#tobysalt

[wildroseofarran]

Rotheus Wedding || Rotheus, Letcher, Jaidan, Quintane, Bretanor, Sean, Sash, Salt, Tristan, & Billy Gale

Ronan: "Here's the list." The paper was thrown at Matheus' chest.

Guest list:

US!

Sean + 1 (Sash)

Aidan + 1 (June)

Con +2 (Brett + Boo)

Tristan +1

Lukey + Fletchy

Ma! +1

Salt +1

Q +1

Lawrence +1 (Gina)

Mason + 1

"Look good?" He returns the lollipop he had been enjoying to his mouth.

Matheus: Matheus caught the floating paper (at least it wasn't wadded) and glanced over the list. All of Ronan's friends as he expected.

"What's a 'Boo'?" he asked with wrinkled brow.

Ronan: "Boo. That's Conor's friend." Duh.

Matheus: "His - or her - name is actually Boo?"

Ronan: "I think it's a nickname." He shrugged.

Matheus: Moving on. He tapped the paper. "Is this Brett Parker, the sheriff?"

Ronan: "Yeah, the one we tried t'take from Guildias. Who isn't on the list, you might notice." He sucks more on the lollipop.

Matheus: That would go without a single debate. "I would rather not have a ghoul, especially one belonging to Guildias, in attendance to something as sacred."

Ronan: Ronan tilted his head and scratched his temple. "But..." He began, bringing out the lollipop to twirl between fingers, "Conor really wanted him with him."

Matheus: "He has...whatever friend that is also on the list. As you notice, Rosmond will not be with us, either. It's in poor taste."

Ronan: "Oh... okay." He didn't really get it, but he didn't want Matheus to be uncomfortable. "You're the one that's gonna tell him."

Matheus: "I don't have his phone number."

Ronan: He scoffed. "You're gonna tell him in person. The way Archers deal with shit."

Matheus: His fiancé sighed. "Must we have any humans in company?"

Ronan: "... You don't like Tristan?" He sounded heartbroken. "Sash I get, he's a fuckin' prick, but his brother’s comin' an' his brother ain't a human so what you gonna do about that?"

Matheus: "Has it escaped your attention how he behaves around creatures? You excluded, of course." First, Tristan.

Ronan: "... Who? What d'you mean?"

Matheus: "Your friend, Tristan. The night with your mission to find Salt." He couldn't recall why Tristan had been involved to begin with.

Ronan: Because he has a boat, Matheus!

"He was fine on my birthday, remember? He was around all my brothers an' he knows what they are. He even became besties with Sean. He EVEN spoke t'Conor, like, c'mon!"

Matheus: Ronan was pulled closer by his hip. His vampire sighed. He could not cease his thoughts from overworking. However, he could smile to his beloved.

"We're the first couple I've ever heard of marrying like this. It's dangerous, and I've rarely seen you this happy."

Ronan: With a little giggle, arms wrap around Matheus' neck.

"Danger's my middle name." ... Maybe they should've considered that for a surname. "I'm happy 'cause I have you." He taps the wet, sticky lollipop against his husband-to-be's cheek.

Matheus: "You better have a mind to lick that off of my skin." A threat?

Ronan: He grinned, "An' if I don't?"

Matheus: "You know I will disintegrate with sadness."

Ronan: "Ooooohh! Baby!" he drags his tongue theatrically over Matheus' cheek.

Matheus: Laughter swiftly followed. "Are you getting cold feet at all? A tingle? Consternation?"

Ronan: He scoffed. "I'm worried suttin'… or someone... might fuck up the weddin', but I wanna be married t'you."

Matheus: "We don't need anyone to be married. If you believe someone will cause problems, then don't invite them."

Ronan: "Pfft. Drama is part of the fun."

Matheus: "Why are you marrying me, my love?" he chuckled.

Ronan: "For the drama!" He teased, biting Matheus' nose.

Matheus: "Mine or yours?" His silent ow followed.

Ronan: "Mine, you never have drama unless you're riskin' your life."

Matheus: "I should feel flattered, but really it only proves how much of a hermit I am."

Ronan: He smiles, "That's what I love about you, though. Whenever I wanna be in a bubble you're there t'save me."

Matheus: "I'm your hideaway?"

Ronan: "You're my armour..."

Matheus: Matheus blinked, surprised.

Ronan: "... What, baby?"

Matheus: "Am I really?"

Ronan: "How can you say that? How can you not be sure?" He got comfortable in Matheus' lap.

Matheus: "I'm proud to be your armor. I'm proud of your strength and to be your husband."

Ronan: "Awww, shucks, mistah! You gon' make a poor orphan boy blush!"

Matheus: Have a lovely little love tap to the cheek.

"Back to the wedding. Are you comfortable with the location?"

Ronan: "It's a step down from Dracula's mansion, but yeah, baby. D'you? Luke an' Fletcher wanna do theirs outdoors but, like, it's October."

Matheus: "Wherever you want, if it makes you happy. I expected you to say Ireland."

Ronan: Oh, hm. "I mean, I left Ireland when I was four an' never went back - apart from when we went. You're kinda overestimatin' my attachment t'that place."

Matheus: "Do you want to know what I thought you wanted?"

Ronan: "Mmmhm."

Matheus: "For your mother to be present somehow."

Ronan: "If she was a ghost I'd be able t'see her. She ain't around, an' I don't really remember her."

Matheus: "Do any of you have anything of hers?"

Ronan: "I doubt it." He was unknowingly incorrect about that. "Sean's got a tattoo of her name?"

Matheus: "Hmm. If there was anything, I would...have liked to have made a shrine for her nearby."

Ronan: "... Why, baby? We don't have one for your parents."

Matheus: "I got to see mine longer than you with yours," he said gently.

Ronan: "... I have my brothers, though. I have more of my fam'ly than you." He kissed Matheus' hand, "But you have me."

Matheus: "I don't need anyone else."

Ronan: "Hmm, you tryna get in my pants, baby?"

Matheus: "Am I not already there?" His hand clasped between his legs for good measure.

Ronan: Gasp!!

Matheus: "Hmm?" Innocent.

Ronan: "You fiend!"

Matheus: "How dare I?"

Ronan: "Not until marriage! Gotta make an honest woman outta me."

Matheus: "Honest? Is that not being honest by pretending to be honest?" he grinned.

Ronan: "You gotta wait, baby!" He grinned, because, ha ha ha.

Matheus: "Why must you torment me so?"

Ronan: "'cause that's what wives do."

Matheus: "You don't torment me. You bless me."

Ronan: "Baby, you're so damn cheesy!" And have a thousand kisses!

Matheus: "Is it when it's true honesty?" he chuckled. "Thank you."

Ronan: "For what?" Nuzzle!

Matheus: "For your affection."

Ronan: "'cause you're my snuggly lil' baby!" More kisses!

Matheus: Ronan was fastened in place with quietly possessive arms. "Do humans actually talk like that?"

Ronan: "The fuck do I know?" He laughs and bites Matheus' chin.

Matheus: "Ow. You're younger than me. You have to teach me."

Ronan: "I'm still an old man!"

Matheus: "You're so young! You're brimming with life. You must teach this old man."

Ronan: "Uh... my cum is magic. Wanna be younger? Make me cum."

Matheus: "Is that a fact?" he played along without any hesitation. "That is some magic."

Ronan: "The power of love."

Matheus: "Shall I undress for you?"

Ronan: "Duh."

Matheus: "Undress simultaneously."

Ronan: "What happens if I don't?"

Matheus: "You would prefer a show of sorts?"

Ronan: "Or a punishment?"

Matheus: "For not undressing?"

Ronan: "... Y'know what I mean..." He winked. THAT kind of punishment...

Matheus: "Mm. You're in a mood," he chuckled. "Stand up."

Ronan: "When am I ever not in a mood?" It should just always be assumed that Ronan is in a mood, and if he isn't he can be put into one.

Oh- Yay! With sudden excitement, Ronan stood, grinning.

Matheus: "Arms up," would be his first command. He got to his feet as well to shed his sport coat. The ritual of folding and sitting aside began.

Ronan: That smile would not fade at the gorgeous sight of his husband moving. Slowly, arms rose, hands in loose fists, eyes full of anticipation.

Matheus: "Our final act of intimacy before we are married." Ronan's shirt was pulled above his head, left in place at his arms. Sweetly he was kissed from temple to temple.

Ronan: His expression shifted from a bright beam to a gentle look of admiration. He felt all warm inside.

"Tá mo chroí istigh ionat..."

Matheus: "Forever?" He had to ask, because he loved the answer each time.

Ronan: "Always, baby. Or until your dick falls off."

Matheus: "Really?" he coughed. "I'll keep that in mind," he nodded.

The shirt was held loosely between his wrists, locking them in place. "How long can I keep you like this?" he asked, cupping between his legs.

Ronan: He exhaled, easily growing harder in Matheus' hand.

"A week?"

Matheus: "A week? Just like this? You would rebel." But he certainly wouldn't grow tired of pulling the reaper into deeper and deeper kisses, slowly sinking to his knees.

Ronan: "Nu-uh--" he gasped against his vampire's mouth. Elbows bent reactively, he was desperate to reach out for the other, but he was quick to catch himself and straighten his arms again.

Matheus: "I can't leave you like that. I know just the thing. Stay." He was not as fast as Ronan's unnatural speed, but still his disappearance left an echo of his image, returning after only a breath.

"How about this?" One of his white scarves.

Ronan: Stay? Stay?! If Matheus thought for a single goddamn second that Ronan would be staying extremely still because of a single word he - he's completely right. Matheus could've taken forty minutes and Ronan would have waited.

He shook his head, "We'll get blood all over that."

Matheus: Matheus looked up with eyes which asked, "Promise?"

Ronan: Duh! Look at him!

"Baby, my dick-" he was going to start crying.

Matheus: Oh goodness. Matheus leaned in to kiss that pout. "Put your arms around me."

Ronan: Smiling, he lowers his arms as instructed.

Matheus: Matheus swayed their bodies as though dancing. "Legs, too."

Ronan: Yay! Ronan jumped up onto his lover, wrapping around him like a monkey to a branch.

Matheus: Matheus gathered his husband - fiancé? - into his arms, turning back to the couch, he took a seat and began to tie his hands behind his back with the white silk scarf.

"Too tight?"

Ronan: Too tight?! "Tighter." He got comfortable on his lover's lap, "I love you, baby."

Matheus: "Do you really?" Tighter, then, but not enough to turn hands blue.

Ronan: The reaper squirmed, testing. "Yeah... baby, more."

Matheus: No. He held Ronan firmly by his jaw. He simply held him in place, studying his expression.

Ronan: His eyes would give away how lustful he felt - paired with the way he bit his lip. He was yearning for more. He needed release. He was growing impatient... and he loved it. The fact that he was being denied what he so desperately wanted was driving him crazy in the most wonderful way.

Matheus: Matheus took great care not to smile and ruin his act. Playing such a dominant role was still new territory. He understood how much this excited him. He wanted to please Ronan without losing himself in the process. He believed they found a balance.

Slowly his hand traveled down Ronan's body, brushed over his thigh, his knee...finally between his legs.

"What do we have here..."

Ronan: Such a touch encouraged a trembling breath.

"I'm so hard for you, baby..."

Matheus: "Yes, I feel that. Very firm..." He held to Ronan's thighs and pressed up. "Do you feel that?" His vitae repurposed just for his companion.

Ronan: The reaper whined. A shiver went down his spine. This is... perfect.

"Yeah, baby. I feel it. Is it for me?"

Matheus: "No. You only get to watch."

Ronan: "Uh- I what now?!"

Matheus: "Your hands are occupied."

Ronan: "Other parts of me ain't."

Matheus: "This mouth? Does it want cock, or blood?"

Ronan: "Booooooth?" Can't it have both?

Matheus: "Wouldn't that disgust you?" Twice now the anatomy of his undead form had been discussed. Twice with separate outcomes. He had to be reminded of Ronan's current attitude towards his orgasm.

Ronan: Matheus was given a deadpan look. Seriously? Have you just met me?

Matheus: His shoulders slowly sank. Considering his first reaction...

"You know me, love."

Ronan: "I love you. Cum in my mouth."

Matheus: A flutter spiraled in his stomach. "As you wish." After a healthy amount of kissing, he would give Ronan whatever he desired, whatever he could manage with his hands indisposed. Today Matheus would do his utmost to ignore his overtaxed thoughts. Ronan wanted his orgasm, then they would share in it on the floor of their living room.

Ronan: Matheus would be reminding Ronan of exactly why he was marrying him. He would be reminding Ronan of exactly how he fell in love. It was perfect bliss, but perfect bliss was fleeting. They had a job to do.

With his head on Matheus' chest he drew patterns on his skin.

"Y'know you still have t'tell Conor? I ain't doin' that for you jus' 'cause you made me cum."

Matheus: Matheus held his unbound companion in his arms, eyes closed and nearly drifting.

"If you insist. I'd rather you with me."

Ronan: "Yeah, baby." he craned his neck to kiss his lover's jaw. "I love you."

Matheus: "Forever and always," he whispered. The old detective needed a moment.

Ronan: Yay! Closer to Matheus he snuggled, enjoying being sticky and wet with mess for the time being.

Matheus: Being sullied would not last long. Ten minutes of rest and the vampire was up, carrying Ronan upstairs to the bathroom for a warm bath.

"Shall we invite him over?"

Ronan: "Uhh... you want us t'make him come alllll the way over here t'tell him bad news an' make him go aaaaall the way home? We should go t'him."

Matheus: "Fine, fine. After our bath. Yes? Your hair needs tending to. I think I made a knot."

Ronan: "I like my knots!"

Matheus: "Do you want them in our wedding photos?"

Ronan: "I was gonna shave my head."

Matheus: "Why's that?"

Ronan: "I dunno?" he laughed.

Matheus: "Shall I shave mine and stop dying it?"

Ronan: "You could not dye it? Don't shave, though."

Matheus: "If you want my natural color." Vitae would need to be utilized, which he was fine with.

Ronan: Ronan nodded, "Yeah. I like that."

Matheus: "Well, then I'll be cutting my hair before we leave."

Ronan: "Why are you cuttin' it?!"

Matheus: "To grow my own back. I don't know how to use the dye removal."

Ronan: He grinned. "'kay, baby. Might be kinda sexy seein' you with short hair."

Matheus: "I've never had short hair."

Ronan: He reaches up to push it back from Matheus' forehead. "You look good, baby. You an' your stupid face."

Matheus: "My stupid face?"

Ronan: "Yeah. This stupid beautiful face."

Matheus: "I have no means of retaliation," he chuckled.

Ronan: Said stupid beautiful face was given a big sloppy kiss!

Matheus: A quick groan followed. What in the world? "Get in the tub." Have a proper kiss, first.

Ronan: He giggled and jumped in.

Matheus: Matheus settled in behind, ready to wash that hair and untangle what knots he could find. Conor would have to wait. Their baths were sacred.

Ronan: Ronan happily curled up against his vampire, leaning back against him. Nails scrape lightly over Matheus' knees, touching him carefully.

Matheus: "Are you prepared for a lifetime of these?"

Ronan: Ah. The very thought made him smile. "No, I ain't."

Matheus: "No?"

Ronan: "Nu uh."

Matheus: "Shall we not, then?"

Ronan: Ronan shook his head, "We should. I jus' ain't prepared."

Matheus: "What can I do?"

Ronan: "Love meeeeee?"

Matheus: "Diligently so," he smiled.

Ronan: "Eh?"

Ronan: Not such big words, Matheus!

Matheus: "I love you most ardently." He knew what he was doing. "With every fiber of my eternal soul."

Ronan: Ronan took a deep breath and let out a very exaggerated groan.

"Idiota."

Matheus: "My love." Time to kiss into the detangled curls. "I'll get your towel."

Ronan: "Just one more minute." He hugged Matheus' waist.

Matheus: "Alright," he sighed, content, sliding him deeper into his lap.

Ronan: Yay! Nuzzle, nuzzle, for what was definitely more than a single minute.

Matheus: He would be allowed five minutes before Matheus reached behind him to drain the tub. "The world will not wait. We will go see your brother, and then we'll stop by the wedding location. I think we need one more look."

Ronan: He whiiiiiiined. "Fine." A few more kisses, though?!

Matheus: Yes of course. Three extra kisses. He forced himself away long enough to gather their fluffy citrine towels, wrapping one around Ronan's shoulders.

"Yellow is handsome on you."

Ronan: "I think it's me that makes yellow handsome." He grinned.

Matheus: "Quite right. Yellow, black, blue...red."

Ronan: Ronan laughed, "You cute cunt."

Matheus: "My cheeky prince. No. Those days are behind us. My king."

Ronan: "Kiiiiiiing huh?!"

Matheus: "Mhm. My king."

Ronan: "Am I gonna wear a crown on our weddin' day?"

Matheus: "If you insist I will not take your crown."

Ronan: "You gotta wear one too, though."

Matheus: "My royalty days are over."

Ronan: "They've only jus' begun."

Matheus: His vampire blinked.

Ronan: "... What?"

Matheus: "Very romantic, my love."

Ronan: "Oh yeah? Romantic enough forrrr a blowjob?"

Matheus: "We're supposed to see your brother. Anticipate your desires for tonight."

