had snuck up behind him. Scarlet held up a wrinkled paper in front of his sight. The words ‘Field trip’ caught his attention quicker than he could ask what it was. It took him by surprise, Tilting his body around the paper to drag his concern over to his daughter.

“I need you to sign this.”

He blinked blankly, then smiled. Finally, Scarlet had always refused these trips in the past, what made this one so different? He carefully picked up the paper to give it a read. “Museum of national arts? Sounds fun! You really wanna go?”

As Scarlet took her seat, she nodded quietly.

“Is Haru going?” For now, he set aside the paper against the kitchen counter. Picking up the filled glasses and bringing them over to their rightful pairings.

“He always does.”

Clint sat at the opposite end from her, trying to contain how overjoyed he was. He had been trying to convince her for years to branch out a bit, and take the opportunities. And now, something finally caught her interest enough. He chuckled, adding additional sugar to his drink “Have fun while you're out there, kit.”

“So you’ll sign it..?” She picked at the meal in front of her. that wasn't anything new, though. She could only withstand a few small bites before needing to leave the table.

“Course i'll sign it! Just promise- you'll be.. calm? No setting the historical pieces of art on fire?”

“I promise..”

⋆｡𖦹°⭒˚｡⋆

And soon, Scarlet was in line with the other children. Everyone standing in front of the groups of buses, eagerly waiting to board them. Some stood with their parents, like her. She quietly stood in front of Clint, who was triple checking her bag to make sure she had everything packed and ready. To her, the gesture was annoying.

“--And when you get to the hotel, make sure you text me your room number and let me know youre okay. Lock the door- and don't stray too far from your class, another thing-” She started to zone out his words, observing the large crowds of kids ahead. Trying to locate a certain dirty blonde in the mix.

It began to get to her, the nerves. With her fist anxiously clenched together, she could feel the heat in her palms making them sweat.

She had never ventured off alone like this before, and if Haru wasn’t here she wouldn’t know what to-

“Scarlet!!”

Relief.

The moment she turned around, she was tackled into an unwanted hug from Haru. Awkwardly patting his back. She couldn’t show that she was thankful he appeared.

“Sorry I’m late. My mom was talking to the counselor.. We convinced them to let us be partners during the trip! That way you don’t have to room with the other girls and we can stay together.” Breaking the hug, he playfully punched her shoulder. A rosy color on his cheeks.

She nodded in response. Truly, unable to express how relieved she was to hear that. It was a two day trip, nothing too crazy. Instead of going to the museum and immediately coming back, the class would stay within a hotel for a night, visit the museum the next day, and stay another night at the hotel before returning home in the morning. Which meant rooming with 2-4 other kids.

Luckily, she wouldn’t be cooped up with a bunch of strangers now that Haru would be there.

Harus mother followed behind, greeting Clint with a friendly smile. “They said they’ll get their own room. I gave them the papers and everything.”

“Thank you, Grace.. I knew they’d listen to you.” Clint kindly accepted the papers Harus mother held out to him, it was a neat little folder with a paw print stamped on the cover.

“Oh it’s no problem, I’m always happy to help. Especially if it means getting the kids away for a bit.”

The two laughed it over, soon interrupted by Teachers collecting their classrooms and who would be attending in what groups.

“Looks like this is it-“ Clint kneed down to Scarlet's height, placing his hand lightly against her shoulder to turn her around. “Remember what I told you?”

“Our teeth are our most powerful weapon.”

“What- no!” He huffed a short laugh, ruffling up her hair. “Call me if you need anything, I’ll drive the four hours to come get you. And stay close to Haru. Don't bite anyone-“

Scarlet always gave this seemingly unimpressed stare, but this time was different. Not realizing that she had a small grip on Clint’s jacket. Something in her was telling her not to let go.

“Love ya kiddo.”

“Scarlet come on, they’re boarding already!” Haru had grabbed a hold of her wrist, pulling at his friend and practically dragging her towards the bus’ staircase. He shouted out as he did so, “bye mom, love you! Bye Mr. Fox!”

And so, Scarlet was yanked into the large travel bus full of other 8th graders. Haru was always one to grab front row seats, but for his best friend's sake- he didn’t mind waltzing over to the very back where it was most quiet.

As the buses rolled out from the school's lot one by one, Scarlet turned her body to look into the backseat window- watching as the two silhouettes of Harus’ mother and Clint got smaller and smaller from view.

⋆｡𖦹°⭒˚｡⋆

The drive there was treacherous. Ignoring how long the drive was, Scarlet couldn’t stand the amount of rowdy kids she had to endure during this trip. Neither could she deal with the amount of times their teacher would shout for everyone to calm down and stay in their seats. If it weren’t for Haru sticking by her side the entire time, endlessly talking about the many songs he heard from the flowers… she would have gone crazy.

But soon, they arrived at the registered Hotel. Everyone was carefully paired within groups of 3-4. However, Haru and Scarlet were assigned their own room of two beds. It caused a few ‘ooos’ and whispers between the kids, but due to Scarlets.. special cases, she wasn’t allowed to room with anyone else. So she didn’t understand why everyone acted like this was new information.

Haru was bumped into by another classmate. A younger boy by the name of Rex. He was the type you’d immediately deem annoying within a group. “Alone with a girl? Hope you know how to kiss, flower boy” He teased, resting his hand on the other.

Harus' brows frowned, moving his shoulder away from the kid that had a hold on him. “Dude- don’t be weird.”

“Oh come on! Everyone knows you and the weird girl are ‘good friends’” he mocked with a laugh.

Haru wasn’t one to stand up for himself, he was too sweet for that. So all he did in response was try and hide his embarrassment.

But soon, the rowdy kid would soon come to regret his mockery. Scarlet's shadow loomed over him within seconds after making that comment. His head slowly looked up to the death glare on her face.

“Wanna say it again, Rex? Would be a shame if those were your last words before I rip out your tongue.”

Scarlet, being the scariest girl in their class, was not one to mess with. Over the years she’s learned to not only fight for herself, but for Haru. After ‘accidentally’ sending kids to the nurses office, that was the primary reason as to why she wasn’t allowed to room with anyone other than Haru.

Rex stepped back, dusting off Harus shoulder as if to preserve him. “Haha-“ quickly, he bolted off to find his friends.

Scarlet raised the set of room keys in her hand, sharing one with said flower boy. “Come on. Before he cries to the teacher and Ms. Callaway calls my dad.”

“Right- want me to carry your bag?” He took the keycard, shoving it into his pocket as the classroom followed their assigned chaperones to their rooms.

“I can hold it.”

The two were guided off to their number, greeted by the two large begs in such a spacious room. The two friends looked at one another with hesitation, then separated to throw their things onto their chosen picks. It wasn't a very eventful day. The teachers thought it would be best to take everyone out for a pizza dinner. Some kids were lucky enough to already have packed meals from their parents, like Scarlet. But others were a messy mistake to bring along. Nonetheless, that night was like no other for Haru. But to Scarlet, it was a bit.. Off Putting. She hardly slept comfortably in that stiff hotel bed, tossing and turning in an attempt to get comfortable with just a single blanket and thin sheets.

She laid awake, staring upwards at the plain white ceiling ahead of her. What eased her anxiety was her active imagination. Imagining swirling patterns and faces in the design of the ceiling that weren't really there. Despite her anxiety about being away from ‘home’... she looked forward to the day ahead.

The Museum wasn't as packed as the kids initially thought it out to be. However, the large groups of 8th graders ended up filling that void. There were multiple teachers and chaperones each escorting their assigned classes. Haru and Scarlet were within a smaller group, sticking close to one another while they were taken through the tour.

For the brown fox, each piece down to the glossy marble floor they walked on was astonishing. She felt as if she was tainting the ground just by walking on it. The building itself was artwork, with its interior structures climbing upwards to the painted ceiling. Designed with cherubs, and milky clouds that looked over their heads.

