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ivorydragoness44 · 2 days ago

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Dark Legacies Part II: Smoke on the Horizon

Pairing: eventual Murtagh x Rider!Reader Summary: Six months after arriving at Eragon's Rider Academy, secrets are revealed, missions are botched, and a long-awaited meeting of kindred spirits finally occurs under a smoke-filled sky. Warnings: canon-typical violence, descriptive battle scene, mentions of past trauma/isolation. A/N: This is a series of one shots and drabbles that all take place in the same universe. You can read most of them out of order (except for the first two parts that will set up the series) and still understand what's going on, and some elements will be taken from other Murtagh x reader one shots of mine. You can find this series listed in chronological order the Dark Legacies masterlist. PSA: Gormlaith is an Irish name (meaning “illustrious princess”) pronounced GORM-lah. Read Part I and see my masterlist here!

***

Sometime after the Battle of Tronjheim, in Urû’baen

The small red creature chirped from within Murtagh’s cupped palms, his tiny eyes holding sadness befitting a much larger, older creature. He was barely a few days old and already burdened with an adult’s grief.

Murtagh sighed, rearranging himself on the cold, hard, cell floor to put the hatchling in his lap. A pale strip of moonlight shone through the barred cell window and the only sound was the steady drip drip of a leak caused by this morning’s rain. He remembered stretching his cupped hands through the bars and greedily slurping up what he could before offering the next handful to his dragon. The dragon was sated much faster than he was, being hardly bigger than his two palms. He leaned his head back against the wall and closed his eyes, opening them a moment later as the dragon purred and snuggled into his abdomen. He gently ran a finger over the top of its head, reveling in the contented mews from the creature. He could sense its fear, hunger, thirst, but also his unwavering trust and love for his new Rider.

Rider, Murtagh thought with a mixture of awe and bitterness. Once this dragon was large enough, they’d be a powerful duo—able to protect each other through sheer size and magic, and then their enemies would get what was coming to them. So many people had tried to take Murtagh down—and even before he did anything. His only crime during his time at the Varden was being Morzan’s son and now the king and his cronies considered him a traitor worthy of torture. He remembered when the guards had forced him down on his knees in front of the king, a table with some cloth-covered object sitting in front of the throne. He had wondered what new form of torture this would be, only to realize it was something much, much worse. Galbatorix had ripped away the cloth to reveal a smooth, red egg that immediately began to crack just as Murtagh began to form the word “no—”

They would forever be outcasts now—to everyone. The empire considered Murtagh a traitor: captured fighting for the resistance and brought in cloaked with chains. Even if the king somehow forced Murtagh and his dragon to serve him, it would have to be by magic or coercion. Or both. Surely, those close to the king and his staff would be aware of this and of the fact that he wasn’t any sort of willing or loyal servant. On the flip side, Murtagh showing up on a large red dragon under the banner of the king to squash the Varden? Even if he refused to kill anyone, Eragon and his ilk would see him as a traitor as well. Because of the birth of his dragon, they now would no longer be accepted anywhere without the greatest resistance.

Sensing his rider’s thoughts, the dragon looked up at Murtagh with a heartbroken look on his face. Although he couldn’t form mental sentences, Murtagh knew that the dragon wondered if he was considered a curse.

Murtagh gently stroked the dragon’s head again. “You’re not the punishment, my friend,” he said softly before glancing at the bars of the cell in front of him. Beyond that stood a thick, stone wall with an equally immovable locked door. A small, barred square in the top showed the torchlight flickering in the hallway as the heavy thud of guards walking to and fro punctuated the dripping noise. “But I’m sure we’ll both find out what it is soon enough.”

~***~

One year ago

Despite the burning in your legs, you continued to run deeper into the cave. You weren’t even sure how deep this cave went, but your panic dispelled your sense of danger. Luckily, it hadn’t for the little creature hidden safely in your jacket and you could sense its fear at the growing dark, dampness, and quiet drip drip of a leak somewhere. You slowed to a halt and glanced behind you to see the light of day from the cave’s mouth a tiny pinprick at the top of the path sloping above you.

You stood for a moment and panted, glancing around to see a small flat area just ahead of you. You went to it and leaned against the wall, letting yourself slide down to sit and tilt your head back.

A tiny gurgle sounded from inside your jacket and you undid the stays to reveal the newly hatched black dragon snuggled against your chest. She raised her head to inspect her surroundings before gently butting her tiny head against your jaw, rubbing in a way that reminded you of a cat. She purred quietly before snuggling into the hollow between your neck and shoulder, holding your shirt’s fabric in between her small maws.

You sighed, gently rubbing your thumb back and forth over her head. “Hi, baby.”

You could sense her comfort, elation, and affection at the nickname and smiled.

“Well, I can’t call you baby forever. You’ll need a name eventually.”

A bird chirped from somewhere nearby, causing your dragon to snap her head up. You glanced toward the cave’s ceiling to see a bird’s nest nestled in a small nook. Your dragon was immediately up and out of your arms before you could grab her, clumsily using a combination of her wings—which she was still figuring out—and claws to drag herself up the cave wall and into the alcove. You winced at the startled shrieks and growls coming from the small hole. Several feathers floated out followed by an egg splatting on the ground below. It was silent for a moment until you heard some quiet lip-smacking and a small belch. To your surprise, your dragon emerged walking backward before falling out of the hole, dragging something along with her. You rushed to catch her before she could hit the ground, as whatever souvenir she had was too heavy to fly with.

The dragon landed hard in your outstretched hands, rolling over to look up at you with adoring eyes. Despite her terror from earlier, all you could sense from the creature now was complete loyalty and admiration. The egg delegation—or whatever they called themselves—from Eragon’s Rider Academy had traveled all the way from Vroengard to your small village just outside Dras-Leona to see if any new Riders were waiting there. Three elves, one in charge of the eggs and two warriors, accompanied by a young Rider and their dragon had swooped in and amazed the townsfolk. A few of the older children had eggs hatch for them right away as the elf in charge explained to a concerned parent that the large black egg in the bunch was rumored to have been sired by Shruikan—the old king’s mad beast. It was given a wide berth after that, but you couldn’t help feeling pity for the dragon inside. You were no stranger to being an outcast, and this dragon hadn’t even been born yet. They’d committed no crimes other than existing, and you couldn’t help but wish you could make them feel loved if no one else would.

Maybe that’s why a small crack appeared when you’d gone to get a closer look. Just as you had, a small smoking sphere hit the ground several yards away from you. There was just enough time for the screaming to start before it exploded, kicking up dust from the road into an opaque cloud. You’d grabbed the black egg and held it close to your chest. The explosion, however, rocked the ground and blew out enough of a shockwave that it furthered the crack the tiny dragon inside was trying to make. Shards flew everywhere as there was a fierce flash of light, slicing over your face and hands, to reveal the small, terrified dragon inside. You’d immediately shoved her inside your jacket, ignoring the searing pain in the palm of your hand, before sprinting in the opposite direction. Men in black hoods with fearsome, jarring masks that reminded you of twisted, black skulls immediately started chasing you, screaming something in an unknown language with the common tongue peppered in—but one thing was clear, they wanted your dragon and your cold corpse.

Over the course of the day, you’d lost them, then they found you again. Then you lost them, and they found you again. Then you’d lost them, but since they’d been pillaging and burning everything in their path, several passersby pointed you out to your assailants as you tried to hide. You’d somehow lost them once again in the forest before finding this cave. You could feel your dragon’s gratitude at not only wanting to offer her love, but risking your life to protect her. Even though she couldn’t form mental sentences yet, you could sense she was making the same promise back to you: especially once she was larger in size—and considering Shruikan was her sire, she would likely be very large—no harm would come to you.

