#thank u bo i am patting you so gently

[transgender-scout]

please……. share the oc thoughts

Rotating avi and lee so fast in my head.

thinking very hard about avi being angry when she first arrives. being pissed off and scared. verbally lashing out at lee about it. lee just kind of taking it, both because he understands her fear, and because even if she's being mean to him, she's there with him. there's another person with him now that he can talk to. holy fuck, man.

avi slowly warming up to lee as she realizes that she's actually stuck there. there's no way out. him teaching her how to live with wings. them preening each other, because no one can quiiite reach that spot between their wings by themselves. avi and lee being able to joke about their stupid, shitty lives together while they both know that they'll never get out, that they're prepared to grow old and die there.

yet despite that, them working together, working on plans to escape. avi now working with this weird, chatty, sad boy that she'd wanted to fight on her first day. them growing even closer.

me becoming we.

them escaping together. the joy, my god, the sheer bliss of freedom. being able to walk more than 50 feet without the pull of a leash tugging them back. they don't fly much, and when they do, it hurts and strains, and doesn't look pretty, but it's the best feeling in the entire world.

the fear of being found out. the terror of being stalked through a city. it's a big place, but not nearly big enough. they can't escape easily; the trouble with not having room to fly is that your wings grow weak, they atrophy, can't carry your weight for long, even with the lighter body.

the terror becoming horror when avi is recaptured. the agony, the pain of knowing that lee can't do anything. he hates himself for having to leave her. they both know there was no way to help her, but he's so pissed at himself for letting something like this happen. he wants to tear his heart out of his chest as he watches avi being loaded into the car. the same car that both of them were stuffed into the first time they were kidnapped. he's certain that having a gaping hole in his chest would hurt less.

the quiet curiosity of finding someone to help. it's a strange feeling. he's never asked for help before. the thought never occurred to him. someone else to help shoulder the burden. atlas's friend, helping him hold the sky. unthinkable.

and yet.

the dread of being back. no, not dread. melancholy. despondency. avi's back and they know they're there forever now. the mental collapse that comes with seeing the wall, the wall scored with dozens and dozens of tally marks, 6 months' worth for keeping time, plastered over, a clean slate. a wall with a surface just waiting for 70 years worth of tally marks.

but it doesn't compare to hearing employees talk. behind closed doors, and cupped hands, they discuss a surgery. a surgery for avi. one that will keep her from ever telling anyone what they've done here on the off chance she managed to escape.

the struggle to avoid her fate. but despite the struggle, despite the protests, despite her humanity, despite everything, it happens.

thick stitches, bunched skin, missing vocal cords, felt through an anesthetic haze. meeting someone new, someone in the same boat, and instead of fighting this time, sobbing into his shoulder for hours because there's nothing to be done now.

making plans again. plans with someone new, someone unlike him. lee feels almost normal as he quietly listens to skylar's family over dinner, and his heart aches again. he almost enjoys their father's grilling, like he's a new boyfriend and not a new freak his kid picked up off the street.

avi is all but catatonic. she sleeps. she marks days. she sleeps. she marks days. there is nothing for her anymore. she is so, so tired. she doesn't want to be here. even Will visiting her doesn't help. he says he understand her situation, but he doesn't. he really doesn't.

it's time for a show. avi doesn't resist this time. she understands why lee was the way he was. despite the high energy atmosphere, avi barely reacts to what's happening. there's static in her head.

but a familiar voice cuts through the noise of the crowd and clears the snow. before she knows what's happening, someone has avi around the wrist and they're running. a shock of fear shoots through her. this is too familiar, too close to what happened last time. but it's different, too.

this time, lee is here.

in the chaos, they escape, but skylar is taken away, screaming for lee to help them. avi is here. skylar is gone.

lee regrets having a heart again.

rotating avi and lee in my head so fast.

[bokuroar]

hi tiger! i really love your work abt hq captains as ur bf. u made my heart woosh and pit pat hard. can i make a request? an hc on how would karasuno boys take care of you when u are sick? 👉👈

☽ a/n: omg that description lmao ilysm im so glad you liked it !!! and thanks so much for sending in a request i hope this would make your heart go woosh & pit pat hard too 💗😋 im sorry too this took so long i got so busy with college! (this is still in school setting btw)

haikyuu!! captains & how they take care of you when you’re sick

✧ DAICHI SAWAMURA

daichi drops everything at an instant for you

— both as a volleyball player and a senior, daichi knows how to help his teammates inside and outside the court. he thinks having the role of a captain developed his natural tendency to always look out for and take care of others especially the people around him. however, when it comes to you, his willingness and capacity to care for another doubles. he could be in the middle of practice or in the classroom listening to a lecture, but once he receives a text that you saw your school’s nurse because you weren’t feeling well, everything else but you loses importance to him. he’d ask coach or the teacher if he could excuse himself as this counts as an emergency. he wants to attend to you personally because daichi doesn’t think a simple text or call would suffice. the degree of your sickness doesn’t matter to him too. “daichi, you didn’t have to come i was just feeling a little dizzy that’s all.” daichi only lets out a chuckle at this and kisses your forehead, “i’ll always be there when my baby needs me.”

✧ TOORU OIKAWA

oikawa treats you like royalty

— even after watching hundreds of oikawa’s volleyball matches and witnessing his sets and spikes, his speed when he sees you try to get out of bed when you’re sick is unparalleled. to say that he wouldn’t let you lift a finger is an understatement. he isn’t underestimating your strength, he knows you are strong. but for him, he thinks that it’s the least he could do. it irks oikawa that he couldn’t physically remove your sickness away so, for him, nursing you back to health is his #1 job. you must admit it is kind of amusing and borderline silly to see the cocky volleyball player image oikawa puts on quickly replaced by a panicked concerned boyfriend when he sees you exert effort too much his liking. “honey, i have a cold. i can stand on my own, i am not dying.” you explain. “as your king i am obliged to be at your service!” he dramatically bows and kisses the back of your hand while you roll your eyes. you hate to see him go frantic about a trivial and temporary thing but your heart swells at the amount of effort he puts in for you.

✧ TETSUROU KUROO

kuroo runs you a bath

— kuroo hated seeing you sick. it breaks his heart to see you in such a weak state, example when you lose your appetite or your energy to even do the simplest of things. he’d never admit it out loud but he is actually annoyed that out of all people, you get to be sick. so when you’re feeling unwell, without you even saying a word, kuroo’s already on his move to lend you a hand. when you wake up from your much needed naps, there’s always already a glass of water, medicines, and warm soup waiting beside you. declining kuroo’s offer to feed you, he then proceeds to setup a bath for you instead while you eat in bed. as soon as your done, kuroo puts the dishes on the sink and gets back to you. he crouches down on your once again resting state on bed, caresses your cheeks and gently whispers, “hey. time for a bath?” you give him a small nod and appreciative smile, “a warm one please.” kuroo hums as confirmation. he kisses your forehead and wraps an arm on your back and another arm on the back of your knees, “hold my neck, baby.” he carries you all the way to the bathroom and asks you if do you want him to stay and help or keep you company while you relax on the tub, which you’d no doubt say yes to. as you feel kuroo’s hands massage your temples from his chair outside the tub, you couldn’t help but get one of his hands and kiss the back of it as a non-verbal thank you and i love you.