But that was just the entrance. The further they walked, the more displays that came into view. The teacher at the front of the class held her booklet of notes within her arms, explaining the history and importance of each piece. Despite being all the way in the back of the group, Scarlet could hear her clear as day. She listened intently to each description and named piece, admiring them from afar.

They entered a large area filled with marble statues that looked too soft to be stone.

The group came to a stop, standing in front of the infamous display of The Statue of David.

Many of the other kids giggled and whispered their snarky comments to one another, sharing their immaturity between friends. But Scarlet had her head turned up with awe. His form appeared so delicate, so fragile in its masculine body. She could only wonder how admirable he must’ve been in his time.

But she didn’t have to wonder. Her eyes panned across the open room, spotting a few other tourists who weren’t a part of the school's field trip. She watched as people paused to admire and gawk over the statue ahead of them. People Froze just to take photos, open a sketchbook, or to personally take in the sight. It was then she realized something within herself.

Her entire life she had been hiding behind David's shadow, an object other kids would avoid interacting with.. She was nothing compared to the famous artworks in this very museum, who stood tall in the shining light.

She wanted to be loved like that.

“Okay students! We are going to allow you to split off into groups. Each one of you will individually find a piece that personally correlates to you. Make sure you write down the name and why you choose it.” The teacher explained the assignment in further detail, why simultaneously passing out small packets to students. Scarlet paid no attention to it, until one of these packets was handed over to her by a freckled face.

“Wanna go Somewhere else? There's a lot of people in this area-” Harus smile showed a bit of anxiety within it. Which was strange, he was never one to mind heavy crowds or loud environments. But who is Scarlet to complain? Accepting the packet with a nod before they separated from the rest of the group.

The pair wandered the many halls, each room different than the last.

They stopped by tons of displays. More statues, sculptures, the most creative decorative arts, and even written poetry.

They pointed and laughed at many different works. Haru was working overtime to get Scarlet to enjoy her time away from home, and it was surprisingly working.

But unfortunately for them, nothing was quite standing out enough for their assignments.

“Well, this is the last room, hopefully we can find something.. otherwise we just might have to lie and pick that weird looking dog statue.” Haru giggled as he held open the museum's walk through map.

“Mhm..” Scarlet muttered in response, walking side by side with the other as they wandered into the last room they had yet to see.

It was a lot larger and spacious than the previous rooms. With only the walls holding individual displays as the floor stayed clear.

It was home of many infamous artworks Scarlet had only read about or heard of.

You hear of these famous works all the time.

The Mona Lisa,

Girl with a Pearl Earring,

And the Birth of Venus…

But there was one in particular that stood out the most to Scarlet's eyes. It was surprisingly one she had never seen before.

As Her and Haru pointed and discussed each painting, they came face to face with a breathtaking scene. She had almost passed right by it, until her eyes did a double take.

An oil painting mainly consisting of blues and yellows intertwining with one another. From where Scarlet stood, she could almost see each individual brush stroke as they swirled within the speckled mess that it was. The moon and stars painted over a sleeping city, giving this sense of bliss..

It could easily have been mistaken for a child’s work if it weren’t for its golden framing.

But something felt unique about its visual appearance.

The swirls of lights were hypnotic to Scarlet. She felt like she could see the night sky right in front of her.

While the painting had its own description and history, to her, it reminded her of something bigger.

The Aurora Borealis.

dancing lights, providing a blanket of sanctuary over the many houses and strong standing tower below. She could imagine it herself, laying within that snowy linen land. Underneath the stars and swirling lights.

That’s what it reminded her of.

And god, was it beautiful.

In her hypnotic state, her eyes glossed downward to the silver plate.

“The Starry Night.

By Vincent Van Gogh”

Huh. She thought. What a terrible name.

“Ooo, look at this one! It’s a pot of sunflowers!” Haru grinned, enough to bare his teeth with his dorky dimples. He pointed to an artwork that was similar in style. Actually, it's too similar. It was Van Goghs ‘Sunflowers’. “I think I’m gonna do this one. Just to play it safe”

“How about you? Have you picked one yet?”

Her head panned back to the oil painting. Giving it one last look over before confirming her decision.

“Yeah. I think I found the perfect one.”

That summer ..

The beginning of highschool was something many 8th graders were excited for. For whatever reason, it made kids feel mature and impactful, as if their lives were finally starting to be something greater than coloring in between the lines.

That year was quite busy for a certain golden child. After 8th grade had ended, Haru was gifted with the many different opportunities of attending high end schools. Hell, even a few colleges wanted him for his brains.

Even with schools trying to entice him into their programs, he refused.

It was a surprise to everyone. Why would he turn down such opportunities?

Because he couldn’t bare the idea of leaving his best friend.

Him and Scarlet had spent the entire summer together that year. And undergone some changes.

Usually, Haru was always one to stop by the Fox household and spend a couple of nights there. Together the two would do as they always did, venture off outdoors within Scarlets forest of a backyard.

Together, they would explore the land like children. Being out in nature was something they both enjoyed, and embraced within one another. It got them both to laugh and chase each other through fields of trees and daffodils, climb the highest trunks, and fall into the messiest mud puddles.

However their fun was cut short this year.

It was a day like no other, the pair had a long morning of racing through vines and twigs, and were now officially headed back to Scarlet's home before the sun could set.

Silently walking back with their exhausted legs, Scarlet noticed Harus demeanor was different than usual. His head hung low, and she could almost feel him dragging weight behind his shoulders.

She gave him a nudge with her elbow, in an attempt to grab his attention away from the dirt on his shoes. “What’s up? You’re wilting.”

The corner of his lips rose up slightly over her teasing, but his smile didn’t last long. Nervous, he held the back of his neck.

“My mom uh.. wants me to go to Hemoria for school this year. She wants me to leave in a few weeks.. in the middle of summer…”

Hemoria. Harus home.

He had two mothers, and their relationship was a rocky one. They seemingly really loved and cared for one another. However, one of his moms was never in the picture. She lived within Hemoria, and practically dominated it. Her entire work life was within this world of people. Haru rarely saw her, maybe on holidays or birthdays, but she always made her trips quick and short.

But not this time. Instead, she wanted Haru to go to her.

“Shit- why? It’s not because of your—“ she gestured her hand up and down, pointing at him.

He shrugged, kicking a small rock ahead of their path. “Pretty much. Something about fulfilling destiny? I dunno.. I guess she wants me to start a life out there..”

At that moment, Scarlet could see where Harus heartache laid. He didn’t want to leave, and he didn’t want whatever lifestyle his mother was trying to build on him.

She hooked her arm around the taller kid's shoulders, almost forcing him to bend to her level while they walked. “It’s only a year. Can't be too bad, right? Hey, why don’t you bring me back a souvenir? Hemoria has got to have some crazy looking insects. I’ll see you next year anyways, she can’t keep you out there forever.”

As much as it pained her to say that, she didn’t want to keep being the reason Haru was holding himself back. Sure, she was grateful that he tried all this time to stick by her side, but he had much more to his life ahead of him.

The gesture was enough to get him to smile, his cheeks pink in color.

“Yeah.. I’ll see you next year.”

⋆｡𖦹°⭒˚｡⋆

Haru fumbled with the schedule in his hand, his bag slung over his shoulder half open. It was the first day of sophomore year, and he was more than lost.

There had been a bit of a delay within his trip, and he had only arrived back home yesterday. It was a rush to get his mind into the back to school mentality. And because of this, he had a late start with obtaining his classes.

He hadn’t met any of his teachers, let alone visited the school he was attending. This was his very first time on property, and the massive waves of children made it ten times more difficult to get through.

But there was one thing he looked forward to.

Scarlet.

They had spent so long apart. The rest of the 8th grade summer, freshman year, and the summer after that. Haru had been so busy that he hardly was able to even send a text. It was rare for him to talk, and usually their conversations were cut short whenever Harus mom bugged.

