#[ so much more than a band -aflockoffeathers]

[ducknotinarow]

[CharlieRhodes] "Hey, it's alright. I'm here for you."

| 💜💜💜 --- 'I love you' Sentence Starters;

It wasn't really a secret that Rhode and his step mother Karine just did not like one another. Anyone could see it when ever Rhodes how to mention having a step-mother or how she just seemed to hate the mere fact Rhodes existed. Sometime Rhodes was positive Karine assumed his Dad would just dip of of Rhode's life, so when he didn't? Guess it was Rhodes fault least that's how she made it out to be since he felt like he was coastally being punished. At most Rhode's didn't let her have the satisfaction of getting under his feathers. In truth she hardly phased him ever since her whole ploy to see off his stuff after whispering into his father ear about it being a distraction from school. Rhodes felt it made it extremely clear.

And in truth? Rhodes was fine with the mutual understanding that they didn't like each other. A lot of what she said never really got to him much he just tuned her out. HE found ways to not deal with her directly as much as possible making excuses for being out late enough so he ate dinner alone once home. If he was lucky she bother to leave food aside for him. Mostly he was on his own. It why this trip to the beach with his boyfriends sounded great.

Let him get away from her mostly, in truth Rhodes hadn't really been feeling much like well Rhodes. His mother noticed it right away when he came to her place so it be easier for Charlie to pick him up from there then they could head to Buddy's place. Of course, he insisted he was fine. Laid back as always Rhodes should have been born a duck with how much he like to act as if stuff just rolled right off his back. Rhodes had hoped being with his mom would get him out from the funk it didn't. Charlie picked him up and Rhode opted to 'up' his usual self. Throwing out a playful remark to Buddy's dad Richard that he was going to turn those grey's white if he worried anymore.

Rhodes regrated it the second he said it.

How could he be so stupid? Richard was a great guy very chill and nice to him. Hell they talked all about coffee and food together he honestly thought Richard was cool. So he shows that respect with a comment like that? Rhodes had decided to sit in the back seat after, framing car sickness. They had see his weak stomach in action before after all. Driving into the beach town he hope his thoughts would just clear right out as he stared up at the roof of the car. Bu he could still hear that bitches voice. Like a trapped echo in his mind on repeat. He already knew how she felt about Rhodes when it came to him being gay after all. as if she needed another reason to dislike him he dared to be gay on top of it all. Karine might be a bitch but she wasn't a stupid one. While she was a stupid bitch just not in that sense. she seemed on to Rhodes relationship with Buddy and Charlie even before things were official between the three of them. Just the comments she would make about him was one thing already. When he spend the night at one of their places or have them over at his mom's. Hell the one time Buddy came and stayed in Duckberge.

'Is it really a sleep over when your a fag?'

'Do your friends know you like boys? it doesn't make them uncomfortable. I would be uncomfortable sleeping near a faggot that might touch me well I slept.'

Rhodes squeezed his eyes shut trying to tune out her stupid voice. He knew that wasn't true none of it was true after all they were dating. Didn't mean it didn't effect him even just a little bit. And yet? He could handle her stupid mouth running and making such jumps about him. That's just it him.

'Oh so the three of you are going a trips...as friends?' the way she sneered when she had said 'Friends'. Sure his mother knew, his mother was very happy to embrace her gay son. One of those moms that went to pride events and offered mom hugs. Or wearing a shirt that said my son is gay.

He really did love her.

The polar opposite of his step-monster.

The car finally pulled to a stop and Rhodes took a moment to finally sit up eyeing the gas station, something about getting gas, good chance for a bathroom break getting some food even. Or what Rhodes was craving the most? A good drag from his vape. Rhodes couldn't recall if he said a single word to either of his boyfriends before he opened the door and walked away. Buddy was still dealing with the ban on smoking they were put on by their dad's so he walked a ways from the rest stop near what was clearly once a pay phone. Said phone having been ripping out and now just empty. Well almost empty seems it was now a trash can with the random assortment of junk inside. Rhode fished in his pocket tell he found his pen and put it to his beak. that first taste seemed to really help clam his building nerves.

Rhodes wasn't worked up over the stuff she said about him he was used to that. He shouldn't be. He was annoyed by what she seemed to think of his boyfriends. As if that was news that night when they all gathered for a lot of them came out as being queer after all.

No it was when she pulled Erin in to the mix.

'I better not caught my daughter getting any funny ideas after being around a bunch of faggots. Always turning everyone around them into one themself.'

He blew out a cloud of smoke and let his eyes close, trying to shut that out. It wasn't so much what she, though maybe it slightly was. It was more so the dread he felt like this over looming constant threat the more and more comfortable she got with making comments about him, his relationships even, he wasn't to okay with what she said about him turning Erin gay but whatever. Like a knife hung over his head he wondered when she would finally out him to his dad.

Rhodes eyes opened when he heard Charlie come to get him because they were all set to get back on the road. "Yeah, okay, sounds good." Rhodes stated suddenly as he tool one more drag. "Might need to drive with the windows down. Don't think Buddy is all that's fine around the vaping just yet." Of course that might have been enough to seel that Rhodes isn't fine something Charile points out when asking.

Rhodes really didn't want to bring down the vibe of the trip but guess he couldn't really keep it all to himself either. But he guesses it might be better to tell both his boyfriend's about.

"I am not no." Rhodes confesses "I had a bit of a run in with Karine the other day that's still pissing me off." Not a lie but not fully what was getting to him.

"Hey, it's alright. I'm here for you."

Rhodes breaths out a laugh and offers a smile towards Charlie. "Yeah I know Charlie, I promise a bit more time laying in the back of the car and I'll tell you what's up okay?" He knows Charlie won't push, wasn't his style. "I also think you shoild carry me back to the car I'm clearly dying from car sickness." He jokes a bit.

It dosent solve his worry but dose feel nice to remember he isn't alone.

Unlike how he felt his home life might become. If Karine could convince his dad to seel off what made him happy? What would she get his dad to agree with when she outted Rhodes?

[ducknotinarow]

[BuddyRhodes - gotta stop the other idiot u_u]

Buddy was near sprinting in that moment, not quite as they didn't want to get in trouble, but, they were still going very quickly. They knew Charlie was in music class, and had heard that the Rooster was going to drop out to open up a space - for Rhodes. Buddy tried to talk sense into him, but they were not having it!

So, Buddy went to the next best bird they knew - Rhodes. And as soon as they saw the Pigeon, Buddy picked up the pace,

"Estrellas!" Buddy calls out, "¿Podrías por favor hacerle entrar en razón a ese pez nuestro?"

Course Rhodes barely understood a word they said, and Buddy sighed sightly,

"Charlie!" They exclaimed, "Please speak sense to him - he finally had the confidence to join music but are going to give it up!"

Buddy let out a heavy sigh, letting Rhodes speak and make sense of their ramblings. When asked why Charlie was giving it up, Buddy frowned, not blaming Rhodes, but merely giving the true reason,

"Because they think it is more important to you so want you to have his space and he won't listen to me so please speak to him, he'll regret it I know it."

| Muse interaction [part 1]

Rhodes had to get this forum turned in before the end of the day, it just felt weird to be well not being doing so with his Dad around. It was the closest they got to spending time together. Hid Dad would have the class description book across his lap happily reading them over and if Rhodes could take it based on previous classes and grade level. Rhodes used to feel pride in the fact his Dad would always boast about Rhodes getting into high levels of his core subjects. Sure he could do it with his mom but Rhodes had to admit it just wasn't going to be the same.

The absence of his father was just more felt than he thought it would be. And all Rhodes could think? was it likely wasn't the same for his father's end of things. So lost in his mind at the time though? Rhodes didn't even hear the sound of hurried foot steps making thier way towards him.

"Estrellas!"

Rhodes stopped a moment he heard the familiar nickname travel over the hall even stepped back some what to keep himself from disrupting the natural flow of the others making thier way to class or lunch.

"¿Podrías por favor hacerle entrar en razón a ese pez nuestro?"

Rhodes just lifted a brow at what Buddy was saying maybe know like two words from what they said. "I know we haven't seen each other since second period but tone down the passion and flirt in English kay?" Rhodes states in his way of saying he had no idea of what they were trying to tell them and get them to clam down and try speaking again.

"Charlie!" They exclaimed, "Please speak sense to him - he finally had the confidence to join music but are going to give it up!"

"There much better-- Wait what do you mean Charlie is giving up music? Rhodes didn't even know the rooster was in a music class, guess that did explain why Charlie felt he could speak to the teacher about Rhodes though. But, why would he be doing that? Hell Rhodes had be bugging Charlie to sing more ever since that first time they showed of thier pipes.

"Because they think it is more important to you so want you to have his space and he won't listen to me so please speak to him, he'll regret it I know it."

"Oh that gorgeous idiot!" Rhodes said as he grabbed for Buddy's wrist "Let's go if you can't talk him out of it I'll try at least. Or rip up the sheet music of even Elvis song in that room which ever come's first. Then we can get back to you flirting with me later."

-----

Rhodes had Buddy lead the way back towards the music room, Charlie's damn long legs made them gain a lot of ground. Didn't help that Buddy refused to run in the hallways. Something about not wanting to get into trouble. If Rhodes was more Amalie with the layout of the school he honestly would have just left Buddy behind and sprinted himself but he was still finding out where the bathrooms even were in the building. At least it gave Rhodes a chance to think as he kept trying to urge Buddy to move faster! Were they programmed to be a goody two shoes?

Rhodes saw Charlie and soon just let go of Buddy “Sorry, love you but you’re so fucking slow! Pick up the pace dude!” Rhodes stated as he took off sprinting towards the rooster. Easily spotting him from over the crowd. Least it made losing him impossible. As Rhodes dodged around others pushing some out of his way even he could care less for any looks he was given or remarks thrown his way as he used the built up momnturm to slam himself into the rooster. Of course, he didn’t even so much as budge them it was more to gain Charlie’s attention and make them stop as Rhodes clung on to Charlie’s at so not to fall from coming face first with a brick wall.

“Charlie Shane Barone don’t you fucking dare do what ya about to do!” Rhodes warned as Buddy finally had a chance to caught up to the both of them. “Look I really do love that you are so willing to drop a class just so I can be in it because you feel I should be in it more. I know you are just looking out for me in your own Charlie way but just stop.” Rhodes took a moment knowing how that might sound. “Not stop taking care of me I mean stop this stupid idea of yours! I know I have been really down lately I hardly flirt or tease with you and Buddy much and I keep opting to stay in at home then go out or even pay random visits to you guys. I know I’m not myself right now. But that dosen’t;t mean you need to be a hero and do this for me. I don’t need that right now okay?” Rhodes stresses, hoping that would be enough to get Charlie to stop or start to reconsider at least.

“I know you know I love music but I love you more than I do music, and you’re willing to finally gather up the never to sing? That means way much more. Besides Charlie I don’t..I don’t think music is what I need right now.” Rhodes confessed himself to”Yeah I live and breath tunes and beats, I can play a song the second I hear it but that’s all in my head and right now? I” Rhodes shifted his gaze from Charlie and Buddy a moment he hadn’t opened up much about how he was doing right now and maybe that was why Charlie was doing this feeling he had to for Rhodes.