Ronan: "Ugh. 'kay. Lemme jus' message him t'make sure he's home. Where's my phone?"

Matheus: "Probably still in your trousers."

Ronan: "Ugh." He went off to find it, returning with his eyes on the screen. "Uhhh, yeah, okay. You know where this is?" He showed Matheus the address. "I've never seen where Conor lives now."

Matheus: A glanced to the address. Several blinks later, he pulled the phone closer via Ronan's hand and read it again.

"That's the sheriff's neighborhood."

Ronan: "Oh, okay. You gonna drive, then?"

Matheus: "Are they an item?"

Ronan: Ronan scoffed! "Pffffff, yeah right. An' I'm a leprech-" he stopped himself, afraid of finishing that sentence... in case...

Matheus: His nose was kissed. "As we are an example, anything is possible. Though that is quite the unwholesome coupling."

Ronan: "I'm gonna kill you, that's fuckin' rank. Conor has no interest in anyone or anythin', he prob'ly jus' wanted outta the hotel an' found somewhere cheap where the owner ain't home a lot. Guess as a sheriff he's prob'ly out all the time. There you go. Mystery solved."

Matheus: "Another to use the ghoul, you think?"

Ronan: "Prob'ly, like, maybe that's part of why he wanted you t'take control of him? Maybe Conor has some weird Power Plan." Ronan shrugged.

Matheus: "And it so happens he wants him at our wedding?" He squeezed the towel into Ronan's hair once. "We shall see."

Ronan: ... Yeah, he can't explain that.

"Guess so." He tilted his head back to bite Matheus' wrist.

Matheus: "So violent today. What sin have I committed?"

Ronan: "You didn't send me a dick pic!"

Matheus: "Excuse me?"

Ronan: "You don't even remember. I wanted t'wake up t'a pi- it doesn't matter. Let's go. You drivin'?"

Matheus: "You're not leaving naked." Ronan was scooped with one arm to the bedroom. Once dressed, (after many kisses to Ronan's stomach,) Matheus debated on which door...

"Backseat, or head in my lap?"

Ronan: "Duh, that-" Ronan laughed as he was lifted. Such a silly husband-to-be.

"Where d'you want me?"

Matheus: "I'd rather you be comfortable," he said whilst descending the stairs.

Ronan: Well that's incredibly unhelpful. "Your lap."

Matheus: Lap then, with the windows down just as he preferred for slow rides. The gentle breeze reminded him of many carriage rides in his youth.

The town was all but memorized. He needn't ask for the address twice. He pulled up to the sheriff's home and sighed. He would much rather Ronan explain to his brother, but he would not ask.

"What did he say in his text?"

Ronan: A deal is a deal. Matheus was the one with the problem, and if he wants to be an Archer he has to learn how to talk to his new brothers.

"Nuttin', I didn't really say anythin' that he could reply to, jus' said he was home alone an' the address. So that's good, I guess?"

Matheus: "Yes, that's fine. Close your eyes, I'm getting out." And he would help Ronan out of the passenger's side as well.

Ronan: Ronan did as he was told and shielded his head.

Matheus: Ronan was helped from the car, which was of course locked afterwards. One could never be too cautious.

"You said he's alone?"

He knocked on the - no, he rang the bell and took a half-step back.

Ronan/Conor: "Yeah, he's alone." Which is a bonus, at least.

It took a few moments for Conor to open the door. No greeting was necessary, he simply stepped aside.

Matheus: Matheus would follow behind Ronan. He assumed the lack of reaction to be customary.

Ronan/Conor: "Hey brother," Ronan stepped in and looked around, "how you doin'?"

'Fine.' Conor signed, the translation ready in Ronan's mind for Matheus. 'Would you like anything to drink or eat?'

Matheus: "None for me, thank you." Conor could assume lessons in sign language, but the reality was much more interesting, in Matheus' opinion.

Ronan/Conor: "Yeah, I'm good. Actual- actually I'll have a beer."

He nodded and gestured to the couch. Take a seat.

As he went off to the fridge Ronan's eyes scanned his brother's new home.

Matheus: Matheus stiffly leaned back in his seat. 'Not what I expected of Conor's home. What do you think?'

Ronan: 'Something feels weird.' It felt... uncomfortably unfamiliar.

Matheus: Both aura and thoughts from his husband-to-be were analyzed. 'It's too soft.'

Ronan/Conor: Ronan nodded. 'Yeah, totally.'

Conor returned, placing a beer down on the table for Ronan. He took a seat opposite them both.

"Thanks. Matheus has suttin' t'say." He sipped his beer the way some would eat popcorn - he was ready to watch shit go down.

Matheus: "More of a question and request, if I may." He wasn't completely out of touch with socialization. He knew when to make eye contact and what was too much. As uncomfortable as he was, he would endure.

"I'm...not sure of why you're here in association with a ghoul belonging to Aloysius Guildias. I've been curious of this since Ronan's negotiations..."

Ronan/Conor: The hybrid tilted his head.

'I don't hear a question.' Ronan did his best to not laugh.

Matheus: His smile was brief and dull. His tone offered no humor. "I want to know why we're in a ghoul's house."

Ronan/Conor: Conor's expression matched. 'Because you wanted to see me, you wanted to know where I am, and I am here. I didn't forcibly bring you here.'

"Woah, woah, woah, what's -" he clumsily did the sign for 'force'. Conor spelt it out. "Oh."

Matheus: "No, but you're doing your best not to explain your relationship with this ghoul."

Conor: 'You haven't asked me a single question about my relationship with P- Brett.'

Matheus: "I didn't think I needed to elaborate on the obvious."

Conor: 'If you want me to answer your question, you have to ask it, Matheus. I'm not interested in playing games with you. Whether you're going to be part of my family or not.' Ugh. 'Regardless, why would you make your way here just to question me about Brett? Do you want to own him? Have you come to see if we can convince him to become your ghoul?'

Matheus: All he saw only confirmed his belief. They came here with the ghoul as the subject. The association with the ghoul had been stated and avoided. The hybrid was no idiot. He was sidestepping. Why are we in a ghoul's home? Because we walked in? No. You're not a child. You know what I'm asking.

Ronan could read his mind clear as day. It would conceal nothing.

"I'm not interested in this game of yours, either. I won't waste your time or mine any more than we have. I don't want him at our wedding, Mr. Archer."

Ronan/Conor: Matheus was nudged. 'He's still my brother.' Be nice.

That statement made Conor blink. He took a breath and shifted in his seat. 'Why did you decide that?'

Matheus: "I must be mindful of the consequences. He doesn't belong to me. Unless I'm serving him to our guests, the why of his presence is too delicate to answer to my Kindred."

Conor: Hm. 'You didn't strike me as someone who was elitist, Matheus.'

Ronan: Again, 'elitist' had to be spelt out.

Matheus: "Only mindful of my safety and therefore Ronan's. The ghoul's master wasn't invited for a reason."

Ronan/Conor: Hm. 'I want him with me.'

Ronan groaned. "What about Boo?"

'Boo?'

"Yeah."

'... Bo.'

Matheus: "He risked favor with Guildias to get that human back. Here we are in his home..."

'Isn't this interesting.'

"How long have the three of you been partners?"

Conor: Conor rolled his eyes. 'Explain to me how you got to that train of thought.'

Matheus: "Old habits."

Conor: 'I'm curious. Walk me through it.'

Matheus: The Malkavian sunk deeper into his seat. "Your aura at the mention of him, for one. Mr. Parker's aura is always crystal clear, and a particular shade of blue last I had to see him at Guildias' as per your request. My background as an inspector means nothing. It doesn't take much skill to put two and two together. You're here. You're protective."

Fingers lightly traced the arm of the couch. "Everything has a memory. Even this."

Ronan/Conor: Ronan snatched Matheus' wrist and pulled it away from the material.

"Is... is that... is that true, Con?" This is... the closest he's ever gotten to knowing something real about Conor's life. This is the closest he has ever gotten to seeing something... anything, that meant something to his brother. It was almost too close for comfort.

There was no point lying, and there no point in trying to evade. 'Yes, it's true.'

"Two people? Bo an' Brett, or whatever?"

'Yes.'

"At the same time?"

'Yes.'

"An' they both know?"

'Yes.'

Matheus: Now it was Matheus' turn to be quiet. This reached a personal level with Ronan, and he knew better than to interject.

Ronan/Conor: Ronan swallowed. "What... When... How did... Con..."

'I will still be there, Ro. No matter what I'll be there, in the front row. I... know... that this is...' he exhaled and ran fingers through his hair.

"N-no, it, I mean... Jus' figured - I thought you didn't like all that stuff."

'I don't, we... it isn't about that.' This was getting awkward. Conor scratched his neck.

"Are you in love? With, like, both of 'em?"

Conor is still for a while, he looks between Matheus and Ronan. 'Yes, Ro.' His heart pounded, he unconsciously fidgeted in his seat.

Matheus: "...No love is without risk," he said gently. "Ronan has proven to me what courage means again and again." He took a breath, despite knowing its uselessness. "I...suppose if Guildias wanted to...create conflict, he wouldn't need Mr. Parker as an excuse." He was being too lenient and he would pay the price. So be it.

Ronan: "Wh- are you sure, baby? Won't you get in a lot of trouble?"

Matheus: "My standing in society is in shambles as it is. Having an unchaperoned ghoul at a wedding surrounded by...not Kindred isn't going to be the nail in the coffin."

Ronan/Conor: Oh. Ronan scratched his head. This was a lot to process.

'Thank you for being understanding. I'm glad you're the person Ronan has chosen to dedicate himself to. Next time, though, just spit it out.' He smiled somewhat cheekily.

Matheus: "I would prefer the same from you...Conor. We're going to see more rather than less of each other."

Ronan/Conor: He smiled at how his name was pronounced. 'I'm not in a position to be asking you of any favours but I do have to ask. Please don't tell anyone.'

"Even Sean?"

'I'll tell him when I'm ready.'

"C'mon, Con, you know he'll be fine with it."

'Let me do it.'

Matheus: A true smile. How interesting. He could see the Archer signature in that smile. "We've hassled your brother enough for one day, Ronan. This is important to him."

Ronan/Conor: Ronan sighed. "Fine."

'Thank you.'

"They better have some good suits. Nuttin' cheap an' ugly. Gonna fuck up the pictures."

The hybrid laughed silently. 'Of course, Your Majesty.' ... Wow. A weight he hadn't been aware of had suddenly been lifted. Is this how Sean had felt? Relieved and terrified all at the same time?

Matheus: "We have a few more errands to run before returning home. We should probably leave before the - the sheriff returns." Perhaps, at least around Conor, he should make a habit of calling him something other than the ghoul.

Ronan/Conor: "Yeah... yeah, okay."

Conor stood to open the door for them and Ronan did as well. For a moment he lingered... before making his way over to his older brother. Arms wrap tightly around his waist, and into his chest he nuzzles.

"I'm really happy for you, Con. Don't let 'em hurt you, okay?"

Conor was taken back. It took him a moment to react, and when he did hands found curly hair. The top of his head was kissed.

Matheus: Matheus waited on the other side of the door, giving them some semblance of privacy. At the door, his smile finally carried a measure of honesty.

"Until next time," he said and signed.

Ronan/Conor: Conor nodded and gave him a little salute. He sank to the floor once the door was shut. He'll be needing to text his 'partners' about this immediately.

Ronan, on the other hand, was very much lost in thought.

Matheus: Matheus helped Ronan into the car as usual. He drove them to the other side of town and pulled into a quiet parking lot.

"Walk me through your thoughts."

Ronan: "... You knew. You brought up them bein' together earlier 'cause you already knew, didn't you?"

Matheus: "I've speculated since our negotiations, Ronan, you know that."

Ronan: "Brett. Not all three of 'em."

Matheus: "I've shown you what I've seen. The conclusion was there as it was for me."

Ronan: "The conclusion of Conor bein' with... anyone, let alone two-" he fell silent. What could he say? What did he have to say?...

Matheus: "I'm sorry. I didn't have a childhood with him to make any assumptions. He was a blank slate for me to piece together only what I saw..."

Ronan: "It- why're you sorry? I jus'..." He took a deep breath and rubbed his face, ensuring to keep his eyes tightly shut.

Matheus: "I feel like this took something from you. I'm not sure what. It's why I asked for you to walk me through your thoughts before we do anything else."

Ronan: "I jus' don't know Conor. I don't know him. This is the most information about his life I've ever gotten."

Matheus: "I think...you can only grow closer from here."

Ronan: Ronan scoffed, a sad little noise devoid of hope.

Ronan: "He wants me t'keep it a secret, though."

Matheus: "So he can tell his story to the rest of your brothers. Don't you want him to?"

Ronan: "That's the thing, he won't tell 'em."

Matheus: "You don't know that."

Ronan: "You really think he'll tell 'em? He only told us 'cause you already knew."

Matheus: "It's his story, and he's your brother. I think you should give him the benefit of the doubt. If you tell his story against his will, you might not have as many chances to get as close as you did today."

Ronan: Ronan sighed, because he knew Matheus was right. He had been given something rare, so he had to be careful with it.

"What did you see? On the couch?"

Matheus: "Do you want me to tell you, or be shown?" No matter what he believed Ronan should do, he would not keep his own knowledge a secret from his husband.

Ronan: "... Tell me?" He wasn't sure he wanted to witness whatever it was.

Matheus: "Your brother...kissing the ghoul. With, um, much enthusiasm. The human, Bo?, joining them. They hold one another, embraced in silence."

Ronan: He couldn't help but cringe. "Ugh... okay..."

Matheus: "It was, dare I say, loving. I'll go so far as to say innocent in nature."

Ronan: Shudder!

"With a human? He's so dumb..."

Matheus: "Because the human will die?"

Ronan: "Yeah? An' what could they possibly have in common? They're from different times, they're... different."

Matheus: "As are we."

Ronan: "We weren't born that far apart."

Matheus: "But we are indeed different." He offered his hand.

Ronan: Ronan dared to peek out from behind his arm enough to look at his vampire. He tangled their fingers together.

"I guess... It's jus'... weird."

Matheus: "Are you having to... You're having to worry for him on a subject you never thought would need broaching. Is that a portion of your consternation?"

Ronan: "Oh, baby, you jus' said a whole lotta words my brain can't process..."

Matheus: He would make a second attempt. "This is new territory you never thought you'd enter with him."

Ronan: "... Yeah, I guess so."

Matheus: "You'll be with him."

Ronan: "An' the whole ghoul thing... of all the fuckin' people in Edenton."

Matheus: "In your opinion, which is worse?"

Ronan: "Human."

Matheus: "You've met him before. Is he the dangerous type? Relative, I suppose."

Ronan: "Not dangerous. He's whatever. It's not him that's the threat it's us. How can he be okay bringin' a human into this world?"

Matheus: "Perhaps he's already in our world."

Ronan: "An' he knows what we are."

Matheus: "We don't know the details of their relationship. We don't know the intimacies with any of your brothers and their lovers."

Ronan: "June knows what we are, but Aidan told us."

Matheus: "I'm not sure what you're wanting. Your brother has a right to his pace. From what I understand, this is a very new path for him."

Ronan: "... I don't know either. I'm jus'..." Shocked. Confused. Whatever.

Matheus: The blind reaper was taken by his jaw and brought into a kiss.

Ronan: Oh. Oh. Ronan sighed against that beautiful, gorgeous, perfect familiar mouth.

"Are we parked?" He barely interrupted the kiss to whisper, wrapping arms around his vampire's neck.

Matheus: He would feel his vampire laugh. "We are indeed." Another kiss followed. "Why don't you lay back for me?"

Ronan: "... Lay back?" Nervous hands squeeze Matheus' shoulders.

Matheus: "Yes. Trust me."

Ronan: As if he had to be told to do such a thing. Carefully, he eased backwards.

Matheus: Once back, Matheus moved forward. Warm lips caressed the reaper's throat. The tiniest of fangs scraped over supple flesh.

Ronan: Lips part as Ronan exhales. Legs and arms wrap around his love.

Matheus: They should have thought of this sooner. In this position, Ronan would have a near impossible chance of catching his reflection.

"I love you with all of my heart, Ronan."

Ronan: "I love you too, baby. So much. So, so much." Into the other's neck he nuzzled. He wasn't risking looking, not just yet.

Matheus: Ronan's shirt collar was pushed to the side, leaving room to kiss and eventually bite as he saw fit. The sun was beginning to set. More cars filled the parking lot. Matheus looked up with swollen lips and frowned. He didn't want to see the colors of strangers. He didn't care about their well-being. Only the man underneath him.

"We should go."

Ronan: It didn't take much for that to make Ronan hard. Soon he was pressing his erection to his husband's thigh and whining.

"Go? Why?" He was unaware of anyone else around them, in his mind it was only them.

Matheus: "We have company." He didn't want Ronan upset by potentially being seen or heard by an unwelcome stranger. His stomach was kissed, shirt pulled back into place.

"Soon."

Ronan: He pouted and dared to open his eyes. His gaze lingers on Matheus' face, slowly, along his features an index traced.

"You're so beautiful."

Matheus: "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Behold your husband," he smiled.

Ronan: "Behold!" Arms extend as if displaying something magical. He giggled.