But just before he returned home, Haru was able to ask Scarlet about what school she had been attending, and when could he enroll for the upcoming year.

They had planned it all out, that Haru would finally return and they could meet at the hidden staircase across the school main entrance.

It was a set of stairs not many people used, mostly because of how far it was from everyone’s classrooms, but it was quite a popular hang out spot before the bell would ring.

Haru had followed the complex path mentioned by Scarlet's text, it felt like he had been shoving through crowds and walking for hours.. but finally, in the distance, he could spot two fluffy brown fox ears that were surrounded by a number of other people.

It was her.

So naturally, his excitement caused him to rush closer, details coming into view.

Did she cut her hair? It Looks shorter.

And did she get taller? No, maybe it just looks that way because she's sitting down.

Woah.. she really changed up her style.

Harus footsteps slowed as he approached the group of about 4-5 people not including his friend. They were all huddled in a circle, seemingly in their own little cliche. Haru couldn't make out much right away, especially with Scarlets back facing him. All he could make out was that her clothes made her seem bigger, more broad underneath the shredded layers. She had a lot of silver on too, who knew she became such a big fan of jewelry and piercings within the past year. No one seemed to really notice him walking up. They all mistook him as some weird bright and shiny kid trying to fit into their heavy gothic and punk scene. Haru ignored the few glares and judgy looks from the others. Innocently smiling.

Nervously, Haru spoke through their laughs and casual banter.

“Hey! Scarlet!”

That familiar brown ear twitched in his direction, causing Their head to turn over their shoulder for a look.

Harus eyes widened as he stood completely still, paralyzed by this intense aura radiating off who he assumed to be his childhood friend. The figure rose from the bottom of the staircase, turning to now stand in front of Haru. Or more so- loom over him.

Crap. wrong person.

A panic set in as he realized he approached the wrong person. After all, the person standing in front of him was a far more intimidating male. Some dusty colored wolf he had mistaken for his foxy friend. He defensively held up his hands, face red with embarrassment. “Ah- sorry, I thought you were- someone… else..” He choked on his own words, slowly losing his train of thought as his mind blanked. And then, he realized it.

It was that same nasty scar that stretched from the corner of the mouth, all the way back to the ear lobe. And those glaring eyes perfectly matched the sacred pattern of flames stained over his cheeks and forehead.

Haru watched as one of the girls of the group leaned over, hugging herself around the arm of the male that disturbingly resembled his friend. “You know this guy, Vincent?”

Everyone could see the expression of confusion on Harus face.

The male fox made a deep laugh, tilting his head “You don't recognize me, sunflower? It's good to see you again, old friend.”

… “Scarlet?!”

*.·:·.✧ ✦ ✧.·:·.*

I FINALLY finished this after stalling it for months now. Just something cute and simple, because Vincent is dear to my heart. To clear up any possible confusion, I don’t necessarily label Vincent as “trans.” Mostly because he didn’t quite have much of a transition due to shifting abilities, but I guess he could fall under the category since he was afab. I personally don’t mind when people label him as trans, but if you were to ask him, he wouldn’t fully agree. He just doesn’t like labels 🙀

But anywho!! Ig this fic could be an introduction to Vincent’s gender awakening and Harus gay awakening👨‍🦯

[shindayyume]

Let’s Party •°. *࿐🍷

Pt. 2 of Vanessa’s POV to @simmetrycal’s mystery girl series <3

All credits to Sim for their ocs (ex. Raymond, Ash, Chantelle, and Jia)

『••✎••』

It was yet another long day for Vanessa. Eli was out in school, and she was glued to her seat within the tattoo shop. Just by midday she had already done 3 clients. They were small, simplistic tattoos— but it still takes a toll when you’re constantly holding a needle in your hand.

But finally, it was now time for Vanessa to head onto break before her next appointment.

Just before she can go and grab her purse- a silhouette at the doorway caught her attention.

Ethan.

He leaned against the small entree way, smiling. “Put your wallet down, girl. Cmon, I’ll go buy us lunch.”

~

“What?! How come you didn’t tell me about this guy earlier? Nessi, I’m your brother..” He pouted, taking a saddened bite from his sandwich.

She rolled her eyes, then sighed as she picked at her food. It’s been little over a week since she’s seen that blond haired man. Ever since that day, Vanessa has been unable to get his face out of her head. She’s been cursed with a crush. And she hated it- it made her feel like a pathetic highschooler again.

“Because- I know how you can be. But this one’s different, he seemed really sweet. And he didn’t have a problem with Eli.”

“Right. But- he could be a total jackass just trying to get some game. I mean come on! An eye brow piercing? Seriously? Fuckboy.”

“Collin has one?”

“My point entirely. Now that guys a freak in bed.”

“Ugh,” she groaned. Not irritated by Ethan’s words but- by the fact that she couldn’t stop thinking about the stranger she had met at the dog park.

Ethan chowed down on his food, taking out his phone to do some detective work. All he had was a description given to him by Vanessa- but no matter how little the information, he always finds a way.

“Look, Nessi. I’m not saying *Don’t* shoot your shot. But I don’t trust anyone who’s seemingly this perfect pretty doll. He’s definitely hiding something.”

“See! This is exactly why I didn’t want to tell you. You’re too dramatic,”

“I was right before, wasn’t I?”

A dead silence pans over them, like a pair of scissors slicing the red wire. Ethan was right. The last time she had gotten her hopes up, she was left alone with a kid to raise.

“I’m sorry- sorry.” Maybe a little too far- clearing his throat, “all I’m saying is.. be careful. And if you do mysteriously run into each other again- I will tear out his jugular and make him eat it if he so dares to make a wrong move.” He smiled- purely innocent.

Damnit. She couldn’t help but smile back, nodding. “I doubt I’ll see him again.. I even stay a few extra hours longer than usual at the park now but- I never spot him.”

She scooted her plate across the table, letting him finish it off.

“Must be nice to have a secret admire like that, maybe he gets scared every-time he sees ya and hides in his car” he laughed, “he sounds like a nerd.”

While chatting, he was simultaneously scouring all over the internet. He was having a difficult time.. after all, there are millions of blond men out there. Until he remembered an important detail from her story- into the search he typed,

Jia Taylor.

Bingo.

Instantly a profile popped up. She seemed like a simple woman, the account was old and unused. At first glance, it could be taken as nothing but the average cringey Instagram selfies and environmental photos. Not even in her description did she mention anything about her life. Just her occupation and a sad quote from a TV show.

That is until, he began to scroll. His eyes lit up- spotting an outdated photo from a couple of years ago. It was her, and a blond man. That same man had a singular eyebrow piercing, and even the same squared ear jewelry described by Vanessa.

Holy shit. He thought, quickly clicking on the post- the caption was simple,

‘Dinner with Raymond.’

Okay, nothing to urgently worry about yet.. At least now he has a first name. Taking a better look at the photo- he definitely saw Raymond’s appeal. personally, not his taste but hey, to each their own. Taking the name to google, he searched it up and scavenged through any link he could find. Eventually, he came up on a username-

‘Mrstealyourgirl’

How.. quirky.

Inspecting deeper, the profile belonged to a dark haired man with bright blue eyes. By the name of Ash.

“Damn,” he muttered, not out of interest or appeal.. he genuinely thought the guy was irritable just by looking at his face.

“And I- hm? Ethan, are you even listening??”

He looked up- this whole time Vanessa had been rambling on and he didn’t hear a word. “Uhhh… yesss?” He grinned.

“Right. So as I was saying—“

Aaannnd back to stalking. Scrolling the post, the guy seemed to be fairly popular. The photos he shared basically documented his life. Including the most important people in it- there was a few that included Raymond. More recent too.

There were a few embarrassing photos of Ash and Raymond together, that included them ‘hanging out’ in ways Ethan never considered non romantic.

Starting off normal, out eating lunch together.

