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noffy96 · 2 years ago

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NicePants fic

So a first for me, not writing about skeletons, but one of my favorite other ships

This was supposed to be written for Valentines Day. But guess what it got away from me. But that's nothing new. So here we go.

Valentines Gifts

Word count: 9078 words

Summary :

The other was grinning wildly like he had done some perfect detective work. And he had figured him all out He glanced around and when he was sure no one was around, he leaned forward. Close to the others face

You know, I was planning on sharing some of it, but if you have to be a little shit, I just keep them all to myself” To his delight, the other smile grew and saw his tail doing a happy little whip “What’s this, good little Felix using bad words, what would the mothers think~”

The Nicecream guy, can't wait to spend the rest of this Valentine's Day, with his roommate/best friend. But after a bit of an unpleasant encounter with an admirer, Burgerpants lets something slip, that might change their relationship forever. As gifts are exchanged, will the feelings behind them as well?

-- Link here to AO3-

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He handed the young woman her two nicecreams, and waved her off, as she happily went to what he assumed was her boyfriend. He quickly checked his storage, he was nearly out. But he thinks he might make it to the end of his shift., happy that he had packed all the extras and then some. Despite the light chill, it seemed a lot of couples still wanted one of his nicecreams on their dates this lovely Valentine's Day.

“If you keep standing like that for too long, someone might just steal your money you know” He started smiling at the voice and quickly stood up “Hey Burgy, you’re off early”

The orange cat monster was leaning against the cart, positioned such that no one would get to his register, and a wave of fondness for his best friend came over him once again. In his arms was a giant bouquet of flowers “Yeah the director let everyone go early, so thought I keep you company” “Awe Thank you, you don’t have to stay tho…I think I'll be here a while longer”

The other just shrugged, “That’s fine, I just do some work here, if I go home I’ll probably distract myself. You got any plans for dinner?” He had to fight the blush, that wanted to come on his face.

“Not really, but I assumed neither of us wanted to cook, so bought pizza yesterday, should be in the freezer” “Fuck, you’re the best”

He laughed, and playfully hit the other's arm “Language, I don’t wanna lose customers”

The other rolled his eyes “No one here, you worrywart.” Letting the insult slide, he eyed the bouquet “so what’s with the flowers, got an admirer at the theatre?”

He kinda hated that a flame of jealousy came up as a small smile came over the others face as he stared at the flowers. Most people would describe the other as coming across as unpleasant. But then again most people still called him the same nickname he had when he still worked for the MTT resort. And not a lot of people saw this side of him, the softer side, beneath the gruffness. Part of him selfishly wanted it all for himself. But he squashed that part down hard or tried to at least.

He would be happy for his friend. No matter what. That is what he decided long ago, no matter how complicated his feelings for his roommate got. He would always and forever be his friend first.

Cal had some shitty people in his life, and he wasn’t about to become one of them.

The other faced him again. “It’s from the kids, apparently since it’s a day of love, and they love what I do for them” He lifted the flowers a little, indicating the gift he had received

He felt slightly more awful for being jealous of the gift now. Cal deserved the recognition he got, he was doing so much to help the local theatre grow. Nice to see that other people saw it as well. “It’s lovely…and very big, I’m not sure if we got a vase big enough”

The other's ears perked up excitedly. “It is, isn’t it? Apparently, all the kids picked a flower to put in, even some of the older kids that have quit came by to add to it?! ALSO, they wrote this little card! “ He was shown a little card that was tied with a glittering string around the stems, seeing several messages in different colored pens. “Not everyone was able to write…but yeah it's pretty nice. Was surprised to find it on the desk. Thought it was a secret admirer, but this was way better”

He chuckled leaning on his cart to look over more of the flowers. Now he wasn’t as clouded by jealousy, he could see the mismatch of it, that most flowers were not typically what you would find in a valentines Day bouquet. Some of them were a bit squished from travel. But it was overall a very lovely piece. “It really is, isn’t it? This big piece from someone you don’t know would be a bit…creepy I suppose”

The other looked at him like he was confused for a second. He wonders what the other found so strange to get that look. But dismissed it for now. He stretched back up “If you going to keep hanging around. I can keep it safe here if you want? “ He would hate for the other to get upset that the gift that clearly meant so much already would get destroyed.