Matheus: His laughter wasn't the same as it had been years before. Neither laugh was the same. It was free, braver than ever. Those smiling lips were taken one last time.

"Close your eyes. We're going to see our venue."

Ronan: "Yes, Sir, Matheus, Sir!" He squeezed his eyes shut tightly.

Matheus: His belt was snapped in for him and left reclined. Should he dare open his eyes he would first see ceiling. They should have been doing this all along, Matheus thought.

The drive to their venue was silent, though nothing still. His right hand remained with Ronan for the majority of the ride until the next quiet parking lot.

"We're here."

Ronan: "Yeah? How does it look?"

Matheus: "If you're asking if the coast is clear, it is."

Ronan: "... No, I'm askin' how it looks."

Matheus: "It looks romantic. Shall we take a closer look?"

Ronan: "Romantic like 'Let's fuck in the toilets' or romantic like 'Let's...' uhh... 'fuck in the toilets with our shoes still on'?"

Matheus: "Whichever you believe is more formal. Did you not inspect this place before choosing?"

Ronan: "WELL I saw pictures, which could've been fake."

Matheus: The driver's side door was opened. Closed. He would hear Matheus making his way around the car and opening his door.

"Welcome to our venue."

Ronan: Matheus would know that Ronan knew exactly what he was doing when he reached out and 'accidentally' felt over his crotch and torso with closed eyes. But still, he'd pretend it wasn't on purpose with a little smile and a "Oops!" as soon as he was on his feet.

Matheus: Ronan would feel a fistful of his shirt squeezed and pulled to Matheus' chest. "Oops? Own your mischievousness."

Ronan: Eyes widen momentarily. "Oo la la Monsieur. Trés sexy!" He winked and kissed Matheus' nose before attempting to slip away from his hold.

Matheus: His vampire simply smiled and released him. If ever he could trust anyone with his body, his mind...

"Am I denying you the church wedding of your dreams?"

Ronan: "Who the fuck wants a church weddin'?"

Matheus: "Is that completely out of fashion with humans?"

Ronan: "I dunno, who cares?"

Matheus: "What I mean is, is this what you truly want?"

Ronan: Ronan slowed and stopped in his tracks to look at Matheus.

"You gettin' cold feet on me, baby?"

Matheus: "On the contrary. I want everything to be perfect for you."

Ronan: "Will you be there?"

Matheus: "...Yes?"

Ronan: "Will my brothers?" Again, the answer should be yes.

Ronan: "Baby, marriage ain't that modern of a concept, you should know that, you're the smart one."

Matheus: "I mean papers."

Ronan: "Paper ain't that modern either," he grinned cheekily.

Matheus: "You're so argumentative."

Ronan: "Only because I love you?"

Matheus: "Answer my question, please. Do you want the wedding at this lodge?"

Ronan: "Bab- do you?"

Matheus: Was something wrong? Why was he being so avoidant...

"What I want doesn't matter."

Ronan: He wasn't being avoidant, he simply wanted Matheus to have an opinion, too.

"How can you say that?"

Matheus: "This is your day."

Ronan: "... I really wish you would stop sayin' shit like that, Matheus."

Matheus: "What is wrong?"

Ronan: "It ain't my day. It ain't my weddin'. It ain't my venue. It ain't my party. It ain't mine. It's ours. It feels like I'm forcin' you into this sometimes. You have no opinions on anythin', you don't care about any of it. I get you've been married before an' I get that 'cause of what you are you think it's pointless but it ain't to me. Like something. Don't like something. Want something. Care about this."

Matheus: "My priorities are not the same as yours. This is for you. What I want I have and I couldn't be happier. I have you. Do you understand how significant this is to me? In all my years as this," his hand to his chest, "I've rarely had anything I've wanted. Nothing as great as this freedom and someone loving me without treating me objectively."

Ronan: "Then... then forget it. I don't wanna do it."

Matheus: "Of course you do. I want to do this for you. If I cared of nothing at all I wouldn't have had word with your brother over a ghoul."

Ronan: "This isn't meant t'be for me. This isn't meant t'be some favour you're doin' me, baby. I don't want it... like this. I don't want this."

Matheus: Matheus offered his hands.

"You want me to be more selfish?"

Ronan: "Yes!"

Ronan: Those hands would never be ignored.

Matheus: "Then forgo this place. Let us wed by the cottage."

Ronan: "Okay Shakespeare. Where exactly? Outside? It might rain."

Matheus: "We'll monitor the forecast. We'll create a tarp or tent. We'll have a bonfire and champagne."

Ronan: "You're not... worried about the mess?"

Matheus: "Don't let me think about it."

Ronan: At that, Ronan managed to laugh.

"Fuck this place. We'll do it there." He squeezed Matheus' hands and used the grip to pull him closer, guiding arms around his own waist. Palms settled on the vampire's biceps. "Thank you, baby."

Matheus: He was compliant. In those arms was where he wanted to be. "What did I do?"

Ronan: "You gave a shit about our weddin' for the first time."

Matheus: "You want me to be selfish. Here it is."

Ronan: "Be more... more selfish." He whispered, as if a sweet nothing. "You get to be selfish now, baby. Be selfish with me."

Matheus: "You know I don't want to impose. It's not my nature."

Ronan: "Let it be? Jus' a little?" He rose, offering lips in a gentle kiss, "For me?"

Matheus: His fingers wrapped around Ronan's throat, taking those lips for his own. Selfish like this? By all means.

Ronan: Ronan wasn't sure how much this qualified as being 'in public', and he really didn't fucking care. The touch made him purr and the kiss made him weak at the knees.

Matheus: "To whom do you belong, Ronan?"

Ronan: Oooooh boy. He's hard.

"I belong t'you, Matheus," he whispered, gaze a combination of desperate need, and eternal love and devotion. He licked his yearning lips. "I'm all yours."

Matheus: That's what he expected to hear. It was, perhaps, what Ronan expected as well. Tonight he would offer more. His hand reached between his legs and squeezed.

"This cock belongs to whom?"

Ronan: Expected or not, what worked, worked. He couldn't argue with his heart and the very cock in question.

"Every inch is yours," the reaper purred. He was a beautiful thing shaped for fighting, made weak by his lover's touch, sent mewling for more by his lover's words.

Matheus: He was squeezed and squeezed again. His lips caressed from throat to jaw, and then all was lost. The vampire had turned away, heading back to their car.

Ronan: Eyes closed, he followed those lips the way a starving animal followed the scent of food. His bod- what?

Ronan was left with his lips parted, staring ahead of him and then at Matheus.

It would take a second for the vampire to feel the weight of his husband jumping up onto his back. Arms around neck, legs around waist.

Matheus: "Oh!" Noises like an old man. He was gripped by his legs for balance. "Pardon me. Who are you?"

Ronan: "No one, don't mind me." While I kiss your neck and nuzzle your back.

Matheus: "Oh. Well, I'll have you know, my husband would not approve." He did so enjoy their games.

Ronan: "He ain't around... I don't see anyone but you..." His mouth searched for a lobe to chew on.

Matheus: "Well, a thousand apologies, but I hold only one man to my heart."

Ronan: "What about t'your cock?" He whispered to his ear.

Matheus: "That is especially his," he returned. The car was slowly approached, waiting for Ronan to climb down.

Ronan: Uhhh... he wasn't ready. Yet.

"How much d'you love this husband of yours?"

Matheus: "Beyond articulation," he smiled. "Do you think he loves me?"

Ronan: "I don't care if he does, I want you for myself. Even if he loves you more than he thought he could ever love anyone."

Matheus: "Anyone? Ever? Such a bold statement! Surely he'd loved others."

Ronan: "None like you. None t'the point where it actually made him happy." He kissed Matheus' shoulder, "That's why I want you. You're clearly some kinda magical elf."

Matheus: "I'm a ... magical elf?" No. The spell was broken. His Malkavian was laughing hoarsely.

Ronan: Awww, yay! Ronan started to laugh too, giggling as he hopped down from Matheus' back. Clothing was used to tug him in. Kisses, please.

Matheus: Matheus lowered enough to kiss, holding Ronan by his waist to lead him towards the car. "Close your eyes for me. I'll take you home."

Ronan: With a smile on his face, the reaper did as instructed.

Matheus: Tomorrow they would have to make phone calls. Several, in fact. To cancel the original location would be the least headache inducing. Would Ronan want a caterer? A bartender? Could he not hire Quintin Traxler? If not him, someone he knew? A ghoul was going to be at his wedding. He wondered what Gertrude had planned for him.

Matheus would be found with his laptop, sitting at the bay window with eyes adrift.

Ronan: He's mostly letting Sean deal with all the boring parts (like napkins, who cares about napkins?!) so he could deal with all of that, too.

Ronan had some work to do so he was sat finishing that off when they returned home, after giving Sean his instructions of course.

Matheus: "What tasks have you given to Sean?"

Ronan: "Uhhh..." One second.... aand... "All of 'em?"

Matheus: "Who did you decide to bartend?"

Ronan: "Sean's got it, someone's gonna do it for free. Perks of workin' in entertainment, huh?"

Matheus: "Nothing is for free. What are we in the dark of?"

Ronan: "Someone owes him a favour? Where's the leftover pizza?" He stood, shutting his textbook as he did.

Matheus: "Where it always is." He watched Ronan, but his mind was elsewhere. "How are your studies?"

Ronan: "Fine, I thought bein' back at school would be weird but it's pretty chill. Got invites to a few Halloween parties. Bunch of people on my dick." He starts to eat it cold out of the fridge.

Matheus: "Do they feel like children to you? Old man."

Ronan: "I look like I fit in, but I'm gettin' married. An' there's some older people there, too."

Matheus: "I did enjoy the medical exhibitions from my century. Education felt prestigious."

His worn glasses were pushed up to his forehead.

"Are you embarrassed to say you're married?"

Ronan: Ronan's laughter was genuine. Even if his mouth with full of food.

Matheus: "Your classmates will judge you. I had to ask," he chuckled, letting his glasses fall back to his nose.

Ronan: He swallows and licks his lips, moving to look at his vampire.

"Judge me? All the chicks think it's real romantic an' no guys even talk t'me unless they're into me so they're jealous. Maybe you should come t'campus one day? We can fuck on my professor's car." He grinned.

Matheus: "I've wanted to see your campus. I want to see your experiences. Have I told you lately...how proud I am of you?"

Ronan: "... No... you haven't." He kneels down beside the window seat.

Matheus: The laptop was set aside, closed. "Are you proud of yourself?"

Ronan: He smiled, "I dunno... I ain't really done anythin' t'be proud of."

Matheus: "You jest."

Ronan: "I ain't, not really. Jus' signed up t'a class an' stopped doin' suttin' illegal."

Matheus: "Something you've done for decades. It's more than a physical action. It's your mind."

Ronan: "My mind?" His laugh was dry and humourless, "What's t'be proud of there?"

Matheus: "I am proud of its resilience. I'm proud of the effort you put forth."

Ronan: "I'm proud of you, too, baby."

Matheus: "And what have I done?"

Ronan: "You stormed a fuckin' castle by yourself tryna get freedom? A dick move, a dumb move... but a brave one."

Matheus: "I was frustrated," he smiled.

Ronan: "I think jus' bein' with me makes you a hero."

Matheus: "I'm no hero, but thank you."

Ronan: "You're my hero. I ain't shit. I wasn't shit before you."

Matheus: "I believe you can achieve anything you set your mind to."

Ronan: "Only 'cause I have you by my side helping."

Matheus: "You give me too much praise. I'd rather your lips to mine...and then tell me what Sean has done."

Ronan: Ronan takes the place of where the laptop once was, getting comfortable on his lap.

"Who cares what Sean has done? We're gettin' married."

Matheus: "You don't care? No. You're not allowed not to care. I don't want you indifferent."

Ronan: "Then you don't get t'be either."

Matheus: "We're having the wedding here. I was selfish. What do you want?"

Ronan: "I want you. An' pizza. No cake. Pizza."

Matheus: "You want pizza on our wedding day?"

Ronan: "Yeah." He grinned. "An' I want the favours t'be the book you read t'me when we first met."

Matheus: "Rules of Civility," he said with fondness. "If that's what you want. The author will be pleased with the surge in sales," he smiled.

Ronan: "Is there any part that you wanna, like, I dunno. An important bit or suttin'?"

Matheus: "Nothing in white or black?"

Ronan: "... Huh? I mean the book, a bit from it t'highlight in what we give out or suttin'."

Matheus: Matheus pressed his forehead to Ronan's. "Forgive me," he smiled. "I will leaf through it later and find something of worth."

Ronan: "Okay, baby." He rubs their noses together.

Matheus: "What else do you want?"

Ronan: "Really good sex."

Matheus: "As soon as the last guest says goodnight."

Ronan: "Can we kick everyone out right after we say 'I do'?"

Matheus: "If you want. I will not object whatsoever."

Ronan: Ronan laughed, "Such a hermit crab."

Ronan: Pinch, pinch.

Matheus: "I'm your hermit."

Ronan: "Gonna get me a crab t'add t'my collection of pets?"

Matheus: "Or confuse your friends with an incorrect horoscope ring."

Ronan: "A what? Men don't know their horoscope, baby."

Matheus: "If I find one man at your college wearing one, you will owe me a kiss."

Ronan: "How 'bout we raise it to a blowjob an' jus' pay someone t'wear one," he grinned.

Matheus: "No, a point must be made," he laughed.

Ronan: "Fiiiine." He offers small kisses, "Real men don't know shit about star signs though."

Matheus: "Real men," he chuckled. "The things I've learned over the years linger. A killer will make an omen with any excuse."

Ronan: "A killer will what now?"

Matheus: "Nothing."

Ronan: He laughed, "'kaaaay."

Matheus: "Kay?" He leaned in nose-to-nose.

Ronan: "Kay!" He stole a kiss.

Matheus: His vampire laughed quietly. "Husband."

Ronan: "Vampire."

Matheus: "Is that all I am?"

Ronan: "Hmmm... y'know the guy who made me a reaper used t'call vampires 'blood suckers'." He smirked.

Matheus: "A rather base epithet. You can think of something better."

Ronan: "A base what?" He laughed, "I dunno. I guess I brought that up 'cause... he hates vampires an'... he owns me. I dunno... if he ever found out... I'm prob'ly worryin' for nothin'. I haven't seen him in years."

Matheus: Nickname, love. A fresh tangle was gently removed while he spoke. "Tell me more about him."

Ronan: "He's a tall, ugly fucker. Mean fucker. Dick sucker. He... I can't remember if I've told you before, I think I have... that he's like one of the... two things, or whatever, that can kill me?"

Matheus: "Hmm." He'd heard, but most mentions of this man were brief. Not this time. "Why is your relationship with him so unsteady?"

Ronan: "... I guess jus' 'cause he owns me. I'm like his equivalent of a ghoul." Big word from someone going to big boy school, "I... also... kinda threatened his boyfriend?"

Matheus: Matheus slowly exhaled, releasing his untangled ringlet. "Would you forgive someone threatening me?"

Ronan: He scoffed, leaning into that hand.

"No. Never. But he ain't like - I mean..." Ronan sighed, "I dunno, baby."

Matheus: "Well, if we have to see him again, we'll both be on our best behavior. It's imperative."

Ronan: ... "You're gonna... what? You're gonna suck up to him?"

Matheus: "Would this man kill you on a whim?"

Ronan: "Baby I don't know."

Matheus: "Then one must do what is necessary."

Ronan: "I really can't imagine you being a doormat like that."

Matheus: "Me? You cannot imagine me being compliant and passive?"

Ronan: "Not to a dick. Not to someone who's a threat to us. Not to someone I'm scared of."

Matheus: "I've had to face many unsavory Cainites in my years. This would not be above politics I've had to endure. Sometimes violence is necessary, but as last resort. Greeting this man with hostility would only cause undue hardship and threaten your life."

Ronan: Ronan was silent for a moment, considering. "D'you think Luke could take him now?"

Matheus: "An angel versus death? I don't know. Perhaps he does."

Ronan: "... That's a fight I wanna see."

Matheus: "One day we might. Not before our wedding, I pray."

Ronan: "What about a vampire an' a angel?" He giggled.

Matheus: "Perhaps a Brujah, or Tremere. Tremere are scholars. Surely they would know a method in which to capture something like him."

Ronan: "Awww, baby. I have no idea what you're talkin' about."

Matheus: Off came his monocle, rubbing his one good eye with exasperation. "My love, my prince. The wind beneath my wings."

Ronan: "You gonna start singin' or suttin'?"

Matheus: "My voice is atrocious."

Ronan: "I think it's pretty sexy..." he purred.

Matheus: "You're biased, love."

Ronan: "Was I biased the first day I met you?"

Matheus: "You are my soulmate."

Ronan: Ahhhhhhhh Ronan's smiling and blushing!

Matheus: Is that all it took? "Kiss me," he chuckled.

Ronan: No! He was busy hiding his face now! He curled up against Matheus' chest and tucked himself under his vampire's chin.

Matheus: This was fine. His arms blanketed him in, leaning back with content sigh. "Just a few more days."

Ronan: "An' then you can make an honest woman outta me!"

Matheus: "No more...nights with other men? Not ever?"

