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beyondedenton · 6 years

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Color Scheme || Rotheus + Letcher + Peter + Lawrence

October 27, 2018

Lawrence: Lawrence checked his appearance one last time. Having a new face did nothing to deter his penchant for presentation. The djinn had given him a gift he would not squander. Black slacks, shined boots, charcoal sweater vest, and white dress shirt were smoothed one last time.

He kissed his fiancée, promised once more that he would return before midnight. Pete's Pub, a warm cabin-like comfort for the chilly October. Feet tapped against the mat for dirt. He began to look for his dinner companions.

Luke: To ensure Lawrence could see him, Luke stood, waved. He wore a pastel blue shirt and white jeans. It was only him. The angel smiled, moving around to pull out a chair for his friend.

"Welcome," he greeted when the other was within earshot, tone as soft as ever. "Please, sit, you must be cold."

Lawrence: The pulled out chair was given an incredulous scoff. I'm not a woman, he thought, glancing around at fellow patrons' attention. Still, he smiled politely, scoff melting into a laugh.

"I'm alright," he reassured, taking his appointed seat.

"Across the street, right? How's that working out?"

Luke: Sitting as well he pushed the menu closer to Lawrence, as if he wasn't familiar enough with it.

"Hm? Wonderfully. How is Gina? Has she been feeling well?"

Lawrence: "Braxton Hicks hasn't really..." he sighed, shook his head. "She's fine. Nervous, but fine."

A quick glance was given to the door. "We're going to marry before the baby is born."

Luke: A gentle and understanding smile turned into a wide grin. Despite his excitement, his voice remained calm and quiet.

"That's incredible! I'm so happy for you both. Is that why you wanted to meet with us?"

Lawrence: The hybrid shook his head. "No. Tonight is just dinner and to hype Mr. Archer. He's made himself clear he won't respect Gina..."

Luke: Luke blinked. "Excuse me?"

Lawrence: Lawrence simply blinked. What needed to be elaborated, his eyes asked.

Luke: "Did he do something to Gina?"

Lawrence: "No, and I won't let him."

Luke: "Yes... and neither will I. I promise you both that."

Lawrence: Thick lashes hid eyes which stared at the table. When he did look up, it was to say, "You're not...defending him."

Luke: Deep breaths, Angel. You're not who you once were.

"A tragic flaw of mine is understanding, but I could never condone cruelty."

Lawrence: "I don't think it's a flaw," he said softly.

Luke: Hm. "Then I hope you will forgive me if ever it seems I turn too many cheeks."

Lawrence: "I don't see you allowing anyone to abuse you. You'd help them, forgive them, but stand your ground." Wouldn't you?

A waitress finally appeared.

"Gin and tonic, please."

Luke: The waitress distracted Luke from that very kind statement. To stand your ground, ensure you yourself do not come in harms way while also being willing to help others... to Luke, he could only hope he was like that. To Luke, that was ideal.

"Hello, just some water for me please, for now. Thank you." he moved fingers through his hair when they were alone again. He checked his watch. "Ronan is late."

Lawrence: Nothing said in regard to his statement was taken neutrally. That was fine.

"Is this fashionable for him? I didn't see much of him outside of his apartment."

Luke: "Typically... not really." Of course, Luke simply didn't know that since Ronan had been getting dressed up it had lead to one thing or another with Matheus. Several one thing or anothers. But now he was moving quickly towards the door and soon enough was entering Pete's Pub.

Lawrence: "He's actually punctual?" he chuckled, once more doubtful but humored.

Matheus had mastered both scolding and sucking. Encouraging timelines while pulling away expensive clothing. Just a few more moments, he'd say, before pushing his husband-to-be towards the door.

"There we go," Lawrence said under breath, standing just as Luke had.

Luke: "'Eager' would be my adjective of choice." Focus shifts to the door and Luke stands also, gesturing Ronan over.

He comes, dressed exactly as Lawrence had wanted. Even his hair had been washed. Definitely the handiwork of his husband (his husband, who's lips he was missing terribly).

"Traffic, right?" Ronan sighed as he took a seat at their table.

"You don't drive."

Lawrence: The man followed through; he was impressed. Keeping with their tabula rasa principle, his hand was offered.

"Good to see you again," he smiled.

Ronan: The hand was taken with a firm little shake and nod.

"You too, brother." He stared at the waitress as she brought over Luke and Lawrence's drinks. "Ordered without me, huh?"

Lawrence: "But I haven't had a single sip," he grinned.

Ronan: "Couldn't fuckin' wait, huh?!" Ronan was joking, and Luke was aware of this, but still it made him shake his head.

"Why don't you order? I'm sure you already know what you want."

"Nah. Lawrence can pick for me."

Lawrence: "Are you sure about that?"

Ronan: "Jus' don't pick suttin' girly."

Lawrence: "Mmhmm." He turned towards their waitress and smiled once more, polite and unreal. "Apple whiskey on the rocks, please."

Ronan: "Apple fucki-" he groaned and rolled his eyes.

Luke chuckled as he leaned back in his seat. "Thank you. If Pete is around somewhere let him know I say hi." he did still enjoy performing there occasionally, and wouldn't want to seem rude. Besides, despite Fletcher's past with him... he was... kind, and decent.

Lawrence: A past which Lawrence knew nothing about. His attention returned to Luke. "When was the last time you sang here? Feels like it's been months."

His middle finger slowly slid around the rim of his glass, waiting for Ronan's, just as he had said.