“Maybe when we go home, I wanna keep looking at this” He gave a nod. “Sure thing, Cal”

His heart did that little flutter again when he saw the other smile at the nickname. As far as he knew, he was the only one that uses it. That even used the others first name. Cal was definitely the only one that used his, it might make Having a secret crush on your best friend turned roommate a lot harder. But he really couldn’t bring himself for the other to stop. It was nice that the other knew it…and that he used it. Even if only when they were back home.

Cal got pretty tired of the: ‘No Burgerpants and Nicecream Guy aren’t our real names, why would you think that?!’ discussion and apologies. He honestly didn’t care much either way. Having ‘Nice’ and “Guy” as a nickname wasn’t too bad. But he could see how it graded on the other. And the whole, not really bothering to get to know you was also annoying, besides he agreed that ‘Burgerpants' is quite a mean nickname. And was annoyed at Catty and Bratty for spreading it around as much as they had. But he also didn't wanna put Cal into the ‘Have to explain myself’ situation he hated so much. So he called him Bp, when they were out. Like most people currently did.

That and Burgy, cause he couldn’t help the small tease, and the small smile was something he would treasure any time he saw it. It might not be as fond of a smile as when he used the other's real name. But it was close enough for his desperate heart to be enough.

“So what about you?”

“Huh? What?”

The other raised his eyebrow at me

“So how many flowers and gifts did you get?”

“Oh…I…Well..it’s not like…”

The other laughed

“Hey buddy, for one I know how many, little old ladies come here, and you manage to charm every single one of them. So I am sure some of them handed you something and you are too nice to refuse them. Two, you are clueless when it comes to girls flirting with your gay ass, and once again you’re too nice to refuse anyone, so tell me…how much shit you got”

“You know, I was planning on sharing some of it, but if you have to be a little shit, I just keep them all to myself” To his delight, the other smile grew and saw his tail doing a happy little whip “What’s this, good little Felix using bad words, what would the mothers think~”

What would they think indeed? He was quite fond of his reputation...even if it was sometimes exhausting to keep up. He adored not having to hold back around Cal. “They would never believe you if you told them”

The other shrugged “Fair…but that’s what's so fun.” He heard some steps coming up the path so he stood back up again. “You are right, but I still have a job to do, so unless you are buying~?”

Cal laughed, “Nah, I steal some at home,” He said with a wink and then pointed at the benches under the gazebo up the small hill nearby. “I’ll be over there, working on the script, get me when you're ready to go, kay”

“Always, good luck” “Thanks, I need it, the sponsors are demanding a stupid scene, so I gotta do a whole overhaul, I tell you the details later, cause it’s Bul-” But he cut himself off, as a mother a child appeared in view” “Well…you get it. Good luck buddy”

He waved and kept glancing at him till he sat down. Even when he was handling his new customer. When the little girl was happily licking at her new treat the grandmother said in a gentle tone. “That you’re boyfriend waiting for you, till you get off dear? “

He felt his face flush completely. “Oh…what..no..he is not…we are not” The old lady laughed behind her hand “Oh I am sorry, you both kept glancing at each other…so I kinda assumed. Little advice from me. Don’t wait around okay? He seems like a good boy.”

He nervously waved his hands around, praying the other wasn’t looking this way and still busy unpacking. “Yeah..well..thanks…I'll keep that in mind…Haveaniceday”

But what…Cal was starting to? He had been looking and he hadn’t noticed, must have been a mistake. “Sorry Dear, didn’t mean to fluster you so much,” “I-it’s fine..”

The woman gave a gentle smile and walked away, her daughter waving at him happily. He waved back, burying his face in his arms for a second.

This wasn’t the first time people had noticed his crush on Callied. He breathed out and glazed at the gazebo, to see the other writing with several notebooks in front of him. Cal tucked his jacket further around himself, he knew the other wouldn’t leave. But he hoped he didn’t catch a cold from sitting in the chill.