✧ KOUTAROU BOKUTO

bokuto never leaves your side

— bokuto is already a clingy boyfriend on a normal day, so what if he finds out you are sick? he’d be too worried to lay off his eyes off of you even for a second. bokuto thinks the greatest way he could help alleviate the pain you’re feeling is staying by your side. when you’re walking around the house, he won’t insist you to stop but you’ll have his eyes following you around. if you didn’t tell him you’d be fine to walk around on your own, you’d never stop having a shadow named bokuto koutarou following you around. so instead, he is on full alert if ever you need him to do something for you. he volunteers to be at your beck and call. and honestly, you find comfort with this. even just the feeling of his presence around makes you feel more ease than the usual tension you have when you’re sick. as bokuto gently hugs you from behind as you take a nap, you guiltily whisper, “bo, you don’t need to stay with me all the time. won’t you get sick too?” after realizing he spent all day at your side. bokuto frowns a bit, “look at my muscles, baby, these are too tough to get sick!” you lightly chuckle, “even the strongest men get sick, you know? and i don’t want that.” bokuto only hugs you even tighter and buries his head on your hair, “well that’s too bad. i’d rather get sick than be far away from you when you need me.” sickness aside, safe to say you both fell asleep with the most lovely smiles.

✧ SHINSUKE KITA

kita brings you everything

— kita is a very observant boyfriend. he always knows what to say and what to do in different situations. these situations include when you’re sick. one text of “my love, i can’t go to school today. i’m sick.” sent to him, he’d immediately know what to do. he calls it the “sick baby care package”. medicines? check. bottle of water? check snacks? check. kita once bought atsumu food and drinks when atsumu forgot to take care of himself. what more of it’s his partner? even with the necessities already in his bag, he would still go to a nearby store and ask you what else do you need. he prioritizes your needs above anything else especially he knows how much discomfort being sick brings. after a small reprimand of not looking after yourself, “what would you do if i wasn’t here, huh?” he lightly teases. “i’d probably still be sick. but alone.” you pout and tease back. his shoulders shake a little as he lets out a small chuckle and leans down to give you a kiss, “good thing i’m not going anywhere then.”

✧ USHIJIMA WAKATOSHI

ushijima searches up recipes and cooks meals for you

— the captain of shiratorizawa is a silent worrier. behind his brooding and intimidating exterior is a warm and kind heart. when he finds out your sick, it may not show on his stoic face but his mind’s an entanglement of thoughts worrying about you. does your head hurt? have you taken your medicines? do you have food? he wants to bombard you with these questions for his peace of mind but he knows better than to bother you even more. so after his errands at school, he immediately sends you a text that he’s on his way to you. seeing you sleeping on your bed when he arrives, he goes to the kitchen to inspect the food stored. as an athlete, ushijima knows that one of the best things to help you get back on your feet is digestion of healthy food. and as your boyfriend, he would love nothing more than that to happen. trying to minimize the loud sounds, ushijima then proceeds to open his phone and searches simple soup recipes when sick. a gentle tap on your shoulder and a hushed “hey” wakes you up from your slumber. when you wake up, there’s already a glass of water, medicines, and warm soup waiting beside you. “hey, you came.” despite your uneasiness, you smile as you see ushijima. he reciprocated your smile and a nod as if saying of course he wouldn’t be anywhere else. he sits beside you and gets the soup he just cooked, “i know you haven’t eaten yet, love. so here you go.” you ask him where and when he bought that when you saw the soup was on your bowl and not a takeout. ushijima slightly blushes and admits he cooked it for you. who would’ve thought, huh? you just let out a giggle and push yourself off the headboard to give his cheek a kiss before accepting his relentless offer to feed you.

; say hi/request — see pinned post!

[selective-intelligence]

An Unhealthy Obsession

WARNING: This fic is going to contain themes of racism. If you are uncomfortable with this, please don’t progress any further.

It involves Raihan’s unhealthy obsession with reading certain articles on the media. He needs to McFrcking stop... so Leon will attempt to stop it himself.

-----

The strongest gym leader of Galar, the dragon tamer, hadn't felt like his usual enthusiastic self lately. He had an obsession that was injecting toxins into his brain and gradually drove him mad. Conflicting emotions, such as worry, shame, fear, and disbelief were plaguing the leader.

Sitting on the comfort of his own couch, he scrolled down his phone screen with an anxious expression. His eyes darted back and forth as to read whatever horrors he was curious about that time...

Then, just as his mind was beginning to focus sharply on his reading, he heard the sound of footsteps and squeaked, dropping his phone into his lap and tensing up.

He almost forgot he had invited Leon over. The damn champion was taking so long in the bathroom that Raihan was given wiggle room to feed his obsession.

Raihan quickly turned his phone screen off and set it next to him, staring down at his thighs nervously as his nails dug into them. His blue eyes narrowed into a guilty and antsy position as he waited for Leon to take the last step down the stairs -- which felt like an eternity.

"Hey," the champion started, studying Raihan subtly. "Sorry I took so long..." As he immediately noticed Rai's positioning, he squinted his eyes in suspicion. He may have been a dull lightbulb, but he had the eye of a hawk. "Were you doing it again?"

Raihan tensed up more and sunk himself into the couch slightly, gazing up upon Leon every once in a while and looking back down. This was definitely the jackpot.

"Raihan," Leon cleared his throat, grimacing. "Don't make me do it... You'd better talk."

"W-What? I.... I didn't d-do anything," Raihan lied. Obviously. His voice was quivering, and he completely stopped trying to make eye contact.

The champion kept a menacing glare in his eyes as he took some steps forward and loomed over Raihan, who was shrinking down and smiling nervously. As soon as Lee leaned down and nearly touched his nose against Rai's, the dragon gym leader jolted and nearly squeaked again.

"Last chance..."

Raihan remained silent, avoiding eye contact yet again and pressing his shoulders against his neck. And then he felt two fingers jab into his sides.

"EEP!!" the taller man cried out, instantly slamming his elbows near his sides. "UWAAAH-- I-I WASN'T DOING ANYTHING-"

"I know the cues, Raihan!! You're getting it much worse for lying to me!" And with that, Leon straddled his boyfriend and dug his fingers into his sides, occasionally squishing and squeezing now and then.

"WAAAAH-!!" Raihan screamed, bucking his hips and writhing all while laughing hysterically and squealing. He slammed a hand into the couch repeatedly and swatted the other at Leon's fingers, making desperate attempts to stop him but to no avail. His reactions became even more hysterical when the champion began switching between ticklish spots -- such as his hips, stomach, ribs, neck, and underarms -- with gentle but deadly force.