“Right now I need things that will keep me out of my head, it’s..not always the nicest place for me and if I’m honest it’s been a pretty hostile place for me. Music is something that is all internal for me. But, it’s becoming a bit of a tangled up mess. I need to work it out clear the gunk out ya know?” Rhodes tried to explain best he could but he had a feeling Charlie and Buddy might at least understand somewhat. “I need something like theater to I dunno get this stuff out of my head alright? Seeing music classes were all taken was like a sign for me. So, you doing this will just prevent me from doing what I need too.” Rhodes stated firmly. Before softening up finally.

“Charlie I love you, so much and I might love you even more than I did before. Knowing you’d give something up just for me. But, I hate myself for being a reason my son bird ain’t heard. I mean it your voice is heavenly others should get to hear it. It’s something you love and I want you to express it okay?”

[ducknotinarow]

[Metronome boys - and a rare touchy Charlie because sometimes out of character can be good uwu]

The air was tense, to say the least. Neither of them really saw Buddy this upset, nor had they ever seen Rhodes this mad. Charlie was still holding Buddy, the little android retreating to hide against him; much like how they would when they were a baby with their dad. They had both seen those photos, and it seemed old habits died hard.

After a moment, Charlie spoke up,

"Rhodes...calm down," His tone was calm, and not the usual murmur for once, "I know it hurts for Buddy to say that, but getting angry won't change anything; we don't understand what they mean by that, and Buddy doesn't understand why that may hurt us to hear..."

Charlie forced Buddy to move back, just enough so they were a little out of their comfort zone,

"And Buddy, stop being stupid... therapy isn't a bad thing, and I think you know that..." Charlie speaks to them both, "I've been in it for years, it's something some people, androids included before you say anything Buddy, simply need... yanno, they're just doctors but for your emotions, that's how Aunt Maple always explained it to me."

He moves slightly again, making sure there's enough space for Rhodes to join the sort of cuddle pile forming - if he wanted to join them,

"I've taken Sertraline for a while, before I met you guys, attended therapy for just as long, and it helps, really it does," Charlie goes on, "It'll help you understand why you feel how you feel; it's not something that will fix you, but it'll help you understand things and teach you to heal - you don't fix people, you just help them... and that's what therapy's gonna do?"

It's clear Charlie was talking to both of them this entire time, and not just Buddy right now,

"We're in this together okay? Like, the three Amigas right?"

"It's Amigos in our case Pollito..." Buddy quietly correctly, "Amigas would be if we were girls..."

"Okay uhm, don't call me Pollito I think your Papá calls your dad that and that's weird, don't do that..." Charlie murmurs before going on with their point, "What I'm trying to say is we've got each other right? And no matter what we're gonna have each other, so...let's not fight and support each other...okay?"

| Muse interactions continued from [here]

"Rhodes...calm down,"

"I did?" Rhodes retorts, though he guessed it was a fair thing to say Rhodes had been well struggling with keeping his emotions in check lately. And, this was one of his better days at that. So He just shrugged when seeing Buddy burrow in against Charlie, letting go of their hand as he mover to retreat to the corner of the couch. Charlie wasn't mumbling so they wanted to be clearly heard. Rhodes looked at the rooster to show they had his attention.

"I know it hurts for Buddy to say that, but getting angry won't change anything; we don't understand what they mean by that, and Buddy doesn't understand why that may hurt us to hear..."

Rhodes nodded along he agreed he really did, maybe his feelings were misplaced. It was bad enough that he learned his dad's care towards him wasn't real after all so Buddy's wording? might have struck at that wound. Rhodes really needed to get his emotions in check again. Averting his attention well he sort of reflected on that thought now, giving Charlie a moment to direct the lecture towards Buddy himself now.

"And Buddy, stop being stupid... therapy isn't a bad thing, and I think you know that..." Charlie speaks to them both, "I've been in it for years, it's something some people, androids included before you say anything Buddy, simply need... yanno, they're just doctors but for your emotions, that's how Aunt Maple always explained it to me."

Rhodes nodded again, this wasn't the first time he been himself after all. Family therapy then again after the divorce. Him and Charlie likely had that in common from the sounds of it. Rhodes notes how Charlie shifted clearly opening space for him to join in on. Normal? He would eat up the chance for physical affection from Charlie. But? He just holds up his hand so to say he was okay passing right now. Then rolled his wrist so to tell Charlie to go on.

"I've taken Sertraline for a while, before I met you guys, attended therapy for just as long, and it helps, really it does," Charlie goes on, "It'll help you understand why you feel how you feel; it's not something that will fix you, but it'll help you understand things and teach you to heal - you don't fix people, you just help them... and that's what therapy's gonna do?"

Rhodes looked up at Charlie with that last part.

'we can fix you' those words still strung him. So he knew that wording was on purpose. He knew why Charlie said it but it made him even less wanting to partake in the cuddle pile right now. Mothing against either of them course not. Though if anything? it did help Rhodes kind of get some feeling for what Buddy was dealing with. Rhodes institing for so long the way things were was just fine. Clearly it was never really fine much like Buddy's holding these thoughts of not being 'real.'

"We're in this together okay? Like, the three Amigas right?" "It's Amigos in our case Pollito..." Buddy quietly correctly, "Amigas would be if we were girls..." "Okay uhm, don't call me Pollito I think your Papá calls your dad that and that's weird, don't do that..."

The little back and forth dose get Rhodes to smile thinking the pair of them as nothing but dorks. Charlie cause he was using the three amigos to refer to them and Buddy cause they had to correct them. Though he had to agree usign a nickname one of Buddy's dad's did for the other for them? Would be odd. Unless he wanted to call them daddy too. He'd have to remember to hold on to that joke for another time now. Before looking back to Charlie as he contuined on with his point.

"What I'm trying to say is we've got each other right? And no matter what we're gonna have each other, so...let's not fight and support each other...okay?"

"I already knew you guys always had my back for me to support on you two." Rhodes stated not really looking at either of them when he did say it. "So, course I'm 100% on team Charlie or Buddy. I guess three amgios now too." He slightly laughs at that. How could Rhodes not be? With everything they done for him. He finally moves to take up the offer to be close to the pair of them. Softly offering low coos as he idly nuzzles against Charlie then Buddy as he got situated with them.

"I love you both and I guess I don't like anyone saying bad stuff about you..especially if your doing it to yourself. SO i'm sorry and tuna? your right. We're in this together, how our rhythm's stay in tune after all."

[ducknotinarow]

[Metronome Boys uwu]

Buddy had been grumbling most of the day, sat between Charlie's legs, leaning against the giant Rooster as they played on their switch. Rhodes was tuning their guitar, and Charlie was content just sitting there. However, Buddy's unnatural sour mood was difficult to ignore, so, of course, they were asked about it,

"My parents," Buddy muttered, pausing their game, "They schemed against me and are making me go to therapy."

They crossed their arms over their chest, huffing clearly. Charlie moved to wrap their arms around Buddy in response, a silent form of comfort, letting Rhodes ask the needed questions. Buddy continued to pout as they explained,

"Because I cut my finger, and responded by saying 'it's fine because I'm not real', because, yanno, I'm not real," Buddy pointed out, leaning against the Rooster still holding them, "Like I'm just an android, I'm not yanno, real like you guys...I don't need therapy, and I don't need my parents scheming against me behind my back..."

Charlie looked to Rhodes, not saying a word, more speechless than usual. He wished he knew what to say. Buddy seemed to notice the silence, and looked between their two boyfriends as they huffed once more,

"What?"

| Muse interaction

Rhodes was idly tuning the strings on Jade, leaning back against Charlie's side. Just sort of soaking in the rooster's warmth. Rhodes was in truth playing out the sound of the music from Buddy's game as the eagle sat between Charlie's legs. They had be grumbling for most the time the three were together, not that either Charlie or Rhodes minded. Especially when it came to Buddy, who in truth? maybe could stand to complain more. Buddy overly bubbly personify and sunshine spirt well they of all people? Yeah should get to. Rhodes ironically found complainers annoying but when it was Buddy? They got a free pass. Charlie maybe felt the same? But Charlie was silent mostly so could just be that fact Buddy and Rhodes tend to do all the talking.

Buddy had been mostly ranting on about some stupid coconuts in one of their games they didn't recall ever making but when tried to get rid of them it just broke their game.

"Aw that why our sunny fellow feeling so mellow now?" Rhodes teased in a song singing tone to match the sound he was playing out. Hey just cause Rhodes let Buddy have that space to complain didn't mean he wouldn't tease Buddy in the same time.

"My parents,"

Rhodes hummed to show he was generally interested, wasn't the first time Buddy got upset with their Dad's but it wasn't that common either. Had to be serious though seeing how Buddy actually paused their game.

"They schemed against me and are making me go to therapy."

Rhodes lifted a brow at that and moved to sit up now setting Jade off to the side as he turned. Which allowed Charlie to warm their arms around the cloudy Buddy as they crossed their arms over their chest. A firm pout to their bill, as Rhodes leaded back against the arm of the couch. To physically turn towards Buddy, Rhodes himself had been well going as well. He hadn't mentioned it just yet himself so his interest was pique with this bit of news. All they needed was for Charlie to start going and then all of them would be getting that damn therapy. "Really?" Rhodes had seen Buddy have a panic attack before after seeing that guy back in Duckberge. So he was wondering if this was related. "How come?" He asks hoping it comes out as casual as he prayed he made his voice sound.

"Because I cut my finger, and responded by saying 'it's fine because I'm not real', because, yanno, I'm not real,"

All it took was those three words from Buddy to suddenly suck all the air out of the room. As the android leaned back into Charlie not seeming unaffected by the weight of those words.

"Like I'm just an android, I'm not yanno, real like you guys...I don't need therapy, and I don't need my parents scheming against me behind my back..."

Rhodes was well aware of Charlie looking over at him the rooster a loss for words. Rhodes had many words himself in all truth but he needed a moment to process what Buddy had just said. Charlie clearly didn't have anything to say or didn't know what to say to that. Rhodes shifted his glace to the rooster. Sharing a look with them locked on their green eyes for a moment. Before letting her brows lower and scrunch downward. Before he let his gaze drop back to Buddy. Who seemed to finally notice the uncharacteristic quite that had fallen over both Rhodes and Charlie.

"What?"

"what? seriously what is all you have to say after dropping all of that on us? Fuck Buds I thought you were meant to be smart." Rhode snapped a little taking a moment to clam himself down. "Dude do you have any idea how fuck that sounds?" Rhodes should know considering he was aware of Charlie wanting to be dead, he himself sometimes wish he just didn't exists and now Buddy? was here saying they weren't real at all?

"You realize you are saying you are not real to two people who love you? That's like saying loving you is comparable to loving my toaster and as great as it is I ain't attracted to it like I am to you." Rhodes hope that least would make some sense. He took a breath and scooted over to sit in closer to Buddy grabbing one of their hands. He knew the soft feathers on top were real he knew they didn't cover flesh like himself. But was that enough? to say Buddy wasn't real? Because Rhodes felt something when he held his partner's hand like this. Did Buddy not? Rhodes had to try and not make this about himself as much as he wanted to be mad and leave. Rhodes in part also knew this had to be connected to the clear issues Buddy was facing themself. So he took a moment to breath.

"My mom got me going to therapy" he admits, "Since well ya know" Rhodes wasn't in the mood to talk about that still, "Buds you know your Dad's love you like crazy. I mean I have seen the same photo of you as a little kid in a tub full of rice so many times but your Dad's act like is was just taken yesterday." ignoring the embarrassment Buddy might be feeling from that. "They wouldn't ever want to put you through something if they didn't think it wouldn't be good for you." Rhodes went to express his point here further. Suddenly a twinge of pain hit his chest as he thought about someone's words.