And like that time passed pretty steadily, he kept glancing at Cal. Whenever he didn’t have customers, and with it being mid-February wasn’t a lot. Even if it was busier than normal days. He happily chatted with his regulars and waved them off. Apologized when one of his more popular flavors ran out, But luckily people were understanding, if not a bit disappointed. But overall, the day was relaxing.

When the sun started to set, and he checked if he should close shop for the rest of the day, he heard a familiar sound approaching. he straightens himself for the umpteenth time in the last few minutes. He waved at the skeletons monsters, surprised when the two of them stopped in front of his cart.

He spoke with a smile to one of his old neighbors. “Papyrus, What can I help you with? Having a good run?”

Said skeleton beamed as his partner stood a few paces behind stretching. He had only met the new skeleton monster a few times, he looked a lot like Papyrus, he believed his name was Edgar? Edward? He wasn’t too sure.

“Hallo good friend, Could we get two of your sugary cold treats today?”

He gave a smile. “Of course, the usual or want to be adventurous and try something new” Papyrus had been good to him in Snowdin. The guy was obviously not a huge fan of ice cream in the cold like most living in Snowdin had been. But he had been coming back regularly. Saying stuff like ‘Other people need to try this' and ‘I believe you will get so many customers if they just try it’’ He hadn’t gotten the teasing behind the others back some people had been doing, The guy seemed to genuinely want to help.

He also was very particular with his order. Rarely if ever tried something else, and even after he did, saying he liked the flavor, never changing what his regular was. Now on the surface, he had reinvented most of his flavors But he always kept making this one, in case Papyrus wanted to come by…or those people that craved that nostalgia kick.

“Just the usual for us! And how have you been? No date this Valentine's?”

He scooped down, to get the icecreams for Papyrus. “Been doing good. The winter months are always a bit slow and no not this year.”

“Still think that is nonsense, your treats can be enjoyed year-round, people just don’t have standards. And I am sorry to hear,”

“Don’t be buddy, it’s fine.” Papyrus gave him a grin, as he continued with their small order.

“Oh, your bell is still broken I see” He nodded sadly, He had it installed when they came to the surface, it helped people know he was walking around the park, but after getting a few bumps too many, it had fallen off its hook,

“Yeah, probably gotta wait till summer before I can get that fixed, rather keep the saving in case the coolers brake you know” “Yes, prioritizing things is good, I admit I miss hearing it around the park.”

“Me too pal, And here you go,” He handed Papyrus the order “Thank you so much. Sorry we can’t stay much longer, we got plans still.”

“Actually” the other skeleton suddenly said, and he turned to face the other, sharper-boned-looking skeleton "Do you have anything honey flavored, we’re meeting a friend later, and I don’t want to leave him out"

Papyrus's grin grew even wider, which was a sight to behold, but it was undercut cause from a distance he could someone walking on heels, the slight tap, tap of it was a bit annoying. He hoped it wasn’t who he thought it was.

He didn’t lose focus and said with a sad smile. “I don’t’ The other expression stayed neutral, but he swear he could sense a hint of disappointment in his eyes. And he decided “But I got a honey syrup that, goes well with the citrus-flavored one. It only melts the ice cream faster, and I don’t know how fast you are meeting up for it to be worth it for you”

The darker glad skeleton started down the road, then at papyrus then slowly turned back “How long does it take to melt?”

He was surprised. “6 minutes, for it to begin melting, I assume your hands be fully covered in sticky goop in 15” He and Papyrus glanced at each other. Papyrus's grin broadend even wider ‘Our record is 8 minutes…but iIthink we could beat that’ Papyrus stated

The darker glad skeleton pulled out his wallet and said, “Then we take one, and pay now, and excuse our rudeness for we be running right off”

He grinned at them, as he took the payment “No problem at all,” he quickly went to grab the syrup, and kept the nicecream in the cooling for as long as possible, summoning ice to the palms of his hands to help it along. “Also a heads up sounds like a stroller is coming this way, so be careful when you two dash off”

“Impressive hearing as always Guy!, thank you for the warning” Papyrus praised “Indeed impressive” He shrugged “Long ears, and living with younger siblings, you need to know what sounds mean danger’ Both skeletons snorted ‘Tell me about it’ They said at the same time.