"Are you gonna tell me the truth~?" Lee teased, switching back to Raihan's sides and quickly diving his fingers into them.

"N-NEVAAAHAHHAAHAH-!!" Raihan retorted stubbornly and jabbed his fingers into Leon's sides as an act of defense. He had successfully made the champion yelp and pull his own arms down for a moment.

Then... Leon gave his boyfriend a cold glare. "Oh, you're really getting it now."

The two were basically fighting at that point. They continued to poke at each other and even attempted a few full-out assaults until they were off the couch and on the floor, rolling around and wrestling with no end in sight. A combination of deep and high-pitched laughter filled the air, along with a few squeals and yelps.

Finally, Leon managed to get his target's arms pinned to the floor and gazed down at him. They were both panting heavily with flushed faces -- Raihan's definitely more exhausted than the other's.

"O-Okay, okay!!" Raihan squeaked, panicking as he threw his head to the side. "I-I was looking at those dumb racism a-articles again... I'm just curious!! I-I need to know--"

Leon cut him off. "No you don't. You already know enough... You're just bullying yourself at this point." And with that, he slowly let go of Raihan's wrists and sat next to him, playfully squishing his cheeks together. "Don't you understand already? There's no point in dwelling deeper if it's hurting you!"

Raihan pouted and gently slapped his boyfriend's hands off his face, folding his arms over his chest afterwards. "A-Aahah, well... Do you really b-blame me for being curious? I-I mean... I just... I want to know why t-the world thinks I-I'm so ugly and--"

"Shush." Leon's tone was bold and serious. "You're beautiful the way you are, Raihan -- inside and out. And not everyone thinks of you like that, you know... Not me, not Hop, not my mom -- no one I know."

"W-Well," Raihan started again, playing with the collar of his hoodie. "I-I'm sure... some people t-think I'm aggressive, angry, e-easy to pick a fight, overreactive, a-and stupid-... A-And my hair's not even normal--"

"Raihan!!" The champion couldn't help himself and shouted at his boyfriend, agitation plastered on his expression -- which made Rai's muscles jump. "Just stop it!! All this article reading isn't good for you! You're the sweetest man I know and you know it! And would you say that about another black folk's hair? Would you?!"

Raihan went silent, tears welling up in his blue eyes. He blinked and let them roll down his face as his body quivered, and all eye contact went avoided yet again. "I-I'm... I'm s-sorry... I--"

"You're not sorry," the angry champion retorted, trying to soften up his voice a bit as guilt hit his chest. "... You would've stopped a long time ago if you were sorry. Remember, this is advice for you, not me. I care about you, Raihan..."

"W-Why do you care about me? I-I'm just an u-ugly, black mess with the IQ of a walnut!! I-Isn't that what I am?! That's what the world says I am!! It must b-be true, right?!"

Lee gazed down at his hysterical other in complete and utter shock before softening his expression with a subtle smile, leaning down to hug him.

"None of that is true, Raihan," he started, rubbing Rai's back in concern and comforting him. "You may be naive and oblivious, but that doesn't mean you're stupid. It's just a stereotype. You and I are both human beings, along with everyone else. Humanity has made lots of mistakes, but it doesn't mean anything they say about black folks is true. Do you understand?"

Raihan hesitated before nodding lightly, sobbing his eyes out and hiccuping uncontrollably at this point. He had gone absolutely hysterical.

"Y'know what I do when people are racist towards my Asian ethnicity?" Leon grinned widely and bared his pearly white teeth as Raihan curiously gazed at him. "I laugh at them!! It's quite entertaining to listen to an idiot talk!"

"S-Shut up. I wanna be upset," Rai giggled aloud, covering his mouth. This made Leon perk up.

"And your hair, Raihan..." The champion grabbed a strand of the taller man's curly hair, stretching it out with a mischievous look on his face before letting it go. "Boing!! What can I say? You've got literal springs for hair!!" He kept repeating this behavior until Raihan's sobs evolved into laughs.

"S-Stop that!!" The dragon leader playfully slapped at Leon's hand and found the spring comparison quite amusing -- and he didn't mind it at all.

"See? You're adorable." Lee laughed along and squeezed Raihan's cheeks together with glee. "Ethnicity doesn't matter at all, bro-!! Little wittle Raihy-waihy, such a cute wittle Raihy--"

"STOOOP--" Raihan was snorting and laughing again, attempting to get away from Leon's stupid-ass antic hands. "O-Okay, I get it... I suppose I'm j-just overreacting t-to all these stereotypes and articles..."

"That's right," Leon grinned again, patting his boyfriend's chest. "You'll get it eventually. It's not a choice to be born the way you are, after all... But either way, you're perfect. And your blue eye to dark skin combination is absolutely stunning!"

Raihan grinned brightly, wiping his tears away. Part of him still couldn't believe those words, but he tried to take it to heart as best he could.

"T-Thank you, Leon..."

[windmaedchen-kidfox]

A Bad Day

It was a very bad day for Detective Fox. Friday dragging on, stormy weather outside, the procedural mess of this case, a headache and general low mood had taken over her. She had no patience that day and considered all her colleagues a little too annoying for any interaction. And of course, it got worse.

To focus on this old case file better, Fox wanted to move to an empty meeting room for the afternoon. Her colleague Detective Fulbright was in the kitchen for lunch, so Fox decided to walk past there to let him know she was to be found at a new location. Upon entering, her colleague greeted her cheerfully.

"Speak of the devil, Kid! I have your lunch box. It's a favourite of yours today!" With a big, warm smile he held out the box towards her.

Fox took a second to eye the lunch box, then the man himself. Her colleague is one of the warmest and most upright people she had met but his boundless friendliness was occasionally too much for her.  He wasn't invasive in his caring manner and kept a polite distance but Fox simply didn't know how to respond properly sometimes. Being shown every day how insufficient ones social skills are was embarrassing at best and a bit more than annoying at such bad days as today. He did not mean to do this, of course, but before Fox could straighten out her thoughts she lashed out at him.

"Argh, will you quit being such an annoyingly over-bearing mule all the time. I have no time nor did I ever care for your blasted lunch bo-- "

She had pushed the lunch box back into Fulbright's hands, however, as his grip had loosened in preparation to hand the box over and his mind being busy  processing Fox's sudden harsh words, the box dropped out of his hands and between his feet, spilling the content partially onto the floor. In a moment of surprise both detectives stepped away from the mess. Then Fox's eyes darted across to the other people in the kitchen and she took a sharp breath. Anger and embarrassment flushed her cheeks and she felt desperation coming up. This was all a big mistake but how to save the situation? While rising both hands towards her temples in an attempt to shield off reality she tried to find the right words.

"I didn't -- t'was not -- just, don't. Don't do that!"

Unable to figure out a peaceful solution on the spot, Fox chose to flight. She turned on her heel and hurried out of the icy room knowing that all eyes are on her back before disappearing in a dark, empty meeting room no less than two floors up.