The two doing clay face mask.

wearing matching outfits.

Holding hands at work?

And why the hell were so many captions from Ash calling this dude ‘slime’??

Either they are really great friends.. or really great friends.

Now, Ethan knew he could just be reaching, and end up extremely incorrect. But for Vanessa’s sake, he had to consider each and every possibility.

“His names Raymond.” He interrupted.

Vanessa stopped her yapping- confused by what he was talking about. “Who-?”

He turned his phone screen around, showing off the account to her. Taking the phone- she did her own little inspection. “Yeah- that’s him.. how’d you-“

He shrugged, collecting their trash. “I got my ways. He doesn’t have his own account, though. Guess he’s not an internet person”

Deep down, he wanted to mention that Jia person he found. But he decided not to. And he didn’t understand why. Maybe he just wanted to do some more digging first- to get an entire background check on the guy before unleashing Pandora’s box to Vanessa. After all, she was his best friend. The last thing he wanted was for her to be hurt.

And the last thing he needed was an issue.

Her eyes gazed over the post, focusing on those with Raymond in it. He was just as beautiful in photos as he was in person. But she gloomed over not being able to find his account. If she could- she would’ve sent a message by now. Ethan’s voice bringing her back to reality,

“Cmon, I need a cigarette”

~

Returning back to the shop, Ethan stopped at the entrance. Leaning against the wall with a lit cigarette in between his fingers.

Before entering the shop without him, she stopped to give him a glance. “I have one more client for the day.. do you have a soda? I need some sugar to wake me up.”

he nodded, “in the fridge in the back. There’s energy drinks in there too”

“Ew- those are discussing. I’ll do with a Pepsi. See ya,” and just like that, she was off.

Ethan raised the cigar up to his lips, releasing a stream of smoke. Among the mist- a couple caught his eye. Two women were walking their way up to the shops doors, hand in hand.

Upon looking over- He noticed a familiarity to one of the woman’s faces. He didn’t know her personally, no. But he recognized those dark braids on Ash’s Instagram post. This girl was a friend of his. And it sparked his curiosity-

As they approached, he gave them a friendly smile just before they entered bleeding ink.

What a strange coincidence, he thought.

*~ The party ~*

It took some convincing, but with enough persuasion from Collin and Davis.. she got Collin to babysit Eli for the night.

It wasn’t something she was used to, getting dressed up and going to a party was only something she did before she got pregnant. It’s not like she missed it very much. Afterall, she did a lot of stupid decisions during those times.

She had to dig deep into her closet, eventually finding a slim black dress and matching heels. Being that it was old- it was a bit of a tight fit around her figure. Needless to say, she had to do a few jump and bend test to make sure nothing would rip or flash out on her-

After applying some light makeup, she was ready to leave the apartment.

Questioning if this was worth it.

Upon reaching the address, she was surprised to see so many cars parked around. It seemed like it was quite a popular place- though how could it not be? The house was gorgeous. Giant windows, and a grand entrance fit for royalty to walk on.. there was no way she would fit into this scene- and for a while , she waited in her car just staring. hesitant to even step foot out of her vehicle- who would really notice if she were to chicken out and turn her car around….

But no.

This was her chance to relax, and enjoy herself for once…

And maybe give her the opportunity to get Raymond out of her head.

As she stepped through the main doors, she started to feel the loud bumping of the speakers in her own chest. They raced with her heart, mostly out of nerves. The place was comfortably crowded- but it felt so claustrophobic as she took a long look around. Not a single face she could recognize. It was just a room full of strangers and bad habits to her-

Until she heard a familiar voice shout from the crowd. Despite the room being so loud and overwhelmed with different sounds- she heard it clear as day.

“Hey!-“

Raymond.

He was there, in the middle of it all. And honestly it made her want to laugh, he looked more out of place than she did. Raising her hand up to her face to cover her giggles- but needless to say, her stress washed away to find that she did in fact know somebody here.

“Hi!”

They began to walk forwards one another, meeting in the middle. “I had no idea you’d be here?” She questioned him, because why would someone like Raymond out of all people be in a party like this? Was he secretly an animal?

Though, as she looked up to him and waited for an answer- she noticed him blanking again. The same gawking stare he had gave her when they first met. It seems like anytime she speaks during his zoning out, her words just fly through one ear and out the other…

It made her nervous. If she would have known he’d be here, she would have dressed nicer.. or maybe put some more effort into her hair or makeup. Though with his staring, she felt like she was being watched by a lion ready to pounce at her. Making a nervous smile- “You okay?”

He stood there, starstruck and glued to the floor. But luckily for them, an unexpected ice breaker broke out-

There was a loud thump from behind them, and of course it was Ash’s doing. He had thought of the brilliant idea to climb the flimsy table they had set up beer pong with. It collapsed underneath him, causing him to flip back and crack the table in two straight out of a cartoon. The half filled cups flew and landed on a few standby victims.

Vanessa recognized his face. It was the same guy displayed in the photos with Raymond- must be the reason why Ray was here in the first place.

Being a panicked mother, her natural instincts came in as she rushed over to help. “Jesus- are you okay??” She loomed over Ash- who was completely knocked out on the ground and broken table pieces. A few others were quick to come surround him- Raymond too.

“Shit- let’s get him on the couch..”

A woman approached, the same woman Vanessa had tattooed recently- she’s the entire reason why she’s here in the first place..

“Be careful- he might’ve hit his head.”

Carefully, Raymond was able to relocate Ash from the ground to the nearby couch. They all waited to see if he would come to or possibly need to be rushed to the hospital- but eventually, his eyes began to open.

His gaze crossed over Raymond and Chantelle. Then stopped on Vanessa- causing her to lean forward a bit, still keeping a good distance from Ash’s face. “Are you okay?”

He attempted to seat himself up, to which she stopped him- pressing her hand lightly against his open chest. “Just lay here for a moment. You had a pretty big fall” she smiled, in attempt to comfort the guy.

Though that smile might have changed once Ash grabbed her hand- She didn’t know if it was on purpose, but the hold had caused her hand to ‘slip’ in the direction further down his shirt. He gave her this dazed look that just spilled of hopeless puppy.

Oh god.

Ash, was no where near her interest. To her, she saw him as some scruffy little kid.

To make that clear, she bashfully pulled her hand away. “My son tends to trip a lot, he’s normally better after settling down for a bit.”

“Thank you, Miss pink hair..” he mutters, dramatically throwing his arm over his head as if he were dying to an arrow in the chest.

Seeing his drama, Chantelle quickly left the scene.

“Oh- it’s Vanessa.” She corrected. That seemed to trigger interest- noticing Ash give Raymond a smug look. Man was this guy weird-

Besides her, Raymond cleared his throat. “This is my boss, Asher.”

Boss??!

This thing is Raymond’s boss?

“Nice to meet you.” She avoids taking his hand again, to not further cause injury of course… but to her surprise, Raymond introduces himself as well. Suppose it’s best that he doesn’t know she already is aware of his name- shaking his hand.

His grip is firm, yet soft. Neither of them wanted to let go of one another. Instead of breaking it he ask, “How about we take this somewhere more private?”

And of course, she happily agrees.

From the couch, Ash also agrees. “Oh that’s a great idea!” He reaches his arms out, fully expecting Raymond to lift him up so all three of them can disappear to chat. Though, he is ignored. Both Vanessa and Raymond zip right past him.

“You’re just going to leave me here??”

She is led outdoors, to this beautiful and large pool area. Whoever owns this house must be quite the amazing individual.

Their hands finally disconnect, and for a brief moment there’s a bit of regret from the both of them.

“So.. that’s your boss?” He laughed. “Is he always so…”

“Unfortunately, yes, he is.” He chuckled back. He seemed unfazed by it, like it was a common occurrence.

“Is he younger than you? He seems fresh out of college.” It was still hard to believe. There was no way Raymond was working for someone like Ash.