He glanced up at them “Ready?” They both nodded “Then here” He quickly handed them the ice cream and they took off, he waved after them and yelled ‘Have a nice day!’ with a big grin.

He glanced back at Cal to see if had noticed the whole thing. Only to see a familiar person standing next to him. Seemed he was right. Charlotte was another bunny monster, she came by often, buying stuff. And he might be dense when it came to flirting attempts from most. But even he had noticed, and trying to hint at her that he wasn’t interested didn’t seem to help. He saw the large number of flowers in her hands. And he really hoped those weren’t for him.

A stroller came into his view so he had to look away. He had been keeping his ears out, in case she came closer. But by doing so he was also able to listen in to bits of the conversation.

“...are…even …here?” Cal's response was a low grumble, and even tho it was lower than Charlotte’s voice he knew that meant ‘ none of your fucking business She continued to be passive-aggressive, and he missed a bit due to taking the young family's order. He tried to listen and work on the order, but their baby started crying. He wanted to curse in his head. But the little family of course couldn’t help it.

When he waved them off he turned back to look at his friend. Cal had a look of frustrated anger but also…also he looked kinda sad. But what he heard next made his own blood boil

“And the flowers, what are you even doing with those? They are really tacky, aren’t they? He would never fall for such a try-hard. So why are you even bothering? You should just throw that ugly shit away, here let me help”

Cal had quickly stood up, but before things could get any type of ugly. He had rounded his own cart, taking off the breaks and walking towards them, saying with a voice that hopefully sounded friendly and not like he had heard the conversation.

He hoped he pulled it off Cal was the better actor. “Hey, Burgy! You ready to go?..” He carefully didn’t address her. As he walked further up the hill, stopping just beside him, The mud and grass that were now in his wheels, was a sacrifice he was willing to make.

Charlotte looked mortified for a second. While he got a raised eyebrow from Cal, who glanced between him and looking pissed off at her. Carefully pulling the flowers to the other side so she couldn’t reach them.

“Yeah…let me just…grab my stuff..”

Charlotte let out a soft cough, probably trying to get his attention, but he ignored her and just looked at Cal instead. “Did you manage to finish your script?” Cal shook his head, quickly gathering his strewn-about papers into his bag.

“Um, excuse me…Guy?” “Oh I am sorry, I am closed for today, if you want some nicecream, you have to come back the day after tomorrow”

Charlotte's face flushed, and he saw Cal, hide a grin in the corner of his eye. She recovered quickly, “Oh no that's fine, I am here to give you something” Glancing at the absurdly large bouquet of roses in her arms, and saw a box behind it. Meeting Charlotte’s eyes again, she was grinning widely, and it took everything not to cringe visibly

“I’m sorry” he forced a polite smile “I don’t take gifts from people that insult my friends” “What?” Charlotte’s eyes tuned to Cal angrily, who was done packing his things and stood beside him. He no longer tried to hide his grin

“I heard you talking as I came over here” Now that Cal's gift was out of her range he didn’t feel like he had to keep up the act of innocence anymore. She looked a bit horrified, but again quickly recovered “Oh, you must have misunderstood me,” she said with a laugh, as Cal glared at her “I was just explaining to him the meaning of those flowers, wouldn’t wanna upset a date, and offered to get rid of it,”

His smile dropped, she was just blatantly lying at this point, And Callied bristled beside him But before Cal could say anything” he said “I don’t take anything from liars either”

Callied angry bristle turned into a surprised bark of laughter, and he could feel the edge of the grin at his own lips. He continued on looking at Charlotte’s shocked face

“And for your information, I would be lucky to receive such lovely flowers, as would anyone with a bit of taste. Now if you excuse us, we need to go have dinner, you ready to go Bp?”

Cal was still laughing at Charlotte’s shocked face “Yeah, ready, bye bitch” “Burgy~! “ he said mock scandalized, as he picked up the handles of his cart and walked down the hill, leaving angrily stuttering Charlotte behind.

“What? She ain't a customer” He glanced behind them, happy that Charlotte didn’t decide to follow, and harassed them further, as they slowly walked towards the park exit.

