#and also looking back at a text exchange I had with an enby friend back in high school…boy I was struggling HARD with stereotype threat

[uchiha-gaeshi]

One of my old friends is now transmasc and I didn’t even know 😭

[dreaminpeaches]

“Ladies, Gentlemen, Enbies...HER--I mean Him? Or them?-- whatever, anyways here's the first part of my daydream paracosm, Humble Pie. I was really happy I was able to come up with the first part in a somewhat cohort manner. Part 2 is also going to follow this sometime soon, but after that its probably just gonna be short shorts, text exchanges, and or drabbles, but that first part’s finally a thing! And that’s cool”

“Also just reminder that this paracosm is set in a mix timeline, like people have flip phones, cassette tapes, but still also have stuff like gamer chairs, and slang like sus/lit exist, so I hope that doesn’t bother you..oof”

“Also I wrote this from my Remarkable, then convert it to text, and did some proof reading, but my handwriting is still can only be read by chickens and my dyslexia ninja has sneak 100 accuracy so..yeah

Word count: 6,115

TW: mention of Bullying, DeadBeat dad, Smoking, Drinking, Swearing (only for comedy’s sake tho’), Dissociation, Guilt (but don’t worry there’s still A LOT of fluff in this piece, tho)

Link to Alternate version on my off-site daydream blog: Humble pie part 1

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"Okay, here we go" Beau said, taking one last drag of his cigarette, and taking in one last look at the panoramic view of the town below, Newbury, his hometown, he was away for a year because of college which he dropped out of. Well, "dropout" made it seemed like he had a choice, more like he flunked out, there were' 'reasons that 'made college impossible for Beau, reasons that he couldn't get into or more like reasons he didn't want to get into, these were the some reasons that turned what was suppose to be a 5 hour drive into an 8 hour one, making him stop ever so often to the nearest park, overlook, or clearing to get out, smoke and or take a short walk. These stops were so frequent by the time he reached his hometown’s overlook he was on his last stick, hard to believe he started the trip w/ a full box.

He dropped the last of the remains of the cig on the ground and stomped out the glow ember with his dark brown rounded toed boot, watching the embers glow go out made him feel similar in a way.

Beau took one more last look at the small town below blanketed by the dark, light sky. He looked around. the overlook, bring back memories of. late night make outs, sneak outs and general teenaged shenanigans.

Beau remembers once on a night he was really buzzed, a rare event for him, drinking with his buddies, rather it was the buzz from the beer, or he was just 'riding the 'high off scoring the winning goal for the team, or general teen hormones. He felt invincible, so invincible he stood up on the ledge and proclaimed himself as king of the world

A moment Beau looks back at and shakes his head as if to try to erase the memory from his mind like an etch n’ sketch, suddenly he got a bad taste in his mouth or maybe that's just the cigarettes "King of world….yeah, right" Beau said pulling up the collar of his jacket and shrugging his hands into his pockets, and headed back into the car.

It was getting late and there was no use in stalling any longer, might as well continue to the inevitable. Stalling may be that’s the feeling that's been following him the whole time, stalling the fact that he would have to return to his hometown a failure after being touted and praised for being a star athlete , and getting into a ivy league school, a feat his mom was really proud since she herself couldn't go to college because of having Beau at such a young age, and having to deal with a bunch of other “BS” as Beau would put it.

Beau really wanted to make her proud by becoming a famous football player and make tons of money so she wouldn't ever have to worry about bills n 'stuff and live in the malibu dream house she dreamed of living in since she was a kid, a dream she would talk about to her children like it was fairytale during when time got real tough.Even though she sounded upbeat over the phone about the news, Beau knew his mom was an expert when it came to masking her disappointment and skill that was pretty integral with dealing Beau's birth father. He just hopes she's not too disappointed

As the twilight sky grew more dark the street lights flickered on. Familiar and nostalgic landmarks and structures rolled by as Beau drove by with one hand gripping the wheel while the other hand hung casually out of the rolled down window. the nighttime breeze gentle, tossing his cart dirty blond hair mullet. The 'murmur of punk music lighty playing from the car's speaker, that was playing louder earlier but the volume's quickly depleted because blasting punk 'music at night in a small town is pretty serious offensive a risk, a younger Beau would play around with, but now being older he knows better.

Driving into his old neighborhood, seemingly not much has changed, but what do you expect from a small town? The old neighborhood consisted of typical signatures of most middle upper class .. neighborhoods, Christmas ' decorations long over due to be taken down, manicured lawns, next to slightly less manicured lawns. Some lawns adored w/ gnomes and flamingos, a step up from the lawns of homes in his childhood neighborhood whose homes had what one could consider a lawn but just barely, Beau and his brother were lucky enough to have a sizable back yard and a tree house.

His family's lawn had a bunch of outdoor toys laid about on their lawn: a nerf gun, a pink tricycle, a tiled dyed color bouncy ball and an empty container of mega bubble wand. Beau drove up in the driveway being careful to not accidentally run over any of the toys in the yard.

He eject the mixtape from the player and put it into his jacket chest pocket. Beau leaned over and rummaged through the glove compartment fishing out a small travel can of axe's body spray and another small spray can of mouthwash, he used both to cover the scent of cigarette smoke, a smell his mother was highly sensitive to. He popped in a stick of spearmint for extra measure before getting out of the car and going to the trunk to retrieve his suitcase. Beau only had one suitcase since all the stuff really needed and cared about conveniently fitted in one suitcase.

Beau propped up his suitcase as he closed the trunk, the car beeped and blinked as he pressed the lock button. He headed up the pathway to the front door, his heart beating louder and louder with each step leading up to the front door.

Beau took a deep breath, Pulling himself together. "Okay" He said under his breath as his hand slowly reach for the knob but before he could even get a good grip, the door swung open, Beau's eyes raced up to see the thinning hair of a middle aged man, Beau eyes lowered a bit more to see the mustached clad face of the man the hair belonged to. "Hey, Big Boss! '' the mustache man said with a grin. The man was Beau's stepfather, David.

"Hello, David, I-I mean Dad." Beau awkwardly greeted his stepdad, trying his best not to show discomfort at his step dad's “nickname" for him.

"Ha, ha that's okay, son!”David laughed, giving Beau a hefty pat on the back.

"Here, let me get your bags." David said, reaching for Beau's suitcase, looking behind Beau expecting more bags

“You only brought one bag?" he questioned, looking curiously.