Ronan: Ronan's playful aura faded as he eased back to look at Matheus' face.

Matheus: "I know we've had this conversation before. I just want to make sure this is everything you want it to be."

Ronan: "Really? 'cause it feels more like you won't let shit go that we've already talked about. When did I become the mature one?"

Matheus: "It's my-" he tapped his temple. "I want everything to be perfect. I don't want you to regret anything. Including me."

Ronan: "How's that the same thing as holdin' a grudge against me?"

Matheus: "I don't hold a grudge."

Ronan: "You bringin' that up sounds like you don't trust me, like you expect me t'repeat the shit I've done, like... you're makin' me confirm suttin'. It feels like you've been thinkin' about the past an' that it's been botherin' you. You wouldn't have brought it up if you didn't think about it anymore, so clearly you fuckin' do."

Matheus: "Ronan," he sighed. "Ronan, I don't want you to say or do anything just to please me. My thoughts have only been of our future, and if I am...enough to give you everything. My doubt is only in my capabilities. I'm not an adventurer. I'm not..." He took a moment. "The worry is my own... self-esteem."

Ronan: "That's not what you asked me, though. Is it?" The reaper went to stand, "Jus' forget it."

Matheus: "If I am enough." He didn't need to read his aura to see his frustration. "I have a mental illness, Ronan. I will always have thoughts, many of which I do not want. Most of which never hush."

Ronan: "EVERYONE has a mental illness, Matheus!"

Matheus: "Do you hate me for mine?"

Ronan: "No, when have I ever - how can you fuckin' ask me that?! Why're you bein' such a dick?" A pillow was thrown, definitely not hard enough to hurt.

Matheus: It wasn't caught as it might have in the past during playful debates. He allowed it to collide with his chest and fall. The middle finger of his right hand began to tick. His mind was in a horrific chant of the word stop. He shut his thoughts away to prevent Ronan from hearing it.

Ronan: He paused, heart pounding, breathing coming deep and quick.

"What're you doin'?"

Matheus: "Nothing." Just sitting here.

Ronan: "... Matheus?"

Matheus: "Yes?"

Ronan: "What're you doin'?"

Matheus: "I'm...sitting here. I'm...just...waiting for...my head to correct."

Ronan: ... Okay.... Ronan took a full breath, long, calming. His gaze shifted around the room and his hand rose to his own hair and fell as soon as it met frizzy curls.

Arguing was one thing, taking it far enough that it put someone at mental risk was another. He moved closer slowly, a timid, hesitant hand rose to touch Matheus' cheek if he was allowed.

"It's okay baby, you're okay. We're okay."

Matheus: Stop. Stop. Stop. Stop. Music. He tried to think of music to substitute. No. Stop. Stop.

The hand was warm, wasn't it? Those perfect yet impatient fingers. No, they were patient in this moment. He leaned his weight into his palm.

Stop...Stop......Stop.........It's fine.

"I'm embarrassed. Forgive me."

Ronan: "For what, baby?" he laughed in a way that was meant to be comforting, to show him how very not a big deal it had been. He was not laughing at the situation, nor at Matheus, it was his attempt at saying - you're embarrassed? Around me? Oh, you silly, beautiful thing.

"C'mere." The patience would continue as he gently and carefully brought Matheus into a hug, holding him against his chest. Unknowingly, he'd be providing Matheus with the music of his dead, beating heart.

Matheus: A question had seeped through the dwindling chant. How could Ronan switch emotions so effortlessly? Surely not because of his fiancé's obsessive mind. How Ronan had known something was wrong with their connection had been severed...he didn't understand. Was it a mannerism he had overlooked? Was it the sever itself?

He couldn't allow his thoughts to fall into another obsessive trap. He closed his eyes and listened to his breathing, to his heartbeat, to Ronan himself.

"I'm fine. I promise. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said anything."

Ronan: It was the finger. The physical twitching. It had been his face, his expression. It had been the shutting off. It had been the not catching the pillow. He didn't need a vampiric magical connection to understand his vampire, his husband, his lover. His best friend.

"Shh, baby. You should always say everythin' you wanna say to me." He hugged slightly tighter.

Matheus: "I've never questioned any relationship the way I question ours. I've never concerned myself enough to put forth such effort. I don't want you bereft of anything. Will you promise me that you will always tell me when you need something?"

Ronan: "I promise if you promise that too?"

Matheus: "I swear."

Ronan: Ronan presented his pinky finger.

Matheus: He sealed their promise, kissed his reaper's cheek.

Ronan: Good. He giggled and snuggled back into his partner's chest. He'll spend the rest of the day telling Matheus about all the things Sean had helped with, asking his opinion, and finalising last-minute things.

Matheus: Matheus checked his pocket watch for a third time. It was worn, as expected for a fifty year-old watch. Though not his oldest, it was the best polished for such an important day, and his only made of gold.

He looked at himself in the mirror once more, glanced back to the locked door. No, not gold. Not with his soft brown suit. The brass and wood antique would be more appropriate.

"The wedding will be over before I'm presentable," he sighed.

Ronan/Conor/Sean/Aidan: "Ro, your tie's messy!"

"That isn't the correct type of knot for a weddin'."

"What d'you mean? It's fine!"

"Who fuckin' cares about a knot?"

"Ronan."

"It's important! What kinda knot is Matheus usin'?"

Conor shooed both Sean and Aidan away. Let him handle this.

"Ro your hair got all messy!"

"I told you not to- wait, where's the photographer?"

"He's-"

"My camera's over there, jus' use that."

"You ain't payin' me t'do it, why should I?"

Ronan rolled his eyes. It's going to be a long day.

Bo: Bo stood rather stiffly near the small rows of chairs by the arbor. He was too busy staring at the decorations to notice the absence of guests, the chill raising the hairs on his arms, or the orange colored leaves collecting at his feet. He adjusted his striped tie and straightened his vest, wondering for the fifth time that day why he was there. Conor Archer was his reason, but Conor Archer was playing brother.

He looked up. So where was Brett Parker?

Brett: Brett Parker was lingering by his car, fidgeting with his watch and trying desperately to come up with a reason to get back in said car and drive far, far away from this wedding and the people participating in it. He shouldn't be here. He wasn't wanted here. The only two people that had any interest in him could surely be talked out of being here. They could go to the beach or back to Oslo or to the moon maybe. Anywhere but here.

{Text to Bo} Baby I can't do this

Bo: Bo felt for his phone in his blazer and frowned. A quick glance for Conor - still absent - and he headed back to the car.

"Brett," he called as soon as he came into view. A single come hither finger. "He doesn't ask much of us. Just stay by me," said his human, softly encouraging in Norwegian.

Brett: His body untensed ever so slightly when Bo came into view and immediately moved closer when summoned. "There's no way his brother and Matheus are okay with me being here," he responded, also in Norwegian. "They hate me."

Bo: "I don't care if they do, and neither should you. We're here for Conor."

Brett's tie was adjusted. Easy to notice where the sheriff had been fidgeting. "Come on." He offered his arm.

Brett: If only Conor was the only other person present, he thought, watching Bo fix his new tie. At least he wouldn't embarrass Bo or their demon with his distinctly unsophisticated style of dress. Letting the two of them dress him for today was the only smart thing he'd done.

Sighing, he took Bo's arm. "It's not too late for us to go to the moon."

Bo: "Don't be so dramatic. You're not going to lose your head." Metaphorically or literally. "Let's enjoy the champagne and Conor in his suit."

Brett: Brett nodded and took a calming breath. "Okay. We can do that."

Bo: "We don't have to say a single word in English if you don't want."

Luke: Meanwhile, Luke was speaking the Queen's English to Fletcher, helping him take a seat while instinctively looking around for things he could do to help.

"There's Sash and Quintin, do you want to come with me to say hello?"

Brett: "I might take you up on that." Anything that could even remotely be considered a form of self-defense would be thoroughly exploited.

And if that failed, at least he wasn't the only human (sort of) in attendance.

Bo/Fletcher/Sash: Fletcher couldn't seem to let go of his green tweed suit. If not his tie, his blazer, if not his blazer, adjusting his belt. He didn't like suits. He had nothing against Luke or anyone else wearing one, but he would not do any suit any justice. Frankly, he was surprised to have been invited in the first place.

"I look like shit," he hissed. "I gue - I dunno em." Though he admired the taller, older one's suit from afar. Turtleneck and blazer? Less shit to wear. He wished he'd thought of that. The younger one looked as stiff as he felt, and the least dressed of all. Sash had left his blazer in his brother's jeep. Too hot, he insisted. Jeans, tan brogues, a suit vest - his tie was only due to Q's nagging. Not five minutes from parking and already it was being loosened.

"How long do you give them?" Bo whispered, taking a seat to the left of the arbor, away from everyone else.

Luke: "That's okay, I'll be right back." he kissed Fletcher's cheek, "Relax, beautiful. You look perfect. Just sit down." And another kiss to Fletcher's hand before he slinked away to smile at Q and Sash.

"Hello, welcome." Sash would find Luke's presence automatically calming. There would be no trick here, no purposeful action to sway emotions, it was simply how humans reacted. Knowing this was why Luke felt the need to greet them. "Have you been here long?"

Brett: "How long do I give what?" Brett asked, switching back to Norwegian. Far safer than whispering. "Their marriage?"

Bo/Sash/Q: Sash took a deep breath and smiled. No facial hair; Luke's words would be an easy read. He could swear he saw an accent from those lips, too.

"Nice to meet you. Do I know you?"

Q elbowed in. "His name is Luke." His name was fingerspelled. "This is my brother, Sash. We just got here." While Sash's shoulders began to sag, Q's suddenly tightened. He didn't understand why.

Bo was going to continue his whisper in Norwegian, which he had yet to deviate from.

"Mhm. A vampire and a reaper. I wonder if it's common."

Luke: 'It's nice to meet you, Sash,' Luke signed in perfect ASL, 'I've heard so much about you from Sean, he doesn't stop talking about you.' The angel laughed. 'Do you know anyone else here?'

Brett: "Don't know how common it is, but my bet is probably few hundred years. They're both immortal."

Bo/Sash: Sash's smile grew. 'I've never met so many people in a small town that just know ASL.' He had questions, but managed to hold his tongue. Anyone else? A terrifying fucking vampire and his lover he can't seem to get away from.

His eyes fell and he shook his head. 'No.'

"So, vampires can love. Who would've thought," Bo sighed. His attention was taken by the sign language on the other side of the arbor. "I'm still trying to understand why a vampire gave me a new tongue, and here we sit at another's wedding. Should I be surprised anymore?"

Luke: Ah, lovely. He only knew ASL as his angel form allowed, but he couldn't exactly explain that... 'I hope that means you feel comfortable here. If you find yourself needing me I'm sat over there.' he motioned to where Fletcher was sat.

"Quintin, is your partner coming? I heard about him from Sean, too."

Brett: A smile teased at Brett's lips. "Well, we live in Edenton so probably not. There's good surprises too, though. At least for us."

Bo/Sash/Q: Ah, ha. "It's Q, and uh, yes. Not sure when. I should text him." So he would do that right now, abandoning his brother with the angel.

"I'll be fine. I read lips. Anyone got a bushy beard I need to worry about?"

Bo smiled only because Brett had. "There is a prince in Oslo. Did I not tell you? I bet you can guess the name."

Luke: "My apologies, Ronan calls you Quintin." he smiled. "Ronan's friend Salt has the biggest beard, I believe. Have you met Aidan? He has a little beard, which is mainly stubble, I'm not sure how that impacts your lip-reading."

Brett: That smile faltered. "Would it happen to be your uncle Johan?" he asked quietly.

Bo/Sash: "Thick ones around the lips make em hard to read," he explained, watching his brother with his nose in his phone. Tane would be a comfort to have. He was the largest man he knew in Edenton. Maybe a bouncer could save him if not Sean.

Bo inclined his head and let it fall. Very good, Brett.

Luke: "What about accents?" Luke leaned against a chair, clearly extremely interested in Sash.

Brett/Tane: Brett sighed and closed his eyes. "Great. So much for pleasant surprises." Where was Conor? They needed something beautiful and good to look at and think about.

Tane was just finishing getting ready when his phone went off.

{Text} Hey gorgeous, sorry I'm running late

{Text} On my way out the door now!

Bo/Sash/Q: "Accents? Have you met Sean?" He waved away his tease. "If I don't get it, I ask." This guy sure was polite. He felt like one of those bible thumpers he met that one summer his mother insisted they give church a try. Not bad, just...different.

"Is it really a surprise, given everything you know about me and what I did?" said Bo.

{Text} Don't die. I'll meet you in the parking lot

Luke: Luke laughed. Fair point. "And your voice... forgive me if I'm asking too many questions, feel free to tell me to go away, but... does that hurt, at all?"

Brett/Tane: "It's not a surprise, but the fact that it isn't has nothing to do with you." He took advantage of the fact that everyone seemed to be ignoring them and pulled his lovely Botan into a brief kiss.

{Text} I'll drive fast but safely, promise

Luckily the roads were pretty much empty, allowing him to keep his promise and arrive in record time.

Bo/Sash/Q: Sash suddenly looked confused. "Hurt? Why?" That was new.

Bo said nothing else, turning his attention to where Brett wanted him. Brief was all he could give. His patience was on a thread. He wanted Conor beside them.

Q would be waiting beside his newly washed Geo Tracker, ass leaned against the driver door while playing Tetris.

Luke: "Hm... I'm imagining you speak through vibrations, am I correct? Does this not sometimes cause your throat to feel sore? Of course, I'm speaking as someone with no knowledge on the topic, forgive my ignorance."

Sash: Sash shook his head and smiled. 'Put shit in your ears. Blast music full volume, then try to talk without being able to hear yourself.'

Brett/Tane: A thought Brett shared wholeheartedly. He had no idea how they were going to get through this without being able to touch and kiss their demon as much as they wanted; they were spoiled to him.

Tane spotted Q immediately. Now that was a lovely view. “Hey, gorgeous,” he called, grinning as he made his way over. “You look fantastic.”

Luke/Ronan/Aidan: "I will give it a try and report back to you." He chuckled.

"Okay, guys, I think my tie's fine now! I'm ready jus'... go out an' take care of guests or whatever. Not you, Aidan. You've gotta stay with me."

Aidan... was still taken aback by the fact that Ronan had asked him to give him away. It was... strange and unprecedented but... nice. He was absolutely touched by the request, and so he helped Sean and Conor depart despite their objections. He wanted time to talk to his brother.

Bo/Q: Q didn't think too much of his outfit. Turtlenecks and blazers had been a Chicago fashion he couldn't shake. One oftentimes worn by his father. He simply smiled at Tane's flattery. "You look good enough to eat."

Bo traced his fingertips over the back of Brett's hand, looking back towards the small cottage. Oh. He drummed his fingers on that hand now. "He's out."

Brett/Tane: Tane gave Q a wicked little grin. "If you ask nicely I might let you," he said, offering his arm to escort Q back to the seating area. Suit or no suit, he was still a gentleman.

Brett tried to draw comfort and calm from Bo's touch, tried to breathe deeply to make himself relax. It was Bo had said; they were here for Conor.

And as such, it came as a massive relief to have him finally come into view.

Brett smiled. "He looks handsome in his suit."

Sean/Conor: Sean and Conor's gaze went in opposite directions, searching for their respective companions.

Conor saw his pair first, raising a hand to greet and show them that they've been spotted too. He gave his brother's arm a pat before leaving him to his own devices. Once his Petal and Flower were met he kissed both of their cheeks.

'You look really good. Thank you for coming.'

Bo/Sash/Q: Bo's smile broadened. There was their man.

'Doesn't he clean up well?' He would have taken the compliment for himself, but his cheek was still pink from when Brett had rubbed his beard against him.

Q looked at the arm and scoffed. "Can we forgo all of the formalities and just let me ride your shoulders back?" Fine, fine. He would walk beside him.

Sash had taken a seat in the nearest chair, playing a game on his phone, oblivious to the man walking up behind him.

Brett/Tane: Never had a kiss been so welcome. "If I do it's only because the two of you dressed me." Another sneaky look to make sure no one was watching. Coast clear, he gave Conor a proper kiss.

Tane chuckled. "I think our hosts would frown upon that. We've gotta behave."

Sean/Conor: Oh! Conor couldn't help but smile into such a bold kiss. Fingers hook around Brett's clothing, tugging him closer. Fair is fair. A quick glance around and he brought Bo in for the same treatment, still holding tightly onto his Petal.

Sean smiled, taking in Sash's outfit. He slid over to a table, pulling out a flower from the display. In a moment he swiftly got on one knee at Sash's feet, offering the flower with a smile.

Bo/Sash/Q: He wished to photograph their kiss. One day he must. If he ever lost his memory again, moments like these would have to be preserved for him.

Bo leaned into his kiss and sighed. Gone less than an hour, but still the hybrid was missed.

"Everything alright?" Enjoy his native tongue, Conor.

Sean's gaze was followed, and then studied as he walked away for - oh. You beautiful idiot. Sash's smile was all but blinding. He had to say what he was thinking. 'Idiot. Get up and come here.'

Q scoffed at the romantic displays across the lawn.

"Is no one single anymore?"