Luke: "It hasn't been quite so long," the angel began while Ronan stared at the other's finger. Hm. Something about that looked nice. "I think a few weeks. Fletcher and I have been... busy."

Lawrence: "Busy? With what, may I ask?" Oh. What are those eyes staring at?

Ronan: Just that hand, that finger, the way it moved. If he was spotted, he'd only be able to peel his gaze away slowly to meet Lawrence's. His expression refused to reveal a single secret.

"Engagement... uh... wedding... things." he smiled.

"That means they've been fuckin'," Ronan pointed this out very confidently, only looking at Lawrence still.

Lawrence: As much as his eyes refused, they gave away some sort of interest which captivated Lawrence's attention.

"Well, good for you," he said to Luke, eyes still locked in place with the reaper's. Seemed his attention would be snapped between the two of them off and on tonight. Just a feeling; one he did not dread.

"Are we all getting married in the next twelve months?"

Luke: If Luke noticed, it was not evident. He carried himself with a continuous serenity which did not falter, there would be no awkward blinks or uncertain glances or anything of that nature. There was no need for any of that.

"Me first, niggas."

Okay, fine, at that the serenity was gone and Luke was nudging him. "I wouldn't - we haven't got... I don't know about within twelve months."

"Does his ma' even know yet? What did she say?"

"She-"

"Can I tell her?!"

Lawrence: No serenity for Lawrence, just a warm chuckle at Ronan's antics.

"Is this some sort of secret that Ronan is about to break?" Ronan. Not Mr. Archer.

Ronan: It didn't go unnoticed by the reaper, but he wouldn't comment. Yet.

"Ronan has a better relationship with Fletcher's mother than I do. Somehow she's fonder of... what he is than what I am."

Lawrence: "That - That's due to....what they are...isn't it?" A question asked a tone just above a whisper. Fletcher's species was not something dwelled upon even once.

Luke: Luke and Ronan glanced at each other.

"I suppose so. Perhaps also... in a way, darkness, pain, is more familiar. Perhaps what I am proves the existence of something they feel they've been cheated out of." They.

Lawrence: "Sounds like a subject you're plenty familiar with already," he sighed.

Luke: "What do you mean by that?"

Ronan was more interested in whatever Lawrence's hand was doing now. He wasn't drunk or high enough for this shit.

Lawrence: Ronan's drink was on its way. Lawrence's finger had returned to its subconscious dance.

"That you already have them figured out. It's what I was thinking. Perfection isn't real, minus perfect circles. You're incarnate of what doesn't exist...what they feel they don't deserve."

Luke: To hide his sad expression as much as possible, he looked down into his cup.

"Yes... I'm trying to change their minds. I wouldn't be here if they didn't deserve me."

Reaching for his drink Ronan licked his lips, "This better be a double."

Lawrence: "Do you have anything to add, Mr. Archer?" Lawrence scoffed. Better to turn his attention to the reaper than stare at that sympathetic expression.

Ronan: "Uh, not really. Maybe if you let loose a lil' an' showed her you're a normal dude she wouldn't think you're a weirdo. Y'know. Some people don't like the whole 'perfect' thing." He sipped his drink. Tasting it. Considering it. It might as well have a fucking little umbrella and strawberry on a stick.

"Perfect? But I'm not perfect, far from it. I-"

"You're as close as it gets. It's intimidatin'. To some people. Other people. People who care."

Lawrence: "You are very wholesome and beautiful. Half the time you don't look like you belong in this town full of fisherman and day-to-day routine. At the same time, you accentuate the pristine scenery. People sit up straight when you speak to them. It's your...aura."

Luke: Luke was taken aback. He hadn't been aware of that. He had expected that people felt calmer, to be in the presence of an angel. That's all. Just calm.

"I... is that a negative thing? I make people feel... self-conscious?" He wondered how much Fletcher would agree to this.

Lawrence: "Beauty can be intimidating. Makes people reflect. But, it also makes people strive."

Luke: "I see. W-well enough about that... Ronan, how is Matheus?"

"He's..." glance to Lawrence, "good."

Lawrence: Ah. His drink was so interesting. Finally, he would drink it - no, he'd finish it in just a few gulps. Their waitress brushed past towards another table. He awaited his chance to flag her.

"Another gin and tonic, please. Two."

Ronan: "An' a beer. An' red wine for Blondie."

"Oh, what? No, thank you, water is fine."

"Ignore him. Bring it." He'll chug the whiskey to get it over and done with.

Lawrence: "Not a white wine?" he arched a brow. "Going biblical, are you?"

Ronan: "Duh." The reaper smirked. "Should've ordered some bread an' dry ass crackers."

Lawrence: "And some fish for good measure," he also smirked. "Actually, I believe there's fish n'chips on the menu tonight."

Ronan: "That's more British than anythin'."

The angel chuckled. "I no longer eat fish, I would have to see what else is being served. Is that what you want, though, Lawrence? It will be my treat."

Lawrence: "Hmm." He glanced to Ronan. "Are you having anything?"

Ronan: "The meatiest most disgustin' most greasy most layered thing on the menu."

Lawrence: "That would be..." Lawrence looked at the small paper menu. "A burger or...steak nachos? tonight."

Ronan: "Steak nachos it is."

Lawrence: "They have broccoli and potato soup?" he pointed out for Luke's sake. "I'll have that with you."

Ronan: Smiling, he nods, "That sounds lovely."

Lawrence: Their orders in, two drastically different from one, Lawrence began to relax. Arms stretched overhead, accompanied by a brief yawn.