Cal was looking back as well, seemingly happy to leave her as they did, but as their eyes met, there was a sudden uncertainty in his eyes. And he mumbled, almost too low to hear “Did you mean that…about the flowers..” He did his best not to frown, right now he had the feeling Cal wouldn’t interrupt that as him being mad at Charlotte, she had clearly said more nasty things, than just what he overheard at the end. “Every word”

It was near the exit of the park that he decided to stop for a second. The mud from the hill was making pushing his cart harder. And besides the day being pretty relaxing, he had been out longer than he had in months Trying to give his muscles a short rest, before the rest of their walk through the ever-growing monster town. Rolling his shoulder, trying to get a crack out of it.

Cal gave him a sympathetic look. “Long day huh?” “Longer with her dropping in at the end, I dunno how many times I told her I wasn’t interested, and she still tries to ask me out? Sorry you got dragged into that” I Callied rolled his eyes and smacked his arm “What did I tell you about apologizing for what other people do to me” He rubbed the part that Cal just hit, and pouted, “Not to..but this” “Nope, zip it, ain't your fault,”

Callied sighed and shook his head “Seriously, you attractive people have the weirdest problems” He stopped mid-stretch of his other arm, sure he misheard it “What?” he turned to face his friend, who was looking back at him questioningly Did…did Cal find him attractive?... Did he? that...That couldn’t be true right? Right? He had misheard him, right?

“What…did you say?” he felt his face flush He expect Cal to dismiss it, to say something different than what he heard. To maybe laugh, at him not being fully awake. He didn’t expect to see Cal's own face erupt in a blush, and nervously stuttering out half sentences.

He felt his own soul beat start racing up, and before he thought it through he blurted out “You find me attractive?” Callied flushed even harder, tail wagging back and forth, hairs standing straight up like he was frightened. His own face felt very hot as well, but this…this wouldn’t be the reaction of someone that liked him right? Was he horrified by the implications?! He looked down at the ground, trying not to frown. Of course, he misheard, Cal wasn’t interested in him at all. What was he thinking?!

“Nnghg Yes! You idiot, of course, I do” His eyes snapped back up, Cal had crossed his arms and wasn’t looking at him, The frustrated look was a bit undercut by the bouquet he was still holding.

Oh…. His soul was beating a mile a minute, and he felt his face flush even darker. He pressed a hand against it, trying to cool it down a bit. He was pretty sure was smiling like a doofus, but what did that matter? Callied liked him! Okay found him Attractive! But still!! Him! Okay, okay, he really shouldn’t get his hopes up, and probably say something. But he could scream with happiness!

He had a feeling that calling Callied handsome as well would not work out, he would scoff and huff about it. The other didn’t have the highest self-esteem. But the silence was stretching on as he was having an internal freakout. So he opened his mouth to thank Cal, but then, at the last second changed it.

“I am happy, you think so” Even though Cal's cheeks were already quite dark, they turned a darker shade again. Still avoiding eye contact. “Yeah well, when have I ever lied to you?”

His soul was still racing, but he didn’t wanna push Cal more. He was happy with this, an unexpected Valentine's gift just for himself. It was maybe a bit selfish, but he would hold onto this moment for a long time to come.

“Last week, when you told me you didn’t steal the last of my treats” Cal laughed, tension unspooling from him, as his hair and ears flattened again, And it was a good look on him, “I told you I was sorry alright, really thought we had another left!” He gave a chuckle in response. “I know”

Cal had stopped laughing and was looking at him. It was a look he had seen before. It was a rare one, it was the one he had when he was debating taking a big risk. Cal didn’t like to take many risks, some of his biggest hadn’t turned out so great. He understood, but what he didn’t understand was why he was now at the receiving end of one.

The last time he was at the end of it, was when he had offered Cal to look into moving in together and being roommates. Both he and Cal had been struggling to afford to live in the city alone. He had thought that with the two of them working together, they could at least manage to live somewhere decent. A place where by that by the end of the month, they both have a bit of money to spare and set aside for their dreams.

Cal had been hesitant. Of course, he had been. But it had been a good decision, Cal was one of the best roommates he had had. And he was so glad it hadn’t damaged their friendship at all. No, it had grown stronger, as had his feelings for the smaller cat monster.