She sat sulking for a moment. Usually she would just brush such moments off, she was well aware of her shortcomings and did not bother much about her reputation of being rude. Doing the right thing was what mattered. With time she was always able to explain her motives and thus allow people to better see past it but she hasn't been with the LAPD long yet. Fox figured that this latest event should add an additional 2 months to her estimated warm-up time with her new colleagues.

That this happened with Fulbright, though, stung more than she wanted it to. She acknowledged the fear that her inconsiderate moments pushed him away, but also regarded it the better option if that was to happen. No personal distraction, no drama. Just her job and fulfilment of her mental needs. Still. She moaned in frustration. She wouldn't be able to focus now remembering that hurtful expression on his face. She took out her phone and typed a short message. Not that she was ever confident with her choice of words in such personal matters but the time being able to compose a message was invaluable to her.

"I wish I could explain. For now, I can only apologise. Sincerely. I am sorry."

And straight after that a second message.

"Text me if I am needed. Please."

Putting the phone aside, Fox started to shuffle her documents around and prepared to go over this case again. However, she sat quietly until the short vibration alarm of her phone went off.

"It's okay. I was able to save most of your lunch. It's in the fridge, if you still want it. And then let's get our work done first! Justice won't just itself! :D"

That was a good enough answer for now. Fox appreciated Fulbright's own work-ethic. He cared a lot for people's personal well-being, without a question, but unless it's an immediate emergency to one's health, he prefers to suggest, and sought so himself, distraction by work first. Take a breath, get this done and afterwards we'll have a tea and talk. That's what it was like. A little more at ease, Fox replied to his message.

"Yes. Thanks."

She felt able to focus now and started with her work. Clearing things up later was a comforting option. By the time she was done, it was past her usual hours to get off work. Most of the detectives would be gone by now, except those on their late shifts. Fox felt her belly rumbling. Of course, she didn't have lunch. She packed everything together and headed back down to the third floor. No one was around in the hallway and the two offices in the wing were silent. Carefully she stepped inside the kitchen and took out the lunch box Fulbright had prepared for her. It was an avocado pasta salad a la Fulbright with rocket and sun-dried tomatoes. Delicious, even if half of it had ended up on the floor. Once she was done, Fox cleaned the box and took with her to put on her colleague's desk.

When Fox peeked into the office, she noticed that Fulbright had gone home already. Ema, however, was still around. As she was sitting at her desk facing the door she noticed Fox sneaking in and called out to her.

"Kid. Where have you been?"

"Upstairs." Kid kept moving towards her desk. Ema stood up and followed her.

"That was very bad, you know. You should have seen his face. He was crying us one of his many rivers!"

"Hm. I can imagine."

"You can imagine? What, is that all you have to say? Did you at least apologise or anything? What was that for anyway?"

"It's okay. I send a message. ... Ema... I don't want to ... discuss that right now. I'm tired."

"You're my best friend and I know you don't mean your rudeness on a personal level... aaaaaand I know that Bobby is prooooobably way over the top for you but... he just really likes you. I think you should grab a coffee with him or so and explain yourself. It's great I-N-J-U-S-T-I-C-E to keep him in the slow-lane like that."

Fox's expression was tormented.

"If I must, I shall. Soon."

Ema approached and gently patted her shoulder, before resting her hand on Fox's arm.

"I know you don't like it so much when I point this out to you... and I will leave you be afterwards, I promise... but... I don't need my microscope to see that you actually like him also. Make that coffee date sooner rather than later. And let him teach you a bit of those despised weak emotions... it will do you good."

Ema gave Fox another reassuring stroke over her arm before she turned to leave.

Fox sighed and took a seat at her desk, attempting to grab her belongings when her phone suddenly vibrates, alerting her to a text message.

"Did you try your lunch?"

Fox gently strokes the sides of her phone with a wistful expression. He continued on text as if nothing happened.

"Just now. It really was... very good."

"Excellent! It's one of my own favourites, too, because it's so easy to make. I'll make sure to bring one in next week, also. I am glad you enjoyed it after all."

"I really did not mean that, earlier. It was, probably, the worst day I had so far in LA. I wish I could find an appropriate way to apologise."

"I already said it was okay. I know I am a little loud but if I can bring a smile to someone's lips, or good food into some one’s belly ;) , it was all worth it."

"Don't put the blame on yourself. You are a little annoying at times, true, but today it was my failure to correspond appropriately and nothing else."

"Correspond appropriately? What a scientific way to approach kind gestures. A smile and thank you usually do the trick. ^^"

"I am well aware. Knowing and applying however, are two different things. I know more about crime and deduction than I do about social interaction and I can apply even less of that little that I do know about it. It is so complicated to explain, but do you know how hard it is for me to even just smile at you?"

"But you have smiled at me plenty of times before. And at Ema and Dick. You smile a lot! What is wrong with that in your eyes?"

"It conveys emotion. I can do these things on a very objective, tactical level. Most of the time I just blandly apply common social norms without much sincerity for the sake of agreeableness."

"Of course it conveys emotions! Don't you think those are essential to life and one's personal well-being? Smiles tell people around you that you love and care for them, isn't that a rather beautiful thing to exist?"

"I wish I had such a conviction as you have. But I would lie if I said I... never intent to convey emotion. Ema, Dick, you... I have shown my emotions for you in my own ways and I am sure a smile was among them. It's just that... those are... rare and special occurrances. And it's never easy for me to do."

"Hm. I am not sure I fully comprehend what you are trying to say. So when you said those things this morning... what happen inside of you then?"

"That was very specific to you, Robert. I could not take your kindness any more. The day was horrible to begin with and my patience and ability to absorb and process social interaction of any kind was very very low indeed. I suddenly felt under a lot of pressure, with high expectations for my response, especially in public and I reacted in the worst way possible. Aggression, attack and subsequent flight."

"I merely offered you lunch. And it caused all that?"

"Yes. And it's not your fault. As said, it was a bad day, my temper foul and frustration high. I should have behaved better and I am sorry I failed to do so. I will certainly remember this. I don't intent to repeat my mistakes unnecessarily again and again."

"So you actually care for my lunch boxes?"

Fox moaned silently. Here he did it again. Trying to coax emotion out of her, admittance to the soft side she had. Naturally he just looked for reassurance of her, at the very least, affection as colleague for him but even so, it made Fox feel anxious.

"Yes. I do. I don't think it's fair to be treated like this for no reason in front of everyone else and it does cause me to feel uneasy at times... but... I really like your food."

"Not having a healthy and varied nutrition intake is an injustice to your body that I cannot just ignore And I treat everyone with leftovers from my Sunday baking! There is also, of course, the fact that I simply like you."

Fox swallowed slowly, hanging onto those last words of his. She could feel a tinge of tightness around her lungs and she took cautious breaths. How about  she followed the advice she got from him?

"Thank you."