'--I like to be efficient" Beau muttered with a shrug and a side glance. "HAHA you and me both, Big B" David chuckled playful elbowing Beau, who gave a half-smile and a small chuckle--well, more like a slight nose huff

"Hey, honey Big B is home!" David shouted as Beau closed the front door.

His mother came rushing from the bedroom in her rose pink robe w/a barbie in insignia on the front with matching fuzzy slippers, her sandy blond hair still damp from the shower.

"My little boy, oh!" she said, warping Beau in a tight motherly embrace. "Welcome home!" Beau's mother pulled back for a second, cupping her son's face in her hands “you’re still so handsome"

"Wait..." Beau gently removed his mom's hands from his face "Are you okay, mom?" He asked his considerate brown eyes searching his mother's teal eyes for any sign of distress.

"Of course, sweetie," his mom beamed. "I have all of my loved ones under one roof. What's more to ask?"

it's just that I didn't- Y-you know." Beau said with downcast eyes

"Oh, that" his mom said wide eyes and then shaking her head in dismissed

"Don't worry about not finishing college, I mean just look at me"

“But You just seemed so proud that I got in, I just didn't want to let you down"

“Sweetie, it's fine," his mom said, gently guiding his head up with her hand to look at him "I was not proud that-You were becoming the smart, sweet kind young man, I always knew you were, but now. I'm just happy that you’re here and I get to see you go. on the journey myself!" Beau chuckled tightly and blushed at his mom's admiration.

"Plus, Your mom's not the only one who is happy to have You home!” David said, gesturing towards the hallway. Beau looked to see a small figure peeking from the corner, the figure quickly disappeared followed by an overflow of giggles.

A smile slowly creeped across Beau's face, he slowly kneeled down. " "Gasp * Is that my little care bear?"

From the shadows totted out, a little girl dressed in a blue care bear patterned nightgown, her blonde hair tied up in pigtails, she grasped a love-a-lot bear in one arm while her other arm was open as she raced towards Beau, also with arms wide open for a hug "Bo-Bo"

"Hey, care bear!" Beau cooed as he picked up his little sister "Wow, You've gotten so big since the last time I saw you!

"Carrie's been asking when you were coming since you told us you were coming home "David stated

"Really?"

"Yep!'' Carrie nodded proudly "You still have the love-a lot bear I won at grad night". Beau vividly remembers winning Love A Lot and his friends making fun of him, but Carrie really appreciated it more than he thought.

"Yeah, she takes it with her everywhere!" mom emphasized “Thank god, the kindergarten has a security blanket policy!

"Aww..." Beau said fondly looking at Carrie, who had her head resting on his shoulder, still grasping love a lot.

Beau thought for a moment and looked around "wait, where Dev?"

"Oh" mom said putting her hand on her head with a semi sigh "He's been going through... things"

"Teenager things: David specified "He's the big one three now.. "

“Don't worry, I can talk to him!”Beau said, confidently, slowly nodding his head

. Carrie lets out a small yawn "Aw, you sleepy, care bear?" Beau asked as Carrie rubbed her eyes

"It's past her bedtime, but she really wanted to see you," Mom said, stroking Carrie's hair. "Is someone ready for the sleep shuttle'?" Beau asked Carrie, looking at her in her sleepy hazel eyes, she nodded in response

"Alright, Here we go!" Beau held Carrie in both hands placing his arms out in front of him, he kneeled down and started counting down. "3…..2...1. Blast off!"

Beau shot Carrie in the as he stood back up. As he moved towards Carrie's bedroom, he moved all around side to side, up and down while making spaceship sounds, Carrie was giggling all the way through.

"Incoming! "Beau shouted as he swooshed Carrie round a few more times before landing her swiftly on the bed.

"Huston, the eagle. has landed!." Beau said, holding his ear as if he had an earpiece "Not eagle! Bear!" Carrie stated holding up her care bear "correction, the "BEAR" has landed!" Beau correcting himself, bringing a huge smile to her face as she nuzzled her care bear

"Okay, night, right, care bear" Beau said patting carries head

"Wait!" Carrie said holding on to her brother's arm "Is Bo-Bo still gonna be here in the Morning?""Of course, I'm not going anywhere at least for a while.." "Beau said, kneeling down to Carrie's eye level.

"Okay, I like having Bo-Bo around:'' Carrie said "and I like being around" Beau said, "see you in the morning, care bear" Beau gives Carrie a good night kiss on the forehead.

She settles into bed as Beau closes the door. Beau grinned to himself, feeling lucky to have such a cute sister. He remembers when Devin was that little, speaking of Dev. Beau apphoraced Dev's bedroom door. The door was caution tape, Don't enter signs, with a please knock before entering sign.

At first Beau did think about knocking but then thought "I could be a respectful older brother respect the sign or I could have fun and be a little shit. He pondered about it for a minute then-"yeah, I'm gonna be a little shit.”

Beau took a card out his wallet and wedged it in between the door to jimmied the lock. He peeked through the door to see Dev playing a video game on the tv. "you little..." Beau said under his breath, before bombastically opening the door "Hey there, squirt!" Beau said, shoving the door open

"Didn't you read the sign?!" Dev said as he turned around in his gamer chair in both shock-and annoyance

"Wow, that's a pretty warm welcome to give your older brother you haven't seen in a year!" Beau snarked, pretending to look hurt'' "Nice to see you too!"

"Oh my god!" Dev said, rolling his eyes and turning his chair back to tv, bringing his attention back to the game.

"and here I thought you were working on a project or homework or some school shit!" Beau continued "but no, you're just sitting here playing one of your little nerd games"

"Oh my god, can't you just leave!" Dev groaned as he hunching closer to the tv.

"You couldn't at least say "Hi" " Beau said now standing right behind Dev gamer chair

Dev raised and waved his hand half-heartedly and flatly said "hi"

"Well, damn I feel loved," Beau said sarcastically. "aren't you at least gonna look at me?" shaking the gaming chair a bit to gain an ounce of his little brother’s attention.

“ I saw you "Kool aid man" into my room. Is that enough?" Dev said still focusing on the game Beau sighed, then got an idea "Dev! Dev! I think there's something wrong with my heart I think I gonna-ugh!" He said staggering forward a bit before falling in Dev's lap, knocking out the game controller out of Dev's hands.

"Come on! I was in the middle of battle!" Dev whined looking at his brother playing dead

"Get off of me!" Dev go armed as he tried to push beau off with no luck

"Come on, Beau!" He gored in frustration “I know you're not dead! I can still feel your heartbeat..."