She suddenly jumped out of your hands and took the object she’d worked so hard to bring out of the hole in her mouth. You did a doubletake as you realized your outstretched palm now bore a silver mark. Before you could inspect it too closely, the dragon pranced back over to you with a muffled “mmrph?” to show off her prize.

You bent and realized it was the bird’s nest before receiving the mental image of a small fire from your dragon. You smiled, petting her little head again. “Good girl, thank you.”

She made a small mlem as you gently took it from her jaws. She sniffed the air and turned to gobble up the broken egg on the ground before returning to your side. You returned to the place you’d been sitting and set the nest on the ground in front of you, making a border out of some nearby stones. A mysterious woman who lived in your village for a few years when you were younger had taught you some magic and you couldn’t help but be grateful for it now. You stretched your fingers out towards the fire before muttering, “Brisingr.”

Sparks flew from your fingertips to ignite the nest. It wasn’t a huge fire, but it would be enough to keep you warm as night rolled in.

Your dragon jumped at the whoosh the flames made, trilling and hiding themselves inside your jacket again. You laughed. “You’ll have to get used to that, since one day that will come out of your mouth.”

The dragon peeked up out of your jacket and tilted her head in question. You stroked her scales and she closed her eyes with a contented sound.

Your own contentment faded as the reality of your situation hit: you and your dragon might be outcasts for a while. With her being Shruikan’s offspring, people would likely always be suspicious of you right off the bat—and that wasn’t even taking the masked men who would probably continue to hunt you into consideration. People in the village were very quick to blow your cover if it meant their own safety. You couldn’t completely blame them, but it did make you wonder who you could trust. You doubted you’d find the delegation very easily to take you back to Vroengard with everyone else now. And would they even want to? Or would they assume that would put a target on the backs of young children and defenseless hatchlings? You and your dragon were solidly on your own now. Because of her birth, you may now no longer be accepted anywhere without the greatest paranoia.

Sensing her rider’s thoughts, the dragon opened her eyes and looked at you with concern. Although she couldn’t form mental sentences, you knew she wondered if she was considered a curse.

You used two fingers this time to gently stroke the sides of your dragon’s neck. “You are anything but a curse. I’ll always protect you and have your back.”

The dragon chirped happily before butting her forehead against yours and snuggling into your chest once more.

You placed a protective hand over her body, feeling the soft membrane of her wings against your fingers. “So, how does the name Gormlaith sound?”

~***~

Now

A group of bandits—even one as large as this—should’ve been no problem for Murtagh, especially when he had Thorn with him. But they had been much more equipped and organized than he’d anticipated. Since his mission was more undercover, he’d been riding a horse while Thorn flew high above in the sky when the bandits had first attacked. He’d successfully held them off for a while until they started pouring out of the nearby brush in large numbers. When Thorn had flown in to save him, they’d rolled some sort of ballista out of the forest’s cover before disarming Murtagh and forcing him to his knees. Before he’d had time to warn his dragon, they’d loosed the bolt rigged inside, its tip covered in slimy, black goo. It didn’t go deep or even hit a fatal area, but surprised Thorn into losing his balance. Murtagh could feel him suddenly grow woozy and clumsy through their mental link before crashing to the ground a few yards away. The bandits wasted no time in throwing a large, metallic net over him.

Murtagh tried to quell his panic as Thorn’s mind grew increasingly hazy. Had this group developed some sort of dragon poison, or did they just want to knock him out? He’d never heard of a poison that was this painless and fast-acting. But why try to capture either of them in the first place? And how the hell were they so well-equipped?

Murtagh fought against his captors as they dragged his hands behind his back to bind them. “What do you want?”

No one responded, just held onto him tighter as Thorn’s eyelids continued to droop.

I…I can’t keep my head…up…

Don’t go to sleep, Murtagh begged, his chest heaving. Fight it.

I’m trying…

Movement from behind the group of men in front of him caught his eye. There were ten of them in front of him, weapons all trained closely on him, another four holding him, and another eight surrounding Thorn. They looked like ordinary bandits—their hoods up with cloth masks over their faces, their clothes and gear (aside from the shiny, new ballista and net) worn and rusty. Through the group in front of him, Murtagh could see someone in all black moving toward him. The crowd parted and Murtagh’s breath caught in his throat as a man clad in all black, hood drawn, and face hidden by a black skull mask, emerged and simply stared down at him. He clung tightly to a flail before glancing at Thorn, making Murtagh realize even his eyes were covered with some sort of black mesh that he could clearly see out of, but rendered his eye color a mystery.

“Well done hunting us,” he said, turning his face back to Murtagh. His voice was unremarkable aside from the fact that it was male and muffled by the mask. “You were so close.”

Murtagh tested his captors’ strength again and again failed. He growled in frustration; ever since you and Gormlaith had arrived at the academy, the masked men who had been chasing you had been on everyone’s minds—including the queen, who worried about the threat they posed to everyone as a whole. For the last six months, Murtagh and Thorn had been away from the academy (minus the few trips to return and recoup) hunting for clues about this group. He’d found nothing beyond tracking their path and always being several steps behind, barely missing them whenever they seemed to stop and refuel. There were rumors that they were somehow affiliated with a witch who was just as elusive, but he’d found nothing else helpful. They’d been quiet since you’d arrived at the academy, but clearly on the move—and now it was obvious they’d been equipping themselves with followers and means to take down a dragon aplenty.

Murtagh could feel Thorn slipping further and further into sleep. Stay with me, friend. All he got was a long sigh in response as the dragon’s eyes fell closed and didn’t open again. He could still feel him alive and unharmed, but rapidly losing consciousness.

A bandit with a blue hood and mask who stood directly behind the masked man spoke up. “Where are we taking them?”

“To the black sands.”

Just then, a distant roar filled the air with a tone that betrayed its large size. Thorn’s eyes barely flickered open as their assailants looked up in concern.

“I thought you said this would be the only dragon around for miles,” the man with the blue hood said. “We only have the one net and used our only bolt already.”

The distant beat of wings grew louder until it was thundering toward them from behind. Murtagh tried to turn his head, but it was roughly shoved back to look at the ground. He carefully reached out with his mind and touched a vast, unyielding consciousness with a hint of darkness—and maybe even a tinge of madness—that immediately blocked him out. From his view of the ground, he saw a large shadow suddenly block out the sun as the men in front of him began to panic. Another roar, this time much closer, rang through the sky, so deep and loud that Murtagh felt it vibrate in his chest. There was barely time to register anything before fire rained down, taking out several of the men guarding Thorn and the ballista. Screams and the smell of fire filled the air as the bandits before him broke formation to head for cover in the nearby forest while those on fire jumped in the river on the opposite side.

Now free of his guards, Thorn tried his best to get up and shake the net off, but to no avail.

“Stand your ground!” the blue hood cried.

The masked man held out his hand to keep him from drawing his sword. “It’s no good.”

“It’s one dragon and rider—and the ones you wanted, at that!”

“She’s much, much larger than anticipated. She’s grown too quickly and we don’t have the means to bring her down—and she’s angry. Live to fight another day—and this way, you’ll live to see your pay.”

Another roar sounded, filling Murtagh’s ears to the point of pain. He screwed his eyes shut against the ringing in his head as the shadow fell over them again. A column of fire missed his head by mere feet as the men holding him ducked, yelling in terror.

“Pull back!” the blue hood screamed. “To the forest, now!”