"My pleasure! I look forward to seeing you on Monday! And I make sure to bring my best pastries yet. :D "

Before Fox can type a reply another message comes through.

"And, if I am causing you to feel uncomfortable, maybe you can quietly let me know about it? That is, after all, the last of my intentions. All right?"

"Yes, of course."

"Thank you, too, then. I hope you enjoy a peaceful evening and a good weekend, Kid."

"Same to you. Thanks and Good Night."

"Good Night! Haha :D "

People were different on their text messages than in real life... but whether Fulbright had truly understood or not... she was sure that the heavy curtain of doubt and rejection was lifted. There would be more opportunities to explain and get to know each other. But for now, it seemed, despite this incident, both parties have shown their desire for further contact. And it made her relieved and happy. The same way, she dared to imagine, he must feel like.

Finally grabbing her belongings and heading towards the office door, Fox vowed to not say anything but thank you in terms of his lunch boxes. She would have to repay that gesture somehow, though. Paying for his lunches occasionally when given the chance was a good start. Maybe she could take a little work of his shoulders, also, to return the favour?

As she came past Ema's desk their eyes met. Fox could not help to smile faintly but genuinely at her best friend. Ema instantly gave her a thumbs up. That made Fox just blush more and leave the office even faster. This bad day ended not quite as bad as it could have after all.

[eddiemylovc]

Cupid’s Choice - Part 3

Pairing: Reddie

Words: 5,035

Other Chapters: Part 1, Part 2

A/N: So this is the last chapter, thank you to everyone who read this! I might do one more chapter but who knows we’ll see :)

Summary: Eddie and Richie's Valentine's Day double date with Ben and Beverly.

AO3 Link

Eddie's room is in shambles. Every piece of clothing he owns is strewn all over the floor; he can't decide on a single outfit. He doesn't know why this should even be such a big deal, anyways. He's never cared that much about what he wears before. It's not like he's trying to impress anybody. Is he?

In one-hour Richie will be here to pick Eddie up for their double date and then they'll be meeting Ben and Beverly at the Derry bowling alley. Before panic starts to settle in, Eddie finally narrows his choices down to two and snaps a picture of himself in each outfit to send to Beverly so she can help him decide. After all she does want the best for him.

Eddie: Please! Help! Me! I'm having a crisis and Richie will be here in an hour! Idk which one, 1 or 2?!?!?

In a rush and without realising what he's doing, Eddie presses send just as he sees that he's sent the photos to Richie by mistake. "Fuck! " Eddie curses out loud. "No, no, no, no, no! Shit!"

His mother knocks on his door. "Eddie? Are you alright? What's going on?"

"I'm fine, Ma! I just...uh—stubbed my toe! I'm okay!" Eddie says as he taps furiously on his phone like it's going to help him in this situation.

"Okay...well, be a little more careful next time, sweetie. I'll be in my room if you need me."

Eddie types out a new text.

Eddie: Omg please ignore that, it was meant to go to Bev.

Eddie throws his phone to the side and lies back on his bed. "I'm so fucked."

His phone dings. He groans in embarrassment as he grabs it and checks the message.

Richie: Wooooww Eds, looking snazzy! Didn't know this date would be such a cause for a fashion crisis! I hope u know that my heart is now swelling at the thought of my opinion meaning so much to you ;)

Eddie rolls his eyes and types out a reply.

Eddie: Who uses the word snazzy anymore? And I don’t care about your opinion dickhead, I just wanna look good for me is that ok with you? :p

Eddie's phone dings again.

Richie: Uhh I do. Have u even met me?? But that is perfectly fine with me, I love a man who’s confident

Richie: And I would go for option 2 btw. Although no matter what you wear I know that you'll look beautiful.

Richie: As always

Eddie feels his cheeks heat up at that. He fails to hold back a smile as the adrenaline dies down from his little mishap. Eddie knows that compliment doesn't really mean anything—Richie’s just teasing him again—and that there’s a possibility they’ll never stay in touch after tonight, but his heart can't help but pound at the thought of Richie seeing him as beautiful.

Eddie: …

Eddie: Shut up.

Before Eddie can become any more of a love-sick idiot, he sets his phone down again and decides to wear option one instead of giving into what Richie wants, so that he doesn't appear too desperate. Also because he’s stubborn as hell.

He finishes up getting ready and before he knows it Richie is ringing the doorbell. Eddie leaves his room to answer the door.

"Who's at the door?" his mother yells from her room upstairs.

"It's just Beverly, Ma!" Eddie lies. "I'm going out with her and Ben for Valentine’s Day, remember?"

"Right. Don't be out too late then, and make sure you dress warmly. It's chilly out there!"

"Yes, Ma!" Eddie grabs his jacket and opens the door to see Richie with a bouquet of flowers. He steps outside and shuts the door behind him.

Richie looks him up and down and smiles. "So, you went with option one I see, even after my advice.” He shakes his head. “Tsk, tsk. Either way you look adorable, Eds."

"Look, I told you it was meant for Beverly, not you. I don't need your validation." Eddie won’t say it but he thinks Richie looks adorable as well.

"Ouch. Whatever you say, Spagheds." He steps forward and leans in to give Eddie a kiss on the cheek. He hands him the flowers. "Happy Valentine's Day."

Once again Eddie doesn't point out that they're not actually dating and have no one to prove to, now. He guesses he's gotten used to Richie's affection by now.

Wrong.

"Thank you, they’re beautiful. You really didn't have to, though, especially after the giant bear you already gave me."

Richie just shrugs. "I like to spoil people."

"I didn't even get you anything," Eddie says. He feels a little bad.

"Don't worry about it. Your existence is good enough of a gift for me."

Eddie scoffs and rolls his eyes. "Jerk."

"Oh, and also," Richie takes another step closer to Eddie and takes one of the flowers "here's a great way to make your option number one look look even better." He gently places the flower in Eddie's hair behind his ear, letting his fingers linger in his hair for a moment—Eddie's breath hitches—before stepping back. "Voila! Amazing."

"Uh, thanks, I guess? Can we go now? They'll be waiting for us there."

"Sure thang." Richie points finger guns at him.

They drive to the bowling alley with Eddie lecturing him not to embarass him in front of Ben and Beverly. Richie's only response is that he can't 'make any promises'. Eddie elbows him.

Once they reach the bowling alley, they walk inside to meet Eddie’s two friends. He spots Beverly and she waves at him excitedly before bouncing over to give him a tight hug. “Eddie! I’m so glad you made it!”

“Hey, Bev! Hey, Ben!” He pats Ben on the back.

“Great to see you, Eddie,” Ben replies with a smile.

They both look over at Richie. Eddie introduces him to them. “Richie, this is my best friend, Beverly Marsh, and her boyfriend, Ben Hanscom. Guys, this is my date, Richie Tozier, who I was unfortunately matched up with on a matchmaker website, as you may have known.”

Richie hits Eddie’s arm playfully for that before shaking both of his friends’ hands. “I’m actually his other half, he just doesn’t know it yet. Cupid even said so.”