Ronan: "We borin' you?" Ronan asked, dipping his fingers into his drink and flicking the alcohol at Lawrence.

Lawrence: "I don't get much sleep lately is all. No need to be jealous."

Ronan: Jealous? Ronan? Pfft.

"Why aren't you getting much sleep? Is something bothering you?"

Lawrence: "Just watching over Gina. When she doesn't sleep, I don't sleep."

Ronan: Ronan scoffed. "Why? She need you every fuckin' second of her wakin' day?"

Lawrence: "No. I want her every second."

Ronan: "Clingy bitch." The reaper choked on his drink when Luke slowly and casually tipped the bottom the glass further back with an index. "What was that for?!"

"You're being rude. And a hypocrite."

Lawrence: Lawrence simply laughed. He couldn't think about Matheus, but he could agree with the angel.

"It's good, Luke."

Ronan: While Ronan was busy wiping his mouth, the angel returned to smiling.

"Why isn't Gina sleeping? It's possible that I could help, if either of you would want that."

Lawrence: "What you're expecting from a pregnancy is all. I'll talk to her though." All the while, another napkin was unfolded and offered to the reaper without a single glance.

Ronan: "Has she tried meditation?"

It was taken, looked at through squinting eyes.

Lawrence: "If sitting with the window open to the bay with eyes closed is meditation, then yes."

Ronan: "Has she tried heroin?"

Luke blinked. "You're banned from public spaces."

Lawrence: The safest action seemed to be a chuckle. Far safer than scolding.

"Going somewhere for your honeymoon?"

Ronan: Ronan shrugged. "I have school so we can't go away... but I guess we'll go somewhere durin' Christmas break. I get, like, ages off for that. Somewhere fuckin' hot I hope."

Lawrence: "How is school working out?" he asked, leaning back in his seat.

Ronan: "It's... uh..." he scratched his head. "Still tryna get used to it, y'know? I've been my own boss... like... since I was born. Even when I was human, like, Luke can even tell you, I did my own thing an' nobody ever did anythin' about it. The work, though, it's kinda piss easy. I fuckin' hate the kids in my class, though."

Lawrence: "'The kids in your class,'" he smiled, though it sooner faded. "So...your father, brothers, no one was an authority figure to you growing up?"

Ronan: "My da' an' my brothers, yeah, but they all had their own shit goin' on. If I skipped a thousand times or didn't do my work nobody gave me shit. Teachers wouldn't either 'cause we paid."

Lawrence: Now that warranted a frown. How could he be neglected for so long? How could people claiming to love him allow him to implode?

The hybrid scratched his temple, looking to the angel. He's not your ward, but what did you do? No. The angel wasn't to blame. He was only a child, too.

His finger tapped against the glass before being raised in toast.

"To new beginnings."

Ronan: "I hear that, brother." Up Ronan's glass went and Luke did the same.

"Yes, to new beginnings."

Luke had helped, as much as possible. As much as it hurt him to hear Ronan talk about his past in such a... dismissive manner, there was nothing he could do. Nothing he could have done. Ronan had been above and beyond every single person around him.

"What about you, Lawrence? Have you thought about Honeymoons yet?"

Lawrence: Lawrence shook his head before uttering a single word. "Maybe after the baby - but probably not. I don't need one. She's going to be too reluctant to leave her - or him."

Luke: "You wouldn't take the child with you?"

Lawrence: "Then it's a family vacation, not a honeymoon."

Luke: "That's understandable."

"You could always leave the kid with Luke. No better babysitter than an angel, right?"

Lawrence: "Oh. No. I wouldn't want to impose."

Luke: "Wh-what? No, don't be silly. Of course I'd love to do that. We'd have to figure something out with the shop but we'll just get Ronan to fill in for me." Since we're volunteering other people for things. "It would be my pleasure, Lawrence." his smile grew and he placed a hand on his arm. "If you're comfortable with that, of course. It's up to the both of you."

Lawrence: "She doesn't know what you are. She's limited to Mason... unfortunately. She knows what djinn are. Didn't have...much choice in that. We're slowly approaching the list of species. Now's not the time."

Luke: "She doesn't have to know what I am. Just that I'm offering."

Lawrence: "Thank you," he nodded. "But, I'd rather no secrets. If and when we need you, it'll be after she knows."

Luke: He nodded. "Of course, that's understandable... you don't... have a problem with what I am, do you? Mason said something and I'm... not sure if it applies to you too. I hope you don't mind me saying."

Lawrence: "He said something?" A glance was given to Ronan. Was he aware? "You know what it takes to make a demon. Whatever I - he- said back then...it's not..."

Luke: "Not...? Uh - I'm sorry. Forgive me if I overstepped anything by asking that."

Lawrence: "No. In all likelihood he did. It's not me that said whatever he said." Even for Lawrence, his split soul was a game of mental gymnastics.

Luke: "No, I know that. Don't worry, he wasn't rude or negative or anything of that nature."

"It was more what he said t'me. That he didn't wanna fall in love with another angel." Ugh.

Lawrence: Oh. To that, Lawrence studied his drink. A conscious effort was made to distance eye contact.

"That sounds like the opposite of what I thought you meant. At least he wasn't...rude. No, Luke. I have no "problem" with you. You know I don't."

Luke: "That's... good."

"An' not a fun topic of conversation. What's Fletcher doin'?"

"Is that your idea of 'fun' conversation?"

"Bitch it might be."

Lawrence: "Any wild adventures going on with his...species?"