Get up!" Beau remained still, Dev rolled his eyes; he knew the exact words to get his brother off his back or in this case lap.

"Big brother, can you please get off of me n Dev utter begrudgingly "Aw, you haven't call me ‘Big brother’ in years" Beau chimed with a smile, finally getting up "I'm still kind of hurt, that you cared about your gaming progress than the well being for your one and only big brother"

"You were still breathing, I could literally see you inhaling and exhaling." Dev clarified rubbing his forehead

"Touche, I guess" Beau said he then directed Dev's chair in front his bed," now that I have your attention"

"Okay, I guess I should say sorry since you couldn't and say "hi" to me because you were too busy saving some elf princess, or some anime chick with huge melons"

"I-H-Hey I don't even play those types of games!" Dev argued blushing

" .-sure you "don't'." Beau taunted with a wink, Dev goanned "Anyways, Anyways you don't have to say "hi",; but you could at least not talk to me"

Beau suggested, shrugging. "I guess" Dev mumbled kind of sinking into his chair "cool, so how's life?" Beau started, trying to start a diagoul "okay"

"How's school?"

"Okay"

"How’re your friends?"

"Okay"

"Got a girlfriend?"'

"NO”

"Got a boyfriend?"

N-NO"

"Got any crushes"

“….NO…..."

"joined any clubs or any other after school junk?"

" ..... NO..."

"Are you just gonna answer all my questions in one word?"

Dev fell quiet, and shifted his gaze from his brother

“Okay, that's it!" Beau huffed, he picked up Dev and hoasted him over his shoulder "Hey! put me down!" Dev-shouted , beating his fists on Beau's back "Not until you talk to me like an actual person, and one worded answers aren't gonna cut it, squirt!"

"MOM! Dad!"

"Mom and Dav-Dad are fast asleep, and you know they both sleep like rocks!" Beau stated'' the only person you'll wake up is Carrie, and You don't want to wake little care bear, now do YOU?"

Dev fell Quiet again, "You know I can hold you like this for hours, you aren't really that heavy, or you can just end this and talk to me" Beau suggested ending the suggestion with a sigh and started to stomp his foot impatiently..

Dev continued the silent treatment for a bit until letting out a meek "Okay...I'll try" .

Hey, three words, that's a start!" Beau cheekly commented,He sat Dev back down in his green gamer chair.

"Okay, do over!" Beau said casually sitting across from Dev and his bed. "so, how's school going?" "F-fine” Beau gave Dev a intense look, reminding Dev of his word count “N-no, I mean it's just weird" Dev stuttered choosing his words carefully, Dev fiddled with his hoodie sleeves.

"and it's weird because..." Beau initiated, gesturing his hand toward encouraging Dev to continue "It's weird because.... I don't know, Middle school is way different than 'elementary school, I mean I knew that from tv, but middle school isn't like tv."

"It's okay, nothing like tv, that thing lies” Beau softly chuckled to himself and continued “I remember thinking Pogo sticks were the SHIT-cuz 'of people and cartoons on tv made it look so easy"

"I finally got enough money for one-- you were like little you probably don’t remember this-- but I was SO HYPED, I wanted mom to watch me. I took one hop, fell on my ass, and never hopped on that bitch again. I was pissed, I think mom was trying to her best not to laugh but I was so pissed I think I didn’t notice until now. I chucked the pogo stick in the garage, and I never looked at that bitch again”

Dev let out a stiff laugh, the defensive wall Dev put was slowly breaking

"Oh WAIT WAIT!” Beau said taking a moment to correct himself “ That WASN’T the last time the last time I looked that bitch, I fished it out of garage years later, only cuz’ I need some money for Madden. So, I did look at that bitch one more time, but only to sell that bitch.”

Dev let out a more audible laugh, but quickly caught himself and recollected, returned to his disillusioned teenage state.

"Anyway, The teacher's are kind of weird, like a lot of them hate my guts already, except for the coaches who are super nice to me." Dev explained, kind of looking away from his brother

"Weird, why do you think that is?" Beau asked whole hearty

"Because I'm related to you, Numb skull!" Dev blunted , groaning putting his hand on his forehead

"Oh damn, I guess that's my fault." Beau realized, rubbing the back of his neck "My bad. that my awesomeness is just lengardy"

Dev shook his head and rolled his eyes "It's not awesome to live in YOUR shadow!" Dev sulked, sinking back into his chair, his hands covering his face.

"You don't have to follow in my awesomeness, I know I'm a hard act to follow." Beau boasted teastingly so"You just gotta make your own awesomeness."

"What does that even mean?" Dev questioned, moving his hands down, allowing his eyes to peek through his fingers, trying not to given the urge to roll his eyes

"It's like my awesomeness comes from my boyish charm and good looks..." Beau claimed, striking an award winning smile, The urge not to roll his eyes was becoming even hard for Dev, but he still had to try and respect Beau "But your awesomeness could come from being good at games, or computers shit or math or robots or something--I don't know something real nerdy"

"I guess, you're right" Dev mumbled and shrugged,lifting himself up back into a sitting position rather than almost spilling out of his chair.

"Its not a guess, its science!" Beau declared proudly, tapping his temple with his index finger

"No,that's not science!" Dev arguing his brother's stupidity, flatly shaking his head in disagreement

"See, there you go using your nerd awesomeness" Beau pointed out with a wink "Keep that up and you'll go from Beau's lil bro, to just ‘Dev’ in no time." Beau playful tousled Devs mop dirty blonde hair

"I mean.." Dev continued batting his brother's hand away, "I was also thinking of joining the video game club or the robotics club at school."

"There you go another nerdy thing that to add to your own awesomeness" Beau said

"Yeah...." Dev continued ignoring his brother's comment' “Some of my friends are thinking about joining, and it would be a nice place to go away from mom and dad."

"I had sick memories of hanging out with the team, we got into some wild shit." Beau said laughing to himself, fondly reminiscing "But I'm sure you and you geek squad could have "wild" times too, like making an anime robot 'weify." or whatever those called or finding a new math formula or something"

Dev fell quiet for another moment, Beau always seems like he’s in between being supportive and subtly roasting him, Dev then uttered "um... I think I kind of have a crush... on a girl..."