Beverly laughs and raises her eyebrows up at Eddie. “Ignore him, he doesn’t know what he’s talking about ninety percent of the time,” Eddie protests.

“Ninety-five percent of the time, actually,” Richie says.

“Wow, well, I’m glad you found someone, Eddie,” Beverly says.

“See, Eds? At least someone can appreciate my wonderful existence,” Richie claims. Eddie scoffs.

“Well, shall we get bowling, my friends?” Ben cuts in.

“Oh, I am so kicking all of your asses at bowling!” Richie shouts. “Y’all better be prepared.”

Eddie snorts. “Wait till you see Beverly out there, you should be the one preparing to get your ass kicked!”

“Eddie, stop, I’m blushing!” Beverly cries.

“Hmm, I don’t know, we’ll see about that,” Richie says. “But you are so on, Miss Marsh!”

They take time to set up and grab their lane. When they go to grab their bowling shoes, Richie nearly cries at how tiny Eddie’s feet are when he sees his shoe size. Eddie flushes furiously. “Don’t make fun of me when you’ve got clown feet!”

“Hey, you know what they say about a man with big feet. But, I take pride in my feet and you should too! Every inch of you is adorable, including your little feet,” he teases. “And other things. I imagine.”

Eddie pushes him over while he’s bent down tying his shoes.

Once they’re at their lane, Richie takes the responsibility of putting in each of their names, ignoring all of their protests.

Ben Handsome Molly Ringwald Edward Spaghedward The Man, The Myth, The Legend

“Really? You are so full of yourself,” Eddie comments.

“Just wait, you’re gonna see it’s true when I beat you all,” Richie says as he points at them. He claps his hands. “Alright, Benny Boy! You’re first up!”

Ben steps up while Beverly hypes him up. “Woohoo! Let’s go Ben!!!”

He ends up with a strike on his first try. Beverly cheers wildly and gives him a cheerful kiss on the lips as he picks her up and spins her around. Eddie is very impressed to say the least. “Good job, Ben!” Eddie says to him while giving him a high-five as he sits down.

“Looks like we’ve got ourselves an underdog!” Richie exclaims in an announcer’s voice.

“Let’s see you do that, Richie,” Eddie says to him.

“Oh, you just wait, little one. I’ve got some pretty handy tricks up my sleeve.”

Beverly starts off nicely with a spare. Eddie high-fives her as he gets up for his turn.

Richie pretends to be a cheerleader behind him. “Let’s go, Spaghetti, let’s go!”

Eddie grabs a ball and prepares to roll it. “Nice ass, Kaspbrak!” Richie shouts from behind. Eddie gives him the finger. On his first try the ball ends up in the gutter, while on his second try he knocks down six pins.

“Better luck next time, Eds! Now, watch and learn as the real master steps up to the plate.” Richie gets up. He grabs a ball and steps up to the lane. He does a little dance move and blows on the ball dramatically, like he’s preparing it to get him a strike. Eddie laughs fondly at his act. He rolls the ball and it ends up knocking down all the pins in the middle, leaving one on each side. Richie curses. “Fuck!” Eddie laughs harder; the others are laughing, too. On his second try he doesn’t hit any of the pins and the ball ends up in the gutter.

“That was just a warm up so it doesn’t count. You just wait,” Richie says as he sits down beside Eddie.

“God, how long are we supposed to wait for—till Christmas? You can keep saying that, but I don’t believe you. My money’s on Ben or Beverly.”

“Aww, what a supportive boyfriend you are!” Richie pinches his cheek.

Eddie pushes his hand away. “Okay, first of all, you’re not my boyfriend, and second of all, it’s just facts.”

“And what about yourself? What if you win?”

“I already know I suck at bowling and I think you need to face the fact that you do, too,” Eddie teases.

Richie scoffs. “Harsh. Guess who’s not getting you anymore teddy bears or flowers then? I only spoil the people that actually appreciate me and my bowling skills.”

“You don’t have any skills.”

“I think your mom would have to disagree with you on that one, Eds.”

“Bowling skills. Don’t be gross.”

“Eddie! It’s your turn! Are you done flirting?” Beverly interrupts.

Eddie gets up for his turn and the rest of the game goes by fairly quickly, the four of them completely enjoying themselves. During each of Richie’s turns he does a dramatic warm up before rolling the ball. He even manages to get in trouble at least once by one of the employees for sliding halfway down the lane on his knees when he rolls the ball. Eddie’s cheeks start to hurt from smiling so hard. He teases Richie for his ridiculousness but he secretly loves seeing him up there all smiley and goofy. Eventually, Richie finally gets his well-deserved strike and Eddie can’t help but feel happy for him after he’s been trying so hard to get one and claiming he’s the best. They all go wild when it happens.

“WOOOOO!” Richie yells. He picks Eddie up and spins him around excitedly. Eddie is laughing so hard he can barely breathe. Richie sets him down again. “And THAT’S how it’s done, folks!” he preaches.

“It only took you—'the master of bowling’—umm, how many turns?” Ben says. Eddie and Beverly tear up laughing.

Eddie turns towards Richie. “Only because you’ve been trying so hard, I guess I’ll give you a reward.” He plants a soft kiss on Richie’s cheek. Richie beams. Beverly and Ben cheer.

“Man, I need to get a strike more often,” Richie gushes.

“Don’t worry, I can teach ya,” Beverly says, winking at him.

When the game finishes, Beverly does end up kicking all of their asses and lands in first place. Ben ends up in second place, while Richie ends up in third with Eddie not too far behind him in fourth. Beverly brags about her win while Richie rolls his eyes. “I think what matters most here is that we all tried our best. There shouldn’t be any winners or losers because we’re a team,” he says. The rest of them groan in response.

“Now, anyone hungry?” Beverly asks. “There’s a restaurant next door I was thinking we could go to. Plus, I hear it’s karaoke night! ” she sings excitedly.

“Oh no,” Eddie cringes. “Please, no.”

“Oh yes!” Richie says.

“Richie, if you get up there and sing horribly, I’ll officially act as if I don’t know you.”

“You won’t have to do that because I’ll make you come up there with me,” he teases.

Eddie laughs. “Yeah, we’ll see about that,” he says, challenging him.

They walk over to the restaurant and grab a booth somewhat close to the karaoke stage. Ben slides in beside Beverly while Eddie slides in beside Richie across from them. They chat while they look through the menu, deciding what they want to eat. Later, a waiter comes over to their table and introduces himself before taking each of their orders. Once he leaves, Richie sits back in the booth and smoothly places an arm around the back of it, behind Eddie. Eddie subtly leans into him, trying not to think about their fake date from yesterday.

“So, has anyone noticed how cute little Eds looks here, tonight?” Richie smirks. Eddie elbows him. Both Ben and Beverly laugh.

“You do look very cute, Eddie,” Beverly says. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you wear that sweater before. It suits you.” She smiles.