Luke: "... No, nothing like that." He takes an awkward sip of his drink.

Lawrence: "Was that too forward?"

Luke: "No... it's fine, it all just comes with a bit of paranoia, doesn't it?"

Lawrence: "I don't know much about your situation to know. I think here would probably be too public."

Luke: "Yes, I believe so. It's all right. Did you hear that Ronan now has a pet cockroach? Courtesy of Fletcher."

Lawrence: "...Um." Now he could look up, look at Ronan with bewilderment. "I made your house pristine before - what -" Oh. No. Was that insulting to Luke's lover?

"What do you feed it?"

Ronan: Ronan grinned.

"Sean tried t'kill it when he saw it." That wasn't what Lawrence had asked. "Fruit an' shit. I dunno. I called her Ava."

Lawrence: "It's a she?" Well now his eyes had questions for Luke. Was Fletcher not a male? "You don't know what it eats?"

Luke: Luke sighed and rubbed his forehead. As if Ronan would care what gender anything is before naming it.

"It handles itself, mostly."

Lawrence: "Does it do anything, or is it you just own a bug?"

Ronan: "Uh... I think... I think Fletcher can... like, y'know."

Lawrence: "What an amazing and elaborate description." There was Mason's soul.

Ronan: Ha. Dick.

"He can look after me, through Ava. Like Meara... kind of."

Lawrence: "Do you ever get any privacy?"

Ronan: "I like the audience..." Said with a wink.

Lawrence: Back to his drink he went. "How's your wine, angel?" The gin seemed to have finally worked its magic.

Luke: "It's lovely, thank you." The liquid was also being used as a distraction.

"'Angel', huh?"

"That's what I am."

"Sounds more like a petname t'me."

Lawrence: "Does that bother you, Ronan?"

Ronan: A little. "Should it?"

Lawrence: "No."

Ronan: "Why not?"

Lawrence: "It's not a slight against you."

Ronan: "I know that."

Lawrence: Lips thinned before another sip of gin. "Why's that?"

Ronan: "Why's what? Why do I know that? Ain't like I'm the devil. Callin' him an angel don't offend me. What I am is way cooler."

Lawrence: "Why are you bothered?" A question asked with almost no inflection.

Ronan: "I never said I was bothered."

Lawrence: His once housekeeper only smiled.

Ronan: Eyebrows raised in return.

The blond just smiled at them. Ridiculous.

Lawrence: "Anyway," he sighed, allowing his smile to fade just as their waitress reappeared. He thanked her and waited for privacy.

"I was approached the other day. Now the third time I've been mistaken for...what Mason is."

Ronan: Squint. Dick.

"It's 'cause you fuckin' stink."

Lawrence: "Yes, I'm aware," he said quietly.

Ronan: "Can't you do suttin' about it?"

"It is... quite strong..."

"Maybe Conor can help?"

Lawrence: "I'm not meant to exist," he explained. Slowly he mixed black pepper with his soup. His eyes kept to the bowl. "The...djinn said it was non-negotiable. My soul is forever tainted."

Ronan: "Heavy."

"There must be a way to mask it, perhaps not get rid of it but... a druid could probably help better than a demon, and most likely they'd ask for less in return."

Lawrence: "I've had my fill of druids, thank you."

Ronan: "Angels, druids... who can you two fuckin' stand?"

Lawrence: "Pardon?"

Ronan: "You got suttin' against, like, every creature."

Lawrence: "I don't have anything against angels."

Ronan: "Yeah, apart from your hard-on."

"Ronan!"

Lawrence: "It's fine, Luke. Who else but Ronan?" he smirked.

Luke: He shook his head.

"It's true, though!"

Lawrence: An argument over sexual proclivities was so far removed from his mind. Especially in Ronan's presence. Instead, quietly sipping his soup.

Ronan: Apparently there would be silence until Ronan's phone buzzed. Which Ronan was grateful for when it came around. Out the saviour came.

"Ronan anseo." Oh, Sean. "I'm out right now. Luke an' Lawrence. Yeah. Yeah. Yep. Okay. Bye."

Lawrence: "Which brother?" he asked.

Ronan: "I'm offended. Do I only ever get called by my brothers?!"

Lawrence: "Do you only ever get called by your brothers?"

Ronan: "No, bitch."

Lawrence: "...So which brother?" he grinned.

Ronan: "It was your mama."

Lawrence: "Sharp wit as ever I see, Mr. Archer."

Ronan: "A prick as ever, Mr. Dickhead."

Lawrence: "As ever?"

Ronan: "Always."

Lawrence: "Is that true? I'm always rude to you?"

Ronan: "A lot of the time."

Lawrence: "What have I done against you?"

Ronan: "You ordered me an APPLE whiskey!"

Lawrence: "It's whiskey!"

Ronan: "Yeah, an' shampoo is champagne."

Lawrence: This time, Luke was given his smile. "Has he always been this outrageous?" he laughed.

Luke: "He was worse before..." Luke teasingly confirmed.

Lawrence: "How did you put up with him for so long?"

Luke: "It's his eyes. They're persuasive."

Said eyes were rolled.

Lawrence: "When he wrinkles his brow just right he is rather irresistible, isn't he?"

Ronan: Oh - that made the reaper choke on his drink.

"You're definitely right about that."

Lawrence: "You think you can get away with anything, don't you?"

Ronan: "Think?" He laughed. "I literally got away with murder."

"It was a lot easier to do so back then, they have all of this technology now."