Brett/Tane: All Bo had to do was ask and Brett was rather inclined to let him. He was more than happy to be photographed as long as it meant he got to be in their demon's arms.

"Well we are at a wedding," Tane chuckled. "And can we really talk? That'd be us if Luke were here."

Sean/Conor: That smile never failed to make Sean feel faint. The flower was placed on Sash's lap as he rose. Hands went straight to the human's jaw, guiding him into a kiss from where he hovered above.

'My brother should be out soon. Matheus will come first.' Conor gestured so that he could sit between them.

Bo/Sash/Q: "Have I seen Matheus before?" He knew of him, of course, but face-to-face? For all he knew, the man was one of his tormentors.

With a nod, Bo moved over a seat for Conor to sandwich in.

'His long is a wedding?' asked Sash, leaning back up to steal another quick kiss before Sean could answer.

"Luke in a suit... that wouldn't last five minutes," he grinned.

Brett/Tane: Brett felt himself tense again. He didn't want to see Matheus. Or Ronan for that matter. He could only hope they were too focused on each other and their wedding day to notice his presence.

Tane just grinned. "He wears one every day. You should ask him to come by sometime right after he leaves work."

Sean/Conor: 'Hopefully not too long... You look so good in that I think I might pass out.' more kisses, Sash. More. More.

Conor thought for a moment before shaking his head. 'I don't think so, unless you've crossed paths in a book store or something like that. Guildias wasn't invited in case you were wondering.' directed at Brett.

Bo/Sash/Q: Sean soon had his mouth covered by his giggling human. "Shut up. Shh." No more. They're in public around dangerous people!

"He lives and works in Raleigh. I doubt we're going to have the pleasure unless we stay at his place."

Well, that was one less worry, thought Bo.

Brett/Tane: "I figured as much," said Brett, nodding. He couldn't see Ronan or Matheus inviting him to their wedding after the little incident with the negotiations.

Tane seemed to consider the matter very seriously. "I think maybe a trip to Raleigh is in order. A surprise one in fact."

Sean/Conor: Sean laughed too, giddy with happiness as he held him human close, kissing him lovingly. Public? Around... people? No, no. They're the only ones here. The world is theirs.

Hm...

'If you are both introduced officially to my family you will have to spend time with him.'

Bo/Sash/Q: "Fuck yes. Could do it tonight, even. I know he's got the next two days off."

If only Sash could carry as much elation as his counterpart. Still, he laughed and nuzzled, doing his vest to ignore those around them, those approaching from behind the house, and those within.

'I've already met Ronan and Aidan,' Bo pointed out. 'The one left is occupied.'

Brett/Tane: “Then it’s settled. Tonight after the wedding we’re taking a little road trip to Raleigh and see if we can catch our blondie in his work suit.

Surely there was some way they could be introduced to Conor’s family without having to deal with Matheus? He hoped?

“I’ve only met Ronan.”

Sean/Conor: Conor looked around and - eugh, Sean needs to stop. He cringed.

'Do you want to meet Sean?' he glanced between them both. He was... hoping that they did.

Bo/Q: What was that face for? Bo smiled. We were just kissing your face, Flame.

"It's the kind of day for formal introduction." He supposed he would have to switch to English, then.

"Maybe on the way we can get you your own car," Q smirked.

Brett/Tane: "I do have my own car!" Tane pointed at his Range Rover. At some point it simply got too expensive to keep renting a car and since he was going to be here for a while, he bit the bullet and bought a used 2010 Range Rover Sport. "Suits me just fine."

It was the kind of day for formal introduction. And since Sean wasn't Ronan or Matheus, surely it was safe to interact with him.

"I agree. We should meet him," said Brett.

Sean/Conor: Conor nodded, smiling. Of course he couldn't call him over so he brought his phone out and texted him.

With a huff Sean pulled away from Sash's addictive lips. He read the message, saying he wants him to meet the people he's with and where he is.

Looking around he spotted the waving hand.

"Conor wants me t'meet some people. I'll be right back, okay?" One last, lingering kiss before he excused himself - actually maybe one more kiss. Okay, NOW he's gone!

Sean went over, grinning.

"Hey, brother!"

Conor stood, 'This is Flower,' he signed without thinking, just as he had done to Aidan, 'and this is Petal.'

Sean looked very confused.

Bo/Sash/Q: Bo watched as Conor's brother was pulled back into a third and final kiss by what he assumed was a deaf human. As the reaper made his way over he stood straightening his suit, offering his hand afterward.

My sweet flame...

"My formal name is Bo. Bo Nowicki. Hello."

Q glanced back to what couldn't be seen. "You mean that's not another rental? Look at you!" he laughed.

Brett/Tane: “Nope!” Tane said proudly. “Got sick of rentals. That guy who works at the marina was selling his Range Rover to buy himself a boat so I took it off his hands.” He snuck a kiss. “We can take it up to Raleigh.”

Brett’s cheeks went bright red at Conor’s introduction. He cleared his throat. “Brett,” he managed. “Parker.”

Sean/Conor: ... Oh. Oops.

Sean chuckled, shaking their hands with a warm smile.

"Nice t'meet you both." Ronan wouldn't let Sean invite one more person, but here Conor is with two... two people Conor had wanted him to meet... two people that he seemed to be idly brushing his index fingers against. Hm. "How d'you guys all know each other?"

Bo/Q: I see where you're looking.

Bo gestured to the sheriff. "In the rain outside of a coffee shop." To Conor. "On a bus, and we lost each other." Vague enough.

"Raleigh, Kitty Hawk, anywhere you want, partner," Q grinned.

Brett/Tane: Tane grinned. "We should try to take a trip at least once a month."

Had he ever felt this self-conscious? He doubted it.

But Conor's touch, no matter how small, was far too much comfort for him to move away from it.

He cleared his throat again. "And I met Conor through Botan." Yes, vague. Vague was good.

Sean/Conor: "A... bus? In Edenton?"

Conor shook his head. 'We met before, I recognised him and spoke to him.' Why be vague? 'Brett is the sheriff.' His eyes smiled as he looked at Brett and his brother found it impossible not to notice.

"Oh... yeah?" he asked, pulling his gaze away from Conor. "In this town? Must be boring."

Bo: Bo kept to himself, observing Sean from shoes to hair. Nothing to do but see Brett's reaction.

Brett: What could he do with a look like that except melt internally?

"Oh, well." He gave a nervous chuckle. "It has its moments. "

Sean/Conor: "Huh... an' what d'you do, Bo-... Botan? 'scuse me if I'm not pronouncin' that right." With Sean's eyes on Bo, Conor briefly brushed his finger over the back of Brett's hand.

Bo: "Bo," he corrected. Botan was sacred. He didn't know why, it just was. "I'm...an investor." Eyes engaging, but his hand was exploring the cuff of Conor's blazer.

Brett: It seemed they were both trying to draw comfort from their demon any way they could.

Brett was just going to keep quiet unless he was spoken to.

Sean: Movement caused Sean's gaze to fall from Bo's face. Their hands...

He didn't fully understand what he was witnessing, he didn't entirely get why Conor had wanted him to meet these guys. But... he could only be happy. It was so unbelievably beautiful to see his brother be close to others.

"An investor? That's pretty awesome. Are you the people Conor lives with now? ... Or spends a lot of time with, or something?"

Bo: "Yes, we are." A glance was given to the boy hunched over with his phone. Back to the reaper. "And is he yours?"

Sean: Damn, Sean liked the sound of that.

"Yeah." He clarified, grinning, "He's mine." But that's not what's important here. "D'you guys know Ro an' Matheus or are you jus' here for Con?"

Bo: "I'm here for Conor and Brett," he said simply.

Brett: Oh yes, he knew them. Brett nodded, smiled pleasantly. "Same here."

Sean/Conor: Ah, he nodded. "Thanks for comin', anyway. I hope you have a good time. Con." He pulled Conor into a hug and kissed both of his cheeks before speaking in Irish, "If you ever have something you want to tell me, I'm right here. I'm never too busy for you. I love you." He pulled back ans returned to English to address Conor's companions, "See you around." He waved at them and went to return to... what was his.

Bo: Bo's smile grew to the beautiful Irish and the words flowing. He waited for his departure, back to the man easily startled by his sudden touch.

"Never too busy," said in Norwegian. "And he loves you. I like him."

Brett: Sean seemed like a perfectly nice, perfectly polite person, and while Brett appreciated both of those things, it was the way he interacted with Conor that truly made him feel a bit more at ease. Biased as it was, he had a soft spot for anyone who treated the people he loved kindly.

And apparently, so did Bo.

"I like him, too."

Conor: Was... that... a blush on Conor's face? He was smiling and looking down at his feet. Oh dear. The hybrid rubbed the back of his neck.

Bo: His hand was taken, and he was led the two feet back to their chairs. This was a lot of public affection, but they were alone. Their own private bubble. This didn't count.

"Has he always been so polite?"

Conor: In turn, Conor took Brett's hand to bring him with them.

He shrugged and nodded. 'Yes. His love has never been anything but unconditional. When my father found out that he was gay he tried to throw him out, and the next day Sean nursed his hangover. Maybe it isn't politeness, but gentility and kindness. No problem is too big or too small to share with him. I'm happy that you both like him. He was the one who taught me sign language when I lost my voice. We learnt it together.'

Brett/Tane: As they slipped into their bubble again, Brett found himself appreciating Sean more and more. Not everyone was lucky enough to have a brother like that, so willing to pour his love and his time and his patience on you any and every time you needed it.

"I'm so glad he's your brother," said Brett, smiling softly. "He sounds like a wonderful person, and I'm glad you had a person like that in your life growing up and that you still do."

Bo: "I should be thanking him for his generosity." That was the most Conor had ever shared in one instance. The brother was revered. This was someone Conor gave a shit about, which meant he had to give a shit. He couldn't muster the strength to concern himself with everyone, but if there had to be anyone then by all means, Sean Archer.

Then he locked eyes with Brett.

"You've learned two languages since meeting me. Look at you now, how considerate, how...you're you. You two are similar. It strikes me."

Conor: Conor smiled. A genuine, content smile. He glanced over to see his brother nuzzling into his boyfriend and kissing his cheek a thousand times. He wondered if Sash was aware of how lucky he is, and through this he came to the realisation that he is also very lucky. He, also, has unconditional love at his fingertips.

Wait- WHAT?

He cringed, 'Please don't say Petal is similar to Sean, that makes me feel...' he shuddered.

Brett: The comparison moved him. It hadn't occurred to Brett that most other people wouldn't have learned two languages to better connect with their significant others or that his level of consideration was outside the norm. He couldn't remember ever really stopping to think about it; it was simply what he'd felt compelled to do. He would learn a thousand languages for Bo and Conor.

However, the touched look on his face dissolved into mirth at Conor's reaction.

He laughed.

Bo: "Unnskyld," Bo chuckled. "Jeg skal ikke gjøre det igjen." I won't do it again. Still, Brett's realization was a truth he admired. For a man as humble as the sheriff, he was so much more than he let on.

Conor/Aidan/Ronan: Conor shook his head, smiling.

Meanwhile, Aidan was kneeling on the floor in front of his brother, drying his tears. He had said only kind words, but they had resulted in Ronan crying from happiness. It's a good thing he hadn't been wearing makeup, it would definitely be ruined.

"How... how's Matheus? He's gettin' ready alone. Can you go check on him?"

"Yeah, Ro. I've got my phone so jus' call me if you need me, okay?" he kissed his brother's head as he got to his feet and left, heading for the room his... brother-in-law was getting ready in. He'll knock and announce who it is.

Matheus: The door was in the middle of being opened when Aidan knocked. He felt Ronan's tears and wedding be damned, he wanted to check on him.

"Oh. You slipped right by me." And what did he mean by that? "Hello, Aidan."

Aidan: Aidan blinked. Eh?

"Hello. Would I be correct in assuming you heard Ronan?"

Matheus: "Is he alright?"

Aidan: "Jus' got overwhelmed I think. Asked me t'check on you. Need a hand with anything?"

Matheus: "Oh." Overwhelmed?

'Ronan, he says you're overwhelmed. Do we need to delay? Do you want to see me?'

"I'm ready. It's about Ronan now."

Aidan/Ronan: "Why's it about Ro?"

'Not that kind of overwhelmed!' were the thoughts Matheus was offered, 'If I see you I have no doubt we'll fuck. Just so you know.'

Matheus: 'Well we can't have that. Not for at least another hour.'

Oh, right. Aidan. "Because you said he's overwhelmed."

Aidan: Seems like you're a bit distracted, buddy.

"An' you're not?"

Matheus: "He's already my husband. This is to declare to everyone else, human or otherwise."

Aidan: "You ain't nervous? Even a little? You're about t'go up on stage in fronna everyone an' you're fine?"

Matheus: "What had concerned me has been dealt with. While I don't like crowds, I'm not so anxious as to," frenzy, "devastate the evening."

Aidan: "Did you write your own vows?"

Matheus: "Yes."

Aidan: Aidan nodded. "Can I come in?" They were still in the doorway...

Matheus: He glanced back, widened the door. "I just need to put away the mirror."

Aidan: He entered, nodding. The door was softly shut behind him.

"Matheus... I know you likely got used t'not havin' family, an' I know I'm prob'ly the last person you want t'hear this from, but it's the truth. We are family now. That means... your problems are mine, too. Sean's too. Conor's too. Since we were all young that's how we've survived. Jus' know that no problem is too small an' none of us are ever too busy. That's something I tried t'teach 'em... Sean does a better job of it than me, though. You're part of that, too. If you ever need any of us, for whatever reason, never hesitate."

Matheus: A closed door was enough of an indication to listen. This being Aidan, he expected a speech on how he should treat Ronan preciously; that he wished it hadn't been him, but here they were bound together by circumstance. What was given contradicted quite a bit, but presented a new unexpected predicament.

"I will...consider what you're saying. Even when I was alive, my family wasn't close. Not by any means similar to an Archer. I would say it was a different time, but I'm not much older than you. Emily, Harriett, Edward, my mother, we were blood, but we were not bonded by it. Watching you all, I'm grateful Ronan had you, and has you still."

Aidan: "I think we're so close because we all went through the same trauma. In that sense, I am glad your family didn't experience that. It's a hefty price t'pay for closeness." Regardless...

"I am more grateful that Ronan has you now. I think you can understand him, I think you help him. When he... did that to himself... I could never wrap my head around it. I saw so many people die in my time as a human, but Ronan chose to leave, and that hurt more than cancer forcin' our ma', or my brother at gun point." He took a deep breath, remembering that Conor chose the same fate. "Thank you, Matheus. Thank you for bein' someone who can finally help him be happy."

Matheus: What a heavy conversation on his wedding day. It had been so long since having spoken to someone like this, someone outside of politics, someone not Ronan.

"May I ask...how it happened to you?"

Aidan: "Nothin' interestin'. I was trampled by a horse an' the carriage it was pullin'." he smiled sadly. "I wish I could have given that to someone else, I suffered less than them."

Matheus: The Malkavian blinked. "I imagine, from experience and - that a gunshot would be much quicker." A smile was attempted. "Bad luck, mate."

Aidan: "The death itself, but the fear of bein' kidnapped isn't somethin' I'd want for them. Or anyone." Ugh, yes. Heavy conversation! Shake it off. "Congratulations, Matheus. Welcome to the Irish Mob." Ah, a joke! He's grinning.

Matheus: "Oh, well, if we talk of kidnappings, that I have experienced. The only time I'd ever killed anyone with my bare hands." His polite smile followed. "I think my brother would have loved your sense of humor."

Aidan: Wait, what? Aidan blinked.

"Well I'm sorry I didn't get t'meet him." He'll just focus on that for now. "Is there anythin' I can help you with?" Aside from taking it upon himself to move closer and straighten Matheus' tie.

Matheus: Matheus stiffened with his nearness, caught off guard by any neutral or even friendly touch by this man. Aidan was right. This would take getting used to.

"Is everything ready?"

Aidan: Aidan nodded, noticing, but not commenting on, the reaction. It was okay. He patted Matheus' shoulder and gave him a little squeeze.

"Yeah. D'you need me t'check anythin' in particular? Conor an' Sean are outside now tendin' t'guests. Everyone is set up an' ready."

Matheus: "Are all guests in attendance?"

Aidan: He brought out his phone, "So far Salt an' Tristan... an' Billy Gale haven't arrived."

Matheus: "You have a plus one?"

Aidan: "Of course. June. She isn't here yet, either. I told her to come later so that she wasn't sat alone, but since Luke an' Fletcher are here now I should let her know."

Matheus: All of these people for other's benefit. He simply smiled, brief though it was. "How did you two come to meet?"

Aidan: "Q got her number for me an' then Sean forced me t'text her." he smiled at the memory. That felt like so long ago... "I went on down t'where she was workin'... an' that was it. Nothin' could've pulled me away from her."

Matheus: "Oh, yes. Mr. Traxler. I hear he's more than he appears to be. Your June, she is human?"

Aidan: "June is human." he nodded, "Q... it isn't my place to get involved with that. I can only hope things work out."

Matheus: "What do you mean by that?"

Aidan: "Bein' what he is... but Sash is human."

Matheus: "Half-brothers. Are they aware?"

Aidan: "I don't know. I don't have to know, it has nothing to do with me."