"They aren't trying to like 'fix' you" There was a lot of venom in the word alone when Rhodes said it "They see you need to talk to someone. I mean is that so wrong?" Rhodes suggests, mirroring his mothers words when he told her about the therapist wanting to put him on meds. "And if im honest? I think they are right I mean I saw how you broke down that day. Maybe talking to someone would be good for you."

[ducknotinarow]

Rhodes - Have you ever ... regretted kissing/getting handsy with that old band mate of yours? The one that Karine caught you with.

| send my muse ‘have you evers’ and they have to answer truthfully! [part 2 tba]

"I'll be fine I promise." Rhodes once more insisted, he was feeling a bit lighter. Both thanks to seeing the truth of the way his relationship with well his family over all was not in the best shape. And because of getting his hair fixed, it been a long time since he had it short. Able to feel the air on his neck was something to get used to. As he held his phone near his ear. Listening to the voices of his boyfriends on the other end.

Rhodes, had decided it was time to stop just letting the wind blow him around like a leaf. As easy as that was made out to feel it clearly was just not working anymore if it ever truly was. But, Rhodes felt it was best do this alone, even with the offer of his boyfriends being there, or Mr. Evans-Alder or Bailey or Maple or Jasper or even his mother. But Rhodes wanted to have a chance to have this conversation one on one first. Bailey had drove him and his boyfriends into Duckberge at least.

Rhodes asked they least be near by, Bailey seemed okay to agree with that. Rhodes was stopping by to grab stuff before heading over to stay with his mom. For once not having plans with his boyfriends because he wanted to talk to her about--well everything. And in truth, he had no idea how the conversation with his Dad was going to go. So, even if he was a teen he knew he was going to need his mother.

"I'm here now, I promise I'll call you guys when--well I'll call you." Rhodes had no idea how any of this would play out.

-----

And he never could image it play out this way. Rhodes felt the burning gaze from his father focused on him as he could only bring himself to look down at the floor. He just could not bring himself to lift his head back up. Which felt so--wrong. Rhodes never once felt shamed for any of who he was. When Axel and him made out in his room? it was like unhidden puzzle pieces finally clicking into place.

Why girls didn't really appeal to him, he got along with them just fine but he didn't feel those things that well he should. But at that moment? To bad he regretted ever having that moment with Axel right now. Eyes were left wide and large, the side of his face burned from the contact of Karine's hand swatting against his cheek the moment he had come inside. Everything was going fine enough Erin opened the door happy to see her big brother. His Dad? Well he wasn't panicked or nothing, Rhodes wished he been something at least but he did walk Rhodes inside so they could talk. Karine? The second she saw him she was fast on her feet. He hand met his face as she ripped her daughter away from him.

That strung more than the slap to be honest.

"Karine what was that for?"

"She thinks i'll spread my gay to her." Rhodes answered for the goose. Who was busy shooing Erin away to her bedroom. Not caring to be part of the outcome as if she done no wrong but did as a mother should. Yet the slap was not what his father wanted to focus on in the moment.

"why would she?"

Rhodes had to resist the urge to be sarcastic, guess he didn't know then surprised Karine didn't tell him still. "Because Dad i'm gay." Rhodes tried his best to

"Why--why do you say that?"

Rhodes was in a bit of disbelief but he kept talking, "because i'm attracted to guys? I'm dating my best friends."

"Both?"

"yeah figured should match just how much of a ranging queer I am so it don't over flow and infect others." Okay well so much for not making remarks like that.

"You're not gay."

"Well I've been doing a lot of stuff that says otherwise." Rhodes let slip out again, this was nothing like with his mom when he came out to her. But--there was something about the way he said that.

"You can't be gay."

Was this disbelief or like denial? Rhodes tried to see if something in his Dad would tell him otherwise, but there wasn't really any give away to assure him in the moment. "Dad?"

"Is this because of all the rock bands? I know the glam stuff can be seen like-"

Was he blaming himself? Did he really think something turned him gay like that? "No? It's because I'm not attracted to girls."

"Did you try?"

"..What?"

"We can send you to a therapist or they have camps even."

Was he being serious? "To what?"

"To fix you!"

That hurt more than the slap to his face. Rhodes just stared in disbelief before he let the tears form in the corner of his eyes. "I don't need to be 'fixed' there isn't anything wrong with me! I've been out as gay since middle school! And clearly you didn't think anything was wrong till now! Hell you didn't even notice a change in me!" Rhodes shouted. He knew people out there didn't accept the gay thing. Heck they wouldn't like that Rhodes was fluid in his gender or that he had a boyfriend heck worse that he had two. Like Karine, but he never once ever thought his Dad would be that way. Or take the thing they shared a love for as what did it? "Fuck this!" Rhodes stated firmly as he went to turn and made way to the door, he didn't need to grab anything from here everything he needed. Wasn't here clearly.

"Rhodes don't walk out that door we can figure this out" his Dad called out

"there isn't anything to figure out! I'm gay I like boys I make out with them I crush on them I wanna fuck them and be fucked by them! I want to go on dates with boys. I already figured things out a long ass time ago! Maybe if you actually bothered to know anything about me you would have known a long time ago as well!" Rhodes ranted breathing heavily as he let it all out, so much pain finally getting let free. "So, I'm going to go to parent who dose fucking care about me and by the way Mom knew this whole time! She been my support this whole time enough for you." Rhodes continued on. "So, why would I want to stand in front of someone who thinks I need to be fixed when I can be with my mother who thinks I'm great no matter what!?" Shoulders lifted and dropped with each breath the back of his throat burned.

When his father had nothing to say he stormed out the door and slammed it behind himself walking down to the end of his block before he sent a text asking to get picked up. When Buddy asked how it went all Rhodes could do was tell him it be better to say in person. before he dropped to sit on the cold cement sidewalk. Dropping his head into his hands shaking, though he didn't think it was because of the cold.

For a quick moment flashes of that moment with Axel played over his mind, the song they listened to when Axel gave him that look, that made his feathers lift and his heart flutter. he seen that look before never from a guy though. When he moved in and kissed Rhodes, how hands started to roam over each other. Rhodes dug the heel of his palms into his eyes. For a second he wonder if maybe just maybe he hadn't kissed Axel back that day maybe this wouldn't be happening to him now.

[ducknotinarow]

[Rhodes Charlie cause Charlie would do it like this ;3;]

Buddy had already gone to bed, leaving just the other two awake. It was late, but sleep seemed like a foreign concept to them now.

Charlie was quiet, staring at his embroidery, but he hadn't moved the needle in a good while. He wasn't even looking at it. He was looking at Rhodes, softly. Quiet as always, something on their mind, nothing new there.

After a moment, Charlie sat up a little, the suddenly movement seeming to get the Pigeon's attention.

"Uhm... Rhodes...?"

There was a new shyness to their voice. Feathers were fluffed, and Charlie seemed nervous as they looked at them. He let the air hold still for a moment, debating if he should ask, if he should offer. After a moment, he finally decided to go with it,

"...Could I uhm... could I kiss you?"

| Muse interaction

It had been a nice letting get away just Rhodes, with Buddy and Charlie enjoying their own get away just the three them this time around. Much better than the time where his parents also tagged along. So much better. Rhodes couldn’t explain it but things just felt so relaxing when the three of them were together it was nothing like being with Axel. Rhodes' had noticed it a lot when ever the three of them were together and well? Part of him felt guilty but it was kind of his way of testing out if this really was what he wanted.

Yeah he confessed to Buddy first and fixed things with Charlie sort of taking the lead a lot of this. Ironically he found that since he never liked the idea of being in a relationship in the first place. Yet he was the one that made this happen. Guess if Rhodes decided to end it least Buddy and Charlie had each other. And that's when the weird tug at his chest came into play again. They were generally his friends so not seeing them would suck. But..well he been in that situation before so part of him felt like that wasn't what his deal was.

Rhodes tried not to dwell on it much sometimes it was easier to just go with the flow. Just enjoy things as they were and question it when the time came to do so. Besides he rather enjoy the get away. Miles away from Karine and his Dad? Perfect. As he happily was just mindlessly tuning Jade right now, testing out chords a few times in between just to make sure we was all good. He wouldn’t need to replace the strings anytime soon. Buddy was the first to decide to call it a night.

Likely cause their switch needed to charge, Rhodes tipped his head back and playfully blew a kiss towards Buddy “Aw what don’t want a goodnight kiss Bubbles? I could tuck you in even.” He teased a little Buddy being well a brat was more than happy to toss out a remark in turn that got Rhodes to just laugh a bit and simply pucker outs his bill to make a kiss sound before lifting his head back up to look back down to Jade as he strummed a simple tune. It was from one of Buddy’s games. Rhodes plucked at the chords a few times humming the same soft tune. Just relaxing in the comfortable silence that fell over him and Charlie. Rhodes known for awhile that Charlie wasn't much of a chatter box like him and Buddy were. Mostly Rhodes did the talking when they were alone like this. But he was fine with the two of them just enjoying what they were doing. Rhodes playing the melody he just heard a bit ago. And the rooster busy with their needle work.

Till he caught the faintest movement from the corner of his eye, Rhodes turning his head to look at Charlie curious what they were up to. Maybe ready to head to bed themself?

"Uhm... Rhodes...?"

Rhodes cocked his head to the side as he stared up at Charlie. They were tall sure but with him on the couch right now? He felt more so in the moment. Which was almost funny when Charlie spoke up, he always tended to mumble but his voice sounded so small. Almost like when Rhodes sister Erin wanted to ask for something from Rhodes that she wasn't sure be okay.

"Yeah? What's up? loose a needle?" Rhodes asked just trying to help the rooster find his own train of thought. Charlie remained silent for a moment so Rhodes moved Jade to rest on the side of the couch as he went to stand up. "No worries I know you got old man eyes I'll help-"

"...Could I uhm... could I kiss you?"

Rhodes just kind of stared at the rooster for a second before slightly tipping his head more to the side. “You’re asking?” Of course he was asking this was Charlie after all. Rhodes moved over to make room or Charlie before patting the space next to him. “Never had anyone ask before.” Rhodes followed with to explain why he was asking himself. Before offering a soft smile at the rooster, “Course you can kiss me.” He slightly teases.

He just now took in this was his first kiss with the rooster. Of course, that made him wonder many things like if Charlie had kissed anyone before. He couldn’t see a reason anyone wouldn’t want to kiss Charlie. Watching Charlie settle into their spot and start to lean forward Well, honestly? He was kind of surprised by how much initiative they were taking right now. Rhodes had to wonder what was the best way to go about this? Normally? he just kiss but well this was Charlie? Someone he had genuine feelings for not just an attraction. Rhodes did notice the hesitation on the roosters part. Likely from their more stand offish nature.

Yeah that was Charlie for you, may get the never but still ends up slightly backing down. Like when he gets to a poi9nt of basically telling Rhodes he in the wrong. Some may think that made him spinless or something. Rhodes? He liked that about Charlie he was just so earnest.