Lawrence: "But you're both essentially ghosts. You, more literally. But, don't you have new IDs?"

Ronan: "Yeah? So?"

Lawrence: "His technology mention had me curious."

Ronan: "About what?"

Lawrence: "Your history with law. Would be fascinating if some of your cases were still open."

Ronan: "..." Eyes shifted. "That's kinda awesome. I hope so."

Lawrence: What did Luke think, his eyes asked, giving the angel a glance.

Luke: "I... I disagree. People lost family members. People were left without answers. I hope they were all closed, shown to connect to someone who has died and... I hope they found closure in that."

Lawrence: "...You would," he said gently. Not insulting; at least he hoped it wouldn't come across that way. "New beginnings and closed doors, right?"

Luke: "Yes."

"Ugh, who cares about a bunch of dead people from a hundred years ago?"

"... Plenty of people!"

"Like who?! It's in the past, get over it."

Lawrence: "It's all relative. Something always matters to someone."

Ronan: "Well everyone needs t'grow up. People die, get over it."

Luke scoffed, a strange sound that made Ronan stare.

"What? Ronan, you have no idea what you left behind when you passed away. You haven't the faintest clue. Lawrence is right. The world isn't as cold as you think, and it should never be."

Lawrence: There were things Lawrence could say, but he didn't. He allowed this moment to be Luke's and his alone. He sipped his drink, eyes never on one man for longer than three seconds.

Ronan: There were things Ronan could say too, but he had no idea what they were. He had been rendered silent. He had no fucking clue where to take the conversation from there, and it made Luke feel guilty. It was his response which had caused them both to feel this way, to feel like they couldn't speak.

"I'm sorry, forgive me. Let's... talk about something... nicer, instead."

Lawrence: Something nicer. Surely, Lawrence could handle distracting an angel and a reaper, life and death...

The hybrid cleared his throat. "Suggestions for baby names?"

Ronan: "Ronan."

Lawrence: "Alright. I'll write that one down," he smirked.

Ronan: "An' Luke. If it's a girl."

"Wow..."

Lawrence: "What about Lucille?"

Luke: "Like the song?" Luke smiled.

Lawrence: "Sure," he chuckled. "I had a daughter before named Lucy. Mason, had. Luke...Lucy...Lucille. I like it."

Luke: Luke blinked. "Yes... that sounds sweet."

Lawrence: "Is that tacky?"

Ronan: "Yep."

"No, it isn't."

Lawrence: "Ronan's right. No "Lu" names."

Ronan: "Why don't you call it suttin' like... I dunno. Suttin' cool. Like Dragon."

Lawrence: "Draco?"

Ronan: "Pretentious fuck."

Lawrence: "You said Dragon, Mr. Archer. Where else would it go?"

Ronan: "It don't need t'go anywhere. Dragon. Done. Finito."

Lawrence: "That's way too conspicuous and there's no flourish."

Ronan: "That's life."

Lawrence: "Okay, Seal."

Ronan: Luke's chuckle had Ronan squinting at him.

"Oi, Light."

Blue eyes roll. "What does 'Lawrence' mean?"

Lawrence: "I don't know. The djinn said it was 'destined' for me." Out came his phone. Impolite during dinner, it served a purpose.

"According to the internet, my name is Latin, meaning ‘Of Laurentum’. Also the Irish name Lorcan, which is Fierce. So, nothing special."

Ronan: "How the fuck is 'Lawrence' anythin' like 'Lorcan'?!"

"I like it. It's definitely special. It's interesting."

Lawrence: "Well I'm not naming my child after me. It's pretentious."

Ronan: "Fits you perfectly then." He was only joking - proved be his cheeky crooked smile and little wink.

Lawrence: "I'm going to order you another whiskey."

Ronan: "You tryna get me drunk?"

Lawrence: "I have a theory that you become more pleasant when inebriated."

Ronan: "Why d'you think that?"

Lawrence: "Just a hunch."

Ronan: "So you hate me sober?"

Lawrence: A very forward and almost careless question to ask with their history. Still, Lawrence shook his head. "I can't hate you."

Ronan: He squinted before leaning back in his seat.

"Okay, Cupcake. Get me another drink then. I'll make it worth your while."

Lawrence: "What are you about to do?"

Ronan: "Strip tease."

Luke: "Ronan..."

Lawrence: "No. No thank you," he chuckled.

Ronan: "No thank you?! Are you sayin' I'm ugly?!"

"He's saying he has a baby on the way and a woman waiting for him at home."

"So?!"

Lawrence: "Does that blow your mind?"

Ronan: "Does what blow my mind?"

Lawrence: "That I don't want that from you."

Ronan: Ronan had to think very carefully about his next response. He idly toyed with cutlery, tilting his head. So many things to consider, so many different ways for his response to be taken...

He understood that their past put a strain on that side of their relationship, so he couldn't push for Lawrence to want him. Not like that. Not when it could drive him away. But he did, on some level, want to be wanted. Who doesn't?

Besides, he had been joking, so now to make it serious... but... he didn't... he's probably been silent for too long now...

Lawrence: The silence began to stretch further than Lawrence could manage. His bowl was pushed to the side, and their waitress flagged. She began to gather anything empty.

"What's the most feminine drink you have in the menu, please?"

"Uh...a, um," she laughed, "the unicorn kiss."

"Three of those, please."

"You got it."

Luke: "Wh- three? That's - I'm fine, thank you ever so."

Lawrence: "What's in it?" His brows raised, head tilted to the angel, body language asking for open ears. Perhaps it's not that strong.