The men holding Murtagh threw him to the ground. He landed hard on his back and felt all the air woosh out of his lungs. Once he’d managed to catch it, he knew the sight before him wouldn’t leave his mind anytime soon: part of the forest and the ground ahead of him were engulfed in flame, several of the bandits making a run for it. Black smoke plumed into the air as a great, black dragon moved to hover just over the tree line, and he had to remind himself that it wasn’t Shruikan in front of him. The beating of its wings drove the smoke back toward Murtagh, obscuring his vision and causing him to cough. As the masked man made his way towards the tree line, a figure emerged from the smoke as if born from it. They were also clad in all black armor, the symbol of the academy’s bodyguards emblazoned on their chest. In their hands, they held a wicked sword with a black blade, several notches along the steel to create the illusion of spikes.

They strode towards the masked man with purpose and as some of the smoke cleared, Murtagh realized it was you. Although you’d never been formally introduced with him being in and out of the academy so much since you’d arrived, he’d recognize you anywhere. You’d become a bit of a celebrity at the academy and he couldn’t deny you’d caught his eye more than once in group conversations. He’d never seen you geared up for battle though and especially with Gormlaith behind you and your black blade, you were truly a sight to behold.

You and the masked man met in the middle and he swung out with his flail. Murtagh scrambled to his feet just as you ducked to avoid the blow, grabbing Zar’roc where the bandits had abandoned it on the ground and running to your aid. Before he could get close enough to help, you swung for the masked man’s leg. He blocked the blow with the handle of his weapon just in time for you to swing your own handle into his face, stabbing the cross guard of your sword right through the eye of his mask. He shrieked and stumbled back a few steps. Murtagh swung out with Zar’roc just as the man turned. But instead of slicing solid flesh, he found himself slicing through a sudden cloud of black mist that scattered on the wind, leaving the two of you alone amongst the carnage.

You both stared at each other in silence for a moment before looking around, keeping tight grips on your swords. When no one reappeared after a few minutes, you sheathed your sword into the scabbard slung across your back before making your way over to Murtagh.

~***~

“Are you all right?” you asked, glancing at the red dragon still immobile under the net several yards away.

I’ll help him, Gormlaith said before quickly landing by his side, her wings scattering the smoke back towards the wrecked forest behind you. You glanced at the havoc all around—it was hard not to scorch the earth with every entrance with a dragon that size, but it did have its uses. And you couldn’t deny the confidence boost in knowing you were safe with both your skills and dragon.

“I’m fine,” the man in front of you answered, picking up his scabbard. He sheathed his sword and belted it around his waist. “But Thorn has been heavily sedated.”

You nodded, looking at your dragon as she took the net in her teeth and gently pulled it off Thorn’s body. He groaned and shifted his head to look back at her, but seemed he couldn’t raise it very far off the ground.

“Have you ever encountered any sort of sedative that could take a dragon out like this before?” you asked.

“No.” The man swallowed hard, gripping the pommel of his sword until his knuckles turned white. He motioned for you to follow him as he quickly trudged to his dragon’s side. “They shot him with some sort of bolt. It didn’t go deep or hit anywhere deadly, but it was coated in some sort of…goop. An invention of these masked men, I assume.”

You watched in concern as the man leaned against his dragon’s head, gently massaging his jaw. The dragon blearily opened his eyes before settling against the ground, leaning gently into his rider’s body.

The man sighed before turning back to you. “Well…we can’t move him. Even with your dragon’s large size, I doubt she could carry him anywhere along with the two of us.”

You glanced at the setting sun. “It will be night soon and we at least have some cover from the nearby forest. We could camp here for the night, set some wards, and hope this is worn off by the morning.”

He nodded. “How did you get here? I thought you two were back at the academy.”

“We were one of two rider and dragon bodyguards for an egg delegation nearby, but saw Thorn flying through the sky just to suddenly plummet. We got leave from the lead guardian to come see what was going on.”

“By yourselves? Even though these masked men are still out there and hunting you?”

“Well,” you shrugged, “Gormlaith’s big enough and I’ve had enough training to handle ourselves.”

The man scoffed and glanced at the still-smoking trees. “Clearly.”

You chuckled. “But we did promise Eragon we’d behave, so…” You shoved your hands in your pockets and bounced on the balls of your feet, “there, uh, go our ‘leave-the-grounds’ privileges for a while, I guess.”

He gave you a small smile, resting a hand against his dragon’s head. He stared at you for a moment with a look of open admiration that you couldn’t deny stirred butterflies in your stomach. “Thank you for saving us anyway. I’m Murtagh and this is my dragon, Thorn.”

You nodded. “We’ve heard of you. I’m Y/N, and this is Gormlaith.”

Murtagh nodded, a quick flash of guilt shadowing his features before it was gone again. “And we’ve heard of you. You’re quite the celebrity back at the academy—and even among the people here in Alagaësia.”

“So we’ve heard.” You laughed humorlessly. “We’ve been called the ‘new shadow’ enough times since we landed with the delegation.” You tried not to grimace at all the memories of students, their families, and now citizens alike giving you a wide berth. Although you had a small fan club back at the academy, it mainly consisted of younger students who had no memory of the second Riders’ war. You could feel through your bond that it was even harder on Gormlaith than it was on you. She was the one who was being punished for her father’s sins, after all—but you’d both accepted that this was just the way you would exist in the world, at least for a while: alone together.

As if sensing your thoughts, Murtagh gave you a sympathetic, but grim look. “Well…you won’t be a shadow to us.”

“Thank you,” you said quietly, trying to impart with your eyes that you understood he was one of the few—if not the only—person who could truly understand your plight. You held each other’s gaze for several moments before looking away awkwardly. “Well, we should get started with the wards. You can take that side, and I’ll take this side. There should be enough things on fire that starting one shouldn’t be too hard.”

You’re welcome, Gormlaith said, expanding her consciousness so Murtagh and Thorn could hear her, too.

You both laughed, Thorn giving a meager snort that could’ve been taken as one as well, before getting to work. The perimeter of the ward had to be large to accommodate Thorn and enough room for you to sleep in. Gormlaith was always hyper-aware of her surroundings and large enough that you weren’t worried about fitting her in—and the two of you always had light wards anyway. Once a fire was made, the nearby river made for easy fishing via magic. Murtagh insisted on cooking the meat with the utensils he always carried with him as a thank you. You weren’t sure how long you sat and talked, insisting on staying throughout the night to make sure he and Thorn would be all right. Your caregiver and magic teacher had been adamant that you learn how to read well and the two of you talked about books and scrolls you read for so long, you lost track of time. Murtagh seemed pleasantly surprised by your knowledge of the topic and his air was much lighter and more open than what you’d seen the few times you’d run into him at the academy. You’d only ever seen both him and Thorn from across the way or run into him during group conversations where he didn’t say much and disappeared quickly. But they’d both seemed much more tense and closed off then, and you’d certainly never seen him smile. Scoring more than one laugh out of him during your conversation felt like you’d won a prize and up close, you realized just how handsome he really was. If not for his past, you were sure the women at the academy would’ve been all over him trying to get just a shred of his attention. He’d always struck you as very reserved, but this new hint of shyness when he looked at and talked to you was new and only increased your own nervousness that you hoped he couldn’t detect.

Mmm, I see he’s struck someone’s fancy, Gormlaith teased.

Oh, shut up—as if you weren’t admiring his dragon earlier.

A girl can look; that’s not a crime.

A while after Gormlaith had laid down, you realized just how high in the sky the moon was. “We should get some sleep—but before we do, I wanted to ask if you’d learned anything about the masked men in the last six months?”

Murtagh took a drink from his water skin and shrugged. “Not much more than we already know—except I’ve heard rumors that they may be connected to some witch who’s been equally elusive. I’ve always seemed to be two steps behind them and didn’t even know they were tracking us back until they already had us.” He paused. “I know you two are capable, but you need to be careful about leaving the academy…” He glanced at his feet. “I’d hate to see anything happen to you.”