"Here" Rhodes said softly as he cupped the side of Charlie's face. Rhode's lean in having to slight crane his neck even sitting the rooster was still a bit taller than him. Closing his eyes as he closed the distance between them and touched their beaks together. Rhodes had kissed before. Many times even not that he really ever bragged about that. But? He never felt anything from it. Sure it felt nice and it could be fun even. But, he never felt a thing from the action? But, kissing Charlie right now? Was exciting. More than kissing anyway one else he had. It sent shrives and hot flashes through him in a very pleasant way, like laying on the shore when ocean wave could come over you when the sun had time to heat up the sand under you. Rhodes pulled back after a few seconds. Not wanting to push to far for a first kiss well more with Charlie than anything.

"Ya know you don't gotta ask we are dating after all?" Rhode playfully teased brushing Charlies hair back a little to move it from his face. "You know I'm super into you right? Who wouldn't wanna kiss you? Especially one of your boyfriends."

[ducknotinarow]

Rhodes - Mun talks about the Muse

| Mun talks about the Muse

RHOOOOOODES, Rhody, Roo bear! XD I dunno if it's obvious? but Rhodes has become like my favorite OC as of late 2nd to Richard at least.

Its sort of funny cause he was really only made for the sake of making Buddy a friend so I tried to think what kind of person would be a good friend for Buddy? So I thought about those Buddy closest to their Dad's. So basic things Rhodes had to be a coffee drinker and okay with taking care into his looks. Everything just built up from there as I decided on what tropes and such I wanted to basically go with when making this character well taking inspo from other characters I like.

I think the funniest is the fact his color and design and some story beat traits were inspired from the Swan princess movie which was on of my all time favorite movies to watch as kid XD

✍ Favorite thing about writing the muse?

I think in general I love Rhodes over the top behavior because for Rhodes that is just who he is. He this easy going cool head guy not much works up like for real. So the fact he just like this I feel makes him generally a really fun character for me to write and a bit of a departure from my usual go to characters I have noticed I tend to pick.

👀Favorite thing about the muse’s appearance?

Personally for his design I like that I made him a blonde it just stands out well with his feather coloring.

I also like the heart on his beak, I know it's not like a ground breaking thing to make a heart shape there I just think it's cute for him to have uwu and of course I love that he has a eye mask thanks to the type of pegion i based him off from.

🌌Favorite alternate version of the muse?

I haven't properly draw this I give Rhodes a very MCR style that he dresses in a sort of more modern rocker and not like glam rock or leather. But when he works at his Mom's stand on the weekends, and later when he'll held at her Paint and sip place. Rhodes wears an apron and less stylist clothing like faded jeans covered in paint and a work shirt. I say work shirt but it's just a shirt his mom made him that says Asst. Manger on it cause of course she made her son her Assist manger. He also either wears a head band to keep his hear back or a head scarf.

one day ill properly draw it out uwu

💕Favorite ship for the muse? 

uwu Metronome of course. XD I LEGIT HAD NO IDEA WE WERE GONNA SHIP THESE 3 So when Kezzie dropped that Charlie had a crush on Rhodes? I was all lets go XD. I ain't against polyships I don't really have many I blame it on my dislike for love triangle tropes personally I just aint into them XD I find them so unneeded and often severing no point cause it never comes to all them together anyway.

But! I turly feel a poly ship works best for Rhodes just because I feel needs mutiple partners for different reasons its not that he means to hes just bad about giving all of himself to people shpw even Buddy and Charlie tend to only get some of Rhodes.

With Buddy Rhodes is more passionate about his likes and more honest because Buddy is a very bubbly enthusiastic person.

Where with Charlie Rhodes is more deep and a bit antagonist in that he loves annoying Charlie. Because Charlie needs a more driect approach but also hes just always so serious so Rhode likes picking on him so to speak.

There just something I enjoy about the three of them together and into pairs as well.

💔Least favorite ship for the muse?

I would say he ex friend/ Band mate that I still haven't really named but thats still something in the works atm and you might think oh Ray how dare you cause Rhodes heart break too. Well don't worry I didn't uwu Rhodes was the one who did the heart breaking instead >:D

💢Something about the muse that annoys you?

I would say Rhodes near people pleasing ways, well it's not so much he is a people pleaser he dose very often back down around his Dad and Step-mom. He dials back who he is more so around his Dad. Rhodes really just pulls back from who he is which as the mun I know why he dose this. He is very hyper vigilant so he dose this as a way to try and in his mind control the environment he is in.

😈Worst thing you’ve ever done to your muse? 

hmm that's interesting I guess it would be that he and his fathers relationship was destroyed after his Dad met Karine who would become his step monster. Because well it's only going to get worse for Rhodes and his father uwu

😂Funniest thing that’s ever happened to your muse? 

XD oh for sure that's gonna be when he was told that both his boyfriends masterbate to thoughts of him with out stuttering cause he thought for sure they might get shy about it least Charlie so he ended up being the frazzled one.

💡 What inspires you to write the muse? 

lets see personal connection for sure with things I share in common with Rhodes, his personality in general is a fun inspiration cause I gotta think how this dramatic character would react. Even in his low moments hes still very dramatic like cutting his hair breaking down into tears. Getting in peoples faces cause he in a bad mood and they gave him a reason to lash out.

📷 Favorite picture/screencap of your muse?

XD I have a lot of sketch's of him and wip featuring his boyfriends but they aren't done. But I do have this which is like the fully fleshed out piece of him and I really like how it turned out

📑 Favorite part of your muse’s backstory? 

I would say anything in relation to his mom. His Mom i feel is the reason for his good traits because she loves Rhodes as he is she just gave him the confidence to be who he is. She knows Rhodes isn't an angel but shes going to talk like he is one. She's very overly affectionate with Rhodes and a lot of those traits blead over to Rhodes like the use of nicknames and such.

📝 Favorite headcanon for your muse? 

That Rhodes is going to join the theater department when he eventually transfers schools. Sure I feel him being in spot light is like the given buuuut with Rhodes know how of music and such I feel he would more take a liking to stage crew. He likely gets understudy roles though. So if someone can't fill their role they got Rhodes.

Rhodes tends to get female roles the most and he pulls it off well uwu that people confuse him for an actual girl.

Rhodes has a very good ear for music he can hear a tune once and know how to play it from there. Since Pigeons were once used as messages im relaying that to his music love uwu

😒 Is there anything canon about your muse that you ignore? 

XD I feel this is hard to answer when it's an OC of my own creation pfft

🔮 What do you see in your muse’s future? 

It's like funny since I have his passion being with music and in truth? I was going to have have him become a sort of local musician. Sometimes he travel to play else where. And Maybe that will still be something he dose. But Rhodes whole

🔥 Unpopular opinion about your muse? 

XD he is never being dramatic that old man just happened to touch a bag he needed to replace it was pure coincidence they also touched it uwu

💭 Favorite memory of the muse? 

Atm? hmmm I think his first kiss with Buddy when finding France for them. Rhodes has dated and gotten around but those were never serious relationships or people he was serious about. But Buddy is and the kiss being over something to Rhodes wasn't that big a deal not cause he don't understand France is important to Buddy but more that Rhodes happened to find him being all that important.

I would also say Rhodes dying Charlies hair the first time, Charlie isn't someone who takes care of himself. Rhodes is someone who takes care of everyone. And It's kind of what made Rhodes think about what he wants to be in the future.

😩 Hardest thing about writing the muse? 

XDD in truth? I would say trying to make him come off as a snob I mean I feel it more comes out when it comes to what he likes to eat, listen to and wear even. I try not to make him out to be a douche but I either well do which works out in moments of him being allowed to be upset so it comes out that why or not quite in that range at the same time. Like yeah Rhodes is a bitch and he got some opinions on his standards and that they should be everyone's not just his XD

Which is funny cause it's like one of his main traits pfft.

⌨ What’s a situation you’ve always wanted to RP with the muse? 

hmmm currently I can't really think of anything? Im currently in the middle of Rhodes as I feel bit character arch with him kind of learning he can be dependent on others after being independent for so long. hmm I guess I do wanna explore more with his relationship with his boyfriends and Rhodes moving to St.Carnard and transferring to the same school as Charlie and Buddy where he can kind of just find himself even more. With out the bitterness of feeling his dad wouldn't support any of what those things are.

🎭 How similar are you and the muse? 

OH this is easy XD so in finding where I feel I land in terms of my sexuality and such I found for my gender I really enjoy the label of being genderfluid. And well I say I never stick to any really strict gendering on any of my muses letting them partake in more feminine or masculine things interchangeably none have really been gender neutral in the way that I am. When making Rhodes I knew I wanted him to be that and in truth it just formed a lot of how he would be in terms of likes, personify and habits even.

Rhodes is also a child of divorce like myself. My mother going through three of them.

I also slightly based Rhodes and his mothers relationship off my own with my mother. In that Rhodes is very independent as a person he loves his mom and knows she will do anything for him. But Rhodes tries to make it so she doesn't have. Which is why he tends to not tell her so much not for any real reason out side 'I can handle this on my own'

[ducknotinarow]

[CharlieRhodes] "I can't believe you did all of this for me."

| 💜💜💜 --- 'I love you' Sentence Starters; continued from [here]

Rhodes might not have the greatest relationship with his Dad and he keeps a lot from his mom but he never really could imagine what Charlie went through. Not even his Dad. To lose your parents at such a young age. That would be bad enough to deal with but it was well the rest that Charlie had confessed. Wishing he could have gone with them. How part of him already had anyway. Rhodes could slightly understand that. Not to the same extent but when his Dad told him he sold off his instruments? Rhodes felt like something in him had died and the relationship he had with his Dad before that moment?

Had also died.

Music was such a big part of Rhodes and loosing that? Had done a lot to him. So, what all had losing his parents for real take from Charlie a lot Rhodes was willing to bet on. Though in truth there was something that bugged Rhodes a lot that Charlie said. Claiming He and Buddy de severed better? Far as Rhodes was concerned Charlie and Buddy were better than what he deserved. Charlie did more for him hell even Buddy than the guy seemed to be aware of. Charlie was the only person to really call out Rhodes on his bullshit when he was being a bit of a dick. But, Charlie could also offer comfort to him when he didn't like taking it or felt he should.

Rhodes shoot Buddy a quick text about making a change in their night plans. Rhodes had tried to speak up but he's sure Charlie couldn't hear him anyway. Even if he did would he believe him? Well too bad for Charlie, Rhodes can give up on himself but he couldn't give up on others. Maybe words weren't enough but sometimes? Actions were louder.

So Rhodes changed their plans for the night, simply telling Buddy Charlie needed a night in. Feeling going out wouldn't do the guy any good with how he was today. Course Buddy agreed right away, could always count of them for the assist. Once Buddy was in the car with them Rhodes told Charlie the change in plans and told them to head for his place. His mom was out for the night, running a paint and sip class so they would have time to themselves. And well with Buddy to help? Charlie really couldn't change their minds. One quick stop to a corner shop for some goods and they were all settled at Rhodes' home.

Rhodes was sitting next to Charlie, his hair pulled up into a messy bun, face covered in a think goopy clay mask. Charlie forced to have one as well, as Rhodes was finishing up applying Buddy's on their own face. They were currently setting up for a movie marathon Rhodes letting Charlie had pick of his and his mom's collection and even pulled out the board games that hadn't been touched since he was five at best. Opting to make their night out a clam night in.