"It's, like, strawberry lemonade, and UV raspberry vodka, some grenadine, some pretty lilac dust and fun edible glitter stars."

Peter: "I still don't know what possessed me to let June put it on the menu."

Pete appeared beside their waitress, smiling in greeting as he wiped his hands on a bar towel. "Hey, ya'll. Only people who order it do it as a joke."

Ronan: Ronan ripped into the last of his food. He had been slow at eating, way too busy talking. "I'm gonna tell Aidan you said that an' he's gonna beat you into 2019."

Luke smiled, "Forgive him. He isn't used to being around people." Ronan huffed. "How have you been?"

Lawrence: Lawrence simply smiled. This person...what was that feeling in his chest? No, his head. Deja Vu? Something to do with Mason and Callum, but mostly Mason.

He would wait for the introductions to settle before turning his full attention to the owner.

"I'm sorry, have we met before?"

Peter: Pete laughed. "I'm willing to bet he's confused too. I saw his face when she showed it to him." He offered a smile to Luke and to Lawrence. "Been good. Business is booming as you can see."

He held out a hand. "Don't believe so. I know of you though. Regina gushes every chance she gets. I'm Pete, I own this here pub."

Ronan: Ronan could imagine. His poor fucking brother, being in a relationship with a pink marshmallow of a human being.

"Yes... it's wonderful. Everything looks great, you should feel proud."

Ronan coughed, loudly, purposefully. It was an obvious plight to get Luke's attention, and so he looked over his shoulder.

"He fucked your man!" Ronan whispered.

Lawrence: The hand was taken and firmly shaken. What followed from Ronan was both unsurprising and embarrassing. No. There was one surprise: he whispered. His hand lingered before its reluctant release.

"I'd love a cigarette." He got to his feet and gestured to the door. "Come on. I think we do know each other."

Peter: To Pete's credit, his face remained perfectly pleasant and relaxed despite what he managed to hear. Gone were the days of ordinary human ears that often-had trouble hearing conversation over the din of the pub.

Supernatural bear ears were his lot now, and they missed very little.

"Thank you, Luke. I am very proud." That perfectly pleasant smile turned back to Lawrence. "Sure thing. Lead the way."

Ronan: Ronan raised an eyebrow. Alright then. He put a hand on Luke's wrist, and the angel turned his arm to offer his hand, but it was not taken.

They were both going to simply watch, for very different reasons.

Lawrence: Lawrence was heading for the exit, feeling for the cigarette case he kept in his back pocket. He allowed himself only three a day, and never indoors. An addiction afflicted from his demonic counterpart.

"Now, if only it'd stay this cold," he said to himself as he lit his menthol, exhaling with the breeze.

"I do know you. We have...two mutual acquaintances."

Peter: "Oh, it will," said Pete, turning his face toward the sky as they stepped outside and inhaling. He could smell moisture on the air. "It'll snow before long, just you wait." Callum was already busy checking the weather for the best day.

Pete's gaze returned to Lawrence. "We do? Two including Regina or two besides her?"

Ronan: "Luke. Seriously?!" He hissed.

"... What?"

"Why d'you act all nice t'that prancin' prick? He fucked your man!"

"Ronan!" Automatically, he covered his friend's mouth.

Lawrence: How had he forgotten that face, he thought, taking in the details of the bearded man.

"Two being...Callum MacGillivray and Mason Atlas." He gestured to himself. "Lawrence Atlas."

Peter: Lawrence would be able to see and maybe even hear the 'click' in Pete's mind.

"....Ah. You're that Lawrence." He nodded. "Well, nice to see you again. New face suits you."

Lawrence: Of course it wasn't that simple. Peter's expression was studied. He was aware, but by what margin?

"Does it?" One might call him coy.

Peter: "Mhmm. Goes well with Regina's. Your baby's going to be beautiful."

Lawrence: "Do you know what I am?"

Peter: "Not a demon?"

Lawrence: He shouldn't explain. The truth, as Peter had given Mason, could be too much.

"...Yeah. Sure."

Peter: Pete knew. Callum had told him some of it, and what he hadn't told him, Pete could put together from Lawrence's little reveal.

But going down that road wasn't an appropriate activity for a sidewalk. That sort of heavy discussion required privacy and a stiff gin.

"Is it something you want to talk about or something we're going to let fade into the ether?"

Lawrence: A rabbit hole in between them. Neither wanted to step in it...and yet...

"I have a pocketful of curiosities. Maybe I'll ask someday. For now, that was them. Right? That's how we'll approach the subject." Words, but without meaning. The past was his reason for existence. Callum was his reason for being on this Earth. Unloved and unwanted. He swallowed that bitter flavor accompanied with tobacco.

Peter: He nodded. "I'll answer." The 'maybe' was purposefully left off that sentence. There wasn't a maybe; he fully planned to answer anything Lawrence asked to the best of his ability.

"We'll play it by ear. In my experience planning out how you're going to approach something doesn't work out that great. The best laid plans."

Lawrence: Straightforward. Clarke must have been the same. He could see the potential there, the temptation he must have been for his demonic self. Just a cursory observation gave him that much.

"Right now? One?"

Peter: "Go for it."

Lawrence: "How does it feel, having the shoe on the other foot?"

Peter: "You mean the trying to share heartfelt memories of a past life with someone who doesn't want any part of them?"

Lawrence: "Mhm."

Peter: "It fucking sucked."