Matheus: "Given how adamant Sean is with....Sash. One day it might become your business."

Aidan: "Then it is not a problem for now. It's not a problem for your weddin' day."

Matheus: "No. This is just a conversation between the two of us."

Aidan: "I'm not fond of discussin' other people's problems."

Matheus: "I don't like when they become a glaring issue in which I have to become involved. Scars from being an inspector, I suppose."

Aidan: The reaper nodded.

"Let's cross that bridge when we come to it."

Matheus: 'Your brother could have been an inspector.'

"Indeed. I'm going to see Ronan now."

Aidan/Ronan: Ronan blinked, 'Why?' That was a weird fucking thing to suddenly think. 'He's a lawyer, isn't that the same thing?'

"Yeah? Go ahead. I'll go out an' check on the guests. Give me a ring if you need me." he nodded by way of departure and excused himself.

Matheus: Aidan was thanked and followed down the spiral staircase in pursuit of his fiance. He would rather answer his question in person.

Ronan: His soon-to-be-husband would be found secretly stuffing his face with cold leftover pizza from the night before which he had managed to sneak into his room without anyone noticing.

Matheus: "Enjoying that, are you?"

Ronan: Ronan groaned like he was having an orgasm. "I haven't eaten since this fuckin' mornin'."

Matheus: "Save room for your wedding cake and then describe it to me at length."

Ronan: He laughed, throwing the half-eaten slice back into the box and wiping his hands. Oh... He blinked at the sight of his vampire, swallowing the food in his mouth before smiling.

"Baby... c'mere..."

Matheus/Q: Ronan's line of sight was followed, self-consciously straightening his vest.

"Is it too much? Too little?" He stepped forward.

Q looked around admiring the other guests, looking for June and her bright little voice.

Tane's ribs were nudged. "If you had to have a wedding, how would you want it?"

June/Tane: Tane thought for a moment. "Nothing as formal as this. Probably something short and simple on the beach with a bonfire or something after. Good food, good music. More of a party than a wedding, I guess."

Aidan had told her he'd text her when to come to the wedding, but she was far too worried about not having enough time to get ready to wait so as soon as her hair and dress and makeup were perfect she left her house.

Or rather she had Tristan pick her up because she didn't want to drive in heels. She texted Aidan as they pulled in.

{Text to Aidan} I'm here!

Aidan/Ronan: {Text: June} I'm just outside, follow the flowers on the wall.

"It's perfect..." Hands smoothed over Matheus' chest, "you're perfect."

Matheus/Q: "You're a vision," Matheus smiled. "I need a photo of you like this...and one for every article of clothing removed."

Q shrugged. "I have two speeds if I had to. Either a rave or a jazz club. There is no in between."

June/Tristan/Tane: "Beach rave," Tane said with a grin.

{Text} Will do!

"Come on, Tristan," she said, looping her arm through his and leading him over.

"You're very demanding today," he chuckled.

"I'm just excited. I love weddings and Ronan and Matheus are so cute!"

Ronan: Ronan giggled, "We gotta take some together, too." tiptoeing was required to kiss Matheus' nose.

Matheus/Q: "We have all the time in the world after we say I do." Being on his toes wasn't necessary. Matheus would meet him halfway, holding him by his rear and - no. These were nice clothes. Ronan would catch the sight of self-restraint.

Q looked the bouncer over from the corner of his eyes. "Mmhmm." I hear what you're saying. "But, you know, it's not my thing. You though. You should get your beach wedding."

Tane: Tane shrugged. "I'd need a groom for that first. Not something I really think about anymore." The last time he'd actively imagined a wedding it had been a far-flung fantasy involving Logan's dad when they were in high school. Then Logan's dad had married someone else, spelling the end of that.

Aidan/Ronan: "Mmm. I do. I do. I do, I do, I do, I do. I do. I - uh .... oh yeah! I do."

As soon as June and Tristan came into sight Aidan smiled - but the second he took her in that was all gone. He covered his mouth in shock, and looked around.

"Ohh... what should I do? You've made me weak. Ah-" he put a hand on his own chest, "My heart! How can you do this to me? Tristan! Be on stand-by with an ambulance I think I'm gonna faint." he took June's hand and pulled her close.

Matheus/Q: The Malkavian almost laughed. His smile as loud as he would be, covering Ronan's mouth to shush. "Just a few moments."

June was there to save Q from wondering if he was the reason Tane abandoned his dream of marriage. Today was meant to be a pleasant day, not one to debate whether or not it was time to push his lover away.

"Look at Little Miss Junebug."

June/Tane: Q need only ask and Tane would dispel any worries. Even if he didn't ask, perhaps he'd tell him anyway if it came up one day.

"She looks like a princess," he said with a grin as June laughed and tugged her boyfriend down for a kiss.

"You're ridiculous," June laughed. "And even though I still think this dress was too much for a wedding I'll take all the compliments I get for it." Another kiss then, more softly, "Hey, Prince Charming."

Ronan: With a smile, hands settled on June's face, thumbs brushing over her cheeks lovingly. "Hello, gorgeous, I've missed you." he carefully allowed his forehead to rest on hers to whisper. "You're makin' all the flowers jealous of you, you're too beautiful."

The reaper giggled against that familiar hand. He gave that palm a kiss.

Matheus: Matheus' smile lingered. "I have a prediction. Your brother Aidan and Ms. Lujano will not be far behind. That's going to be quite the wedding."

Ronan's hair was kissed. "It's time. Are you ready?"

June: "You're gonna make me blush, Aidan Archer. Who gave you permission to say such swoon-worthy things?"

Aidan/Ronan: "I think it comes with the title." He kissed her forehead and straightened. "Tristan, Ro's still inside but Sean an' everyone else is around. You don't happen t'know where Salt is, do you?"

"Really?... But she's human, baby."

Matheus/Salt: "She is," Matheus said evenly. "As is the boy Sean is infatuated with. Both are going to have hardship."

Salt had learned the phrase "fashionably late" just today. His suit was suffocating, though he was ensured by Circe that his outfit was acceptable. Handsome, even. The blue complemented his eyes, and the texture and fit accentuated his figure. Despite being invited with a plus one, the Ananasi arrived alone.

{Text via Salt} Where are you? {Text} I apologize for my tardiness.

June/Tristan: June's smile got even wider. "Aww, I love that you take your nickname seriously." He was doing an effortless job with it.

Tristan shook his head. "I don't, sorry. Didn't see him when we were driving up here." He decided to take his leave, letting the two lovebirds make kissy faces at each other while he said hello to Sean.

Ronan/Aidan: "Yeah. We're lucky, ain't we, baby?" he smiled, nuzzling into Matheus' neck, "We're real lucky." Oh. He was distracted by his phone, bringing it out when we could pull himself away from his husband to be. "Oh, it's Salt."

{Text: Sugar} In the house, every1 is round back

And then Ronan sent his friend a picture of himself and Matheus he forced the vampire to take.

"Come," Aidan took June's hand, "I need to greet Luke an' Fletcher an' ask Fletcher where his ma' is. She's invited for... some reason."

Matheus/Salt/Fletcher: "I would say we are." Though they would last significantly longer, one day they too would know hardship. Not for some three hundred years at least, he hoped.

Salt stared at the photo before saving it. {Text: Ronan} May I come in?

Fletcher was in the middle of texting his mother, doing his level best to encourage her to take the final steps into the park towards the vampire and assorted others.

June: "Aww, that's sweet that he invited her," said June, twining their fingers together. "Fletcher's mom mostly keeps to herself it seems like. I hope she decides to come." The moment she spotted Luke she waved. "Hi, Luke!"

Ronan/Aidan/Luke: {Text: Sugar} Come In!!!!!!!!

"Yeah me too, seems like Ro has his heart set on her comin'." He smiled when Luke and Fletcher come into sight. Luke stood to greet them.

"Hello, welcome. You look incredible, June."

"Mm hm, don't she? Hey, Fletcher."

Salt/Fletcher: Salt opened the door expecting to be burned by some sort of Malkavian spell. Shoulders lost much of their tension at the sight and lack of ignition.

"I've never seen you so handsome." His phone was put away. "There is a woman in the vehicle lot dressed for the occasion. Long in years, sharp nose, light hair?"

Fletcher glanced up from his phone and -

"Oh damn, Junebug. Look at cha!"

June: "That's even sweeter. I wonder where she is?"

Before June had a chance to look around for the as yet absent Billy Gale her eyes landed on Luke and Fletcher and her face nearly split in two with a smile.

"Look at me, look at ya'll! You look so pretty!" Each of them was given a hearty squeeze in turn. "Where's your mama?"

Ronan/Luke: "That's a fuckin' insult an' a lie an' you know it." Because Ronan ALWAYS looks this handsome. "Oh! That's ma'! Is she alone?"

Luke looked to Fletcher, "Is she... okay with coming?"

Salt/Fletcher: "She was by herself, yes." She had appeared anxious, but he didn't see what relevance that had for Ronan.

Fletcher squeezed June as always, kissing her cheek just shy of her eye.

"It's fine. Y'all excuse me."

He headed for the little house, freezing at the blue door. He wanted to grab Ronan for them both to get his mother, but that subtle scent...

{Text: Archer One} Help me get Mama.

June: Fletcher was squeezed back with the usual loving enthusiasm. "Go ahead, doll. I hope she's all right."

As Fletcher moved away, June smiled at Luke. "Hey, sugar. How you been?"

Ronan/Luke/Aidan: "Let me know if you need anything." Fletcher's hand would be briefly caught and squeezed as he departed, though he was back to his smiling self as soon as June spoke. "I've been well! Please have a seat. Your dress - I just - did you get that for her?"

"Yes, I did." Aidan smiled, "Best trillion dollars ever spent."

Ronan glanced at his phone when it buzzed. "Oh, thanks Salt." he leaned over and kissed his cheek. "Make yourself at home, I'm gonna go see if she's okay." he then kissed Matheus' cheek, "Fletcher asked for help bringin' her in. I'll be right back."

{Text: Centipede} Where r u?

Fletcher/Billy Gale: The Samsa had moved away from the cottage, towards the scent of his mother. He could feel the stress radiating from her and he couldn't blame her. This was exceeding her limit.

{Text} Heading where everyone parked.

Billy Gale stood in between Tane Lukela and the sheriff's SUVs, teetering in beige ankle boots, hands wrung in thought. Fletcher smiled softly when she came into view.

"That new?"

She glanced to her pink pencil dress with elbow length sleeves. It suited her age, she thought.

"No. It's old. Was longer. I touched it up."

"C'mere, Mama."

The old Fera leaned into her son's chest and sighed. "What are we doing?" humor managed to seep through her anxiety.

June: "Isn't it beautiful?! He's such a sweet--" June poked Aidan in the ribs. "Very funny, Aidan Archer."

Honestly, she wouldn't have put it past him to spend a ridiculous amount of money on a dress. She knew very well this dress was a ridiculous amount. Maybe not a trillion, but certainly more than all her other dresses combined.

"He spoils me and I completely don't deserve it."

Ronan/Aidan/Luke: Oh. Great. Where everyone parked. How exactly was Ronan meant to go there? He took a deep breath and headed straight for it. He'll... keep a distance. Somehow.

"You do deserve it, you're my princess." he smiled and put an arm around her, resting a hand on her shoulder and rubbing her skin with his thumb.

"I agree with him. You definitely deserve nice things. In exchange for bringing so much joy to everyone around you."

Billy Gale: Billy Gale looked up when another body followed. Being with her son, her eyes had been closed. All eyes. For once she was surprised.

"Ro, honey. Ya look so handsome."

June: June leaned into Aidan and gave him a side hug. "The two of you are giving me way too much credit," she chuckled. "Gonna make me start blushing over here and I'm not even the bride." Speaking of (in a way), "Where's Ronan? He's probably bouncing off the walls with excitement."

Ronan/Aidan: "I jus' left him inside with Matheus. I think if we don't get started they're gonna go ahead without us. I could hear Ro say 'I do, I do, I do, I do!'"

Ronan smiled, raising a hand to wave. "Hey, ma'. You say that like it's a surprise."

Billy Gale/Fletcher: Her hand outstretched. "Come here and give me sugar! You're more handsome than ever!" Let's linger where it's safe, away from everyone else.

Fletcher gave her a squeeze. "Look at her all dressed up."

June: "Awww! That's so sweet!" She took both his and Luke's arms and led them over to the seating area.

"Let's go find our seats so you can get back to him. I'm so glad all my makeup is waterproof, I'm gonna cry my eyes out."

Ronan/Aidan/Luke: Ronan hesitated. A hand went out along with a weak smile. "The cars..." he looked to Fletcher. He'll help, right?

Luke laughed, "I think I'm going to cry, too."

But Aidan just scoffed. "Imagine how I feel..."

Billy Gale/Fletcher: The Goodman's smiled in return, something softly sympathetic.

"Ya got it in ya t'do it, son," she said, meeting him at the head of Tane Lukela's SUV. She would not press him with therapy on his wedding day.

June: June held up her clutch. “Don’t worry I brought two mini packs of tissues just to be safe. We’re covered.” She kissed Aidan’s cheek. “It’s gonna be so sweet to see you walk him down the aisle.”

Ronan/Aidan: Son?

Ronan smiled. That makes us brothers, Fletcher.

"It's my weddin' day, YOU come HERE." He stretched out his arms.

Aidan chuckled. "Please don't. If you get emotional I will too."

Billy Gale/Fletcher: Just a foot closer. The gap was closed and Ronan was squeezed in a suffocating motherly embrace, hands rubbing up and down his ribs. He might also feel Fletcher's hand on his shoulder, giving an equally firm squeeze.

June: "I would love to promise you that I won't but I know myself very well. I'm a crier, I needed to come prepared." She gestured at her face. "Waterproof makeup was made for people like me."

She tugged him down to kiss his cheek. "You were going to be emotional whether I end up crying or not. It's an emotional moment. Your baby brother is getting married."

Ronan/Aidan: Aidan shook his head, "Don't remind me." He may already be getting a little choked up...

Ronan hugged her tightly, nuzzling her neck. At the feeling of a hand on his shoulder he released her enough to squeeze Fletcher's wrist.

Billy Gale/Fletcher: "I can't think of advice to give you," she sniffed. There was something. "Be with someone that understands your worries. Someone that keeps their vows. Someone you can trust. If that man doesn't," she glanced to her son, "you tell us."

June: June gave Aidan another kiss. "It'll be fine. Even if we do end up blubbering, it'll be the good kind. And hey." She smiled up at him. "Enjoy it, okay? Embrace the moment."

Ronan/Aidan/Luke: Ronan laughed. "Then be happy for me, ma'. Matheus is all of that plus more." He kissed her cheek and pulled away, "There's nobody more perfect for me out there. I'm in good hands."

June's smile made Aidan and Luke do the same. "Embrace the moment..." The reaper exhaled. "Not long ago I didn't even know Ronan was alive and now I'm... walkin' him down the aisle. It's... it's crazy."

"Like June said, Aidan. It's all the good kind."

Billy Gale/Fletcher: "Like Mama said, he does somethin' outta line, ya come t'us. We'll just kill him," he smirked.

"Don't say it like that." She popped her sons chest with her fingertips. "We'll make him see reason first."

"With what, our jaws?"

"Hush."

June: June nodded in enthusiastic agreement. "Exactly. It seems to me like all of you were given a gift when you reunited. You're allowed to enjoy it. It might be crazy, sure, but that just makes it more special."

Ronan/Aidan/Luke: "Thank you, June. I'll be okay knowin' you're here." Aidan kissed her cheek. God. He loved her more and more each day. Love? Ah. Luke could see it all over Aidan's face, the angel wondered of she could, too.

Ronan playfully shoved Fletcher with a grin. "Oi. You know as much as I do that he's perfect, you jus' don't wanna admit it."

Billy Gale/Fletcher: "He's the only vampire I'll put any stock in. For your sake, love. I want you to be happy n'also safe. Remember we're always here. You're family."

Ronan was given a quick pat on his back.

"Gotta go be with everyone else now, mama."

Her smile faded. So many people. Too many.

"Hold my hands, boys."

June: She liked to think she could. Historically she hadn't always been the best judge of those kinds of things, but with Aidan she wanted to believe her gut was right.

"I am. Gonna be right there." She pointed to her seat. I'll send you good vibes."

Ronan/Aidan: Ronan easily took her hand. "I can't go to the seats yet, I gotta go back in soon. I'll take you some of the way, okay?"

"An' I'll accept them wholeheartedly. Sit down now, your feet must hurt."

Billy Gale/Fletcher: "It's safe to go in? Really?" she whispered.

"I'll be with ya, mama. Ronan won't let somethin' happen."

This was so out of the ordinary. The thought of even recollecting her day with fellow survivors hadn't crossed her mind. The very real possibility of being ostracized...

She began towards the vampire's cottage, and to the clearing where many eyes awaited, uttering another reminder that they were loved.

June: "Good." She kissed him again. "I wore flats but I'll sit anyway. You go be with Ronan."

Ronan/Aidan/Luke: "Mm hm. I'm your bodyguard, ma', which makes everyone here your bodyguard, too. They stand with me, an' I stand with you."

Aidan smiled, "Okay," he kissed her forehead and held out his phone for her to take, "here, so you can take pictures. You remember the password?"