You nodded. Although you also believed in your and Gormlaith’s capabilities, you couldn’t help but worry about what all this meant not only for your own lives, but the people around you. If you hadn’t arrived when you did, who knew what could’ve happened to Murtagh and Thorn? Before you’d even been formally introduced, you’d already put a target on their backs. Who else was now a target because of you?

Murtagh interrupted your thoughts. “We should get some sleep now. You’ll probably want to return to the delegation first thing in the morning.”

You stood, untying your bedroll from where it was strapped to Gormlaith’s side. “Well, as long as Thorn’s more coherent by then.”

Murtagh sighed as he grabbed his own bedroll. “I’m hoping he’ll just sleep it off. He’s definitely out right now.” He gently rubbed his dragon’s head again. “We might come back to the academy with you this time. Thorn could probably use a rest after this, especially before we venture any further away from the coast.”

You nodded, laying out your bedroll close to Gormlaith’s side and settling in.

I’ll take first watch and wake you in a few hours, she said before gently nuzzling your side with the tip of her nose.

All right, you replied, already enjoying the warmth radiating from her body as you rolled to face her.

After a few moments of nothing but the crackling of the fire, Murtagh quietly said, “Goodnight, Y/N.”

“Night,” you mumbled, already half asleep and picturing his smiling face again in your mind.

Taglist (please let me know if you'd like to be added): @the-ethereal-god @shelbyteller

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ivorydragoness44 · 5 days ago

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“Hey (Y/N),” Leon greeted as he exited the vehicle and took long strides to reach you.

“Hi Leon. Happy Friday.”

Chuckling, he brought you in for a quick hug.

Oh.

"Oh" is right. Suddenly in Leon's arms like that 😆🥰

"Cheesy" Leon Kennedy x Reader -- Part Two

(A/N: Here’s part two following “Cheesy” the blind date with Leon Scott Kennedy! It’s second date time. Reader still works at a school.

Tumblr's formatting is super annoying... Now my trick of paste from my computer pages and then copying it from an email doesn't work around it any more. All that and I have to go in to manually hit Enter and italicize everything I already did. Dude. Whatever, maybe it'll look better.

Warnings: fluff, minor angst, mild language, preference for cheese and also pasta, and use of (Y/N) for your name. Word Count: 7,273 words)

(Don't mind me, picking a gif based on if Leon's arms are showing...) ~~~

Two weeks of phone calls, text messages, and ongoing conversation uplifted Leon’s quiet nights. He thoroughly enjoyed getting to know you more. After one date, Leon was happily surprised to be still in contact with his date. You were different. A connection had been established between pizza slices that one afternoon. He looked forward to your messages. Funny gifs included. If it hadn’t been for your work projects you wanted to complete at home, he was certain you two would had gone on a second date all ready. And they’re not stalling, Leon reminded himself as he scrolled through the in-progress photos you had sent him last Sunday. A weekend he had hoped to see you. They really like their job enough to decorate. He smiled to himself as a corner of a picture showed paint on your fingers. Leon could imagine you scrubbing the paint off with the focused frown you held like when you dried the booth and your clothes the best you could at the pizza place. He’d help you in a second, he knew that. Water spill or paint, he would give you assistance quick. That was Leon Kennedy.

Wanting to have someone in his life, a partner, wasn’t new for Leon. As he got a little older, Leon desired to be in a relationship where they took care of each other and had some lovable normalcy. No more short-lived flings. Leon needed affection. Long-term. Peering over to the empty side of the couch, he sighed. Maybe, he thought. It could never be considered selfish for the hardworking man to want his feelings for a person to grow and thrive. Leon wanted love. Healthy and romantic love.

Were you the one? He didn’t know then, but Leon knew he could love you. Being with you for those couple of hours made a mark in his thoughts. You took up space in his heart. A light within a wide field of dark memories. Leon scrolled through your messages again. His heart fluttered. Excited nerves perhaps. School should have more days off, he thought. It’s been years since I was glad Friday was a day off from school. Too bad it wasn’t last Friday. With his eagerness to see you again, Leon hoped you’d still be interested. Until Friday came and he saw you again, he could only hope. Just don’t act like an idiot, Leon chided himself. They’re important.

. . .

Blue sky and picture perfect clouds boosted your hopes for a good day. A second date. You practically cheered while standing on the sidewalk in front of your apartment building. Earlier you had danced through your whole routine as you got ready. A huge contrast of before your first blind date. An actual second date, you thought excitedly, with who has to be the single-most handsome man I have ever seen! How in the world is he single? He’s fun! You took a steadying breath. It’s fine. Maybe it’s because of his job. He seems busy between texts. You pulled at the sleeves of your light jacket. It wasn’t searing hot nor was it cold, but it was more like backup. I better not be a klutz this time. Rounding a corner, a partially familiar Jeep headed down the pavement making your heart leap. Early again. Good thing I was faster. Picking an activity for a second date took a couple of days of brainstorming. Between the pair of you, suggestions had gotten quite random. At least you agreed on one. The Jeep slowed to a stop in front of you.

“Hey (Y/N),” Leon greeted as he exited the vehicle and took long strides to reach you. “Hi Leon. Happy Friday.” Chuckling, he brought you in for a quick hug. Oh. “Ready to go?” Leon asked as he went to open the passenger side door. “Ready to tackle the course,” you smiled. “Mini golf will never be the same.” You hopped into the Jeep and buckled up as he shut the door. He definitely as muscles, you thought. Your gaze trained on the man walking around the front of the vehicle. Do we hug now? I wouldn’t mine. It’s sweet too. “You can pick the music if you like.” Leon offered as he settled into the driver’s seat. “They should be finished with commercials by now.” He buckled in. “Every station was on break, huh?” “For the past five minutes.” He complained lightly. “That’s at least two songs. Your poor ears.” “Heh.” Putting the vehicle in drive, Leon drove out of the complex. The speakers sounded off random voices and jingles as you switched between stations. “How many fall drinks do they need to advertise?” You pressed the seek button again. “I think it’s just one. Hot and cold variations.” “Mainly coffee,” you added and settled for a (genre) station. “It’s what they’re drinking first thing in the morning at work.” “All of you need the energy to keep up with the students. Wasn’t one wandering the school last week?” “Yeah. He was fine. Just avoiding going back to class.” “Well, none of you need to worry about work today.” “Thank goodness,” you sighed. “I really needed a three-day weekend.” “I know,” Leon smiled while turning from a busy street to a highway. “Thank you for letting me take up one of your days.” You laughed. “The feeling’s mutual.” “It’s a good thing we’re all ready on a second date.” Laughter stirred out of you again, light and happy. It was so good to see him again. Behind the steering wheel, Leon had a glow about him, a radiance. Not the sort from afternoon light, but from within. Whether it was from an emotion or healthy skin; you weren’t certain. Only, his icy blue eyes glimmered with life. He seems to be the kind of person you can talk about almost anything with. Another reason you had been looking forward to the second date. Almost two full weeks of knowing one another and conversation opened up more. Blooming a friendship where both individuals acknowledged romantic interest. Plus a flirtation here and there. Who knew you could have common interests with someone you met on a blind date? Your friend from work probably had a very good idea. They had yet to reveal their connections.