"AYE, let's go! "Beau exclaimed, clapping and shaking Dev's chair for a bit before bouncing back on the bed'' Come on, don't leave me hanging, what's her name? "Have you talked to her vet? Have you asked her out? Have-"

"Calm down!" Dev demanded "I said I had a crush, I didn't say we’re going out.'"

"Oh, so you haven’t talked to her, huh?”

"No, I-I don't even know her name" Dev huffed, he let his arms slip into his oversize sleeves and covered his sleeves with his face in frustration.

"You know you could just ask, not the chick, like just ask around"

"I can't do that because if I do, people will find out I like her and if she finds out, I would just have to stop going to school!”

"Okay, let’s just pretend you DO have the balls to talk to this girl, what's the worst that could happen?" Beau suggested

"She finds out that I like her, thinks I'm weird and never wants to talk to me again or even look at me!” Dev muffled through his sleeved covered face

"You really think she can sus that out all in one go!" Beau said "I mean she is a middle Schooler unless she's like a young nancy drew, she is not going to chew you up and spit out like that." Beau explained "speaking of which''

Beau paused for a moment to spit out his gum into the trash can "Score!"

"Anyways, have you done anything weird to her or around her?"

"No, I mean I look at her in the hallways before and in between class, but I don't like-- stalk her or anything too weird." Dev mumbled, moving his sleeves from his face, but his head was still targeted down at his fingers fiddling with a tag on his black shorts

"So, then what's the fear?" Beau inquired, resting his chin on the heel of his palm

Dev thought for a moment, his eyes shifting looking for an answer." I-I guess I just don't know how to talk to her."

"Well, fuck, that's easy" Beau chuckled “Just talk about school shit, or just say "hi"

"Is it really that easy?"

"Yeah, if you have the balls for it" Beau reiterated "Think about it like this, the dudes you play in your little nerd games have to fight a dragon, a demon or some anime witch with huge melons to talk to the girl they like and they er brave enough to do all of that wacky shit. But you’re lucky, you don't have a dragon for real in your way to keep you talking from your crush. The dragon's just in your head! If those hero dudes can fight dragons they actually can see, doesn't that mean you can fight a dragon you don't even see."

"That was a really lame and kind of confusing metaphor" Dev sassed " But I guess understand what your trying to say"

"Exactly" Beau said nodding confidentiality

"Can we talk about mom and dad?" Dev asked sheepishly, looking up at his brother, (well as much as he could with his shaggy bangs in the way), his fingers now toying with his hoodie strings

"Did something happen?"

"No, I mean yeah, I mean it's just weird" Dev said "Mom and dad are starting to get more annoying but I don't know if they were always like that or they like charged"

"No, parents don't really change-usually” Beau explained “It's just that being a teenager makes you hypersensitive to a bunch of shit and makes you wanna be alone more. Parents, the good ones like spending time with their kids and they actually want quality time n' shit and that's where they start to get annoying".

“"Oh okay,” Dev nodded.'' It's just weird because sometimes I feel like I hate them, but I don't want to. I think I just really want to be alone more like you said but I don't want to shut them out, I just want them to get that." Dev-fiddles with the strings of his green hoodie

"Yeah, I think they do in a weird old people kind of way. Believe it or not they were teenagers to even if that was back in the stone age n' shit" Beau joke"

Dev let out an actual laugh, a sign to Beau that he's little bro was being less of a moody teenager

"Anyway, even with that said mom and david-I mean dad aren't mind readers, it would be cool if you give them a heads up, you don't have to tell them all about what's going on in your little teen nerd brain but at least something simple like something weird or funny that happened at school, or asking for help on homework or a project for class or some shit like that, I'm pretty sure Dav-dad would love that.."

"I guess I could try". Dev said slightly nodding his head "But Carrie is kind of weird too!

"How can Carrie be weird, she's 5.” Beau scoffed "she doesn't do anything weird really"

Dev added" it's just sometimes she's regular cute and other times she's annoyingly cute if that makes sense"

"I mean like kind of get what you're saying but "Beau shrugged gesturing his hand toward prompting Dev to continue

"Like I still look out for her because she little, but because she's little that means I have to do dumb stuff like look for monsters under her bed or do that sleep shuttle thing you do, but I can't really do it because my arms give out halfway through and she's heavier than she looks."

"Well, little brothers and sisters are annoying, it's kind of their job, trust me I know from experience" Beau: put his hand on Dev's knee, Dev tried to Swat at it but Beau quickly put his hand back with a smirk.

"But like with mom and da-David just cuz she's annoying doesn't mean You can’t look out for her n stuff"

"I guess, its because lately, it seems like'' Dev paused 'for a beat, his hands hard gripping the strings of his hoodie, before continuing" I don't know mom and dad have been paying more attention to her than me"

A mischievous smile creeps across his face. "AW does someone miss being the baby?"'

"Oh, fuck! I knew you 'er gonna say that!" Dev blurted out, feeling really exposed, he pulled his hoodie strings allowing his head to be consumed by his hoodie, all but his nose.

"Hey! language,” Beau said, surprised at his little brother's reaction those harsh words coming out of the mouth of small boy sporting a Yoshi hoodie

"You cuss' all the time!" Dev huffed pulling his hoodie back down, then crossing his arm definitely

"Yeah, but I'm older than you, and if mom and David--DAD hear you curse they’er gonna know you got it from me and won't get off my ass about it!"

Dev stared at his brother, simmering in frustration in failing to coming up w/a good come back or a flaw in his brother's logic, He let out a heavy sigh and resumed "Anyways, it's NOT like I miss being the baby, I just miss being able to hold their attention without Carrie coming in and stealing them anyway, I don't know its weird"

"Wait, did you just say that you wanted to be alone and away from mom and David-fuck. I'm not even gonna try more-he's asleep anyways." giving up any attempt to make the word "Dad" same with the name "David"

"Yeah, I know that's what makes it weird!" Dev admitted, he sulked back deeper into his chair and let out a groan.

"You know Carrie's not awake all the time, maybe you can talk to mom and David, when she goes down for her nap, hell, I could just take her to the park for a day." Beau offered

"You'd really do that for me?" Dev peeped, quickly lifting himself up in a sitting position, surprised at his brother kind offer

"Yeah, anything to make you less of a weird angsty shut in, with a bunch of cringy keep out signs and keep out tape!" Beau gestured towards the door

"Actually, I got that caution tape from a real crime scene" Dev clarified, with a smug smile

"Really?" Beau taking a longer closer look at the door

"No, thick head, I found it in a dumpster next to party city!"