“He might as well be. This is the first party of his that I’ve been to after years of him asking.”

“Woah, okay Mr. Popular” she teased. She thought so. Raymond didn’t seem like this was his crowd.

He laughed, walking her towards the edge of the empty pool. Maybe to sneak more glances at her through the water reflection. Just to avoid him staring directly too much. “How do you like it so far? The party I mean.”

To be fair, she has hardly had much of an experience yet. But.. “I wasn’t. Until now,” in an attempt to hide her smile, she also turned her attention to the water. Though Raymond fully caught it.

“You know, I was actually really hoping I’d see you again after-“

Their moment was cut short as Vanessa felt a harsh push- a group of young men had ran out from the building, tossing an object so far that the one catching wasn’t paying much attention. Bumping right into Vanessa.

She made a light gasp as she slipped forward. Feeling Raymond’s hand wrap around her waist.

They both plummeted into the pool.

She had resurfaced before Raymond, taking a moment to process what just happened. But instinctively, she began to laugh and push aside her now soaked hair that covered her face. After getting her vision back, she swam to the edge and pulled herself up. Noticing Raymond follow right after her.

Before she could continue to make a joke out of it, she remembered that her phone was tucked away in her pocket- panicked as she pulled it out.

Nonono.

This was her only way of contact in case anything happened with Eli- she attempted to turn it on, but of course not even a single light flickered. “You’ve got to be kidding me..” she sat at the pull edge, still soaked and now sulking over her broken phone.

She notices Raymond’s shadow stand above her- extending his hand out for her to take. She turned her head up, the first thing her eyes went to was his belt buckle. Then his face.

And everything blanked.

Suddenly her phone wasn’t much of a concern anymore- reaching up and taking Raymond’s hand as he helped her back onto her feet.

Seemed like Raymond knew his way around- he walked her over to pool house not far. It was warm and cozy, providing them both with some life saving towels. She thanks him as he hands her one, using it to dry her hair.

All seems fine, until she notices Raymond start to unbutton his top and remove his shirt- wringing out the extra water.

She doesn’t notice her face redden, nor does she realize how hard she was staring. He’s toned, and perfectly built. It was impossible for a man to look this good.

He catches her stare, laughing. “Oh, sorry- I didn’t mean to strip like that.” A hint of embarrassment in his tone

“Oh no- it’s fine.. I would do the same but, I’m only wearing the dress,”

She doesn’t know why she felt the need to say that, but it clearly irked him on.

“i feel that,” he says, then backtracks. “i mean i- i don’t feel that- not like i know what that’s like but i just mean— i would agree that that’s, um, understandable”

Her heart melted. For a guy with such a stern demeanor, was quite the softie.

She heard sudden ringing coming from him- causing him to stumble for his phone. While he was busy with that, she walked a few steps to the neatly set up bed. She couldn’t help but notice how they had a moment of solitude now- no interruptions like that the park..

She laid out the towel in her hands against the edge of the bed. Speaking as she did so, “You know, it’s a bit quieter here..”

her words had caught Raymond’s attention. His eyes drifting from the contact on his phone to her.

She stretched her body out, taking a seat on the edge of the bed and looked up to him. With her hair and dress still damp, she knew it was partially see through. and her mascara was ever so slightly ruined by the water.

She still had a few tricks up her sleeve after all these years.

And it was working.

She watched as Raymond’s temperature in his face rose up, showing his eagerness as she was now at the same height of his hips.

Though she noticed him freeze up, clearly panicked and nervous. Maybe he wasn’t so interested in jumping to sleep with her.. her chest sunk as she as just about to suggest returning to the party. But to her surprise-

He joined her. Forcing her to lean back further as he hovered over her body- despite having fell in the pool, she can feel the body heat radiating off of him. And with their faces only inches apart, she could now smell the rich scent of whisky on him.

She thought in her head for a moment, about how the smell could just be from a spill at the party.. but she was curious, if it was really just his decision to have a few drinks. To find out for herself, she opted to get a taste of it.

Meeting their lips together into a surprisingly sweet kiss.

She let her eyes fall closed, noticing a few hiccups in Raymond’s actions. She wanted to giggle- starting them off slowly with the slow kiss, and letting him open up to it. The soft touch alone was enough to get him breathless- hearing him take a short break by groaning his sexual frustration out.

As if it couldn’t be anymore obvious on the poor guy.

Her arms find their way around Raymond’s neck, and she deepened the kiss by guiding her tongue in.

At the same time, he could feel one of his hands get tangled in her hair. And the other inching its way underneath the bottom of her dress. She hummed through his lips- begging for him to use his hand to explore every inch of her body.

But he didn’t.

He broke away from the kiss, and Vanessa was surprised to see this saddened look on his face. It reminded her of a lonely kitten behind bars.

“I’m sorry,” He whispers.

“What for?”

“I- I don’t know.. I don’t want to take advantage of you..” to make it even worse, he completely backs away- leaving her to pick up his shirt and throw it back on.

It was completely unexpected, and she couldn’t process it fast enough for his words to break her heart. “You aren’t,”

“I’d rather be with you completely sober.” He admits, his back turned to her. She’s unsure if it’s his alcoholic mind talking, or if she genuinely isn’t as desirable as she made herself out to be.

Truthfully though, she can tell he was completely serious about it. And the more she thought about the situation, the more she realized it was probably for the best.

Especially with them being at some strangers home, unknowingly ruining their property for a one night stand.

She gives him a nod, meeting his understanding.

She watches as he turns back around, now having fixed all the buttons on his shirt. Asking a shocking question,

“are you hungry?”

~

She would have never imagined she’d end up in the passenger seat of his car.

And his very own home.

The two had an amazing time together. Raymond offered to cook, which was a first for her. Normally she was the one making meals for her and Eli. So it was nice, to finally get a break.

And gods, was Raymond a chef in the kitchen. With each bite, her taste buds melted at the flavor. She was eternally grateful, and made sure he knew that.

After dinner, and some quick laughs between one another, Vanessa thought it would be best to return home. Of course, Raymond offered to take her. But just before they could make it to the door..

Crack.

A loud cackle and drum of thunder followed. It sounded quite furious- starting heavy rainfall outdoors.

“Maybe we shouldn’t risk it,”

She nods, “probably for the best..”

“You might even.. have to spend the night.” He teases the offer confidently.

Vanessa raised a brow, seductively leaning herself closer against his body. “Is that so?”

“It’s so.”

“And where would I sleep? Do you have a guest room?”

“I’ll let you find it.”

And like giddy teenagers, the two rush upstairs. She couldn’t help but notice how beautiful his home is laid out. From the coloring of the floors and walls, to the simple decor on the shelves. And of course, the single bedroom.

“You liar. This was all just a wild goose chase.” She stood at the doorway, crossing her hands with a smile.

“Was it?” He slips past her, opening one of the drawers to take out a clean shirt and pants. He fiddles with his watch for a moment, removing it.

“Were you trying to get me to lay in bed with you? You should have just asked,”

She’s taken back by him approaching, handing out the top to her. “Sleep in my bed.” It was hardly a question, more so a begging demand from him.

How could she say no.

She accepts the shirt from him, huffing. “Look away,” he turns obediently, and she begins to strip.

She replaces her clothing with his shirt, which might as well just been another dress. Luckily it was long enough to cover the fact that she didn’t prepare shorts underneath her previous gown.

“You can look now.” And he turns, taking the dress from her hands that she had folded up.

“*Look away,*” he mocks, and she is obliged to turn around. For the most part she’s turned away, but she couldn’t help but to slightly tilt her head, grabbing a peek-

And she’s startled to find Raymond’s eyes meet with hers. “I thought I told you to look away?” He was finished dressing anyways, pulling his sweatpants comfortably around his hips.

She rolled her eyes, fully turning to face him now. He's topless, and it’s distracting.

“You don’t sleep with a shirt?”

“Not usually.” He admits, watching as Vanessa climbed into his very own bed.