Maybe I can find out on my own, you thought, or Leon can get his friends to admit how. At least wondering about the process of setting up a blind date didn’t take up too much of your time. You had someone funny and perhaps sly to think about. Resting your arm on the console, you regarded Leon with curiosity. Shiny dirty blonde hair framed his face in long swept angles at his cheekbones. A dashingly handsome profile that focused on the road ahead. More time for you to admire your date for more than his manners and sense of humor. I hope I don’t ogle at his arms later, you thought. Your gaze was caught up in the definition of Leon’s arms revealed from his choice of a blue tee shirt. There’s no way he just does paperwork at his job. Moving loads of equipment, maybe. Imagine how many books he could hold. “Did anyone say anything about your decorations?” Leon asked. “It would be hard not to notice. They looked great in the pictures.” “Yeah. Uh.” You shook your head clear of your previous thoughts. “The assistant principal thought it was cute. She couldn’t believe I made most of it.” “She should.” He insisted and took a peek at you, “You’re talented.” “It was just something to liven up the desk. If kids are going to checkout books there then it shouldn’t be boring or plain.” You explained while redirecting your sights to the road. “Plus I’m in there almost all day.” “You had plenty of time to plan during a lunch break, huh?” “Maybe.” You shifted in the seat and spotted a familiar sign up ahead. “Oh, it’s the next right.” “All right.” Leon’s focus brought the two of you safely from a highway all the way into the mini golf place’s parking lot. Then an added few minutes of picking a descent place to park. Thankfully, the building you entered didn’t appear uncomfortably crowded. A three-day weekend’s worth of people seeking fun. “I thought it’d be smaller,” Leon observed the start of the course once you two were outside. “Eighteen holes. Obstacles around every corner. Will you reach the dragon’s lair?” Leon quirked up an eyebrow at you. “Is that what the pamphlet said?” “No,” you answered slowly and rolled the yellow golf ball between your fingers. Your gaze was set on the people attempting the first hole. “In that case, you can go first. You’re the avid reader,” Leon noted playfully. “You’ve faced dragons before, right?” “Ran from dragons, befriended dragons,” you smirked, “you know, between organizing shelves at work and reading e-mails at home.” A bright joy rushed through you as Leon laughed. Although short, it made you feel good to know you gave him something to bring even a smile to his face. Ahead of you, the people moved on to the next patch of green. The first hole’s area resembled a blob. Native trees and low foliage on your left hid the majority of the course from view. “You’re up,” Leon announced with a lingering smile as he handed you one of the two putters. “It’s a warm-up.” You said mostly to yourself as you set the yellow ball down. “Easy does it.”

Please don’t mess the first one up too badly.

A light tap to the ball and it rolled just over halfway to where you wanted it. At least it’s still on the green part. “Almost,” Leon commented from the edge of the green. Lining up the putter, you eyed where you wanted the yellow sphere to go. A light swing and the ball bounced. “That’s my luck,” you pointed out as the ball stopped next to the hole. “No, it’s fine. Tap it in.” “Ha ha.” The yellow ball went in after a light tap. Finally, you thought and picked up the golf ball. “Your turn.” You stepped onto the gravel walkway. “It’s a warm-up, right?” You nodded. Leon set down a blue golf ball and angled his putter once he straightened up. He’s really cute when he’s focused. Leon grunted. The golf ball had passed the hole. “Show it who’s boss, Leon.” “Ha ha…,” he walked up to the ball. “I will.” In a short and soft swing of the putter, he completed the first hole of the course. You clapped. The best you could holding a putter and a ball, anyway. A smile was sent your way. “One step closer to the dragon,” you joked as you two fell into step. Only a few feet away, a larger green area had a miniature mountain range with a single mountain in the middle of a curve. “Huh.” Following Leon’s gaze passed the current hole number two, you saw a bridge that went over shallow water. That was hole three. “Through the mountains, over the bridge, and to the dragon’s lair.” Leon muttered loud enough for you to hear. Nudging his arm with yours, you snickered.

The second hole of mountainous design gave less trouble as confidence built between you and Leon. It helped keep the golf balls in play having a mountain range as a barrier. Hole three was what made you tilt your head briefly. Standing at the start of the green two paces from the bridge, you commented lightly, “I didn’t see this on the website, but the bridge is kind of cute.” “Didn’t realize I’d have competition at putt putt golf.” What? You blinked and turned to your date whose eyes were on the bridge. “No,” you chuckled. “A bridge isn’t much of a conversationalist.” “Too stiff?” “Flat emotion isn’t interesting.” “Too one dimensional for you?” “I like someone with character.” You admitted. “We all have stories.” Blue eyes studied you with a spark of hope shielded behind a wall. Leon’s history kept within. The small upturn of his mouth followed. “What stories have you been interested in lately?” He asked, a seriousness layered underneath his flirtation. Options laid out in your mind. Numerous, detailed, and varying in expression. Boldly, you replied truthfully, “Hero’s journey, romance, a bit of comedy, and happy endings. Not fleeting interests.” “That’s good to know.” You smiled and prepared to hit the ball over the bridge. A task that proved easier than expected. Leon also found that particular obstacle pretty simple. You two only questioned the integrity of the bridge you had to also cross. At least the water was shallow and gave a great backdrop for the castle of hole four. By then, you were slightly anxious to know if your last conversation by the bridge had any negative effects on your date. Were you too short and honest in words? Was Leon searching for something else?

I’m being ridiculous.

“Watch your step,” Leon advised softly. His eyebrows pinched together as he watched you travel down the sloped walkway to reach where your yellow golf ball stopped. “I’m okay.” You reassured him as you passed a miniature village. I’ve had to go through worse terrain at a friend’s birthday party years ago. But…this gravel is a little tricky. “Whoa.” You caught your footing immediately. “Stinker, I—” Leon had stopped halfway to you. Blue eyes checking you over. “Are you okay?” He asked, hands outstretched as if he was ready to continue moving to help. A completely different level of focus and concern on his face. You weren’t sure how to feel about it. Other than surprised. “Yeah. Yeah, I’m fine.” You glanced down to the walkway. “Just watch for that spot.” “All right.” He nodded slowly. Heading to the golf ball, you were keenly aware of your date’s gaze on you. He really didn’t want me to fall. The realization was heavy considering how fast Leon moved. Didn’t he say he was loyal to the people he cares about? You wondered as the yellow ball fell into the hole. He cares that much all ready? Or to people in general? You stepped to the side. He gave me his jacket to cover my wet clothes. You hoped from where Leon stood to putt his turn that he wouldn’t notice your contemplative and flustered state. He was coming to save me like an action hero or a love interest in a Hallmark movie. That’s a good sign, right? You thought while your sights were on the man. I know people who’d laugh instead. You blinked, staring into the distance. I do know people who would’ve laughed if I would’ve fell. Following the slope of the green with agile ease, Leon continued to put the blue golf ball. Blue eyes peeked up in your direction. He smiled before hitting the ball in. “Leon.” He looked up as he retrieved the golf ball. “Thank you,” you said, “for earlier. Someone else would’ve just laughed at me.” You held the putter in front of you. A makeshift shield for your vulnerability. Stepping up to you, Leon spoke compassionately, “Getting hurt isn’t something to laugh at. Trust me.” “People have done it anyway,” you muttered. Remembering your own school days wasn’t actually all sunshine and smiles. Even some days as an adult lead to stumbles that others found entertaining despite your pain. Not exactly what you wanted to think about while on a date. A warm hand covered yours, gentle and firm. “If you do fall, I will help you up.” Leon promised. “I can’t say the same for anyone who would laugh. They can pick themselves up.” “Thank you.” You repeated quietly. “You’re welcome.” Leon’s gaze lingered on yours before switching to behind you. “What do you say we tackle the rest of this course? Find the dragon.” A small playful smile pulled at his lips. Pairing like a mood shifter, his eyes twinkled with hope. That familiar flutter appeared in your stomach. The care being shown to you went straight to your heart. A moment imprinted in your mind. “Is there more than one dragon?” You asked, feeling more comfortable. “One way to find out.” Leon took hold of one of your hands and together you set forth through twelve holes full of obstacles.