Dropping the plastic spatula once he had a good layer on the eagles feathers. Before turning back towards the coffee table to grab for one of the store bags as he pulls out "Here sunshine I got some cake in mugs, mind making them up? ma's got baking junk in the pantry if you wanna work your magic." Rhodes offered "Oh and uh she got cups for you and Cha cha in there. Trust me you'll know which ones." There's a hint of embarrassment in his voice as he recalls his own says 'Roo-bear' on it and his mom just had to get matching mugs for Buddy and Charlie so they would feel at home. Buddy's had suns, Charlie had moons and Rhodes had stars each with a nick name plaster on to make it clear whose was whose.

And Rhodes knew Buddy would have a comment about it. Oh well he turned his attention back to Charlie now that their baker bee had been given free reign of the kitchen and who knows what they come back with. Rhodes held out his hand and gave the big rooster a stern stare. "Now give me you're arm. I found something that should help with where you were plunking from, least make the healing easier and prevent any irritation." he stares as he started to apply some of it on to Charlie's arm. He didn't say a single thing about how bad it looked just mindfully and tenderly worked the cream against the now exposed skin. Rhodes grip on Charlie's arms grew slightly more firm as he took in the damage. Well aware it was all self inflicted.

"I can't believe you did all of this for me."

Rhodes smiled a bit "I know I can be a pretty selfish sonuvabitch at times." Rhodes states as he finished his task and went to cap the tube back up idly looking over the back of it to make sure he understood how the stuff worked. "But sometimes I can tear my head outta my own ass when someone I care about is in need of just some special care." Lowering the tube down he turns to look at Charlie now. "Because I want to do that Charlie, not any other reasons got that?" He moves over to give a soft peck to the tip of Charlie's beak. "Because I love ya too, so get used to it." Rhodes states before turning to look towards the kitchen. "Wanna place a bet Buds just makes an actual cake somehow?"

[ducknotinarow]

[CharlieRhodes] "If I said you were the only handsome person in the room, would you believe me?"

| 💜💜💜 --- 'I love you' Sentence Starters;

It was odd once Rhodes let the tears fall, he felt numb after, then he just felt scared? There was more tears though after that? But Rhodes was pretty sure it was all still just fear that he was holding on to at the time. Now? Now Rhodes was just kind of mad? Eh more like pissy if anything. Rhodes wondered if there were more things like the grief cycle? He didn't think you could have one when you hadn't lost anything. Though Rhodes felt like he was likely to lose something. He was still hiding out at the Evans-Alder home it been at least three days now. Still no sign his Mom knew about anything that had happened. Rhodes hadn't even received a call or so much as a text from his Dad either. Him mom? Made sense she wasn't made aware of what was going on. Dad was still covering for his absence from school was his guess at the time.

Which just made he more mad at his Dad. Why could he cover for why he was away but didn't bother to check on him? His Dad didn't even ask him once if he was okay hell he didn't even know where he was! He had met Buddy and their Dad away from his Dad's place. Shouldn't his Dad be worried? Rhodes wouldn't be shocked at all if Karine somehow had involvement on this part as well.

Because of course his Dad just went along with just anything she said.

Rhodes shoved his phone back into his pocket and rested his head to the little control panel of the alley they were assigned when they came out to bowl. It was a good idea for Rhodes to get some air and be out and about but he wasn't feeling like himself. Normally he be the one at the counter getting them set up and grabbing their shoes even. Mostly so he could be funny with the names for the score board. Rhodes wasn't really feeling up to it so he just made way to the alley first and took his seat. Well Charlie and Buddy dealt with the rest, Buddy even offering to grab snacks.

For once Rhodes didn't complain about the thought of overly greasy fries or nachos or even wings at a bowling alley. Charlie was the first to their lane Rhode reaching over to take his pair of shoes. "Thanks" he huffed a bit before he went about switching his shoes for the bowling ones. Normally Rhodes filled in the silence between him and Charlie, able to chat away with easy around the big guy but right now he didn't really have the sprit in him to be well to be Rhodes.

He could hear the chatter behind them because of it though, the group near them seemed to take notice of Charlie. No surprise Charlie was a giant after all. And it wasn't the first time he been mistaken for being the wrong age either. But Rhodes couldn't help but tune into the chatter the moment he knew they were talking about Charlie. With the mess he was dealing with Buddy and Charlie had been his saving grace, just doing anything they could to show Rhodes he had them he guessed. That's just who they were after all, two welling meaning birds who would go out of their way for someone..someone like Rhodes.

An off comment about poor kid with their lame Dad as they comment on the blue hair color got Rhodes feathers to bristle right away. Maybe he was still holding on to some rage from his and Karine fight a few days ago, so he might been looking for an outlet. Or maybe? He was just mad in general? Anther stage of his current grief like cycle perhaps even?

Rhodes had moved even before he realized it himself, striding over to the lane near by purposely even sitting down in the center of the group.

"Eh you got one thing right there, his dye job is well done I should know I did it." Rhodes boasted a bit "Oh than again maybe two things, he is very Daddy~" Rhodes chimed a bit seeming to lower his voice down to whisper on to the little group. Before he spoke on further. "Big daddy C as I like to come him you know when were alone." Rhodes was really just aiming to shut them up and it seemed to be working. If it weren't for the fact Rhodes was winning here by lacking shame in his statements. Didn't matter if it wasn't true they didn't need to know that. "I know hard to see that but don't worry I'm man enough to handle him and trust me I handle him well." Rhodes suggested with a very obsession hand jerk motion. Seeming to hit their limit the small group decided to get up and leave only one making a comment switching it around from. Charlie seeming like some lame ass adult trying to look young to Rhodes looking like he got his hair cut with a lawn mower.

Rhodes felt over his choppy hair style slightly puffing his cheeks over the remark. As they left and Charlie came to join Rhodes, Rhodes eyes shifting over towards him. "Oh sorry I know you hate when I call you that, and ya know all the big talk. They were just pissing me off." Rhodes admitted before he went back to looking at his hair. "think it helped though I only now care about my hair, I can't believe I came out in public like this? Let alone let my boyfriends see me as this mess? Damn I'm really not my hot stuff self am I?" Rhodes stated he really did feel better blowing off some of his emotions. Even if it was at a near innocent third party. Looking at the wreck that was his hair, it was gross and dry too forget the bad cut he really hadn't been following his hair care. He didn't have his oils and microfiber towel with him either! uh and the blue stripe was fade into a grow grey color!

It was like a slow realization hitting Rhodes at the time grey eyes growing wide. "I can't believe I look like this!" He covered his face and turned over to slightly hide. "How low have I fallen to make other see this mess!" He slightly whined a twinge of the old Rhodes coming through. As he dramatically whined.

"If I said you were the only handsome person in the room, would you believe me?"

Rhodes peer out from his hand hearing Charlie ask "Nah" Rhodes chuckles a bit before looking to Charlie "Cause you're here too." He admits before sitting back up seeming to be over his current appearance. "But seriously if I don't get this fixed I will fucking die and you and Buds will have to break up with my god flawed unattractive corpse."

[ducknotinarow]

[CharlieRhodes] "Come here, lay on me for as long as you need to."

|💜💜💜 --- 'I love you' Sentence Starters; [part 1]

Rhodes just felt numb, course Bailey's Dad's let him 'run away' Bailey had always made it clear that if he needed somewhere to go he had them to go to. He was just playing hooky from school. Not even fully worried about anything dealing with it at the moment. Part of him half expected his Dad to just call him in everyday he didn't show up so to keep up appearances. His mom hadn’t seem aware of him not being at school though so that had to be the case. Course the Evans-Alder family was being nothing but nice to him since he left home to hide out with them. Nothing much happened after his call to Buddy. Rhodes packed up some things and took off his Dad on heels still thinking it was just because of his fight with Karine at the time.

And well? Now he was here. Like a blur of events he was still trying to understand the sequence of himself.

Unsure what to really do or even process everything he just felt listless, if anything, really. He looked maybe how his mental state really was. A mess. He hadn't bothered to care for his hair still he couldn't believe he had just chopped away at it worse? It hadn't even phased him how god awful it looked. That had to be a real bad sign in all truth. Rhodes hardly even spelt. Didn't bother with an ounce of make up either.

He couldn't bring himself to really do anything not even eat. Nothing against the Evans-Alders home more just everything going on in his head right now. That it hardly phased him when Buddy came in with Charlie.

"Sup Charlie" Rhodes offered with a faint smile on his beak and nod of his head to show he acknowledged them. Rhodes listened as Buddy explained they had called Charlie to tell him what was going on, looking a tad guilty as they were. Rhodes could guess it was because they worried about feeling they shouldn't. "It's cool, I might not have anyway" he admitted.

Of course, and he had be expecting it, he was asked what happened. Even Charlie would be able to tell from how he was acting it had to be something. If his chopping hair cut wasn't enough of a sign? The way he was acting had to be. Not once had Rhode used a single nickname towards either of his boyfriends. Rhodes just sighed and waved for to two of them to join him on his spot of the floor he had be taking up space in. They knew small snippets it of his personal life, the most coming out about when his Dad sold his guitar and drums off when he wasn't around to do a thing about it and the reasoning for it even on why he had done that. They got a glimpse of how awful Karine was from the dinner party, Buddy got a small taste the time they spent the night in Duckberge as well but that was the closest Rhode let them in on everything. Rhodes just sighed heavily and started to tell them what had happened. The conversation between him and Karine all the shit she went on to say as well about them, his mom and himself.

"i just..lost it" Rhodes admits "I try so hard not to let her get to me to act like she can't bother me but all that crap she called me what she said about my mom being why I'm wrong? How she was reducing what we have with each other." His voice started to fade as he combed his fringes through his hair, it was easy to notice the layered mess he made of it all. "I really don't give a shit what she thinks or says but.." His voice trembled a little "Look what she got my Dad to do. He sold off my Drums he sold off my guitar all because she claimed it was impacting my studies? He didn't exactly stop her rant at that dinner party either..so what could she make him do..if he finds out I'm not straight that I'm dating both of you that I don't feel like a boy all the time either?"

It was always hanging over his head, his Dad had just changed so much since he remarried Karine he wasn't the same guy anymore and Rhodes feared the reaction he might get. he's heard the horror stories and he just wasn't sure if his father could still love him. Rhodes leaned in towards Charlie unable to keep himself upright anymore "Sorry I know your not big on this I just."

"Come here, lay on me for as long as you need to."

Rhodes just nodded as he took in the offer leaning in against Charlie did help a bit in the moment. Their more clam aura was always refreshing to soak in at times like this. Rhodes wondered what color his mom would say Charlie's aura was? He really needed to tell his mom about everything going on didn't he? Rhodes couldn't keep going on like he had been could he? Living in this constant state of fear and dread. Rhodes knows eventually it needs to come out. Rhodes needs to come out.

"What am I going to do?" He slightly tilts his head up eyes freshly glossed over with tears. He thought he cried them dry by this point Buddy heard him cry he didn't need either of them seeing him cry he felt pathic asking like this. "Things work how they are now" that was clearly unture.

"Just keep him out of my life basically, keep him at arms length a simple hi and bye and asking about my grade done." And that made the first tear start to roll down his cheek. Rhodes pressed his face against Charlie's side now. That wasn't what he wanted at all he missed how things were how his Dad cared about what he cared about. Rhodes mattered to his Dad but now?

"..what if he rejects me all over again?" Rhodes managed to let out heavily breathing so to swallow back the sob that wanted to come out.