Eddie blushes. “Thanks.”

“What’s with the flower, though?” she asks, tapping her head.

Eddie forgot it was even there.

“It was my own personal touch,” Richie says. “Did he tell you about his little mishap he had earlier?” he mentions. Eddie puts his head in his hands and groans.

“Please don’t.”

That sparks Beverly’s interest. She looks at Eddie curiously. “No, he didn’t. What did he do?”

Eddie starts to explain. “It was just a stupid text message meant to go t-”

Richie cuts him off. “Well, it turns out he was having a fashion crisis and couldn’t decide on what outfit to wear so he-”

Eddie clamps a hand over his mouth. “Please don’t listen to him. He’s wrong.”

Richie removes his hand. “So he snapped a couple pictures—which were like, selfie goals by the way, we love a fashion icon—and he sent them to me asking which one I liked better and I just felt so flattered that he wanted my opinion. Then he started making excuses about how it was meant to go to you, Beverly, and that it was a mistake. I didn’t believe him so I gave him my opinion anyway and he didn’t even listen! But he still looks amazing so it doesn’t matter.” Richie beams at him.

Eddie scoffs. “I fucking told you, they really were meant to go to Bev, and I also said I didn’t need your opinion I just couldn’t make a decision!”

“Excuses, excuses.” He shakes his head.

“Hmm, I never ended up receiving these photos. Suspicious. Why is that, Eddie?” Beverly says. She smiles mischievously.

Richie gasps. “The plot thickens!”

“Because I finally came to a decision, is that alright with you all?” Eddie argued.

“It’s okay, I believe you, Eddie,” Ben says and smiles.

Eddie places a hand over Ben’s arm across the table. “You always were my favorite, Ben.” He pretends to tear up. Richie and Beverly try to catch their breath from laughing so hard.

“You’re always so fun to tease, Eds,” Richie says. Beverly gives Eddie a suspicious look at that but doesn’t say anything.

“I like you, Tozier,” she says.

“And I you, Miss Marsh,” he replies. They high-five across the table.

The waiter comes around with each of their drinks. “So, how long have you two been dating?” Richie says after the waiter leaves, pointing at Ben and Beverly.

“Over two years now, I believe,” Ben replies. He looks at Beverly with one of the most loving expressions Eddie has ever seen. Beverly places a hand over his and squeezes it, smiling at him. Eddie was so happy for them when he learned that they were dating. He always knew Ben was the one for Beverly and that he would treat her how she deserves to be treated. He admires their love.

“Wow, think we could last that long, Eds?” Richie teases. Eddie nearly chokes on his drink.

“Okay, so, fill me in. How did you two meet?” Ben asks.

“I made Eddie sign up for a matchmaker website and the rest is history,” Beverly says.

“Ohhh, right, Eddie said that.”

“I’m still debating whether or not I’m glad I was matched up with Trashmouth, here,” Eddie jokes.

Richie scoffs. “Admit it, you were so overwhelmingly happy when you saw it was someone as pretty as me you didn’t know what to do with yourself.”

“Pfft, keep dreaming.”

I’m actually so glad it was you—even though I didn’t know you, I think a part of me already did.

Eddie cringes at his own sappy thoughts.

Did I really just think that?

“Wait, so how long have you known each other, then?” Ben says.

Richie and Eddie look at each other, trying to decide how to answer this. Richie lets Eddie answer. “Uh, well the meeting after we were matched together was two days ago, so, not that long.”

“Really? You’ve only met once? You’d’ve convinced me you’ve known each other forever. You two seem fairly close.”

Eddie laughs nervously. “Yeah, I guess you could say we’ve hit it off together.” Beverly looks at him like she knows there’s something more to that.

“Like how I hit it off with your mom?”

Eddie elbows him again. “Shut up. We bond well together.”

They all laugh.

“You two do make a great pair,” Beverly says and winks at them before taking a sip of her drink.

“I completely agree with you on that one,” Richie says. He moves his arm down so that it’s now placed around Eddie. He starts to draw small circles on Eddie’s shoulder with his finger. Chills run through him at that one point of contact.

A little while later their food arrives and they dig in. Oh, and guess what Richie ordered? That’s right; spaghetti. He makes googly eyes at Eddie the whole time while he eats it. Eddie laughs and rolls his eyes at him.

“That was good, but it wasn’t as delicious as you, Eddie,” Richie says once they finish up.

“Oh, really? Because this chicken tasted way better than you,” Eddie replies. Then he realises what he’s just said.

“Tasted?” Beverly asks with a smirk.

“I was kidding,” he says quickly.

“Damn right you were kidding because I taste amazing,” Richie says.

Everyone groans.

“Welp, I gotta make my way to the little boy’s room. Scoot your cute little ass over, Eds,” Richie orders.

“Yeah, me too,” Ben adds.

Eddie moves to let Richie get out of the booth.

“Y’all don’t have too much fun without us while we’re gone,” Richie jokes.

As they leave, Beverly rests her chin on her hand and smirks at Eddie.

“What?” Eddie rolls his eyes.

“You know what,” she says. “I think he’s pretty cute. And funny. Looks very much to be your type.”

Eddie scoffs. “I didn’t even know I had a ‘type’, how would you know what it is?”

“Oh honey, with the way you’ve been looking at him I think everyone can tell he’s your type.”

Eddie’s cheeks heat up. “He’s really something, isn’t he?”

Beverly smiles fondly. “He really is. Although, I was wondering, are you sure you two have only met once? Is there something you’re not telling me?” she teases.

Eddie sighs. “Alright, you caught me. But it was the only way!”

“What was?”

“When we met, I told him that I needed a date for Valentine’s Day because I was gonna be going on a double date and I wanted to make you happy that I found someone, or at least tried to. Then he told me that he was looking for someone to be his fake date because he had an ex that wouldn’t leave him alone so he wanted someone who would help him convince them that he’s moved on. Basically, we made a deal that if I went on this fake date with him, he would come on this double date with me and vice versa. It sounds stupid, but that’s what we agreed on and now here we are.”

“I can’t believe you’re only telling me this now!” She isn’t mad at him, though. Only surprised (and overjoyed) that there’s more to their story that he didn’t tell her. “So, does this mean you’ve been on the fake date already and that’s why you’re already fairly comfortable with each other? Oh my God, how far did you guys even go with it?!”

“Yeah, I guess. It was actually a lot of fun, Bev. I’ll tell you more about it later.”

“Oh man, I can’t wait to hear this story!” she beams. “Will you still see each other after this, though? I really hope you do, I love how you light up around him.”

Eddie looks down and frowns, picks at his nails. “I don’t really know…” I hope so. “We haven’t talked about it.”

“Well, I wish you happiness, Eddie.” She smiles at him. Eddie smiles back.

Ben and Richie emerge from the washroom. Richie plops down beside Eddie. He pinches his cheek. “Hey, did you miss me?”

Eddie shrugs him off. “So much, Rich.”