Encouraging and funny remarks were passed around as each green held challenges. From twisting paths to tricky shapes, it was you and Leon versus the remaining course. What a pair you two made.

“This gravel is trying to get me,” you exclaimed as you stepped away from the seventeenth hole. “I gotcha. Don’t worry.” Leon squeezed your hand in reassurance. A delightful wonder it was to feel more giddy and at ease whenever he took your hand within his. As each patch of green was conquered, Leon offered his hand until a gravitation of habit developed. In the sky, the sun hung lower to the horizon. Longer shadows were cast from trees decorated around the course. Ahead stood one of the largest sets. The final hole. Light reflected off of piles of treasure kept within the wide open cave. With glowing eyes and sharp claws, a dark dragon rested over top of the stone.

“Huh.” Leon observed the eighteenth hole between two mounds of gold. “That actually looks pretty cool,” you said, appreciating the details. “The staff probably have a hell of a time getting the golf balls back.” In a second, your lips pulled back into a grin. His timing too! You leaned against his arm as your quiet laughter subsided. “Okay,” you declared, “time to make friends with a dragon.” “Show me how it’s done.” Giving Leon a smile, you walked onto the green and faced the dragon. Just a short putt, you thought to yourself. Easier than the one with speed bumps or whatever. Sure and true, the last hole was easy. The yellow golf ball disappeared into the hole after one hit of the putter. You spun around to face Leon and chimed triumphantly, “Ta da.” Your actions earned you a hearty chuckle from your handsome date. “Your turn, my good sir.” Leon sent you a charming smile. One that lead you to practically miss him hitting the blue golf ball straight into the dragon’s lair successfully. After which, he strolled over to you, putter propped over one shoulder. “So…?” Leon looked at you expectantly. “I had fun.” “Me too.” Again, you two shared smiles. Comforted by the mutual entertainment of the mini golf date.

The end of the date was near and that was the only disappointment you had. Especially after the new level of closeness shared. Who knew holding someone’s hand wouldn’t feel like a chore or staged? Spending time with Leon felt natural. “You’re really cute when you’re happy.” Leon said more earnestly than as a flirtation. Yet he could throw you off by comments and compliments like that. “Thank you,” you replied, never quite sure how to respond to such compliments. “What do you say we head out of here before traffic picks up?” “Yeah,” you looked to the sky a bit bashfully, “it’s later than I thought.” “Time flies.” His words were a firm reminder to you both of the ending of your first date. Leon led you both into the building to return the putters and left to the parking lot.

A bittersweet moment seemed close to repeating itself. Another time of parting.

It’s evening at the earliest, you thought. Do I really want to go home now or…? You glanced down to Leon’s fingers intertwined with yours. Heart beating ever so slightly faster, you knew the answer. Just, how were you to bring it up or ask?

When scheduling the date, you two left options open and didn’t consider time after playing mini golf. You both may have been too preoccupied with setting the date. Those thoughts lingered even as Leon and yourself made it back into his vehicle. Was an afternoon together enough for a second date? Was it enough for you two? Dates could be almost anything. It’s not like we have a time limit or anything. You thought as you watched Leon navigate out of the parking lot and back to the highway. No rush. No…unnecessary worrying or second guessing.

Your thoughts were supported more so when, by your peripheral vision and luck, Leon glanced over. By the time he set his sights forward, he was smiling once more. Easy going and genuine. No mistake, Leon enjoyed your company. I wonder what his friends are like. You pulled down the shade to block some sunlight. They somehow have a connection to my friend at work. Which is bizarre. Peeking over to your date, you checked out Leon’s profile again. You were lucky his hair covered some of his peripheral vision. Or so you hoped. “So, uh,” Leon adjusted his grip on the steering wheel. “May I treat you to dinner?” Sparks of joy and soothing relief ran through your chest. “You may,” you smiled, giddy. “All right.” Leon sat taller as he briefly glanced to you with shining blue eyes. “I have a place in mind.” “Oh?” You leaned on the console. “Do you like pasta?” “Always have.” “Heh. Something else we have in common.” So it was.

The Jeep drove further into town, off the highway and on a local road. Music played through the speakers to the delight of both of you. More than two minutes of commercials really was pushing it on a Friday evening. Any time really. By the time Leon parked, you two were a little hyped up from listening to good music. “You never know what they’ll play on Fridays,” you commented as Leon grabbed your hand. “It depends on which station you’re listening to.” He walked between you and a car looking for an open space. “Thank goodness they still play songs that are more than two years old,” you added. “But that’s why cassette tapes and CDs still exist.” “You still have yours?” “Yup,” you announced proudly. “All the way back to the ones that go with the books I read when I was little.” Leon chuckled, “I was wondering when we’d get back to talking about books.” You raised an eyebrow. “You did?” Shrugging slightly, he avoided eye contact. “Yeah. I know you like them. Plus your job and everything.” Is he bashful, for what? Remembering? You studied him in the golden glow of the evening sunlight. You circled the pad of your thumb around one of his knuckles. “I still need to figure out which book to recommend you first. Nothing too daunting.” “Daunting?” Leon’s eyes were quick to find yours. “You want to start off with a six-hundred page novel?” You lightly teased. “Maybe not yet.” “Maybe not yet,” you repeated fondly.

Looking both ways, the pair of you checked that the way was clear before safely crossing towards the sidewalk. The entrance to a popular restaurant all ready had people leaving from an early meal. Despite its smooth and rustic appearances, the place was technically still a fast food restaurant. It had an aesthetic. Once you reached the front doors, Leon opened one and you entered first. A blast of air conditioning hit you like a wave from above. In the entry area, a short line stood in front of the host station. Staff came and went in the large rooms beyond. Being in a fast paced environment meant to serve food as quickly as possible, you hoped there would be enough time to relax with your date. To be rushed was never a good feeling to have.

“I feel under dressed,” Leon murmured to you while you both stood in line. Muscle defined arms exposed from his shirt. “Don’t let the off-white table cloths fool you.” You whispered. “You’re sure?” “There’s a gas station at the corner of the plaza and,” you gestured with your chin, “there’s people wearing shorts. Eating lasagna.” “You consider lasagna fancy?” The corner of his lips curved up. “It’s delicious.” “Is that what you want?” “Depends.” “On?” “The price and sides.” “Hey,” Leon leaned closer to you with a wide smile, “don’t worry about price. I’m treating you this time, if that’s all right. Again?” “Okay,” you agreed. “But don’t order dessert.” Creases forming between Leon’s eyebrows, he eyed you conspicuously. “That’s all I’m saying.” You looked forward with an older idea in mind. He can guess. I’m sure.

The two of you reached the host station where the pair of you only had to wait an additional three minutes before a server walked over and grabbed two menus. “This way, please,” instructed the server as he lead you and Leon into the dining area. Darn, this guy’s quick, you thought while having to move much faster between tables than expected. Getting to the table to be seated was always the quickest part of being in a restaurant. Casual or otherwise. The server, with routined ease, set both menus on a small clothed table along the wall. Leon and yourself sat across from one another as the server gave their introductory spiel. In what felt like seconds, drinks were ordered and the server sped off with their notepad.