"You go dumpster diving?" Beau said, raising an eyebrow

"I have a life outside of YOU!" Dev stated proudly

"Okay, and on that... Weird garbage goblin flex, sibling bonding time is over." Beau said getting up from the bed and heading for the door

"Actually, one more thing..." Beau said quickly, turning around, rushing towards Dev, putting him into a headlock.

"Did ya miss me? Come on, tell me that you missed me!" Beau taunted as he gave his brother a long and through noogie "Ouch, Ow, Ow, Okay, okay, I missed You. Geez:" Dev pleaded trying to struggle out of his brother's grip

"That's what I wanted to hear!" Beau said with a smirk, letting 'Dev go.

"Ugh! my hair" Dev fumed , gawking at his even more messy mop of hair.

"Like you care about appearances" Beau chuckled" mop top nerd!"

"Mullet-hair metal meathead!"

"Ouch, that was pretty good" Beau teased pretending to look hurt "Garbage Goblin"

"You already-"Dev started but was cut off by Beau closing the door

"Too late, the door is closed, I can't hear you, which means I win!" Beau said through the door, laughing at his brother's muffled fury of frustration.

Beau grinned relishing in the absolute confusion of his younger brother, but that good vibe quickly faded once he arrived at the door to his old bedroom. He just stood there and stared at the door for a bit, he could feel the icky stew of the emotions from bubbling back up again.

He flexed his hand a few times as if this was the first time he's ever pored a door, Beau's hand reached for the door handle before retracted as if the knob was red hot.

Beau sheepishly looked around as if somebody was watching him, no one was but it sure did feel like it. He considered sleeping on the couch, but that would be weird, since it seemed like his step dad put his luggage in his room. so, eventually he would have to go into his room anyway.

Beau took a deep breath. "Come on, it's just a door, dude!" He told himself Beau's hand rested on the door knob, he took another deep, his hand gained a stronger grip, and he slowly pushed the door open, Beau carefully entered the room as he closed the door behind him. Looking around the room was plaster with posters of football players and a few pinups of doe-eye, sensual women in swimsuits and other scantily clad outfits.

Athletic medals, trophies and awards displayed proudly on his bookshelf that lacked any actual books, those trophies stood next to pictures of Beau with his teammates, all illuminated by the moon's dull pale blue light. These relics of what felt like a bygone era used to fill Beau with so much pride and joy but looking at them now just leaves a bad taste in his mouth.

He could barely even recognize himself in those photos. This whole room felt like a shrine or more like a tomb to someone who no longer exists.

Looking at all this stuff just made the icky feelings from before rise up to the back of his throat making the bad taste linger even longer.

Beau couldn't really pin what-these feelings were, so he shifted his focus on just getting some sleep

As he thought, Beau's step dad put his luggage on his bed. He opened his bag and quickly changed into a white tank top and some grey sweatpants. He fished out the mix tape from his jean jacket and put into the gray clucky music player on his nightstand. Beau turns the music up loud enough for him to hear but not loud enough for disturb anyone else. Heavy metal music (ironally) helped him sleep on hard nights.

Beau laid in bed focusing on the one spot in his room that wasn't decorated with high school memorabilia. Focusing on that spot was way better than focusing on the icky feelings from earlier. All he needed to was focus on sleep just sleep, Beau closed his eyes and tried to focus on just sleep.

The next time Beau opened his eyes, he was back in the hallway of his highschool. Beau looked around confused why he was back here but before he could really sus out the situation, his thoughts were interrupted by a loud thud. He followed the sound of the thud that led to a scene of a bespectacled student being shoved up against the lockers. The student's face contorted by fear.

"P-please, d-don't hurt me. "the student uttered, the words quivering as it left his lips.

"Aww, look at him, guys." a familiar voice said, Beau couldn't see whom the voice belonged to. There was a strange mist in the hallway that obscured the person's face.-

"He's scared." the voice said mockly, the person nodded towards a group of people whose faces were also obscured by the mist, they laughed in response

“Don't worry, little buddy, I'm not gonna hurt ya:" the person taunted as he tightened his grip on the student and shoved his body up against the failing student. "As long as you don't squeal" .

"You squeal, and I'll fry you like the pig you are, got it. Swine?"

"I-I p-promise I W-won't. J-just please let me go!" the student begged

Beau was disturbed by scene happening before him, but along with the feel of disgust came a feeling of familiarity, like he's been there before

Just then the fog lift to reveal the face of a younger version of Beau dawned in his red “New Burny High school” letterman jacket. He was smirking relish in the fear he was inflicting on the poor student.

Older Beau slowly back up, almost stumbling as he was coming to the realization of the origin of all those icky feelings from before

"I don't know, do we trust him, guys?" Younger beau asked cocking his head back to his teammates, who shook their head in disagreement "The Boys and I don't seem very sure of that, I think I'm gonna have to test your loyalty !" Younger Beau winded up his arm for a punch, But before his fist could make an impact.

Beau found himself back in his room in a cold sweat, hyperventilating as quickly rose from his bed. His room, still illuminated by the moonlight, with the metal mix tape softly playing in the background. He looked at his hand as if they were lethal weapons. How could I do such a thing?

[malewifegradyruewen]

An Untitled Original Work, Part 5

i love writing Gina and texting is also really fun to write-

quick note: bold is text messages and italicised is thoughts

previous | next | masterpost

trigger warnings: none, ask to tag

word count: 1438

tagging: @fire-sapphics @artemiassamos @honorablescythecurie @love-pyramus @silver-war @pencilwritesshiz47 @tiergan-andrin-alenefar @reggie-patterson @dirty-racoon @dxubledare @enbies-and-felonies @sofia-not-sophie @imaramennoodle @littlemisscupcake @cadence-talle and lmk know if you wanna be added/removed!!

-:-:-:-:-:-:-

A friend. Gina couldn’t believe it. Not only had she found a friend in Sammie, but Gina got the sense that maybe, just maybe, they could one day be a little more than friends.

She knew it was wishful thinking. It had only been one day, after all, and a rough one at that, but the girls had exchanged numbers on the bus ride home. That was a start. They’d also looked at their schedules and discovered they would be in Government and choir together the next day. Gina could barely wait. Plus, they had the same lunch tomorrow, so they had another opportunity to spend time together.

Logan’s in choir, too, whispered a small voice in Gina’s head. You didn’t tell Sammie that, now did you?