The cushion was soft, and the blankets even more so. It caused her to melt as she sprawled her back against the linen. His bed was larger than hers, a king. She’d never had so much space before…

Naturally, Raymond was enjoying her watching her stretch out on his bedding.

“How do you stay warm?”

“Well, there are some ways.” She begins to flick off the lights, keeping a far lamp warmly lit. “Like blankets and..”

“Human contact,”

He joins her in bed, laying pressed up against her side. His hand instinctively placing himself along her outer thigh. Using it to tug her closer than they already were.

“Why don’t you demonstrate?” She purrs out, inching her face closer to his until they meet again in another kiss.

It doesn’t last long however, as Raymond breaks away to instead wrap his arms around her waist. Hugging her against his chest. She can feel his heartbeat at this point- and other things..

she can tell he’s almost- fearful. Scared to do the wrong thing and move this any further. Even if they weren’t meant to spend a night of passion together, she was just as happy to have someone protecting her throughout the night for once.

It was… nice. Raymond provided a different type of warmth for her.

One so gentle and caring that she could easily see herself staying her. Not just for one night, either.

She feels his hand move aside her hair, exposing her neck for him to leave a stubble trail of kisses against her skin.

It felt unreal, as if she was already dreaming. But to her surprise, Raymond’s kisses, and the loud roaring of thunder and raindrops hitting his window only further helped her drift off to sleep.

~

*.·:·.✧ ✦ ✧.·:·.*

I may have rushed to complete this one so please excuse any mistakes or hiccups in the writing 😅 but hopefully it was enjoyable anyways, Ty for reading 🫶🏼

[shindayyume]

Who are you? ˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚

The POV of the mystery girl in @simmetrycal’s fic !

Creds to Sim for their oc(s) involved. (Ex. Raymond and Jia.)

Highly recommend you go over to their page and read their vers first!

『••✎••』

“Mooooommm! I need help!” A young boy yelled out from the cracked bathroom door. Somehow he had gotten both his legs stuck on one singular pant hole.

“I’m coming!“

This was a regular occurrence in the life of a single mother.

Vanessa’s routine was always the same. Wake up at 5am, always before- never after her alarm.

Give herself thirty minutes to shower, brush her teeth, do her hair, and throw on clothing that made her appear put together.

With thirty minutes to spare before 6am, she was in the kitchen preparing a simple breakfast. Sometimes it would be waffles, pancakes, and even the occasional crepe for special occasions. But no matter what, the plate always included her son’s favorite- bacon.

Around 6am was when it was time to wake up the man of the hour. Her five year old, Eli.

Despite having his own room, it was a common occurrence for him to crawl his way into his mother’s bed during late hours of the night. Vanessa would always have to drag him out of the covers by enticing him with the fresh smell of food.

She gave her son plenty of time to eat, usually 10 minutes was enough while he sat in front of the Tv scarfing down whatever meal he had. Their doberman, Lady, always sat with him- eyeing his plate like it was her first time seeing food.

In the meantime she prepared his outfit for school, laying it on the sink counter within the bathroom.

She returned out into their compact living room, picking up his plate that he left empty besides a few crumbs.

“Eli, go get dressed. We have to leave early today.”

He had given his mom this wide eyed look, “But mom- Bluey is going to the beach for the first time ever!!” He was always so exaggerative with his words. Almost like his entire body moved when he spoke.

Vanessa responded with a light smile, glancing at the TV displaying the brightly colored dog characters running in the sand, then back to her son. “Yup! And if you don’t hurry to get dressed and brush your teeth, you might miss it! Then you can’t go to the beach with Bluey.”

Eli audibly gasped in shock, jumping out of his chair to run towards the bathroom- it doesn’t take much to convince this kid of anything.

She rolled her eyes with a smile, hitting the record button on the remote before washing up the dirty dishes from this morning.

Despite always stating they had to leave early, the two always found themselves rushing out of the apartment. It was a miracle each and every time Vanessa got her son to school on time.

Unlike most children, Eli always enjoyed school. It kept him occupied, and he was quite popular with the other kids in class for being the well known chatterbox.

But for Vanessa, she relied on it. Keeping a five year old entertained throughout the entirety of summer and winter vacations weren’t exactly easy-

Just before Eli rushed into the building, he would stop and turn- bulldozing his mom with a big hug and a quick “love you!” before running off to his friends.

She looked forward to that moment every morning. It was the only part of her daily schedule that made her life a little less boring. Surly that doesn’t make her lame-

I mean, no one really ever talks about what keeps them going the entire day. For her, it was always that hug and the shared “I love you”s.

Though with Eli departing with his friends, it was time for Vanessa to meet with hers.

She worked at a fairly busy tattoo shop. It was small, and blended in easily with the other shops on the street. Definitely easy to miss if you weren’t looking to get inked. Always the first one there, she had the duty of cleaning up and restocking for the other artist.

Now she didn’t have to do it- but it kept her mind occupied. She hated cleaning. But throughout the years of raising a kid, its muscle memory at this point. Enough so that she would hardly even know she was cleaning in the first place.

Despite this, her station was always a mess compared to how she left others. Her pens, ink cases and paper sketches always scattered about in a disorganized fashion. Most of the time she would get so caught up with cleaning around the place that she wouldn’t hear the jingle from the bells attached to the doorway—

A taller man stepped inside, most of his important features being covered by a bikers helmet and gear. He had taken the quick stop to the next door cafe to pick up two special drinks. Despite the shop being nearly quiet, and dead empty- his steps were just as silent as he approached behind Vanessa. innocently holding the two large drinks in hand like a child waiting to be called on by the teacher-

All she heard was,

“Coffee.”

That deep ghostly voice spooked her enough to turn around with a slight jump- “Jesus- how many times do I have to tell you to take that thing off before you give someone a heart attack.”

There were two blankly different drinks in hand- one in a styrofoam cup, steam still emitting from the lids cracks. The other a sweetly looking iced coffee- She took the hot one. Pure black, bitter hot coffee. “Thanks..”

The stranger spoke again, giving his head a tilt. “You okay? You look tired. Is Eli okay? Did you eat today?—” Practically spouting out questions- until he was interrupted.

“—Yeah yeah, I’m fine. Just exhausted.. Eli was up nearly all night crying over a nightmare. But he’s alright now.”

It was never anything that kept her worried, usually Eli would just wake up in the middle of the night and then be afraid he was left alone in the dark.

“That seems to happen a lot.. he's always in the way of your sleep.” His voice was stern, but not in any negative manner. Unintentionally intimidating-

“My son is never in the way of anything. He’s just a kid- he’ll grow out of it..”

“In another few years, maybe. You deserve a break.”

She scoffed over the thought. It was almost enough to make her laugh. A break? How could she ever possibly get one. And it’s not like she wanted to anyways- sure her life is repetitive.. but it's mostly due to her having the responsibility of keeping her and Eli afloat. What would she even do on a vacation? Probably spend the entire time worrying about her son anyways–

But hell, it would be nice.. maybe even something simple and short, like a trip to the pool? Or maybe she could finally get the opportunity to try out the new bar that opened up across her apartment-

But no.. she has to work, for Eli.

“I'm good. When are the boys coming in?”

“Ethan at one, and Davis at three if we’re lucky.” Finally separating from Vanessa’s space, he entered his personalized cubby. Detaching the helmet over his head as he spoke – “Did you do it?” masked gear in hand, he shook out his hair. Revealing the platinum blond and brightly dyed orange hair combination. Vanessa will never understand why he always made it his mission to hide his face with that helmet -He had perfectly framed features, a few complimentary piercings, and some light freckles to soften his glow. Hell– if the guy wasn’t into men, She would have taken her chance long ago. But in all honesty, she’s glad he's a friend she can rely on from time to time.

‘Did you do it?’ banged in her head like an irritating drum. “No, Collin, I did not download tinder. I don’t need anyone right now. I told you that already.”