That made Luke blink. He never expected Aidan to... trust someone at that level.

June: June took the camera and nodded. “Yep, I remember. I hope your phone is prepared, I plan to take a lot.” She’d even brought her little digital camera as backup.

Billy Gale/Fletcher: Fletcher watched his mother, knowing her mind was a whirl of clock pieces duct taped together, spinning wheels trying to understand the Irishman holding to her hand. She was baffled that he could utter such confidence after his own hardships and the yawning gap with his family with decades apart. She and her son could not trust their own species, not like that.

"Have you made your own vows?" she asked.

Ronan/Aidan/Luke: "Yeah. I know I'm gonna fuck mine up, though. I ain't got a way with words like Matheus does, the prick."

"Alright, we'll speak later, Luke." the blond nodded and smiled as Aidan escorted June to a seat.

Billy Gale: "You'll look into his eyes and all the romance will just spill out and you won't even notice us. Maybe. Hopefully," she smirked.

Ronan: "Or I jus' make some kinda dirty joke an' my brother hits me on the head." that sounded more likely. "You okay from here? I gotta head back in."

Billy Gale/Fletcher: Fletcher scoffed. "No one can say anything 'cause s'your weddin', dude."

"Everything will be fine. I'll - Yes, I'll be okay. We'll be here," nodded his pseudo mother.

Ronan: "A'ight, text me if you need anythin'." he kissed her cheek and unthinkingly did the same to Fletcher before scurrying off back inside.

Matheus: Matheus was alone, it seemed, staring at his pocket watch as though seeing through it.

"Everything alright?" he asked before the door could close. His mind was never too far from his already-but-not husband.

Ronan: Ronan ran up to the other, instantly wrapping arms around his waist. "Mmm hm." he smiled, "I'm excited."

Matheus: Arms settled on his shoulders. "I see it in your colors. You're very vibrant today. Do you want to see through my eyes?"

Ronan: He giggled. "Yeah, baby. Show me."

Matheus: Lips pressed to forehead. "Close your eyes."

Ronan: Leaning closer to his partner eyes shut calmly, smile remaining on his face.

Matheus: Violet, maroon, their familiar blue, and a green he'd come to associate with Ronan. Obsession was often found in vampires, journalists, ghouls especially. It was a color which faded with time in almost every being, with the exception of blood bound servants. Ronan's green felt and glistened differently. It was richer, fully, as almost every color. He felt strongly. More than others, Matheus wagered.

"You're beautiful. Don't you see? It's within you."

Ronan: Ronan couldn't help but roll his eyes. The action had been playful, but it still held meaning. He had become accustomed to Matheus' compliments, to his affection, to his admiration. He was all too familiar with Matheus' gorgeous way with words, a trait he could never match no matter how long he was given. While Ronan was used to the act, he was not used to the way it made him felt.

Such compliments were different coming from the vampire. Others spoke of beauty and saw Ronan's eyes, his mouth, his body. Matheus saw so much more than anyone else could ever even imagine, he saw his aura, every last detail of his mental state. Matheus saw him entirely, inside and out. There were no secrets between them. When Matheus called him beautiful, he meant it.

The more he thought about it, the closer his happiness took him to tears.

"Let's hurry up an' get married before you can change your mind." he sniffled.

Matheus: "You're crying and yet there is no silver today." Years ago, he had explained the thick flecks of silver to be melancholy. Once in a great while he would mention the aura's presence as a means to determine Ronan's thoughts, an invitation for Ronan to confide. Today, it was a mark of cautious pride.

"Is everyone ready? I shall take my place, then."

Ronan/Aidan: "No, baby. I'm happy. I'm really happy." as terrifying as he thought that would be, or should be, he wasn't. He trusted this happiness. He trusted Matheus.

"Yeah, baby. Go. Go."

Aidan had stopped short in the doorway, he had seen them cradling each other and had backed away to offer them privacy. He was on the other side of the wall, leaning against it when Matheus left.

Matheus: The vampire paused, having closed the door with Aidan in his line of sight. His smile, though subtle, was honest. He bowed his head in regard, saying not a word as he headed to his place by the arbor.

Aidan: Aidan did the same. He took a deep breath and rubbed his face before entering the last room his brother would be in as an unmarried man.

Matheus/Sash/Fletcher: Matheus quietly made his way to his marker, hands behind his back, spine straight, chin raised. His eyes did not wander far from his cottage, to the door he knew Ronan would come from.

Sash glanced up, eyes falling to his feet the instant he saw the groom. A chill shocked his skin, raising the hairs on his forearms.

"What d'ya gotta do now?" Fletcher looked to Luke, Billy Gale's gaze not far behind.

Luke/Sean: Sean noticed the sudden shift. He offered his companion his hand as Luke smiled at Billy Gale.

"I go up there." he stood, leaving his belongings carefully on his seat. "The musician will start playing and soon Ronan and Aidan will come out, afterwards I believe we will be reentering the house while the staff arrange the furniture for the party." He lowered his head respectfully at her and kissed Fletcher's cheek, "Enjoy it. Excuse me." while he went up to join Matheus.

Matheus/Billy Gale/Fletcher: This was their moment. The music would play, just as Luke had said, and Ronan would appear, and the vampire would finally smile. That was his companion, his best friend, his lover.

Fletcher and Billy Gale glanced to one another, having their own silent conversation, apprehensive of the Malkavian and his treatment of Ronan Archer. One day he would hurt the reaper, and they or their offspring would have to kill that man. Perhaps they wouldn't need to concern themselves. Perhaps Luke would beat them to the task.

"Here we go," she whispered, taking a deep breath.

Ronan/Aidan: The plan had been to walk slowly, calmly. The plan was to walk in a manner that allowed the music to play and the guests to stare. It was meant to be romantic.

Of course, that plan went to all hell when Ronan set eyes on everyone and saw his vampire and Luke standing there... He couldn't do it.

He had to go quicker.

With a large smile Ronan essentially started to tug Aidan along. So eager was he to take his place by Matheus' side.

The moment they came to a stop Aidan smiled at his ridiculous brother. A hand went into Ronan's hair and his forehead was kissed. In return, Aidan was given a tight hug around his waist before the younger reaper's attention was on Matheus again.

Matheus: The vampire felt a tug in his chest at the sight of his eager groom. For the next ten minutes he would be labeled as such, before returning to his new favorite pet name. His husband, his prince. He shouldn't get ahead of himself. There were vows to be said.

"Thank you," he mouthed to Aidan, standing just a bit straighter as he offered his hand to his companion.

Aidan/Luke: Aidan's smile remained, offering a little nod, as if confirming that everything he had said previously had been genuine.

Luke was also smiling, while Sean was laughing at his younger brother who was now squeezing his vampire's hand.

Aidan took his seat, hand slipping into June's.

June: June immediately entwined their fingers and squeezed softly. She was already fulfilling her promise to take a bunch of pictures, and although she was smiling, her eyes were already looking the tiniest bit wet.

Matheus/Fletcher: While Matheus was looking to Luke for direction, Fletcher was busy glancing everywhere. From his fiancé at the arbor, to June and her tearful face, to his mother and the surrounding people. Never in a million years, he thought.

Luke: Luke took a deep breath. He agreed. Never in a million years could he have expected to be ordaining his best friend and a vampire.

"Welcome, everyone. For those of you who do not know me I am Luke Husher. I am a childhood friend of Ronan's, and an admirer of Matheus and his work." His smile was sweet and genuine, "I know Ronan well enough to see how happy he is, and it is with that thought in mind that I feel honoured to join you two together. I was told you would be writing your own vows, is that the case for you too, Matheus?"

Matheus: The vampire looked up, still holding both of Ronan's hands in his own, thumbs rubbing back and forth as a constant reminder of his presence, despite their surroundings. "Yes, I have as well."

Ronan/Luke: "Ronan, are you also prepared?"

Ronan nodded, a quick, eager movement which came with a big smile.

"Would you like to go first?"

"Uh -" he squeezed Matheus' hands. It would be obvious how nervous he suddenly felt.

Matheus: A steady gaze was returned to him, followed by the softest of smiles. "It's just us," he whispered.

Ronan/Luke: He looked at Luke to whisper, "Calm me?"

The angel glanced at the vampire.

Matheus: Most likely easier for Luke, given the many watchful eyes, but why he was needed at all concerned him more. Was the angel asking his permission by this glance?

Ronan/Luke: He was, Matheus had made it clear how he felt about meddling with Ronan's emotions.

"It's okay, listen to Matheus. It's just you two. Just look at him."

One hand was taken back so that Ronan could scratch his jaw before he was gripping onto the other's fingers again.

"I... I guess it feels weird knowin' my brothers are watchin'." He smiled sheepishly at the audience of Archers. They were all looking at him patiently. Sean gave him a thumbs up and an encouraging smile. "I... wrote a whole bunch of versions but I know anythin' I say will sound like shit compared t'you. Fuck -  am I allowed t'swear?"

Luke couldn't stop his little laugh.

Matheus: Vows or no vows, ceremony or not, Ronan's hands were brought to Matheus' lips in the hopes of calming him. He could feel a warmth from his body, and his aura was brilliant.

"It'll be poetry. Forget what you've written. Tell me why we are here."

Ronan: "I... love you. So much. You have no idea how much you saved me. You're everythin' I could want or need in someone. You're patient an' kind an' smart an' I never thought I'd be as comfortable with anyone as I am with you. We're like... one person. We have no secrets yet I have no worries about you hurtin' me 'cause you make me feel so safe. I have no doubt in my mind that I wanna spend every second I can with you. When we're not together I miss you an' when we are together it feels so perfect an' the idea of bein' away from you breaks my heart." He sniffled, tears making themselves known, "I jus' wish I met you sooner. I feel sorry for the me that didn't know you. You've made me so happy an' I didn't think I'd ever get t'feel that. I owe all my strength t'you an' the ways you've improved my life. Thank you, Matheus. Thank you. I... I dunno. Jus' thank you. I ain't good with words like you. Tá mo chroí istigh ionat."

Matheus: Matheus listened intently to his husband without any regard towards the many gazes to his left. The breeze cut through the radiating heat between them, leaving him bereft, yearning to pull Ronan closer, to bury his face in his hair and whisper his vow in his ear.

"I made a point not to write my vows. I wanted this moment, to feed off of your energy, as I have since the first day you deliberately fell into my lap. You say I am good with words, but I am not. I stumble over myself constantly...in my mind. I am quiet, and yet you hear me clearly. You, the bold man that you are, think you owe your strength to me. I am afraid you are mistaken. I have been a witness to your blossom. An honor and a privilege it has been, and in turn, you have made me feel safer than I ever have in my life. I feel more than a cog in a great machine. You give me purpose beyond the mundane of life. You give me reason to smile when I had forgotten how. I will love you for the rest of this life, and the next to come, and the next to come. Thank you for finding me. Thank you for allowing me to love you. Thank you for marrying me."

Ronan/Aidan/Luke/Conor: Ronan found himself laughing in an attempt to control the sob which threatened. In the crowd, Aidan brought June closer, kissed her cheek. Sean squeezed Sash's hand and pressed his lips to it. Fletcher was smiled at by his teary angel. There was little to no visible reaction in Conor... he had always expected to return home after this ceremony... but now he was holding two hands. It felt like he had a decision to make.

Luke reached into his pocket and brought out the rings they had already been wearing for months. Ronan took Matheus', smiling up at him.

June/Brett: Aidan would find June's cheek wet and only getting wetter by the second no matter how often or how much she dabbed at her face. She was going through tissues like nobody's business but dammit, she was going to take as many beautiful pictures of this ceremony as she could.

And it was a beautiful ceremony. Despite his personal feelings, Brett had to admit that. Ronan and Matheus' love seemed genuine, and though there were no outward signs, he knew Conor had to be emotional about watching his baby brother get married.

He squeezed Conor's hand and whispered, "I love you."

Matheus/Sash/Q/Bo: There was nothing more Matheus wanted in that moment than to pull Ronan to his chest and kiss away threatening tears, despite the reasoning behind them. His own were private, and for Ronan to witness in the privacy of their home.

The crowd, small though it were, radiated with bursts of color. He allowed Ronan a peek in his mind, to sample the various waves of blue  and vermilion; the gold halo from their officiate; the static of his pseudo mother; the pale ocean calm of the Ananasi, swirled with yellow like watercolor, bright and vibrant as all Fera. These were the people bearing witness to their declaration of love.

Sash squeezed Sean's hand and smiled politely. A muted version of his natural grin. He could be happy to see Sean happy. He glanced to his brother for support, a man as ignorant as he had once been. His brother was whispering something to Tane Lukela. He was placing a whispered bet. He bet they would last. They looked too happy not to. Sash could hardly read his lips from his hair.

"I didn't know Ronan could smile that wide," Bo whispered. "It's a very Archer smile." Conor's other hand was squeezed.

Matheus took Ronan's ring as well. "Shall we at once?" he whispered, as though for Ronan's ears only.

Ronan/Conor: Ronan eagerly nodded as he positioned the ring, sniffling and laughing, crying and smiling all at once. The sight of his guests had been beautiful. This was all so... overwhelming. It was his time to be happy, his chance. It was finally his turn.

Conor smiled at his partners, squeezing their hands in turn. He was too busy holding onto them for dear life to reply.

The ring was lowered over Matheus' finger... his middle finger. "Fuck, wrong one-" Ronan bit his lip as he pulled it off and went for - uh- the correct one this time.

Tane/Brett: Tane smiled. Last? They were probably going to have the Methuselah of marriages. He told Q as much and added, "I'll take the bet. I'll bet you a kiss."

"It is," Brett whispered back. "He's happy and in love. I'm amazed his face is still in once piece."

Matheus/Q/Bo: Matheus warmly chuckled, waiting for Ronan to reposition before mirroring the ceremonial fitting of the ring.

"There we are," he smiled. "I am yours, and you are mine."

Q scoffed. "We both think they'll last. Who wins that bet?"

Bo said nothing more, his focus having shifted to the two men of his life. What did they want to come from their relationship, he wondered.

Ronan/Luke: "Ronan and Matheus... I pronounce you the Clay-Archers." Luke has to force himself not to glow. Fletcher could most likely notice the signs of impending light. "You may now kiss your husband."

Ronan grinned, he jumped up onto his husband with legs around his waist and arms around his neck. He kissed the other firmly on the lips. Enough to satisfy, but not enough to make his brothers (aside from Conor) cringe.

Matheus/Q: Matheus was laughing with surprise. Firm hands planted on his thighs to hold. He hadn' t expected the leap, nor the surname of Clay-Archer. By this point he had all but forgotten the sea of faces.

That is, until he heard the sound of hooting from someone. Q Traxler giving a standing ovation.

"Hello, husband," Matheus smiled.

June/Tane: "We both win, that's the fun part. Actually, so do they so even better."

June was full on crying by the time Luke pronounced the happy couple husband and husband, but even that didn't stop her from getting those pictures or loudly cheering right along with Q Traxler.

Ronan: How could Matheus not predict this? How could he not expect Ronan to fling himself, offer himself completely? That's what he has been doing, and what he will continue to do for as long as the universe allowed.

The reaper clung to his vampire, hugging into his neck and squeezing. "Hi, husband."

Music started to play from the mini band Sean had hired, a cue for everyone to excuse themselves for food and drink.

Matheus/Sash/Q: "Shall I carry you around for a bit?" His smile was beginning to ache. A new sensation for him, one only Ronan could gift. "There is no promise greater than the one we've just given," whispered against his lips.

'Is my brother still shouting?' Sash laughed. Q had come up behind him to hug, ruffling his hair into a near tangled mess.

"You talking shit, young man?"

"My hair!"

Ronan/Sean: Giggling even more the reaper nuzzled into the other, as if trying to merge their bodies together. "Yeah, you should."

Sean laughed, watching the interaction. "Want t'get food now?" He asked both of them.

Matheus/Sash/Q: "If that's what my husband wants. I cannot deny." He would be carried towards the nearest bottle of chilled champagne.

Q unhanded him and signed, 'Food?'

Sash grinned. "Hell yeah. What's to eat?"

"No idea," half caught by his brother as he had turned looking for Tane.

June/Tane: Tane hadn’t strayed far; he was currently speaking to June, asking about the birdhouse he’d long ago helped her put up and if it had managed to attract any birds to her yard.

Sean/Aidan: What did Q think Ronan had on offer at his wedding? "Pizza," Sean informed, "Ro wanted his favourite food an' Matheus wasn't bothered." It had been exciting in thought, but in practice food was the last thing on his mind as he clung to his husband. His actual husband. Squeeeeeze.

Aidan had given June a kiss on the cheek and left her to talk to Tane, he'll get them both drinks and food.... and some more tissues, just in case.

Matheus/Q: Matheus managed to pour his husband a flute of champagne. Pizza was of no consequence; he couldn't eat it and never had before the reaper fell into his lap. Champagne was non-negotiable. He had to toast to their vows.

"I'm both offended in the name of weddings and not surprised at all," Q laughed. "I'll be back. Gonna fetch a man." That man with June, and Fletcher Goodman coming up behind her to kiss her cheek.

Sash shrugged and smiled to Sean. "Food?" he began to back towards the long table.