Lawrence: "We're the same now. We're both slates... somewhat wiped clean. Am I a disappointment, being like you?"

Peter: "I don't think either of us are. I think there's just too much pain, and too much grief for anything to be smooth."

Lawrence: "You know why I'm here?"

Peter: "Here on this sidewalk or here in a more metaphysical sense?"

Lawrence: "You know what I'm asking."

Peter: "I was told a fair bit of it."

Lawrence: Should I be surprised. "Nothing's private anymore." Truly, a lament. "Share with me."

Peter: "I know that feeling better than anyone, but really, if you can't share the stuff that goes on in your life with your best friend, what hope is there?"

Pete sighed. "He told me what happened in the flower shop, when you came to see him."

Lawrence: "That's the problem with having someone on a pedestal like that. It's not just that person's story. It belongs to someone else, too."

His cigarette died. It too was mourned.

"Guess I have nothing more to add."

Peter: "Isn't Regina your best friend?" he asked softly.

Lawrence: "If Callum wants her to know every single detail, we'll say it together. If she wants to know, she'll ask, and we'll take that step. I can explain myself without detailing someone else's experience."

Peter: "If it makes you feel any better, several people know mine. You included. And Mason's boyfriend."

Lawrence: "My condolences."

Peter: "And the postman and several tourists and a woman in a cafe in Paris I inadvertently dumped on." Pete offered Lawrence a small smile. "I'm sorry, Lawrence."

Lawrence: "What did you give to the postman?" he chuckled. A glance was given to the warmly lit interior. "Actually, I need to head back in."

Peter: "Nothing. Several people in town gleefully showed him all my dirty laundry. Him and several others. Many others. Hi, I'm the town's favorite human spectacle."

Another nod. "All right. It's on the house tonight."

Lawrence: "Oh, no. No, thank you. I-" he sighed. "Then I'll have to pay you back."

Peter: "You don't have to pay me back. Regina's an old friend. Look after her and your baby and I'll call us even."

Lawrence: "Dinner for you plus one at Wayside. My honor as a husband and father are non-negotiable."

Peter: "As long as one of my family members can be my plus one."

Lawrence: "Get a date, my friend. You deserve it."

Peter: "The only date I'd want is miles away. And I'm not so sure I deserve him. My mom and I need work though, maybe I'll bring her."

Lawrence: Well, interesting. "Alright. Let the waiter know you want to see me when you come. Good luck with that, by the way."

The door was reopened. Back to the reaper and angel he went.

Peter: "Will do. And thank you." He suspected he was going to need all the luck he could find.

As Lawrence turned toward his table, Pete turned toward the bar.

Luke: Lawrence would return to Ronan and Luke glaring at each other. The stern look from an angel would easily and fluidly turn into a smile.

"Welcome back. Is everything alright?"

Lawrence: "I should ask the same of you." Both men were examined from his distance.

Luke: Luke tilted his head. "Yes, everything is fine. Did you want to get going now? I'll handle the bill if Gina is waiting for you."

Lawrence: "Actually, the bill," he gestured his thumb towards the bar, hidden against his chest from eavesdropping. "It's on the house."

Ronan: "What did you do? Suck his dick?"

Lawrence: "Your superior hearing is beginning to worry me, Mr. Archer. How did you know?" he smirked.

Ronan: "By the cum on your face."

Lawrence: "Ah. I thought it was all gone." Still standing, his last bit of gin was -

"What is this purple thing?" The cocktail he'd forgotten he ordered them.

Ronan: "It's the fuckin' unicorn you wanted."

Lawrence: "How does it taste?"

Ronan: "It tastes like a unicorn."

"It's... sweet."

Lawrence: A sip was taken, and immediately he wondered about a blue version for the bar at Wayside.

"Interesting. So, where to now?"

Ronan: Ah, the adventure wasn't over.

"A club. Let's get drunk an' sweaty!"

"Let's... not..."

Lawrence: "The drunk part or the sweaty part?" he'd almost called him "angel" again.

Luke: "Both." He laughed, half bashful, "Why? Does that idea entice you?"

Lawrence: "He's about to marry. The gentleman needs this mini bachelor party."

Luke: "You're about to marry too, do you want the same?"

"You're about t'get hitched as well an' you've only ever fucked ONE person. You gotta get out there, Angel Cake."

"That's ridiculous."

Lawrence: "Luke and I are sailing the same boat."

Ronan: "You're both fuckin' crazy. How d'you know what you like if you ain't explored?"

"We'll explore with our partners," he smiled and reached to toy with a curl by Ronan's temple. "We aren't all as bold as you."

Lawrence: Bold, unfortunate, they were something. He had a question, but it was much too bold. Pocketed, for now, as so many were.

"Are you opposed to going out with him, Luke?"

Luke: "To... a club... it's just... I wouldn't want to go to a place like that without..."

"Without Fletcher?"

...

Lawrence: "Do crowds make you nervous?"

Luke: "Oh, it's nothing like that! Just... it's typically a very... sexualised experience. From what I've heard."

Lawrence: "And you want Fletcher to experience it with you?" he smiled.

Luke: "N-not in that -" oh dear, now he's blushing, "not in that way..."

Lawrence: And what did Ronan think of that blush?

"Not in that way?"

Ronan: Ronan was torn between thinking it was stupid and being jealous. He eventually decided on the former.

"I don't - I don't want him to be there because of the... because of the type of experience it's more... I don't think he'd be entirely comfortable and um - and... he - he should be with me when I'm experiencing anything for the first time, I feel."