“Mhm. And I also told you that you’re a terrible liar. Dating would be good for you. Could get you away from the kid for a while. When was the last time you got some dick?”

“Around the same time you got some.”

He rolled his eyes, “touché.. Seriously though- you're still young, men will go crazy over a hot single mom, you know.”

“I don’t think many people find me being covered in dirt all the time and a billion random plastic dinosaurs hidden in my pockets very attractive.”

“A man's dream, actually.”

Dating wasn’t a common thought in Vanessa’s head. She was always so preoccupied by work and taking care of Eli that she rarely looked after herself anymore. However after having her son, she found it difficult to care about relationships anymore. Especially after the situation with Elis father– a man she despised with her entire being. Blinded by young love, she was fully convinced he was a man capable of fulfilling his promises. That they’d run away together, free from media and stress- and oh did he run without her. The second she revealed her pregnancy, he had washed her away like a stain on his carpet. Ghosting her completely as if she never existed.

But it's not like she can change anything– She was foolish for falling in love with a popular actor. A big shot in Hollywood, who flaunted his pretty little face every chance he could– but was so desperate to keep Vanessa hidden from his public life. She mistakenly, never saw the red flags.

Now, It's just her and her son.. Still trying to stay within the career she loved, she was always working long hours for the both of them. Even if it meant returning home with carpal tunnel.

The two were always the shop's openers. Collin was more responsible for piercings, while Vanessa handled the ink work. If she was lucky, She would snag a few quick walk-ins during her waiting time on regular scheduled clients. She was well known in the office for taking anything she could get her hands on for an extra buck- and it's not like anyone minded. They understood her situation, and she clearly needed it the most. But god, did they feel terrible watching her overwork herself to death.

Although school normally ends at 3pm, Vanessa had Eli enrolled in the after school programs. He wasn’t due to be picked up until around 5. Which meant there was still plenty of time to–

“--MOM!!”

The five year old had the lungs of a tiger. Shouting hello loud enough to echo through the entire shop. Everyone turned their heads- spotting a man that can only be described as a lumberjack, carrying the young boy on his shoulders. The older man mimicked him, yelling out to purposely annoy Vanessa. “Mom! Mom!”

She shot her head up- surprised to see him. Afterall, she was in the middle of tattooing some poor girl's ribs- giving an apologetic smile, “Uh- how about a quick break?” The client happily agreed. Especially since it meant sweet relief- getting out of the chair to make a quick trip to the bathroom. Vanessa stood from her seat, carefully putting aside her tools and removing her gloves while her son was placed onto his feet by the man. “Hey, sweetheart. What are you doing out so early?”

“Dave picked me up! I got to go on the motorcycle!!” He greeted his mom with a hug, before running off to the cubby next door to see what his old pal Collin was up to.

“Wow- that's greeaat. After I had told him multiple times not to take my baby on that bike.” She gave Davis a spiteful grin, crossing her arms.

“Oh calm down. I was going the speed limit! He's fine, the new helmet fits perfectly.” Davis returned her smile with one of his own, giving a thumbs up.

With a sigh, Vanessa couldn’t seriously be mad. She was always happy to see her kid. “Thanks, Dave.. surprised you actually made it on time.”

Davis was one of their artists in the shop. He was a big guy- and with his bear-like appearance, many people were oftenly put off by him. But deep down- the guy is no scarier than a fly. With kids of his own, he was always looking out for her and Eli. Vanessa always saw Davis as Eli’s cool uncle, so naturally, she added him on the additional names list that were safe to pick up her son from school. days like this- he would surprise everyone by bringing the kid over. Sometimes without even telling Vanessa- him and Eli would take secret ice cream trips.

Probably good to not tell his wife either, he’s supposed to lay off the sweets.

“Yeah, me too. But the wife was getting tired of me snoring so I had to get my ass up. And! That means you can finish up this client and head on home yourself.” He gave her a stern pat on the shoulder.

“Well- I–” She was left a bit stunned. This was her last client after all, and normally she waits out the last remaining hours for anyone looking to make some bad life decisions- but considering now that she had her son around, it would be a good idea to get him out and about instead of being cooped up with a bunch of edgy artist. “Alright.. Just this once.”

-🕰️-

After wrapping and ringing up her last client, Vanessa had packed up her personal belongings before going around the shop with Eli to say their goodbyes to everyone. Holding his hand while they walked through the parking lot to their vehicle. Out of the array of motorcycles parked up front- she was the only SUV in the mix. Popping open the back door for Eli and helping buckle him in-

“Hey, how about we take Lady to the park early? That way mommy can stay up for movie night?”

Eli cheered with a loud “YEAAA!!” Park visits were his favorite time of the day- and he was already so eager to destroy ant hills and get covered in mud with their pup.

-🕰️-

Upon arriving at the park, Vanessa always allowed her son to venture off into the playground area with the other kids. She never strayed too far- just enough to keep close eyes on him while she walked around with Lady.

Per usual it was warm, and calming. She always felt her stress melt away underneath the sun. It reminded her of the beach- sunbathing over the crystal sand, listening to the roaring waves, and enjoying the fresh scent of sea salt…

Oh what a dream..

Her lips were curled into a blissful smile as she drifted off over the idea. Until the leash in her hand yanked her with a firm tug- enough to quite literally pull her back into reality.

“Lady—“

She was no match for a nearly 80 pound dog. It seemed like Lady’s attention was taken by playful barking coming from down the pathway- and she was taking Vanessa with her.

She spotted another dog up ahead- a Shiba Inu seemingly being chased by a man.

To avoid running into the pair, Vanessa did her best to hold back Lady. But it seems like her attempt at restraining her dog only made it worse- now both pups were avoiding their owners. Running in circles the closer they got- enough to entangle their leads tightly around Vanessa and the stranger.

Before she could get a word in, the man took them right out of her mouth- “oh, I’m so sorry!”

The moment she looked up, she got a clear view of his face- and by the gods was he stunning. Her face turned just as pink as her hair- making a nervous laugh as she spoke, “no no, oh my gosh! it’s my fault”

There was a short moment of the two just inspecting one another- I mean, it’s hard not to take a look when you’re tied up. She couldn’t help but gaze over his perfect, slick back blond hair, down to the unexpected eyebrow piercing- with the way he was dressed in semi formal attire, that silver jewelry sparked her curiosity.

As the dogs settled, she took the opportunity to snap out of it and bed down- nearly pressing their bodies against one another as she unclipped Lady’s leash from her collar. Now able to comfortably unravel herself from the mixup- stepping back with an apologetic smile. “I’m really sorry about that— lady just gets ahead of herself sometimes..”

She stood and watched as his dog was attempting to tug and yank away- but the guy was practically melted into the concrete.

“no, it’s my fault, bruce is so disobedient, i can never get him to listen,”

She laughed, “I’ve heard they’re a pretty stubborn breed.” Now rolling up Lady’s leash within her hands. Allowing her dog to roam freely and greet the other pup.

“I’m Vanessa, by the way.” She waited for a response- but it seemed like those last words completely flew over the guy's head. It was hard to pretend like she didn’t notice him staring her down. Not that she particularly- minded..

He was quite attractive after all, even if he had all eyes on her chest. But just to give the guy benefit of the doubt- she just took it as him looking over her visible tattoos.

Finally after an excruciating long moment of silence-

“so, do you come here with lady often?”

Yeah. Completely flew over the guys head.

“Yea, almost every evening. It's our little routine. What about you and bruce?” She had the idea that maybe taking the path might loosen the guy up- now walking side to side with him as the dogs explored ahead of them.

“first time here, actually,” he admitted. “we’re trying to get used to new places.”

“We?”

Considering that she brings Eli along- her first thought wasn’t Bruce. But honestly- she was hoping he meant the dog.

“yeah, i don’t venture out much..” he seemed almost embarrassed to admit it.