June/Tane: The tissues were a good call, even more so than the food. Although her conversation with Tane was a light and happy one, she couldn't help but tear up every time she looked over at Ronan and Matheus and she had long since exhausted the pack she'd brought with her.

Fletcher's sudden appearance and affection provided distraction, however, and brought a smile to her face identical to the one Q's approach caused for Tane.

"Hey you," he said.

Sean: "Food." Sean confirmed, standing and offering his hand to the other. "An' then a dance?"

Fletcher/Sash: "Where's the old stoic Archer gone off to?" asked Fletcher while squeezing her waist. "Thought he'd be attached at your hip."

Tane Lukela didn't smell like Fera, but goddamn he was big enough.

"Sup, man? Ain't you been in my shop 'fore?"

Sash smiled at Sean. Would this make up for the evaded birthday? "Dance to what?"

June/Tane: "He went to get food and drinks. Attachment was temporarily paused for sustenance."

Tane gave Fletcher a friendly smile and nodded. "I have, got a birthday present for my brother in law. How you doing?"

Sean/Aidan: "Hmm... want me t'sing for you?" then they could dance to whatever they wanted. Perfect, right?

Said stoic Archer would soon be returning with a plate of... basically everything. He had also raided his brother's fridge for something more than just pizza.

Q/Sash: Fletcher smiled, though his hands remained to himself. "It's a day for celebratin', ya know?" A vague answer for a stranger. His mother was off on her own. He could feel her anxiety rising and said his goodbyes.

Sash's smile softened. 'What kind of music is playing right now?'

Tane: "That it is," said Tane, smiling in greeting as Aidan approached. "And speaking of sustenance." He took Q's hand. "Let's go get ourselves some."

[thehighlandhealer]

Tobias, cont. || Tobias & Torstwyn

Torsten/Tobias: Torsten had followed the familiar sound of feminine heavy breathing, the sound he knew to be his Thistle. His concern was not immediately pressing. His senses had heightened upon the discovery, but without the iron stench he was in no hurry. Finding her in rhubarb with another man was as much of a surprise as the swords in which they used.

The approaching man was ignored by the Ananasi, looking for whatever opening he could steal in order to catch her footing and bring her down.

Bronwyn: These woods were usually so still and quiet that any new sound seemed heightened, and because it was heightened, you couldn't help but notice it.

Which was exactly why Bronwyn took her eyes off Tobias and his sword just long enough to give him an opening to knock her on her ass.

"Dammit," she said, chuckling softly.

Torsten/Tobias: Now that his opponent was defeated, Salt placed the blade on the ground beside her, knelt to inspect before offering his hand. It was only with her on her feet did he turn his attention on the stranger.

"What have I walked in on?" asked the revenant.

"Informal benign sparring," said the spider.

Bronwyn: Bronwyn took Tobias' hand and pulled herself to her feet, brushing herself off before going over to kiss Torsten and greeting.

"Aye. Which I apparently really need since I'm rustier than I thought." She smiled. "Hi, lovely."

Torsten/Tobias: His eyes had become something more suitable for a tumultuous storm than its usual foam green. Instinctually he was prepared battle, prepared to fight for her honor. Her affectionate greeting soothed the tension in his muscles immediately. Still, his eyes were dark.

"Your threads are knotted," said Salt.

Bronwyn: "They are," said Bronwyn, turning back to Tobias with a smile. "Tobias, this is Torsten. Torsten, Tobias. He agreed to fence with me so I could brush up my skills." Code for: he's not trying to kill me.

Torsten/Tobias: Salt's hands rested comfortably at his sides as he bowed his head in such natural form, giving Torsten a wave of nostalgia. Peculiar though it was, it wasn't enough to question. The comment on threads, however, was sufficient reason for the knitting of his brow.

"So I see," he said.

The swords were gathered under Salt's arm and brought to what he assumed to be Bronwyn's lover.

"I'll take my leave, then," he said.

Bronwyn: "Are ye sure? I don't want to keep ye if ye have somewhere to be but I wouldn't mind goin' another round."

Torsten/Tobias: "I believe your true partner has arrived," said Salt.

"Don't rush on my account," Torsten interjected.

Tobias: Stepping back, the Ananasi shook his head. "No, I have some place to be." He didn't.

Bronwyn: Bronwyn studied Tobias for a moment before smiling again and nodding her head. She wouldn't push if he was uncomfortable.

"All right then. I'll see ye soon?"

Torsten/Tobias: "Soon, of course. Have a good evening, Ms. Bronwyn."

Torsten remained silent, bowing his head to the stoic man's departure. "Good friend?" he asked.

Bronwyn: "Ye, too, Tobias. Take care now."

Bronwyn nodded. "Aye, a verra good friend. I met him right here in the woods one mornin' when I was takin' a walk."

Torsten: "Not human, obviously."

Bronwyn: "Precious few are in this particular corner o' the world."

Torsten: "Did he hurt you at all?"

Bronwyn: She shook her head. "No' a single scratch. Don't worry."

Torsten: That was enough to appease him. As it were, he couldn't find a bruise or nick. "In a violent mood today?"

Bronwyn: Another head shake. "Nothin' of the sort, this was just his way o' repayin' me for a favor. It's the first thing that popped into my head."

Torsten: "For you to clash irons? What sort of favor equaled this?" He considered, shook his head. "I'm prying."

Bronwyn: "Aye. Been a long time since I fenced with someone other than my sister or cousin Donal."

She tugged him down for another kiss. "It's the worrier in ye. But I'm fine, I promise."

Torsten: "Worrier and warrior," he stated. It was his job to care, and his Viking blood called for action against a wrong to his woman. His woman.

Bronwyn: "Yes ye are." Another kiss. "Since we're here, want to practice with me?"

Torsten: "Practice with you?" The revenant scoffed. Taking hold of her legs, the druid was brought over his shoulder before readjusting the swords under his opposite arm. "Nei! I'll have none of that!"

Bronwyn: "Come on, it'll be fu--eep!" What began as an attempt at persuasion ended as laughter as she took in her new vantage point.

"Aw, why won't ye practice with me? Is it because I'm rusty? Because in my defense, ye distracted me."

Torsten: "Rusty, distracted, far too little, and much too beautiful to scuff," he listed.

Bronwyn: "Little? Pffft. I'm a mighty Scot."

Torsten: "You're a mighty little thistle."

Bronwyn: "Nope. I'm yer mighty little thistle."

Torsten: "Which is why I will not spar with you. Why would I rip the leaves and petals from my favorite flower?"

Bronwyn: "Ye wouldn't be rippin' my petals and leaves off, just humorin' me. Besides, there's the possibility o' sweaty, adrenaline-fueled forest sex afterward."

Torsten: Oh. Well, that was enough to give pause. "You do realize you're outmatched?"

Bronwyn: Bronwyn nodded. "If I didn't I'd be a fool. I'm no' lookin' to take ye down, I just want to practice. If ye don't use yer skills ev'ry now and then ye lose them."

Torsten: "Do you want to use your powers?"

Bronwyn: "I only use them when I'm practicin' at my range."

Torsten: "Well, let's go there."

Bronwyn: "Let's! Archery is one thing that I'm still sharp at."

Torsten: "You and my sister Flora. I just can't. Fauna couldn't, either."

Bronwyn: "Really, why?"

Torsten: "Too much rage in our bodies, Fauna said."

Bronwyn: "My da used to say all it took was a wee bit o' patience and a deep breath."

Torsten: "Patience is in short supply."

Bronwyn: "Then we'll make do with some deep breaths. I'll show ye."

Torsten: "Rather we do that than fuck in the woods?"

Bronwyn: "The range is in the woods," she said with a grin.

Torsten: "Then let's be on our way!" He thought better of slapping her ass, rather, squeezing the thigh he held to balance her.

[wildroseofarran]

Baby Hawk’s Eye View || Self Para

Judy sighed as she watched a lady bug crawl over a patch of sunlight streaming in from the canopy of giant sunflowers above her head. She briefly considered adding it to the jar on the little rock table she’d made by the door but there wasn’t really a point, was there? She used to collect bugs to feed the tiny spiders that lived in the corners of their house but that wasn’t nearly as fun as collecting them for Uncle Salt so he could have something to eat when Daddy invited him over for dinner.

But Uncle Salt was gone now, and so too was her desire to collect bugs.

She sighed again, looking around at the sunflower house. It was supposed to be a place for her and Uncle Salt to play when he came over. Daddy had covered the grass with a rug so their legs wouldn’t get itchy and prickly and he’d woven twinkly Christmas lights in between the flowers so it would be lit up at night. He’d left the rest of the decorating to her.

She made a table out of a flat rock she’d found by the river and some tomato cans for Uncle Salt’s food jar and a stick basket for some snacks. She’d taken the beanbag that had a rip in it from the den and put it over in the corner so they’d have a place to sit. And Daddy had even gotten her a little CD player and some books at Mrs. Pennyapple’s yard sale so they could have something to do when they weren’t playing in the woods.

None of it was going to be used now, though. Uncle Salt wasn’t in Edenton anymore. She and Daddy and Uncle Bash and Uncle Artie had flown over the whole entire town a bunch of times and they hadn’t been able to find him. He wasn’t in any of his webs or trees and Daddy had said he wasn’t at any of the hotels either. It was like he’d disappeared, just like in the movies.

But Uncle Salt wouldn’t do that, would he? He would’ve told them if he was going somewhere. Or his friend Ronan with the curly hair. Or the pretty lady that had made all the sunflowers grow with magic. He wouldn’t have left without saying goodbye to anyone, because he was their friend and friends didn’t do that. Friends always told you when they were leaving for a little while.

….Unless he was mad at them for something. Daddy was always saying how people said and did things they didn’t mean when they were mad. So maybe Uncle Salt was mad and that’s why he didn’t tell them that he was going away.

She got to her feet and started walking toward the woods. Why would Uncle Salt be mad? Had he had a fight with Daddy or one of his other friends? Maybe. Grownups had fights all the time, and Nonna said they tried to have them away from kids because the fights were usually about grownup stuff.

But if Daddy and Uncle Salt had a fight then wouldn’t Daddy know where Uncle Salt was? He would, right? And if they had had a fight, Daddy wouldn’t be confused about why Uncle Salt was gone. So that meant that there was no fight. Uncle Salt was just gone.

Judy came to a stop when she reached the tree Uncle Salt had covered in webs. A part of her hoped he’d come back overnight, but the tree stood as empty as it had been for the last few weeks. The webs hadn’t been touched, the jar of insects hadn’t been opened.

She sighed and sat down next to it. “Please come back, Uncle Salt. I miss you.”

[wildroseofarran]

"That's very ... " sweet. "What can I do to help?"

“You wouldn’t happen to know a way to make sunflowers grow faster would you? Judy wasn’t prepared for the wait time,” he added with a chuckle.

[wildroseofarran]

"A sunflower house?" he didn't understand that sentence.

“Yep. Basically what you do is plant a whole bunch of sunflowers in a ring, like the one we have here. And as the sunflowers grow and get tall they form a little enclosure. Kinda like a house.”

[wildroseofarran]

With Bronwyn, perhaps, Judy would have another female influence. Of course Salt would encourage this. This wasn't going to be a caustic relationship as with Ronan and Dante. So he hoped. In fact, juxtapose, the two seemed like a smart match. Heading back to Emmanuel's, Salt became quieter and quieter, preferring to watch their conversation.

Salt could lay his mind at ease. Bronwyn and Emmanuel were getting on perfectly well, bonding over parenthood.

“You mentioned a son?” he asked her. “How old’s yours?”

“I’ve got two of them. A two year-old and a twenty-one year-old.”

Emmanuel blinked. “You have a kid that’s twenty-one? Excuse the question but are you a lot older than you look?”

Bronwyn laughed and shook her head. “No, no’ at all. I adopted him when he was a teenager. He’s even got a wee one of his own now.”

“Ahhh, okay. Damn, so you’re a grandmother, too, then.”

[wildroseofarran]

A preposterous notion. "She needs more children to play with." Perhaps that was too bold. Again, he just couldn't tell, so he ducked his head. "She's a very bright little girl. You'll appreciate her," he said to Bronwyn.

Emmanuel laughed. “She tends to get bored playing with kids her own age. Likes to hang out around adults. Listen to conversations, help with things.” He beamed with pride at Salt’s comment. “Yeah, she is.”

Bronwyn warmed a bit toward Emmanuel. Anyone who had love for their child all but oozing out of their pores couldn‘t be all bad. “I’m sure I will. How old is she?”

“Seven and three quarters, according to her. She gets annoyed when I leave out the three quarters.”

[wildroseofarran]

"There's no need to concern yourselves with how I eat. I'm fine. Learning how to make these garlic knots is important enough. Thank you again."

“You’re more than welcome,” said Emmanuel, smiling over at Salt. “And it’s not concern so much as a fun experiment. Maybe we could have Judy join in. She’s become something of an expert in the bug catching arena.”

“Is Judy yer daughter?”

“Yep. And Salt here’s just about her favorite person ever.”

[wildroseofarran]

"I'm unsure of the chocolate itself. The ratios would have to be particularly in favor of the insects themselves and their insides." He paused. A bird would perhaps understand, but a druid? "Um, that's too much information, isn't it?"

“My people eat haggis,” Bronwyn chuckled. “I know all about insides and ratios. And since I do, a chocolate cake might no’ be the best option as chocolate tends to be temperamental in cake batter. I think ye’d be better off with a standard cake mix and insects in the fillin’ and icin’.”

[wildroseofarran]

"I wouldn't demand that of you. Too few would approve. From what I can tell, this isn't the country for that kind of cuisine."

“No, not really. Americans tend to stick to their processed foods and spray cheese and twinkies. But we’ll be thinking globally. I hear crickets and chocolate go very well together.”

“Also ants,” Bronwyn chimed in.

Emmanuel nodded. “Also ants. How does a cricket and ant chocolate cake sound to you?”

[wildroseofarran]

"This culture seems to be obsessed with food. The two of you in particular," he smirked. As much as he wanted to mention Dante, he'd developed a quiet pleasure of keeping him for himself. That was his treasure.

Bronwyn laughed. “Just a wee. Good food is one o’ those things that makes life worth livin’. And good cake? Well that’s just proves that the gods love us.”

“Amen to that,” Emmanuel said with feeling. He smiled at Salt. “We should make you a cake with bugs in it. Or maybe some pudding.”

[wildroseofarran]

Again, he looked back to Emmanuel. "From what I understand, it's going well. It's not for me, but... " Not important. Well, it was important, but to no one else. "You can taste test for us?" Stepping down from the porch, Salt offered his arm.

“I’d love to. I never say no to bread.” Or to a lovely gentleman’s arm, she thought, smiling as she took Salt’s arm.

“Do you bake at all?” Emmanuel asked her, falling into step beside them.

“I do indeed. Cakes, cookies, fancy things, ye name it. Irish soda bread is my specialty.”

[wildroseofarran]

So far so good. He took a step back to watch the back and forth. There was no debate; both were equally valued and important in his acclimatization to society. Despite that, he knew his bias. "Would you mind accompanying us? We're also making garlic knots."

“No’ at all!” she said cheerfully. “Garlic knots? Ye two are havin’ a much more interestin’ day than I am.” She got her jacket off a peg near the door. “How are they comin’ along?”

Unlike their first meeting, today Bronwyn was dressed much more appropriately for playing in the dirt: boots, jeans, and a Pink Floyd tshirt she’d stolen from Callum.

That just made her more appealing in Emmanuel’s opinion but he wasn’t about to say anything.

[wildroseofarran]

"It's a um," what had Emmanuel called it? "A sunflower... house?" He looked to his friend for guidance.

Emmanuel nodded. “Yeah, it’s where you plant sunflowers in a ring and--”

“As they grow they form playhouse,” she finished, nodding. “I’m verra familiar. I made one for my son and granddaughter in my yard. Do ye need help plantin’ one?”

“Oh no, that part’s done. Salt mentioned that you might be able to help speed the growing process along?”

Bronwyn smiled. “Och, aye. Salt’s seen my work up close.”

[wildroseofarran]

"It's good to see you again," he bowed. A gesture was made to Emmanuel. "I... wanted to formally introduce you to Emmanuel Gaia. Also, a request for assistance with his daughter's botanical project." He turned his attention to Emmanuel. "This is Bronwyn MacAllister, the woman behind my identification issues."

Bronwyn couldn’t help but smile. His greetings never failed to flatter her. “Same to ye.” She turned to Emmanuel, offering him a hand and a polite smile. “I remember ye. Sorry again for nearly makin’ ye crash into me.”

“No worries,” he chuckled, shaking her hand. “Nice to meet you, Miss MacAllister.”

“Nice to meet ye, too. Now, what’s this botanical project?”

[wildroseofarran]

"The cousin? Are they... ?" No, that wasn't in practice anymore. He shook his head, dismissing his thought before knocking.

“Yep and nope.” Emmanuel could guess where Salt’s train of thought was headed. The man was from the medieval age, after all.

He got his second surprise of the day when the door opened and revealed the beautiful, long-legged woman that had nearly made him crash that night he and Ronan and Matheus had gone after Salt.

Bronwyn’s face lit with warmth when she spotted Salt. “Tobias! This is a lovely surprise.”