“Did he even write down the drinks?” Leon glanced over your shoulder to where the server had gone. “He has a system?” You offered with a small shrug. Leon tilted his head with a lopsided smirk, “Not as good as how you tackled those last few holes.” “That tiered one was luck.” You stated, grabbing the menu in front of you. “And the speed bumps?” “What ever those were…,” you started. “Might as well have been a wall.” He opened a menu. “I was going to say ‘annoying’, but yeah. You should have just kicked the ball over.” You said and started skimming through entrée options. “Heh. I would have had to pay for a replacement.” He murmured. That would’ve been interesting, you thought. Images of Leon kicking the blue golf ball out of sight filled your mind for a few moments. Not the paying part obviously. “Maybe a light kick,” you suggested. “You wouldn’t count that as cheating?” Gazing up, you were met with openly curious and playful icy blue eyes. “It’s just a little nudge. Can’t hold up other players.” “Sounds fair enough.” “But if the golf ball landed in the water—that’s all you.” “Me?” He laughed. You nodded and looked down to do your best to focus on the menu again. A lightness filled your chest at his response. His laugh could easily become one of your favorite sounds. Given time, reflection, and more dates, there could be many other things about Leon you might grow to favorite. Or adore. You were more than willing to find out.

“Would it be boring if I ordered spaghetti?” “No,” you answered and tapped the menu. “I think I’ll have spaghetti too.” “With cheese?” You peered up and saw his playful smirk as he leaned back in the chair. “Maybe.” You replied. “They grate it for you here.” Oh? You quickly checked the table in reflex. No shaker of cheese in sight. “Have you been here before?” You questioned. “No.” He smiled, “I did a little research.” “You researched?” You swore you could had melted right there. “Yeah.” Leon shifted in his seat under your gaze. “I figured since you like pizza and even have a family recipe for sauce…” Words eluded you even as Leon’s explanation trailed off. Both mentally and verbally, you fell silent.

His gesture, how ever small to some, felt like it opened a window view to his heart. One that allowed you a glimpse behind his words. You could only grasp so much through the phone. It wasn’t about impressing you with knowledge of a restaurant. It wasn’t even an attempt of displaying out right what he knew about you to prove something. Leon planned ahead of time with your preferences in mind, both yours and his. He thought of you.

Your date watched you intently, waiting for a response. If you had one with all the silence after his explanation. Before you could say a word, the server returned with two drinks. “Do you know what you want to order?” The server asked with his pen and notepad ready. “The spaghetti plate for each of us, please,” you answered. You looked to Leon to be sure and he gave a nod before giving a funny look towards the server. Only a moment of observing him answered why Leon found the man odd. Without pause or question, the server listed off about bread, salad, and toppings. All in one breath it seemed. Well rehearsed and practiced. When’s the last time this guy went on break? You wondered as all orders were set and the server left again. Returning your attention to Leon once more, you were caught up by the dining room’s lighting. Warm light highlighted Leon’s features softly. He appeared even more charmingly friendly as evening carried on. Perhaps it was a good thing Leon was not dressed more formally or professionally. You had known him for almost two full weeks, but you were not immune to becoming flustered. Leon sent you a smile. Then you caved. Leaning forward, you asked, “Would you be up for me treating you to gelato after dinner?” “I definitely would.” You both shared smiles. “I was hoping that’s what you were hinting at when we got here.” “Craving a frozen treat?” You inquired. “Being with you is a treat.” He picked up his drink and took a sip. Cheesy. You glanced away from his lively gaze. Oh, but you loved it. Leon could give out puns in any moment, but he didn’t lie. He didn’t appear to be the type. There was a level of awkwardness in there that made it all the more…cute. Honest. “Well, I was thinking that the gelato could also count as a reward for getting through two work weeks.” You announced with rising shoulders. “That and to make up for me being a klutz the first time.” You tapped the surface of the table. “We’ll just have to get a double scoop of gelato.” “Sounds good to me.”

Minutes passed and hunger rose while you two awaited dinner. Conversation veered into Leon asking about your work and what you thought of it. He really leaned into how you felt about your job. It had been a while since someone genuinely wondered what you hoped to do within your media center at the school.

When hot plates of pasta and the rest of the order arrived, you deemed it time to be brave. A time when long pauses wouldn’t be completely awkward. You just needed to know more.

“So,” you twirled some noodles around your fork. “Do you have a favorite part of your job?” The sudden rigidity that overcame Leon over his plate made you want to reverse time and slam your question into another continent. “I’m sorry,” you added quickly. Blue eyes stared into the plate of spaghetti. Great. You thought sarcastically and disappointed in yourself. It’s a sensitive subject all together for him. “Forget I said anything,” you whispered. “I like when it’s done.” Leon kept his gaze and voice down. “When people are safe. But it’s not finished.” In your chest, it felt as if your heart was both sinking and swelling. Your dinner temporarily forgotten. “I’m sorry I brought it up.” Heat had rose far beyond your neck at that point. “Not talking about it doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.” Raising his gaze, Leon looked tired. “I’ve been…doing this job for years. Longer than I want.” “And it’s a lot?” “Yeah.” He exhaled, muscles relaxing slowly. “I can tell you that much.” “You don’t have to tell me anything you’re uncomfortable with. I mean, obviously. I just—just thought there’d be something positive.” He breathed out a soft laugh. Nothing humorous about it. “I’ve thought that too.” Well, crap. You reached for your drink and had a generous amount. So his job is literally a lot. Physically. Emotionally. Peering up at him, you saw him poking at his salad. “Three scoops of gelato for you,” you declared firmly, “and nothing less.” The corner of Leon’s mouth curved up. “Are you trying to spoil me?” “Trying is different than doing.” Tiredness in his features disappeared as Leon’s smile returned. A light in the dimming atmosphere of the dining area.

Dinner continued more in hushed tones and stolen glances. People spoke in loud voices and servers busied around. The place left a desire for somewhere calm. Despite the warm glow of light, there was an unspoken want declared by the restaurant: to hurry up. By the fifth return of your server, Leon had his card ready for the man. “Can’t sit without eating for five minutes in this place.” Leon grumbled before taking one last sip from his drink. You bit back a smirk. He wasn’t lying. Dinner rush meant: order more food or pay before leaving. “The gelato shop is closer to where I live. It’s not as…busy as this place.” You said. “The tables are smaller too.” “Oh, yeah?” Leon’s blue eyes looked to you with a playful spark within them. “Pretty cozy.” “I think I’ll like that place.” He leaned his arm against the table. “I hope so.”

. . .

Golden hour at its peak for the season, rock music playing over hidden speakers, and icy blue eyes mesmerizing you. The gelato shop was one of the brightest ideas you had lately. In your opinion. Small round table setup by a wall had you and Leon knocking knees while enjoying individual cups of frozen treats. The sunset hardly registered to either of you. Both preoccupied by the other.