It was true. Gina had conveniently left out that detail, but she told herself it was because it wasn’t relevant. Logan didn’t matter. Admitting that she’d purposely left that detail out would mean admitting that she was scared of Logan, and she wasn’t about to do that.

Instead, she turned to the math assignment that was due tomorrow. It was still warm outside, so she was sitting on the flat roof outside her window overlooking the backyard. Her dad wasn’t exactly approving of this habit of hers, but they both knew it was hard enough to get any peace and quiet in the Weathers household. The roof was not quite ten feet off the ground, barely sloping, and it dropped down onto the dried grass of the small plot of land that was barely big enough to be a backyard. It was Gina’s escape during the warmer months, as long as it was dry and clear.

The ruckus of her siblings in the backyard would be distracting to many, but to Gina, it was white noise. The screams of her siblings as they played pulled her thoughts away from Sammie, and Logan, and silly crushes, and regret. Once again, she turned to her math homework and started working.

Gina had no idea how much time passed before she finally completed the assignment and climbed back into her bedroom. She was the only one of her siblings who had their own room, and consequently, it was quite small. Just enough room for the dresser she put her books on top of and the bed she flopped onto. She grabbed her phone off her bed next to her, sure nobody had texted her, but to her surprise, she found three messages from Sammie, one from Leo, and one from Mally.

A text from Leo was not unusual. She opened the message from him first, which asked for the math assignment that was due the next day. After sending him a quick picture, she opened the text from Mally. It was a picture of Mally’s dog. Gina had always wanted a dog, and fell in love with Mally’s the first time she went over to her house. Since then they’d had an agreement that if Gina sent stupid pictures of Leo, Mally would send pictures of her dog.

That left only the messages from Sammie. I don’t...have to open them, do I? She closed her eyes. It would be selfish, but I could ignore them.

No, she decided after a moment of hesitation. Not gonna ignore them. Let’s see…

She opened the messages, bracing for the worst, but instead, she was pleasantly surprised.

hey!! thanks for helping me with chem today!!

is there anything i need to know for choir tomorrow? new director, so i wanna make a good impression!!

btw do you wanna hang out on saturday? i wanna explore, so i figured you could show me around!! if not that's cool too!!

Gina felt a rush of relief, but more than just relief. She felt excitement. Not only had Sammie thanked her, but she wanted to spend more time together. Gina had no idea how to respond, but instead got up and jumped around her room. She wasn’t just excited. No, this was joy, elation, glee. This was it, this was what she’d been hoping for, and once she got it, it was so much sweeter than she’d thought it would be.

After nearly a minute of jumping around her room, Gina flopped on to her bed. She picked up her phone to respond to Sammie.

Ofc. Our director really just likes people to pay attention plus he needs doesnt like the altos bc theres like three of them and they suck but thats it so just pay attention and youll be good.

That just leaves the last message, she thought. After several moments of hesitation to plan out what she wanted to say, she typed it up and hit send.

And Im free all saturday after like 10am so we could meet downtown.

Or we could hang out at my place. Whatever works

She still wasn’t sure. Did that seem too much like a date? Just the two of them, all alone downtown. Maybe she should invite Leo, or Mally? Why not both, and invite Andre too?

Mally would know, Gina thought. She typed a quick text that read:

Sammie just asked if me and her could hang out this weekend and I could show her around. Is it weird to invite you or Leo or Andre?

Barely a moment had passed before Gina had a response.

ooh fun! but kinda sounds like a date which is awkward because you’ve known her for one day. but also it would be weird to invite just me.

ask her if she minds if you invite other people, but make sure she knows that it’s the lunch group. she’s gonna have lunch with us again this week and she can get to know us better too.

just don’t be too pushy

Gina texted back:

What would I do without you

Thanks so much

She added a picture of Leo from the bus ride that morning with unkempt hair and a bagel hanging out of his mouth before switching back to the conversation with Sammie.

Maybe I could invite the people from our lunch table? If that’s cool with you

She hit send and dropped her phone on the bed next to her. Part of her was nervous, because part of her had been hoping for some alone time with Sammie. Leaving her phone on her bed, she tromped downstairs for supper. She’d have a response after they ate, and she could distract herself with leftover pizza.

Mondays were typically leftover night in the Weathers household. After a mix of ordering takeout and home cooked meals from the previous week, they had to eat what was left in the fridge. Gina grabbed two slices of Saturday’s pepperoni and threw them on a plate in the microwave. After returning from her quest to get a root beer from the garage, she grabbed her meal and went to the front porch.

Gina was a pro at avoiding her siblings. Between her exclusive rooftop hangout to well-timed kitchen ventures, she could go a whole evening and barely talk to them. It wasn’t that she hated them or wished she didn’t have siblings, but sometimes she just needed a break. As long as she could hear them if there was an issue, she was fine.

As she chewed on the crust, her thoughts drifted back to Sammie. She was dying to know her response. Sammie’s decision determined whether or not it would seem like...well, a date. And Gina wasn’t sure she could handle a date. It seemed too rushed, like too much. Plus, the little voice in the back of her head added, you’d probably end up talking about Logan, and that would end in a fiasco, don’t even try to deny it.

She pushed the little voice out of her head, but she knew it was right. That would be a disaster.

Finally finished with her pizza, she went back inside, placed her plate in the sink, and darted upstairs with the remainder of her soda. She could hear her siblings out back, and thanked her lucky stars none of them were questioning her about her day. She couldn’t handle any teasing right now.

Closing her door behind her, she reached for her phone and checked her notifications. The only thing was a text from Sammie. She nervously opened it up.

that would be fun!! def invite them, bc i’d love to get to know everyone better!!

Once again, Gina sighed a sigh of relief. It wouldn’t be a date. Part of her was disappointed, but she suppressed that thought. This was for the best, right?

[silvermystification]

Betting on Christmas

Idk why I like posting my fics here instead of other sites, but I do. Got a Persona 5 fanfiction coming your way. Christmas addition because why not? Here’s the point where I say the obligatory I do not own any of these characters. This is just my portrayal.

Anyways~

Word Count:  2,472

Pairings: Pegoryu, Hint to HaruMako

Author’s note: My version of Akira is an Enby (He/They pronouns). Also this is Christmas fluff. There’s nothing sad about this story. All the fluff you can ever ask for. 

Akira stared at the ceiling for just a bit longer, sighing at himself before promptly getting out of bed. Shivering as the cold air hit his arms, well it was December after all. Looking around for something warm to put on when he spotted the purple of Ryuji’s sweater peaking from under the bed.