[ducknotinarow]

[Rhodes Charlie]

Charlie frowned as he looked down at Rhodes, somewhat confused about this new nickname. Usually he could figure out where they came from, but not this one,

“Why do you keep calling me ‘Tuna’?” He innocently asks, “I’m not a fish…I’m a Rooster…”

| Muse interaction

"Yeah, I mean we can always rain check and go another day?" Rhodes said into his phone as he had it pressed to his ear. His free hand got tugged and pulled as he kept a good firm grip on his half sisters hand. The reason behind his suggestion of canceling his met up with Charile. The pair had planned to meet up so Rhode's could take Charlie his mom’s week day job in the city where she sold craft supplies. She had gotten stuff for cross stitching that Rhodes thought Charlie might like but her shop wasn’t really on the map still since she used a temporary space in a building full of other business. So, it was a bit of nightmare to get to. Part of why she had the stand at the farmers market over the weekend. Hoping to raise funds to get a better space. Besides Rhodes figure he be a good buffer his mom was a little too social at times even more so when she knows the other person like one of Rhodes’ boyfriends.

Not to mention he could prevent too much embarrassment if he were around as well.

But Rhodes plans hit a bit of a snag as he looked down to the culprit tugging on his hand just now, Rhodes offered he a faint smile and pulled his phone down for a second to hold to his shoulder so to put Charlie ‘on hold’ s he address his sister. “Gotta wait for the little walking bird before we can cross remember?” She just nodded with the reminder before Charlie set his phone back to his ear. Even over the phone Charlie wasn’t much of a talker. He was just a quite guy like that is all. “Unless your okay with Erin crashing on our hangout? I didn’t know I’d end up babysitting.” Or else he would have suggested doing this a different day. But no Karine just had to pass his sister off to him the second she found out Rhodes was free after school. Bitch. “So you wanna cancel?” Finally giving Charlie a chance to give their own say in the matter. Rhodes had to admit he was a bit surprised when told no. "Oh okay well then guess you can meet Erin, Buds already has so seemed only fair I guess. I'm almost to the building just text me when your close kay? Cool see ya later tuna."

"Was that your boyfriend?" Erin asked once seeing her brother pocket his phone.

"One of them yeah." Rhodes answered with a quick glance at the road once the crossing light came on, letting them make their way across the street now. He looked down to see her puzzled expression eh it wasn't really all to common even now to be dating more than one person and not be cause you are casually dating. Like Rhodes was before. He did think about explaining that but Erin was still young and well things were still fresh and new, Least they seemed to be going well. Enough. Yeah Rhodes didn't need to let his anxiety over this whole thing to slip out to his sister. So instead he used his freed up hand to run his hand through the strand of hair that always hung lose no matter how he did his hair.

"It's cause I'm just that cool I get two boyfriends." Rhode slightly bragged as they got to the set of suites that acted as a sort of central hub for all the businesses inside. Mostly hair salons or barbers even a tattoo place or two. There were some other places besides all that like his mom's own small shop.

Easily spotting Charlie not to far away himself Rhodes told his sister she was gonna meet the other one as she seemed to start slinking back to hide behind Rhodes' legs. Rhodes didn't think it was really in relation to Charlie's height. But maybe it was a little bit, Erin was just a pretty shy kid herself after all. "Sorry again about the sudden change in plans." Rhodes offered with a sincere smile. The worry likely wasn't needed, Charlie and even Buddy didn't seem like the kinds to be annoyed about a sudden tag along joining in. Looking down to his sister "Hey don't you wanna say hi? You met Buds already gotta meet your brothers second boyfriend yeah?" Erin slightly nodded her head yes but didn't seem to move from her place.

Rhodes shrugged his shoulder and slightly knelt down to pick her up and hoist her up high enough to get her on to his shoulders. "There on eye level now. Erin this is tuna."

“Why do you keep calling me ‘Tuna’?”

Charlie finally spoke up catching Rhodes on attention with the question. It was a slight habit on Rhodes end. Never really using a full name and just a dozen of nicknames. It wasn't because Rhodes didn't know names or anything, it wasn't even like he did this to everyone he came across. Honestly Rhodes wasn't all to sure why he dropped a dozen related nicknames to others he never really thought all that much about it. Instead he just paid a blanket expression Charlie's way as if it should be obvious why he keeps calling them tuna today.

“I’m not a fish…I’m a Rooster…”

"Really now? I couldn't tell must need my glasses." Rhodes joked a bit "I know Charlie. You are a very tall rooster, hair looks good today by the way dye holding up." Rhodes added in towards their appearance. "Is that one not obvious enough? You ever hear the thing about tuna being the chicken of the sea? And you are a chicken who loves the sea." Rhodes expressed as he started to lead the way inside to direct Charlie toward Odette's shop inside. "Actually why I thought you might wanna check my mom's shop out today, ever since that trip to your home town she's been inspired by the ocean as she puts it. So I figured you might be interested in a lot of the new supplies she got in stock." Rhodes contuined on to speak "Don't worry about it if anything catches your eye i'll take care of it for you." Not leaving Charile the option of a yes or no like he usually would.

"And this little gal is squirt." Continuing with the nickname habit. As they contuined to walk past all the small bussniess inside.

"Erin" Erin softly spoke up herself, slightly resting her face against Rhodes hair as she peered over towards Charile. "...I like tuna. They swim fast" She offered in respons, though. "But I don't get why your dating my brother he's not cool."

Rhodes opted to ignore her comment there since she seemes to be opening up to talk to Charile. Rhodes could care less what Karine thought about him having two boyfriend's, but he did care a bit what Erin thought about them seemed like she loke Charile if she was talking so he could take the insult.

[ducknotinarow]

[RhodesCharlie - Reverse] "I need to rest"

| Send "I need to rest" for your muse to lay their head down in my muse's lap

Rhodes eyes were slightly trailing over the words of the page, not fully retaining what he was reading. Mostly because he found the book to be so dry and boring. Why did classics get such a pass at times? Said to be these great reads due to their themes and messages they try to convey. Rhodes felt many books that were newer did the same without feeling like his eyes were watching paint dry as he read through. Sighing out when he realized he been reading over the same paragraph for the past ten minutes. Rhodes lowered the book for a second and let his head rest back against his bed. Rhodes just needed a few more quotes for his stupid report on this book. Then he would be free for the weekend.

Odette, his mother, was the less strict parent compared to his Dad. She never would take away something he loved so he could quote on quote focus better on his studies for one. But, she would make him stay back from any weekend plans if it meant getting his work done. Free spirit or not she still wanted Rhodes to do well in school. Better than she did was always her reasoning. Which over all he was a good student, just struggled when he got bored. Like he was now. As he lowered the book down and rubbed at his eyes for a second before lowering them back down to let his gaze just fall over the walls of his room at his mom's place. Full of posters and shelves just bursting to show off Rhodes likes, and personality.

There were frames with tickets and band t-shirts. A few with photos even. Most of them were him and his mom there was few with his dad but seeing how Rhodes was far younger in them was telling enough not to mention they also had both his parents in the photo. Some vinyls hung up on his wall along with a clock that resembled one. And even some unplayable instruments. In between all that was a few figures here and there based of game characters he liked. Mostly from The Legend of Zelda franchise. And some art works as well like a canvas painting that was actually painted by his mother for him that he happily displayed. There was a few other but it was clear he had a favorite.

There was a knock on his door suddenly and he thanked the universe for it as he turned his attention towards it. "Yeah mom?"

"Roo Bear, Charlie is here can he come in?"

Rhodes feathers slightly bristled "Mom! we talked about that!" Rhodes exclaimed as he moved to stand up setting his book on to his bed before walking over to the door taking the few seconds of travel to smooth his feathers over as he could barely just make out the sound of his mother talking to Charlie outside his room. Opening his door he just gave her a look, as she decided up play the motherly affection and grab at his cheeks playing with the feathers on his face. Rhodes was getting her message loud and clear. 'You're my baby I can call you what I want.' Rhodes just lightly pulled away from her showing he was conceding in their unspoken disagreement. Before turning to face Charlie.

"Hey Chip, beat chatters here? Early too think we still got like a few hours?" Rhodes went on to speak grabbing for Charlie's wrist to lead him into his room before Odette walked away to leave them be. Gesturing for on of the beanbags in his room for Charlie to take a seat in as he kept talking. "Get off work early then?" Charlie wasn't much of a talker so Rhodes tended to keep his questions more obvious so they could answer with head motions over detailed worded answers. As he grabbed for his book once again and plopped back down on to the floor. "Don't worry I'm just looking for quotes for my paper. I can hang out with you well we wait at the same time. Side's you're way more entertaining than this damn book is."

Rhodes tried finding the quote he needed again and found himself back into the same issue as before. Lowering the book after only trying for a few seconds before he let himself fall over and rest his head on Charlie's lap. "This book was tournament the first time around, I should have just put posts in my book but I didn't know they were making us do a report until we were done! just cause some kids didn't pass the test we all have to suffer!" Rhodes laid the book on his chest and tipped his head back to look up at Charlie. His stare was a bit more intent and focus on their own for a few seconds. Before he reached up a hand to set his palm on to the side of Charlie's face.

"You should let me put eyeliner on you again." He suddenly brought up as if that was what they had been talking about it the whole time. "It really define your eyes last time you know?" Rhodes went to express "Oh I even have blue eye liner! I just got some, it would match so well with your hair and like tie the whole look together." Rhodes continued on with his pitch. Before moving to sit up, "please let me put eyeliner on you! I'm dying trying to read this book again. I just need like a five minute break tops maybe ten cause I'll get clearly distracted staring at you to long." Rhodes tossed in some flattery hoping it would convince Charlie more.

"Please Cher, I promise ten minutes tops for a break, I've been working on this for a solid three hours I just need to finish it up. It could be a fun surprise for Bubbles as well." Rhodes slightly begged clearly needing the small break, "besides you'll be sure to remind me I have to work again. Oh How about this I do your eyeliner" as if Charlie told him yes already. "I work for like what thirty minutes? If I'm not done yet but kept working without compliant I get to paint your nails next. Work again say another thirty straight then I get to style your hair." Basically Rhodes reward system was let me do this or that to you. But he dose seem excited for the chance. "Soo deal? Sides if I don't do this Mom will lock me up in my room and I won't get to hang out with you guys. So you'll be helping me really." And giving Rhodes a doll in a sense to play with. But that part shouldn't matter.

[ducknotinarow]

Buddy's eyes widened upon seeing Richard and Bailey appeared with the large, photo album. Immediately, their feathers bristled up, from their head, to the tips of their toes. They rose from the sofa, glancing towards Rhodes and Charlie, before back to the book,

"Dad...papá...why do you have the album out?" Buddy asked quietly, before gulping, "Please don't show them the baby photos!!"

Rhodes and Charlie were going to be shown the photo album.

| Muse interaction

It was kind of a constant rotation on which house the boys would stay at. Sometimes a different one every night sometimes one only for the weekend. Buddy was always talking to one or both of them outside of school even with them and Charlie going to the same school. It was hard to say when Buddy never found a reason to mention the other two either. So it really never should have been that much of a surprise when romantic feelings got involved with them finally. Well short of both Bailey and himself thinking Buddy only liked ONE of the two boys they had befriend at last. Not that Buddy didn't have friends but at best they were only classmates. These two? No they were really friends to their son. Despite Bailey's over eagerness to want to basically adopt Charlie and Rhodes. Richard, did share in the sentiment though.

Richard just felt some relief in the fact Buddy had people there for him. It helped to set that worry that Buddy would be alone the day he and Bailey passed. They wouldn't live forever after all. But seeing Buddy had these two? Well it helped some parental worries settle.