Cute.

Fuck- what? Cute? How is she already crushing on this guy- all because she thought his shy responses were attractive. Not only that but, if he was new around the place- it could be a good idea to give him a good first impression. Maybe he’ll come back often.. and there will be other opportunities of getting tangled in their dogs leashes again-

“maybe bruce and lady can become park buddies? she gets along well with other dogs.”

Seriously? Setting up the dogs on a date is the best idea you could come up with? She was honestly starting to feel embarrassed herself instead of just asking for the guys number-

He nodded, “i’d like that. and maybe you can show us the best spots around here.”

She was quick to respond- looking up to the unnamed man as their eyes met again. “I’d be happy to.”

And just as simple as that, they took the short stroll around the small park. With her being a frequent visitor, she introduced him to all the best spots. Especially those where she would just sit and relax in, away from a ton of crowds and screaming children. She hadn’t even noticed that she was going on and on about her experiences around the place- talking the poor guys head off. But, it was a first that she noticed he was actually.. listening.

He wasn’t all that responsive, but just based on his body language and eye contact, she could tell he was fully enticed by her. And damn did she adore that-

They took a short break- seating themselves down at a shaded park bench.

“I’m so sorry for going on and on- it’s nice having someone to talk to. especially to someone who doesn’t mind my rambling.”

“I enjoy your rambling. it’s refreshing.”

And he admitted to enjoying hearing her talking about a park of all things? Either this guy is just easily entertained- or she truly just scored a jackpot.

Though there was a slight pit in her chest- while he seemed perfectly interested, she worried that maybe he might just be considering taking this onto a one time thing. Flings were never- her interest. Though, hardly we’re committed relationships either. Trust was not something so easily shared.. but- for a split moment, they sat silently. Locking eyes as that worry lifted off her chest- she could feel their body heat radiation as he seemingly began to lean in closer.

“Mommy! Look what I found!”

Damnit.

She turned her head away- spotting her son Eli running up with a rock in hand. How could she hate him for interrupting- it was impossible with his scruffy face. “Woah! That’s wonderful, sweetheart.”

Oh- right—

“So sorry,” she turned back to the stranger, smiling proudly. “This is my son- Eli.”

Most of the time, she found it that men would dash away the second they found out she was a mother- but nonetheless, she was never ashamed of her son. He was her pride and joy after all.

But deep down- she was anxiously waiting for his reaction.

And to her surprise- he was.. smiling? It was a warming smile as well, as if the guy hardly even took it as a bad thing. She watched as the two interacted and talked back and forth.

And he’s good with kids? She questioned herself. Maybe it’s too good to be true-

—

Eli was never shy to strangers, promptly showing off the rock in his sand covered hands. “I’m gonna go find more!”

After Eli ran off to go dig around for more pebbles and stones, the two were left alone again.

“What a great kid..”

“Oh- thank you. He’s my entire world..”

his lack of response gave her the hint. She knew he was probably thinking about it- husband? Boyfriend? Anyone at all must be in the picture. But- he seemed almost surprised to hear her admit, “it’s not easy, you know. Being a single mom and trying to navigate everything..”

hopefully he got the memo-

She watched him nod, tension loosening. “I can only imagine. You’re doing an incredible job.”

Stunned by his response- she stared at him with an admirable expression. From all the men she’s ‘tried’ talking to.. no one’s ever told her that before- and like the other few times they gawked over one another, this time made her heartbeat ring in her ears. Almost Instinctively, their bodies were drawn to each other-

Noticing their eyes dart to one another's lips, she could hardly believe he was fully willing to try again for a kiss-

“mommy! look! lady is chasing dis dog!” And just like that, Eli once again cuts through their moment.

They both laugh over it- and damn, was his laugh enough to stab her right through the heart. For a guy who looked so quiet and stern, it definitely boosted his morale.

“Kids, right?” She jokes, embarrassingly.

He only made her excitement worse by unexpectedly reaching out- moving a few loose strands of her hair out from her face and tucking it carefully behind her ear. “Yeah, they have great timing.”

Now her heart is beating in places it shouldn’t be-

With her cheeks darker than her hair, her eyes darted downward. “Look, um- maybe we can pick this up another time? When it’s a bit- quieter?” To hide her flustered expression, she tried to cover it with a friendly smile-

“I’d like that.”

Is she serious? Swooning over this guy who she didn’t even have a name on- wait- what was this guys name anyways?

“Hey- I never got your na-“

Instead of being interrupted by the five year old, this time it was a loud ringtone. Coming from his phone-

“Ah- sorry-“ he stumbled over himself, reaching into his pocket to check the contact calling him-

Vanessa paused as she saw his expression grow almost.. irritated. Clearly whoever was calling, wasn’t his favorite person. So much so that he actually- declined the call. Lowering his phone into his lap.

“What were you saying?”

Must just be bad timing- “oh, I was just going to ask for your-“

His phone went off again.

This time, she caught the name of the contact-

Jia Taylor

Wife? girlfriend? No, don't jump to conclusions- for all she knows, it could be his sister, or a colleague from work- hell, maybe even his mom?

It seemed like each time he tried to decline, this Jia person would just call right back. Eventually his frustration grew enough to apologize- “sorry. I just have to take this really quick-“

Vanessa nodded politely as he finally answered the current call. All he said was- “Hello?”

And the other end of the call went off. She was loud- not loud enough for Vanessa to understand what was being said, but enough for the poor guy to stretch away and try and keep distance- responding with a few muttered words.

She tried not to eavesdrop. Just putting her focus on watching Eli throw sticks for the dogs to chase.

It didn’t seem like they had a long conversation- he stood as he ended the call, tucking his phone away. “Again, really sorry. It’s um- work related..”

She had a bit of suspicion by his hesitation- but pushed it aside, standing as well. “I understand if you need to go- I have to take Eli back home for dinner anyways. It was nice to meet you..”

“Likewise..”

Cmon. Ask.. his number- name, anything??

“Mom mom! Can we have pizza today??”

Eli.. she smiled, handing her son Lady’s leash. “Of course.. do me a favor and put this on Lady? Then we can go get pizza..”

“Okay!” He excitedly snagged it from her hands, running over to the giant Doberman. Despite being such a massive breed compared to the kid- she was always so gentle and obedient with him. Sitting down the second he came over- and letting him clip her leash on.

“Bruce!” He called out, getting the shiba to trot over.

Considering there was no more room for talk, she gave the stranger a final smile goodbye.

“See you again sometime?”

He nodded, “Yeah.. I think I just found a new favorite spot.”

~

That night started like every other. Vanessa and Eli hung out on their small living room couch, devouring an entire small pizza together while the credits from their watched movie rolled on the TV screen.

She had carried Eli to bed, tucking him in while Lady laid guarded at the end of his bed.

She leaned down and left a soft kiss goodnight on his forehead, moving aside a few strands of hair from his face. Each and every time she did that, she was reminded of his father.. mostly due to the kid being a splitting image of the unspoken man. She hated it. She hated that her son had to live without a dad in the picture.

Was it selfish? To hate having to spend every aching moment worried for her kid? Even if she asked for a break, she would feel guilty taking it. If anything were to happen to her, he would have no one else to take care of him..

Maybe all this time, Colin was right about it all. That she needed to branch out and find someone to trust.

But- why was the stranger who she had met at the park the first thought to pop into her head?

Afterall, she didn’t even get the guys name.

On her way to bed, she loomed over the thought. Staring blindly into the ceiling. Would she even ever run into him again?

Wouldn’t that be something..

no way.

She sighed, replaying today's events- His cunning smile, hypnotic voice, and rich vanilla cologne.. she can only imagine if his lips tasted the same.

Fuck.

*.·:·.✧ ✦ ✧.·:·.*

Anyways!! I’m not the best at writing but Sim has inspired me to get back into the hobby 👍 hopefully I can post some more fics of my other characters in the future! Ty for reading :)