 He bit his bottom lip, as he thought to himself, would it really be okay if he wore it? He picked it up off the floor shaking the dust off. When another burst of cold air hit his skin. Screw it, he was cold.

 It was musty from sitting on the floor for over a month, yet somehow the faint smell of Ryuji still lingered. Akira would be lying to himself if he said he did not miss his best friend. Or were they more then that, he still did not know.

Akira shook his head of the thoughts and trotted down the stairs, “Well innit my favourite enby.” Came a voice from the table to the right.

A quick gasp of surprise escaped his lips, Ryuji was not due back for another week. “Here to ambush me again I see.” Akira gained his composure quickly.

“No stop.” Ryuji said through a smile, he could not be annoyed for long.

Standing up Ryuji hooked his arms over his friend’s shoulders, embracing him into a hug. “My sweater?” He asked, breaking from the hug and tugging at the bottom; The distance between the two, remaining short.

“You’re just noticing this.” Akira chimed, blush seeping its way to his cheeks.  He knew he shouldn’t have put the sweater on.

Flustered, Ryuji let go of the sweater, only to rub his hand on the back of his neck. “Um. Yeah.” He mused, clearing his throat.

“Yeah um. Yeah. I’ve been thinking and um.” Ryuji started to ramble, looking everywhere in the room but at Akira.

Akira furrowed his eyebrows, wondering to himself what this was all about. He had known Ryuji for a long time, and it is not a common sight to see him this nervous. But he knew better then to interrupt him, he would get to the point soon.

“Did you want to go out?” Ryuji blurted, his eyes wide.

Akira’s heart jumped to his throat, pounding hard. “Like to train? The gym might be open.” He had to be sure.

A strained chuckle came out of Ryuji. “No. Not like that. Don’t do this to me.” Akira had to be wearing his sweater. That made this so much harder.

“Like you have a crush on me, and you want to see where it goes?” If Ryuji had the strength to put himself out there, then so did he. Only someone like Ryuji could motivate him like this, but that didn’t make his heart stop from feeling like it could explode any second.

“Yeah! How’d you know?”

“Because that is how I feel too.”

“For real?!” Ryuji’s eyes shone bright with his question. He couldn’t believe it, he was so excited.

Akira could not hold in his excitement and wrapped his arms around Ryuji’s waist and pulled him close. Ryuji followed suit, sneaking his hands past the zipper so they laid underneath the sweater. Akira nuzzled his face into Ryuji’s shoulder, nothing could have made him happier to have his feelings reciprocated.

The two held their embrace for some time before separating. “Come on.” Ryuji placed his hand into Akira’s. “I have a plan.” He added, pulling him towards the door to LeBlanc.

Just then Futaba came walking through the door, the ring of the door announcing her presence. “You’re back early.” Futaba commented, her line of sight finding its way to their hands. “It’s about time. You two have been pinning for each other for forever. Nothing like a slow burn but come on.”

Akira glanced over to Ryuji; he knew that panicked look anywhere. But now he could do something about it. He gave Ryuji’s hand a squeeze. Ryuji made eye contact with Akira, but he still looked stressed. “Tell Sojiro I won’t be able to help in the shop today.”

“Sure thing love birds.” Futaba teased, as she let them pass.

____________

The hood of Ruyji’s sweater covered Akira’s head as he headed his way back into the Café. Ryuji pressed his forehead against Akira’s, humming softly. “I had a good time.”

“When did you get all mushy?” Akira smirked.

“Aw, come on, you can’t tell me you don’t wanna say this stuff too.” Ryuji immediately went on the defense.

“Fine. But don’t miss your train.” He mused.

“Ah Shit.” Ryuji pulled himself away from their embrace, already running towards the train station. Halfway down the block, Ryuji turned and yelled, “I’ll text you.” Before disappearing.

As if on cue, the moment Akira sat on his bed he received a text from Ryuji.

R: I can’t believe I have a boyfriend now.

R: Wait

R: Is it okay that I call you that?

R: What would it be instead of boyfriend?

A: What makes you think the date went that well?

R: You have got to be kidding me

R: What?!

A: I’m joking with you. You sure are adorable when you’re flustered.

R: I…

R: I honestly don’t know what to say to that.

A: Can I be Bae? I’ll be satisfied with the replacement.

R: I can’t believe I didn’t think of that sooner.

R: Bae it is. 

In the morning Akira didn’t even want to mess with dealing with the masses downstairs. He simply threw up the hood and snuck right out the front door. As planned the night before he met his boyfriend at the gym.

As expected, Akira made it to the gym before Ryuji did, so to not waste time he jumped onto a treadmill. Giving him plenty of time to think to himself. They both adjusted to this so quickly, was it really that easy?

“So, I was thinking we should do something for Christmas.” Ryuji jumped onto the treadmill next to Akira.

“We already are. Or did you forget the Phantom Thieves party?”

“I… Can you stop making me feel like an idiot?”

“The party is on Christmas Eve. We can celebrate alone Christmas Day.”

“I..” Ryuji stepped on the sides of the treadmill, watching the belt run on its own before looking over to Akira. “I don’t know what I would do without you to keep me calm man.”

Akira stopped his treadmill and reached over to Ryuji and rested his hand on top of his. Looking into his boyfriend’s eyes suddenly made him feel nervous. “Yeah.” Was all he managed to say, chickening out on what he was planning. It was too soon to say things like that. Just getting used to calling him a boyfriend in his head was enough for now.

“How is that fair.” Ryuji pulled his hands away, turning off his treadmill and jumping off. “Giving me chills like that.” He glanced at Akira’s lips for a moment, before shaking his head, the thoughts rattling away. “Come spot me.” He wrapped his hand gently around Akira’s wrist and gave his arm a tug.

 _______________

The next Eight days the two boys spent every day together. One day was a training day the next day was more of a date. Going back and forth each day. Ryuji finding more and more reasons to stare at Akira’s lips, but not doing anything about it. Akira not being able to shake the sweet words that touched his tongue but never made it past his lips.

The night came and Ryuji made his way to the train station. Yet the moment Akira made his way to his room he already pulled out his phone.

A: [ . . . ]

A: [ . . . ]

A: [ . . . ]

A: I miss you.

He finally typed. Send. His fingers were harder to control then his mouth. His chest felt tight as he waited for a response. He was probably getting on the train.