“But is it weird that I have future book recommendations for you?” You asked before having another spoonful of creamy gelato. “What do you mean?” “Like for after ones I think you should read first.” “Oh.” Leon tapped your forearm resting on the table. “That’s being prepared not weird. What did yah have in mind?” His fingers found yours around a short paper cup. “Possibly The Chronicles of Narnia.” “A whole series.” “Yup. Definitely Pride and Prejudice.” “Why ‘definitely’?” “Because it’s one of the most entertaining books I’ve ever read. And I had avoided it for years because I thought it’d be boring.” “Oh. Judged it by the cover?” “No. More like, I had no idea what it was actually about until I looked into it.” Leon chuckled. “Unlike Jurassic Park.” Slowly, Leon turned his head to look at you more completely. “Jurassic Park?” “Yeah.” “That’s a big difference—a jump from a romance.” “A sixty-five million year difference?” You smirked. “Heh.” Leon shook his head, breaking any eye contact. Yet his free hand did not leave yours. “I should’ve thought of that.” “I can be cheesy too.” “We can have our own club.” He mused as he finished eating his gelato. “Matching shirts?” “With cheese on it?” “Two slices of pizza and a few pieces of shredded cheese as decoration around them.” You pushed aside your empty cup. “What text though?” “Hmm.” Leon brought his hand to join his other one. Kinda hard to think with him basically warming my hand with both of his, you thought. Not complaining. “Why no Cheesy Club?” He suggested. “Good enough for me— Oh. Small text under the pizzas.” You spoke animatedly. “Something like: sometimes blue, always gouda.” A laugh escaped Leon so fast he ended up coughing. Once it passed, he regarded you contently. “I’ll have on in either blue or gray.” You chuckled, “Blue would be nice.” “You like blue?” “Uh-huh.” You rested your chin on your free hand, elbow propped on the table. Clearly aware Leon had blue eyes and wore a blue shirt, you couldn’t resist but to take a quick glimpse. A fleeting look. One so fast it was a blur of blues and hidden muscle. “I’ll keep that in mind.” Is he trying to remember everything? You wondered, both impressed and amused. “Any chance you like blue cheese?” Curling your lip, you shook your head. “Okay, no.” Leon gave your hand a light squeeze, all chill from holding the cup gone. “Had to ask.” “You can ask anything.” His dark eyebrows rose a fraction. “Anything?” “Why not?” You tilted your head slightly. “We faced a dragon today and I didn’t kick all the gravel away for having a vendetta against me.” “True.” “And you’re warming my hand. So…” “So,” Leon glanced around briefly. “What does a typical day for you look like?” “… Work?” “No. I know. I meant, when you’re not working?” “Uh. Laundry.” “When you don’t have to do that? Your free time.” “Hanging around in loungewear, maybe watching a movie or reading a book.” Leon smiled. “What about when you’re out of the apartment? Got any favorite places?” “Unsurprisingly,” you answered with a light laugh, “there’s this secondhand bookstore I try to go to at least once a month. I get to give a book a new home and save money. It’s a win-win.” With a soft gaze, Leon inquired another question. “Is there a specific book you’re looking for?” “Uh.” Peering down to the table, you felt the weight of his gaze as well as his questions.

This man truly wanted to get to know you. To tap into your brain and figure out what made you specifically you. Not a large percentage of people in your life dove that deep into your interests and how they affected your life. Leon, your date, seemed to be heading in that direction. Openly and unfazed, Leon wasn’t too awkward asking anything. “I like to see the different editions of Grimms’ Fairy Tales.” You lowered your hand to the table. “I’ve read some of them. But one day one might just jump out at me and I’ll have to get it.” “Do books leap from the shelves to be read by you?” Peering up, you saw the amused twinkle in Leon’s icy blue eyes. “Only when I’m browsing too quickly.” He smirked. “They’re vying for your attention.” “Then it’s probably a good thing we’re not in any bookstore now,” you lightly poked one of his hands. “We’d need helmets.” “Heh.” Eyes glancing away for a moment, Leon’s cheerful expression faltered as he took in the view outside. Evening light raced further west. Nightfall was approaching.

The day really flew by.

“I should get you back home before it’s dark.” Leon announced before checking his watch. “And before we get more gelato,” you added teasingly. “This was fun.” “The gelato or…?” “Everything today.” Any evidence of tiredness or worry vanished when Leon heard your answer. “Too bad the sun sets earlier, huh?” His fingers fidgeted a couple of seconds before Leon released your hand to grab the small cups and spoons. “And I rather you not have to drive in the dark.” Squeaking chairs skidded against the floor as the pair of you prepared to leave the shop. Moving faster only to escape any more annoying sounds. One of which being some lady loudly answering her cell phone. A firm reminder that you two were not the only ones there.

Content and only a little awkward, both you and Leon sat in his Jeep unsure of what to say. With the second date coming to a close, what could two converse about? Pulling at your jacket underneath the seatbelt, you watched the scenery go by. Recognizable buildings and signs trying to outshine foliage.

“How do you feel about painting?” You asked as the thought barely went through your mind. “I don’t know.” “Have you painted before?” Your fingers traced the edge of the console. “Maybe when I was little…,” Leon pondered. “You… You’re thinking of something, aren’t you?” “Thinking on the spot. Brainstorming.” Still focused on the road ahead, Leon reached out with his hand and gently grabbed yours. “Third date planning?” Face and neck warming, you replied, “Is it too soon?” “Nah. It took us a while to plan this date.” He retracted his hand and added. “Only one problem,” he turned the Jeep down a local road, “it makes waiting more difficult.” Okay, then, you thought as a smile curved your lips. “We’ll bounce some more ideas around then.” “I don’t have anything against paining.” Leon clarified.

Along each side of the road streetlights were all ready lit. People were walking their dogs on the sidewalk. Orange daylight held on far west, if only barely.

You were almost home.

I can always look up more date ideas at home, you thought with building anticipation. Another activity would be cool. We’re not quite at comfy movie or game night yet. Maybe in the future.

Looking ahead and with positivity definitely kept a smile on your face. You hoped Leon thought similarly.

Slowly down his Jeep, Leon parked it as close to your apartment building as legally possible. Streetlights illuminated a direct path to your destination. A breath of silence overtook the inside of the vehicle. Neither of you made a move to leave nor speak. A peculiar circumstance that made your heartbeat pickup ever so slightly. You unbuckled your seatbelt. “Can I walk you to your door?” Leon asked. “Sure.” Not as fast as when you first saw him that afternoon; Leon exited the Jeep and walked around it to join you on the sidewalk. Together you made your way to the building and up a set of stairs. Coming to a stop in front of your door, you turned to Leon. “I had a really great time today.” You announced honestly. “Me too. It’s been a while since I’ve had that much fun.” In the back of your mind something grabbed onto his sentence as more than a phrase. A piece of the Leon-story-puzzle. You couldn’t think of anything work related that could make someone like him so tired, not from what you imagined his government work to be.

Today was fun. He needed it too.

Without a second thought, you grabbed one of his hands and brought it to your lips. “Until next time?” You whispered. Leon locked eyes with you. “I can’t wait,” he said in a broken whisper. No person had ever looked at you with such deep, raw emotion as he did then. The gesture surprised him, you had no doubt about that. It wasn’t a kiss to the cheek or a quick hug. It was completely something else. “Let me know when you get home safe, okay?” You released his hand. “I will.” In the dim light, a soft smile was seen on Leon’s lips as he took slow steps toward the stairs. “Good night.” “Good night, (Y/N).” Taking the steps down with ease, Leon made his way back to his vehicle. He had glanced back once before going on his way.

I can’t believe I did that.

A full afternoon and evening with Leon turned out better than you hoped. You were heading towards cloud nine and Leon could hardly wait to see you again. You were giddy just thinking about hearing from him.

I gotta thank my friend at some point, you thought as you smiled to yourself.

Hours with Leon was, perhaps, one of the most fun outings you had in a really long time. You could hardly wait for more.

~~~

(If you love my writings and want to support me, I have a Ko-Fi where you can buy me a coffee. I would be eternally grateful.coffee Best wishes and happy reading.) ~~~~~ DreamerDragon Tags: @cubedtriangle Leon Scott Kennedy Tags: @bumblebeesfromvenus @d333athw1sh @c4rl40n4

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#leon scott kennedy #leon kennedy x reader #leon x reader #leon kennedy #leon kennedy imagine #leon s kennedy #where dreamers go #resident evil #resident evil fanfiction #blind date #leon kennedy fluff #leon kennedy x y/n #leon kennedy cheesy #cuuuuute #Poor Leon is tired from his job #Also...gelato?!! Yum.#blog recs

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