"Bails? have you seen the photo album?" Richard asked knowing Bailey would likely been the last one to touch it. They were always getting lost in their sentimentality after all. As if Richard was anyone to talk seeing how he was the one couldn't looking for it. When asked he idly rubs at the side of his head slightly messing up his usual well styled dark locks. "Well i'll admit i'm still trying to understand this whole poly thing but I don't want my lack of knowledge to come across as being unaccepting. When I'm more just lacking in experience Then I remembered that time Sue showed me your baby photos." Richard stated a bit excited as he smiled once finally eyeing the one dedicated to Buddy. Richard holding it proudly to Bailey as if he found some hidden prize. "What better way to show support to this relationship that I may not fully grasp but accept and am happy for Buddy for even then following that same act?" Richard felt pretty proud for his line of thought so anything Bailey might say to mock them a bit went over his head in the moment. But Bailey wasn't any better when it came to their Duckling of course Bailey would agree with showing off those old adorable photos.

Heading back to the living room where they had left the boys at, they all seemed pretty content. Rhodes was of one end of the couch leaning over the arm slightly seeming to be giving more space. With Charlie on the other well half of the couch. Seeming to try to not take up too much space, but well that was pretty impossible with their size. And Buddy happily place in the center of the two of them. Buddy growing up was proving to be a struggle. Growing independent. coming into their own even. Not so much Richard's little side kick who hyped him up as this amazing bird all the time. Richard wasn't that idol figure anymore. Which is good Buddy at that age where well they should be in a sense finally moving away from that safety of their dad's shadows and stepping out. Getting closer to leaving the nest so to speak and spared their wings.

Richard opened the album looking for the photo of a much young Buddy in their little duck onesie, holding of course France in their arms well they had the old duck. But it seemed well Richard was busy looking back at their little duckling, the movement caught Buddy's eyes as Richard was leaning the photo album over for Bailey too look at the photo as well. Well Buddy suddenly stood up grabbing Rhodes attention.

"Dad...papá...why do you have the album out?"

Buddy's question went mostly unnoticed, as Rhodes had looked towards where Richard and Bailey were coming in. Seeing the photo album they were bringing along with them. If it wasn't obvious enough for Buddy's reaction the book alone gave away it was clearly a Buddy themed album.

"Please don't show them the baby photos!!"

And now Rhodes was even more invested, Buddy seemed hardly ever phased by literally any usual embarrassing thing a parent can do to you. Even Charlie could feel embarrassed when his aunt Maple called Charlie, Chi Chi. Sure Rhodes never said anything but every time they were around and she called him it Rhodes always gave him a smug smile. So only fitting they got to hear his own mother call him Roo Bear and embarrassing him with how over the top she can be. Buddy however? Never seemed effect like a normal teen. Parental nicknames? nah if anything it seemed rare for anyone in their family to ever use an actual name. Both towards Buddy and between their dad's. Over the top displays of affection? Nah Buddy seemed to eat up the affection from Bailey and even the more subtle ones from Richard. But this? was enough to get Buddy's feathers to bristle to put real worry in their voice even. Oh this was perfect.

"Mijo tone you are inside." Was Richard first response as he let his expression fall a bit before tucking the book against his chest wishing to keep it from his son. "I was simply only going to show them a few photos since we were talking about how your growth works and all." Richard defended.

"Oh really?" Rhodes spoke up suddenly turning to display his interest. "I would like to see about that, I know Dew drop here has mentioned their doctors in Duckburge before after all." Moving to stand up so he could make his way over to Bailey and Richard. Even better since the photo that was being shown was clearly a young Buddy dressed like a duck. "Aww wait that can't be him is it?" Rhodes continued on. It seemed enough to get to Richard's parental side as he lowered the book showing the photo of Buddy in his little duck onesie. "Aw Char look at this" Rhodes said pulling at the rooster so he could see as well. "Aww look Buds even got France with him." Rhodes continued to comment on.

"Cute uh?" Richard asked clearly fallen into Dad mode. "Buddy was just like a little duckling always following one of us around the house. So we thought this would be cute he loved it so much. Oh i have a photo of them holding Bailey's tail in it as well." Richard stated as he went flipping through the book to show it off.

[ducknotinarow]

[Metronome Boys uwu]

Now that Rhodes had calmed down after the, casual, revelation that both Charlie, and Buddy, casually touched themselves to thoughts of each other, the Rooster couldn't help but asked what he thought was a fair question.

"Why were you so freaked out about it...?" Charlie asked, "I mean...it's pretty natural, even more for Roosters..."

"Yeah Rhodes," Buddy spoke up, eyes always on the screen as they easily stayed in first place, "Roosters are like one of the horniest birds out there; kind of a miracle Charlie doesn't do it more often."

"Depends on my mood," Charlie shrugged, "Seriously though, was it because it's me that admitted to it, or just...an in general surprise?"

They kept playing, Charlie and Buddy taking Rhodes explanation in. The two silently decided that they were going to tease Rhodes about this for a good while.

"...Soooo...do you?" Buddy asks, glancing Rhodes way, "Yanno, jerk it while thinking of us? C'mon we were honest with you, only fair your honest with us~"

| Muse Interaction [in reference to these posts 1, 2,]

Rhodes watched as Buddy went and selected Yoshi and Charlie went and picked out princess peach. he debated for a moment and went with Link this time alone. Buddy running the game went and set up the race tracks they were going to do. Not that Rhodes cared much for which one they did, he played the game enough to know the short cuts and when best to make use of jumps and wheelies in the game. He just wanted to beat Buddy who like always had a good lead for their game night. But Rhodes was having an off day even losing against Charlie. Buddy he can sometimes accept since they were always plugged in to a game after all so it just made more sense to lose against him. Charlie was more of a sore spot in all truth. So Rhodes being well Rhodes thought the best way to get an edge here would be to play some physiological trickery. That instantly back fired on him.

Worst part? It didn't even help him win, if anything it helped the other two with their own wins. Rhodes set his controller to his lap before letting his head rest back against the bed. "Man I have failed my boy today!" Rhodes complained to himself as they let the the Mario kart session finally come to an end. Rhodes in the middle of mourning his loss at the time was really only take out of his dramatics by Charlie suddenly speaking up about the topic that had come up.

"Why were you so freaked out about it...?"

Rhodes tilted his head up slightly so he could better look at Charlie, even when sitting on the floor the guy was a giant and still required needing to look up just to meet their eyes. "huh?" Was all the pigeon could offer in response having slightly forgotten what happened before they went back into their gaming session. Hard to say why it was still on his mind maybe part of him just wasn't trying to talk about it? The image of being the cool one laid back and hardly phased tended to be everything to the pigeon after all. Even if he often broke that illusion about his boyfriends.

"I mean...it's pretty natural, even more for Roosters..."

"This is natural for Roosters?" Was Rhodes response he had a hard time believing that, and he couldn't see it as some sort of flex on beating Rhodes. Even the rare times he beat Buddy they never egged it on.

"Yeah Rhodes,"

Rhodes now turned his head to the other side, Buddy's own attention had remained on the screen. As the next course was starting on the count down. Rhodes had basically gave up at this point even if he took the first place finish it's wouldn't do anything for his over all score in the end. Even the NPCs were ahead of him. Forgive him Link it seems you will not be the hero of this race.

"Roosters are like one of the horniest birds out there; kind of a miracle Charlie doesn't do it more often."

"what?" Rhodes said only bow catching on he had kind of forgotten already trying to focus more on his game over anything else going on.

"Depends on my mood,"

"Oh that." Rhodes said under his breath as they wete back to the charater selections he was toggling between who to pick. Link was his usual go to. But Bowser or dry Bowser had been sitting on the shelf for him lately maybe he'll switch it up? Go for thier heaviness over Links sleek?

"Seriously though, was it because it's me that admitted to it, or just...an in general surprise?"

Rhides chewed over his thoughts for a moment “Yeah” he began with he knows they will tease over his reaction no matter what he say anyway better to get it over with and deal with that for likely ever guess he can’t blame them they seemed to love anytime he broke out from the chilled out persona he held most the time. “If Imma be honest here with you both I was more surprised you did it at all cause well no offense look at you both of you really. I just sort of thought neither of you hade that vibe to you. Though I guess Buddy makes more sense now that I’m really thinking on it.” He ponders as he finally picks Link once again needed to redeem them he decided. “You though?” Looking back to wards Charlie “Kind of thought you let under the ace spectrum despite being a rooster and all.” Rhodes expressed. “So yeah you caught me off guard with the fact you do in general, not so much to me I mean I’m a catch clearly” Rhodes said flattering himself. “Mostly just how openly you said it used to you being all shy and quite about..well anything really.” Rhodes expressed finally as he focused on the build of his kart a bit better this time around.

"...Soooo...do you?"

Rhodes' arched his brow before looking towards Buddy, guess answering the one questions wasn't going to be the end of this.

"Yanno, jerk it while thinking of us? C'mon we were honest with you, only fair your honest with us~"

Yeah definitely not the end of this conversation. He dose smirk a bit at Buddy's choice of phasing though.

"Well yeah course I do" He confesses stealing Buddy's controller sl he could pick the circuit, he wanted to play one the most. Hey if he was getting grilled here he should least get that much he decided. "I mean you two may not see it but your both my type. Smiles, your pretty as all hell with the eyeliner and without it. You got an amazing coloring to your feathers and your eyes always fascinate me." Hey of he's gotta answer might as well, well answer fully. "And you big daddy C" he smirks over to Charile knowing at least that would give the reaction he wanted before. Handing Buddy's controller back once he made his selection. "Your excatly what people mean by more than the whole meal your the whole ass buffet. In other words your hot." Rhodes stated as he looked back to the screen at the race was starting up now.

"But unlike you two I got that experience so yeah course I didnt think much on you doing it me? Nah that was obvious."

[ducknotinarow]

CharlieRhodes - "Just say it!" - Topic: Love

| My muse struggles with the truth...Send "Just say it!" And my muse will confess to something they don't really talk about. Bonus: specify a specific topic and that's what they will talk about!

Rhodes felt like shit right now, there was no way to word it nicer than that simple truth. Not even sitting outside the fast food joint did much to help his case. He could still smell the thick gross greasy stench. It was like a bad case of BO okay maybe it wasn't that bad. And Maybe Rhodes standards just cause a bit of a psychological thing on his part because he was just such insisted that chains business were awful. Added in with a touch of the fact his mother had him very much used to the diet that hes nearly been on his whole life. Not like he didn't eat out just not at the grease pits like this.

"I don't understand how you guys eat at Hamburger Hippo of all places, didn't you have to watch that doc about the dude who ate it like a month straight?" yeah because it was the fact that guy ate at Hamburger Hippo in the first place and not that for near a month straight it was all the guy ate breakfast, lunch and dinner at that. "You know why it's cheap? cause it is trashy! You want a good burger?! there is a nice little restaurant a block from here. Started off just selling bread and now they do breakfast and lunch and dinner now. Bread Winners is so much better! At least everything is fresh! Not like here with their frozen patties of pure grease!"