Richie grins. “I knew it.”

Someone taps the mic on the mini stage up front. “Alright, folks, who’s ready for some karaoke?!” People around them cheer and clap.

Richie smirks at Eddie evilly. “Don’t you dare,” Eddie mouths.

“Now, because it’s Valentines Day, we have a special collection of love songs selected for tonight! Who would like to be our first singer of the night?”

Richie’s hand flies up. Eddie sinks down in the booth.

And of course, they pick him. Because no one else raised their hand. Of course.

“Looks like we have our first volunteer! Come on up!”

Richie bounds up to the stage excitedly, at least not dragging Eddie with him. Beverly and Ben cheer for him. Eddie turns to watch him.

He picks through the selection of songs before finally choosing one. Eddie notices a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Oh God, what is he gonna do?

The music starts playing and Eddie recognises the song almost instantly. Beverly laughs and hollers.

Richie starts singing, not even having to look at the lyrics. It’s almost like he’s been preparing for this.

I hear the drums echoing tonight But she hears only whispers of some quiet conversation…

Eddie laughs at the ridiculousness of it all. He can’t believe he’s doing this. The audience is practically singing along with him.

…He turned to me as if to say, "Hurry boy, it's waiting there for you"

Richie does a little dance as the chorus comes around.

It's gonna take a lot to drag me away from you There's nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do I bless the rains down in Africa Gonna take some time to do the things we never had

Eddie is absolutely mesmerised by this boy. His singing voice, Eddie will admit, is not that bad. Once the chorus comes around again, that’s when Richie makes his move. He walks off the stage and walks towards Eddie.

Oh no.

Richie points at him.

It's gonna take a lot to drag me away from you

He grabs Eddie’s hand.

There's nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do

Eddie glares daggers at him as he pulls him up while winking at him. Beverly and Ben are laughing and cheering.

I bless the rains down in Africa

Eddie is flushing bright red, but he can’t stop his own laughter.

Gonna take some time to do the things we never had

Then, still holding his hand, Richie drags Eddie up on stage with him. Eddie grabs the other mic and they sing the remainder of the song together; Richie’s confidence starting to rub off on Eddie. They point and smile at each other as they sing the lyrics and by that point, Eddie forgets the audience is even there. Richie twirls Eddie around.

The song finishes and everyone claps. They walk back to their table. Eddie is high on adrenaline. “I can’t believe we just did that!”

“I think that’s definitely been the highlight of my year, so far,” Beverly says.

“I told you I’d make you come up there with me, Eds.”

“Yeah, and I’m not sure if I hate you for it or not.”

“I think you enjoyed it,” Beverly teases.

“You guys were amazing, that was hilarious!” Ben gushes.

Richie puts his arm around Eddie. “We make quite the duo, don’t we?”

After they’ve calmed down a little bit, the waiter comes with the bill and they head out the door after tipping him.

Richie gives big hugs to Ben and Beverly before they say goodbye to each other.

“It was great meeting you both! I feel honoured to have met you guys.”

“Aww, you too, Richie,” Beverly says. She bounces over to give Eddie a kiss on the cheek. “I’ll see ya later then. We need to have another little talk, just us.” She smirks.

Eddie sighs. “We will, I promise.”

Ben and Beverly walk to their car while waving goodbye.

Richie and Eddie yell bye to them, before Richie shouts, “Don’t let things get too wild in the bedroom tonight!”

Eddie hits his arm. “Richie!”

“Ow! What? It is Valentine’s Day.” Richie snickers.

They walk to Richie’s car and he drives Eddie home. Richie talks about how much he enjoyed himself and how he really loved Eddie’s friends. Eddie doesn’t say much, he’s too busy wondering if him and Richie will continue to see each other or not and what will happen after this. He isn’t sure how to bring it up to him, or if he should.

Once they pull up in Eddie’s driveway, Eddie notices that Richie has started to look a little sad. He smiles but it looks kind of forced. “I’ll walk you to your door,” he says.

“Okay…”

They get out of his car and walk up the porch steps. They stop in front of the door. Eddie turns towards him. “Thank you for coming tonight, Richie. I truly did have a fun time and I think Beverly seemed pretty happy for me,” Eddie professes. “I really liked having you there,” he hints, hoping Richie will get the idea that he wants to see him again.

He doesn’t.

“You’re so sweet, Eds. I’m touched.” He puts his hand on his heart.

Silence passes between them as they stand there for a few moments, not knowing what to say or do next. Then, Richie pulls Eddie into a hug. Eddie notices right away how warm he is in comparison to the cold. Eddie buries his face in Richie’s shoulder and wraps his arms around his waist. Eddie softens into the hug; he can feel Richie’s breath tickle his ear. They stand there for a minute before Richie pulls away. Eddie feels the lost of his warmth immediately. He stands there awkwardly, arguing with himself in his head on what to say.

Do it! Just tell him you want to see him again! He obviously likes you! Now’s your chance!

“Well, I’ll see you later,” Eddie says and turns towards the door.

Idiot.

“Wait.” Richie grabs his arm. Eddie looks at him. “Will I see you later, though? Because…I mean—our deal—'we don’t have to see each other again after this’.” He makes air quotes with his fingers. “I’ve never been happier than I have in these last two days. I want to see you again, Eddie. But I’m not sure if you wanna see me.”

He pouts. Eddie thinks he looks adorable. “I-”

“And don’t feel like I’m forcing you or anything,” Richie interrupts. “I just—I really…like you.” He smiles self-consciously.

Eddie laughs and shakes his head. “You idiot.”

Richie looks confused. “What?”

“You absolute dumbass.” Eddie sighs. “I—I like you, too. And I want to see you again.”

Richie’s face lights up. “Wait, really?”

“Yes!” Eddie takes a step closer to him. He plays with a loose button on Richie’s coat. “Now, please just shut up and kiss me, Trashmouth.”

Richie smiles wide. Eddie smiles back. “Aye aye, Captain!” Richie says. He steps closer before leaning down and bringing their lips together. The kiss is slow and soft and comforting all at once. Eddie pulls him closer and they smile into the kiss. Eddie feels something warm stir in his stomach as their lips part and Eddie knows he wants this for forever. Richie brings a hand up to Eddie’s cheek when they pull away and kisses his forehead. Eddie looks up at him fondly.

“You and those fucking doe eyes,” Richie says. He pushes a strand of Eddie’s hair away. “I’m taking you on a real date next time, just the two of us.”

“What? No more exes to fool? Dang it,” Eddie jokes.

“Your mom, maybe, but I’ve got no one else in mind.”

Eddie laughs. “Gross.”

“I don’t need to fool anyone now that I’ve got everything I want right here.” Richie boops Eddie’s nose. Again.

Eddie scrunches his nose. “I still hate that.”

Richie smiles at him. “I know you do.”

taglist: @fucking-reddie @pennys-pet-kitty @missingstanleyuris @somenates27 @geckolover001 @peachsccne