Lawrence: "It would be a first for him as well. Experiencing you experience the club. I don't think his eyes will wonder. He's got you."

Luke: He chuckled, "What do you mean by that?"

Lawrence: "I mean you're the man of his life."

Luke: Hm.

"Yes. I hope so. But... regardless, how would Gina feel with you going to a club?"

Lawrence: "It's our own bachelor party. She trusts me."

Luke: "And, Matheus?"

"Matheus... trusts me."

Lawrence: "So, shall we get Mr. Goodman for you?"

Luke: "He may be busy, we can definitely go see him." In fact, Luke absolutely wanted to see Fletcher.

Lawrence: He looked to Ronan, then, for confirmation. "Shall we go?”

Ronan: Ronan shrugged and stood after downing the rest of his drink. "Let's go."

Lawrence: A tip was left under his empty glass for the waitress. Quietly he waited for the two men to take lead, following behind, feeling for another cigarette.

Luke: Luke picked up his jacket and made a start towards the pawn shop, eager to see his lover.

Fletcher: His lover was in the living room, sat in his old chair in the corner playing Aqualung by Jethro Tull on his acoustic. His eyes were closed, already aware of those approaching.

Ronan: Ronan heard the music from the street, of course it was completely foreign to him, but he could appreciate it nonetheless. Perhaps purely because he knew it was Fletcher playing.

Once they arrived at the door Luke knocked, not wanting to startle Fletcher. He also didn't want to open the door in case he wasn't decent.

"Fletcher?"

Fletcher: He knew his angel well enough. "It's open, babe," he called back. The demon managed to remain in their lives. At least this version seemed polite.

The guitar was replaced on its stand. Not normally one for formal greetings, he felt a need to at least stand.

Luke: Opening it, Luke stepped forward and smiled.

"Hi, are you okay? Were you playing guitar?"

Ronan headed straight for the couch, jumping on it and lounging back comfortably.

Fletcher: "Y'all heard. Just tryin' somethin' different."

Ronan was given a look. Lawrence kept near the door and away from his attention.

Luke: "I wasn't eavesdropping. Come in, Lawrence. Make yourself comfortable... maybe not as comfortable as Ronan is, but still comfortable." he smiled to prove he was joking, holding the door out ready to close it behind the other.

Lawrence: He thought this was going to be a fetch and flee scenario. He sidestepped into the apartment and kept his hands to himself.

"What we doin', a movie?"

Luke: "No, we're talking about... um... going dancing. Do you want to come?"

"He wants t'grind on you."

A pillow was casually picked up and whacked against Ronan's face.

Fletcher: Now Fletcher straightened, looking between Luke and Ronan. As of yet, Lawrence was given no recognition.

"That what y'all wanna do?" More of a question for Luke.

Luke: "Do you want to?"

Fletcher: "S'why y'all came here, right?"

Luke: "Yes, but we won't force you to do anything you don't want to."

Fletcher: "I think that's all you, baby," he smirked. "I dunno. Don't think I'm a good dancer. I'll hang out n'drink, if that's - if that's okay.'

Luke: Luke nodded, instantly smiling. "Of course."

Fletcher: "Alright. Lemme get better dressed, then." Gray sweatpants and white sweater just wouldn’t cut it.

Luke: "Dressed? Oh! What am I meant to wear? What is the dress code for these types of things?"

Fletcher: "Some places do fancy, like, dress shirt n'maybe a tie. Others look like a frat house with barely any light."

Luke: "... Which one are we going to?"

"The second, obviously."

Fletcher: "I mean, whatever ya want, I guess," Fletcher called from the bedroom.

Luke: "What does Lawrence want?" Luke asked.

Lawrence: "No, no. It's Ronan's dinner party. The groom decides."

Ronan: "... That reminds me-" Ronan dug into his pocket to bring out his phone. He needs to update Matheus.

Matheus: {Text: Prince} Going to dance until dawn?

Lawrence finally took a seat on the arm of the couch.

Ronan: {Text: King} && maybe become a stripper overnight. WHO KNOWS

Luke smiled at him, "Would you like some water or anything before we go?"

Matheus: {Text} You'll set the place on fire

"No, thank you. Though, I'm probably overdressed for the seedy nightclub scene."

Ronan: {Text} Love u!!!

Ronan gasped and stood, "Both of you are too uptight for this. Get me scissors an' I'll sort your outfits out!"

Matheus: {Text} You know to call if you need anything

The message was deleted. Of course he knew.

{Text} I love you.

"You're not coming near me with scissors, Mr. Archer."

Ronan: "Oh come on! I'll just chop up your sleeves a bit an' you'll fit in. Maybe fuck with your collar."

Lawrence: "I'll look like some 90s grunge hobo."

Ronan: "... Duh?"

Lawrence: "That's the opposite of attractive."

Ronan: "Who you tryna be attractive for? Your preggers wifey is at home."

Lawrence: "So you're trying to ugly me up?"

Ronan: "No, I'm gonna make you fit in. Plus it would be funny."

Lawrence: "Just because I'm getting married does not mean I'm going to lower my standard of dress. I mean, are you?"

Ronan: "Yeah. My standards are gonna become so low that I won't even think about wearin' clothes at all." he winked before he could stop himself.

"Oh, wow."

"You! Get me scissors!"

Lawrence: There was only one thing left. "Luke, help."

#Color Scheme #fletchergoodman #ronanarcher #petergraham #wildroseofarran #lawrenceatlas #lukehusher #discord rp #under read more for length #closed

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