Or not.

R: Can you let me in.

R: I missed my train.

A: OMW

_________________

What was this weight on him? Oh. As Akira opened his eyes, he remembered the night before. Him and Ryuji talked until they fell asleep. Suddenly aware of his heartbeat as his boyfriend’s head laid on his chest. Calling him boyfriend was starting to feel a bit more right the more he looked at Ryuji so relaxed. A smile spread across his face as he rested back into his bed. Closing his eyes to the subtle snoring sounds coming from Ryuji. This was nice.

“Urrgg.” Ryuji groaned as he started to wake up. “Wher’ m’ I?” Looking more confused as he opened his eyes.

“The ultimate ambush.” Akira smirked, reaching over and ruffling Ryuji’s hair.

“Stop.” Ryuji pushed Akira’s hand away, “Is that how you treat your boyfriend?” he mumbled, still trying to find his full strength.

Akira gasped softly. He said it out loud. “This one, yes.” He mused.

There it was again, Ryuji’s eyesight flickering for just a moment. And again, Akira decided to ignore it. This time.

“Ah Crap.” Ryuji shouted, his limbs scrambling in order to get out of the bed. “I have…” Grabbing all of his things. “plans.” He finished his sentence out of breath.

“I’ll see you next week.” Akira said, handing Ryuji’s sweater back to him. “It’s cold, you’re going to need it.”

“Thanks bae.” Ryuji mused, the two brushing hands one last time.

 _______________

CHRISTMAS EVE

Haru and Makoto showed up first. Makoto brushed her hair behind her ear the moment they entered LeBlanc, as if hiding something. The two girls exchanged glances before placing their contribution onto one of the tables.

Ann appeared just as Akira made his way down the stairs.

“Oh hey.” Akira smiled at the crew that already arrived. “Who are we waiting for?”

And just then in came Yusuke and Ryuji came walking in through the door. Akira had to drag his gaze away from Ryuji to keep himself from staring. But it was hard, he was absolutely glowing.

“Hey man.” Ryuji approached Akira and gave him a hug, but considering their crowd he may have lingered a bit too long.

“What’s up losers?” Futaba entered the room.

The two boys broke their embrace, Ryuji rubbing his hand on the back of his neck.

“Futaba!” Yusuke gasped. “I daresay, that was a bit rude.”

“Whatever Inari.” Futaba sneered.

Before a fight could break out the bell on the door rung one last time, Yoshizawa entering. “Sorry I’m late.” She mused.

“Dude, there’s nothing to be sorry about.” Ryuji chimed.

The Christmas party of the Phantom Thieves began after that. It didn’t take long for laughter to fill the air. The group talking, eating, even playing some Tycoon. Catching up again was what the group of friends needed. Occasionally Haru or Futaba would bother Morgana with some petting.  Haru and Makoto stealing glances just as much as Ryuji and Akira were. Nobody seemed to say anything about it until.

“Alright suckers, pay up.” Futaba said to the group.

“What really we won?” Makoto exclaimed.

“I would require proof before I pay up.” Yusuke looked over to Akira and Ryuji, who have been talking to each other in the corner. Sitting so close that if Ryuji leaned back slightly his shoulder would touch Akira’s.

“Look at them, is that not proof?” Futaba pointed to the two.

“No. I would have to agree with Yusuke.” Yoshizawa piped up.

Morgana hopped onto the table in front of the two. “Are you even paying attention?”

“What do you want cat?!” Ryuji growled.

Without thinking Akira reached over and grabbed Ryuji’s hand, giving it a squeeze. Ryuji looked over to Akira and sighed. “You’re right bae, we shouldn’t fight on Christmas.”

“Bae?!” Yoshizawa exclaimed.

“Is that even Ryuji?!” Yusuke shouted.

“He he he.” Futaba snickered.

“WHAAAAT?!” Went Ann.

“We got them guys.” Makoto said.

“Why don’t you just let these two be.” Haru chimed, but her voice was washed out by the rest of the shouting.

“What are you guys even on about?” Ryuji gritted his teeth, glaring at all his friends.

“I think they want to know if you’re my boyfriend.” Akira pointed out calmly, having now figured out what they were talking about.

“Of course I am!” Ryuji snapped in the moment, before he realized what he said. Looking at Akira with wide eyes. “Wait I… That’s not how I wanted this to go.”

“Their turn to ambush us.” Akira teased, only loud enough for Ryuji to hear.

Ryuji laughed. “Stop. You’re cute.”

“Gasp. I’m cute?” Akira feigned surprise.

The crew ignored the couple for a moment as they passed around money. Makoto, Morgana, Futaba giddy with excitement. Haru sighed, she didn’t see the point in betting on their friends. The rest groaned as their pockets were emptied.

The group of friends went to normal after that. They continued to laugh and eat and enjoy each other’s company. And one by one they all left so to not miss the last train out to their individual homes. Even Ryuji saying his goodbye. For they will meet up again tomorrow. Akira started to clean up the café in order to pass the time.

“Wait you’re gay?” Sojiro asked, leaning over the counter.

“Heh.” Akira chuckled, now is when he decided to ask? “And you’re surprised?”

“I guess not. You got me there.” Sojiro headed for the door. “As long as you’re happy kid. Don’t forget to lock up.”

________________

CHRISTMAS DAY

Nothing huge really happened. Ryuji came over, they exchanged gifts. And the couple talked and cuddled. It was a really quiet day. If anything, it was relaxing.

“When are you going back?” Akira asked.

Ryuji looked up from his phone, “Three days, why?”

“I’m going to miss you.” Akira cooed.

“Oh. Um. Well, you have me now.” Ryuji struggled to know what to say. He sat down on the bed next to Akira. Moments later his eyeline flickered once more.

Akira was sick of ignoring it. Leaning forward and cupping Ryuji’s face in his hand. “Once a phantom thief always a phantom thief.” Akira said, shaking his head without breaking eye contact with his boyfriend.

Ryuji scrunched his face in confusion, “What do ya mean?”

Akira stopped second guessing and pressed forward, his lips meeting the other’s. Ryuji gasped, yet he did not pull away. Eventually his clumsy ways smoothed out as he returned the kiss.

Pulling back softly the boys pressed their foreheads against each other, in a moment of pure bliss. “You can steal my heart any day.” Akira finally answered. Not afraid to speak his mind any longer.

Ryuji chuckled as it was his turn to take the leap, placing a new kiss onto Akira’s lips.