Maybe his statement would hold more ground if he wasn't half laying across the metal table across the street from the Hippo shaped building. With a kids meal from the place in front of him, salt from the fries stuck to his beak even. Something Charlie seemed to also kind of make a point to well point out to Rhodes. Rhodes let his face scrunch up a bit determination striking as he lifted up grabbing the box from the kids meal to turn and show the current set of toys they were selling with the kids meals. "Because of this!" He pointed out to the set of TYs being included in the meals and aimed his finger right to the Jelly Fish one. One that should be familiar to both of them. Which is why he had dragged Charlie along with his plan. "Peppy's always collecting well anything that is a jellyfish after all, borderline an issue, but it makes them happy. So when I happen to find out they were launching this new set out today? Figured it be a nice surprise when we go meet up with Buds later Doncha?"

Rhodes explained, setting the box back down and returned to 'dying' as if he hadn't just perked up for those few seconds. It not like he couldn't eat this food it just tended to leave him feeling like death. And yet he was fine eating all the junk food they could order when they went to karaoke so yeah some of it was clearly Rhodes sticking to his own ridiculous ways. He had manged to get at least three of the eight being offered. A crab, a leopard and a hippo.

That last one was at the moment on the receiving end of Rhodes glare. It was also the only one he had opened just so he could focus all his disdain from the food chain on to the innocent small plush toy. "Starting to understand mom never having me eat additives has done to my tolerance." He off hand mentions mentally trying to prep himself to rear up for another likely round of this torment. "Don't know what is worse the food itself or the smell of that place. I can smell all that damn grease from the unwashed grill over here. How do people eat there so much!" Hand throw out to gesture over towards the hippo. "I swear I'm begging mom from a kale shake later to clear all the cow eyes outta me once I'm home."

To Rhodes annoyance one of the workers from the same location, clearly worn and tried from their shift, passed by and stated he could just buy the stupid toy he wanted. Before uttering something under his breath clearly over Rhodes complain from the past hour he and Charlie had been sitting around the place. Not aiding to the last part of their shift. Rhodes eyes shot wide though at that information. No longer dying as he fully stood up turning towards them. Even though they were no longer interested in Rhodes themself.

"What do you mean I could just buy the damn toys!" Rhodes shouted, uncaring for any attention he drew in towards himself, as he needed a few moments to let this sink in. Finally dropping back down into his seat letting his head fall back as he face the sky like he was waiting for the gates of heaven to just call out to him then and there. "I can't believe I have been tormenting myself for nothing when I could just buy that lil France for Sunshine." Running his hand over his hair dragging back the single strip of blue, pulling it back over the curve of his tied back hair. Slowly it broke away and rested back into place. As Rhodes handle this all just fine and oh so normally. "Fuck it least we can leave then." Up once more gathering his trash. Just cause he hated the business didn't mean he was going to leave his trash behind. As he started to shove the wrappers and boxes into the nearest trash bin. "eh I can least give the others to Erin so not a total waste she's just as bad when it comes to collecting things like that. Just ya know not only the one." Rhodes offered as he shrugged his shoulders.

Staring back at the Hippo building with clear disgust getting ready to embrace that stench all over again. "Lets hurry up or we're gonna be late meeting up with Sunshine when their shift ends."

Of course he was asked why he was going through all this for. Rhodes thinking his answer over a moment as he walked back to the counter. Waiting to get the attention the cashier well they were busy bagging up food from the end of the line. Also well being thankful his part time job wasn't him stuck in a greasy and foul smelling place like this. Looking forward to tomorrow even since he would be surrounded by the smell of fresh fruit and veggies even some flowers. The jellyfish was for Buddy he wonder what he could find at the markets for Charlie though. "I dunno I don't really know what i'm doing here if i'm being honest chuck." He offers a faint smile to the cashier when they finally notice and tell they will be with him in a few moments. Rhodes didn't mind waiting.

Which was true, Rhodes may have experience with going out on dates, kissing and such even. But when it came to the things that came to dating more long term? He sort of avoided the word relationship. For the same reason he was at a loss now. He was clueless as one could get. Maybe worse. "Just feel weird to be empty handed when we all hang out tomorrow night I guess." Okay but why would that be weird there wasn’t any special going on. Just a usual hang out? Rhodes suddenly felt pressed for a reason Rhodes tried to ignore the creeping red tone coming across his face.Wishing the cashier would hurry up.

“Just say it”

“I dunno my Dads always going on about if you’re gonna do something then you should at least do it properly. And ya sure I ain’t new to dating you two know I’ve been on some heck I’ve dated some people in this city too. But ya know the whole relationship thing? I’ve never really done that. Having a boyfriend is new enough as is” Let alone two, though in all the confusion and anxiety on Rhodes end and Buddy’s excitement seemed neither bothered to clue the rooster beside Rhodes now in this whole thing. “I’m half expecting to fuck this all up. But I mean least I if I put in the effort it won’t be cause I didn’t?” He offered though before anything more could be said the cashier finally made her way to the register and Rhodes walked over to ask about buying the sought out jelly fish he wanted so badly for Buddy. Holding it up t Charlie smiling triumphs though it might but cut since he bought the toy as is and not the result of suffering through the slop of food he punishments himself by eating. “Alright I’m sure they are wrapping up with the closing up of the Cafe we should be good to head over now.”

[ducknotinarow]

[Rhodes Charlie]

With the dye left to set, the two of them were given some time to just sit and talk. Difficult for Charlie to do, but, he soon managed to find something to talk about that wasn't just a list of Elvis trivia.

"I like cross stitching...it's calming..." Charlie murmurs, showing off the one he was currently working on, "My Uncle sells them in his shop...but I was thinking of maybe doing custom ones online or something..."

The current one he was showing off was clearly detailed, and took a lot of care. It was of shells within a small jar, with a small label that said 'with love' on it. Smaller shells were clearly being stitched in place to make a circle pattern around the outside,

"What do you think? Like...would anyone even be-"

Before he can finish his question, the bedroom door swung open, Aunt Maple strolling in, a beaming smile on her beak, and a stray full of lemonade and rice-crispy squares.

"Hey Chi-Chi! I thought you and Rhodes would like something to eat, I know how annoying and long it is to dye your hair it takes forever doesn't it~"

Her words always ran into each other, Aunt Maple was always to hyper active.

"Is Rhodes staying for dinner Chi-Ci? I need to know how many crab cakes I should make for us?"

"I don't-"

"Oh you should invite Buddy over too!"

"Aunt Maple-"

"Oh I'll just make enough for the three of you, we can just freeze any extra and take them over some other time~" Maple, when away with an idea, was near impossible to stop, "You boys have fun! Let me know about dinner~"

And just as quick as she appeared, she was gone. Charlie sighed with a sense of defeat, before he looked at Rhodes. Eyebrows furrowed slightly, as he huffs, speaking a little louder than his usual murmurs,

"...You're not allowed to call me 'Chi-Chi'."

| Muse interaction

The smell from hair dye was pretty strong, since Charlie did a full on dye job compared to Rhode who only really colored one section of his own hair. Working to gather up their hair in to a small mound on top of the roosters head as Rhodes smooth it over to make sure it was all pasted together in the hold. Before he got up from the chair he had to use. Even with Charlie sitting on the floor he was still pretty damn tall. Feeling he got a nice even job done on Charles hair he started to pull the gloves free from his hands and set them with the rest of the trash Well Charlie had been going on and on about Elvis. Rhodes knew Charlie liked the guy but he hadn't known the depth of it.

Safe to say Rhodes now knew a lot about Elvis just like he knew a lot about jelly fish. Rhodes was like a sponge thst way able to just absorb any information given his way. He just retained it pretty easily. And Buddy and Charile had a lot of information to deliver. Not that Rhodes minded there just something about how excited the pair of them got when it came to telling all about something they had a extensive lost of information about.

Trash gathered and tossed away as the topic of hobbies came up next. Of course Charile knew Rhodes played music. He had mentioned to them what all he could play and such asking if Charile had anything like that he was interested in himself. They had to kill time while the dye processed after all. Which prompted the rooster to stand up so he could show something to Rhodes.

"I like cross stitching...it's calming..."

"Cross stitching?" Rhodes ask as he followed, taking a moment to look over the one Charlie was showing at the moment. "Oh where you like sew in the design." Rhodes comments on only Vaguely aware of what cross stitching was having seen some at the farmer market time to time.

"My Uncle sells them in his shop...but I was thinking of maybe doing custom ones online or something..."

Rhodes look at the current one Charlie had in the works the jar full of sea shells, no surprise there with the wording "with love" beneath it. The detail was easy to notice clearly Charlie had been spending a lot of time on this project here for them. Rhodes making a note to see what ones Charlies Uncle had up for sale that he could go check out as well.

"What do you think? Like...would anyone even be-"

Before Rhodes could even offer support for the start of the question Charlie had started to bring up. He had some experience himself with online stores helping his mom set one up herself after all. They were interrupted by the appearance of Charlie's Aunt Maple. Rhodes turned towards the door and offered her a slight wave of his hand and smile. He hadn't gotten to know her nor Charlie's uncle Jasper all that much yet but he knew little bits about them, like they were Charlie's Aunt and Uncle. Course it was a funny sight to see when these two very very small Chickens entered the Evans-Alder home with big ol' Charlie between them. It was still funny and Rhodes tried not to laugh at the appearance of Maple now for the same reason.

"Hey Chi-Chi! I thought you and Rhodes would like something to eat, I know how annoying and long it is to dye your hair it takes forever doesn't it~"

Rhodes smile turned a bit more soft at how Maple spoke. quick and fast they fall and clashed in front of each other. Just near about following her wording. Though before either of them could even offer an answer to her question she was already jumping into her next thought.

"Is Rhodes staying for dinner Chi-Ci? I need to know how many crab cakes I should make for us?" "I don't-" "Oh you should invite Buddy over too!" "Aunt Maple-"

Rhodes had just stood there and looked back and forth between the pair of them as he witness this exchange go down. Maple clearly not giving Charlie much chance to answer anything, Rhodes wonder if she heard any part of an answer he was able to give in between. It was kind of funny in truth. Almost how his own back and for this could go when it came to his mother himself. Basically in a way that there wasn't much choice in the situation being presented, like his mother insisting on making gifts for Charlie and Buddy. He was going to do everything he could to make sure she wasn't able to, not like she would carry them on her after all.

Before he knew it Maple was taking off once again door shut as if she hadn't even been there in the first place. Rhodes left with only two thoughts. One he better text his mom and tell her he'll be having dinner over at Charlie's. The second which Charlie seemed to just know Rhodes was going to give some focus towards. Brow already furrowed up in a manor only Rhodes seemed to take delight in.

"Sooo Chi-Chi?" Rhodes says smirking up at Charlie, seeing how someone often felt a need to correct all the nicknames the pigeon himself used to address Charlie by.

"...You're not allowed to call me 'Chi-Chi'."

He simply shrugs and hands back the cross stitch towards the rooster. "Fair enough, Char Char" Cause Rhodes may have one off limits but he had a million more to use instead. "but yeah I actually know people would buy your cross stitching, maybe you could even offer costume ones as an option." Rhodes went on back to their conversation before as if Maple hadn't came in between it at all. "Mass produce art is like the worse, no heart no soul. Hand made one of kind though?" Rhodes continued to say and it shouldn't be to much of surprise seeing how Rhodes hated chain food business in the first place as is. As he went and send a text to his mom about tonight going ahead and sending one to Buddy well he was at it as well to let them know Charile's aunt basically invited them over for dinner.

"And yours reallt has a nice personal touch can tell how much time you put to it, the detail is crazy good." He contuines on with as he sits down on Chariles bed and sets his phone back down once done.