The look changed into one of determination, he opened his mouth to say something, not sure what he was gonna ask but he didn’t have to as Cal started talking.

“I was gonna give you this later, but now might be more appropriate” Cal's face had scrunched up really small, making it also harder to hear him. When had been the last time Cal had been nervous enough to lose control of his face-morphing abilities around him? He couldn’t remember, Cal took a couple of steps towards him, grabbed his arm, and put a small box in his hand.

He felt his own face start flushing again. wait…it couldn’t be Looking back up at Callieds face, the other murmured “Happy Valentines Day” Their eyes met for a brief second before Cal broke their gaze and stepped away, with a dark flush covering his cheekbones.

His head was reeling, he got a valentines Day gift from Callied…? He got a Valentines Day gift from Callied! Holy shit this was definitely the best day ever, there was a smile on his face, as his trembling hand touched the edges of the gold ribbon holding the lid of the box secure

“Thank you…” he said a bit dazed “You ain't even opened it yet” He didn’t have to look up, to know the other was pretending to look away while following every action from the corner of his eye

“You got me a gift,” He looked back up to meet the others slightly surprised faces “That itself deserves thanks”

Cal spluttered some words, but nothing coherent and his gaze dropped back to the small red box in his hands. He slid the golden ribbon off with ease and lifted the lid, Gasping as he saw what he saw inside. He tried to still his trembling fingers as he lifted up the small bronze bell. A perfect replacement for his cart. He shook it lightly to hear it ring, and he couldn’t help the surprised huff of laughter

“Callied…this is…” Forgetting they were not alone, he rang the bell again. He wanted to burst out laughing, he wanted to cry. In all the time that he worked his little cart, no one ever got him a gift like this. Something that he needed, They got him things to decorate it, but never something he could really use.

And while this might not sound like it would, it did. He had been heartbroken when the previous one broke. It was one of the first things he bought from himself after he stopped living with his parents. The cart had been a hand-me-down from his grandfather, and it had been him who had taught him the art of ice cream making. While his parents didn’t discourage him when he worked the cart in the underground. Seeing it as a nice part-time job. They had been less than happy, that he wanted to keep it going and start his own business.

But he persisted, managed to get an economics degree, and was managing on his own, and one day. He will achieve his full-on dream of owning a parlor. But for now, his small cart was what served him. The little bell had been his own idea. It attracted customers with its sound, taking a hint from the little tunes, he heard the human ice-cream cars liked to play

It had been for that at first, But it had turned into something that meant so much more and that, was the kids. All kids loved rigging the small bell. He let kids ring it after buying something. And it could brighten up any kid's day.

He don’t know how many nights he had sat on the couch, curled up and sad at all the kids he had to disappoint now that it had been broken.

Cal had tried to distract him from the sad thoughts that could sneak up on him so unexpectedly. Doing everything watching movies with him, and playing games But it didn’t always work. But now...

He had clutched the small bell close to his chest. “Thank you…” his voice cracked a bit and he laughed. Feeling a bit embarrassed, here he was, in the park, nearly crying over a bell.

“Yeah…you shouldn’t have to wait till summer to spread joy” He let out another laugh, quickly wiping away the few stray tears. He carefully put the bell back in the box. Still holding it close to his chest. He didn’t know what to say, That thank you wasn’t enough, cause this was the most wonderful thing he had ever gotten in his life. It was then that he remembered something, it wouldn’t hold a candle to this gift, but he was sure it would make Cal happy.

“I actually got you something too…but I left it back home, didn’t want to risk it getting damaged”

Cal had been looking very proud and happy. Turned to look very surprised, himself, eyes growing larger for a second.

“You got me a gift?” Callied asked hesitantly, And he gave a nod “...for today?” He gave another nod, his own face still flushed “Why…?”

Callied sounded so unsure like he couldn’t believe it. He wasn’t surprised the other questioned it, he heard the many, far to many stories of people trying to set him up for fun. If you think he be offended that the other didn’t trust him, you be wrong. He would have been more worried if he had just accepted it. It would have meant, Cal had felt like he had to accept it.

He gave a smile. There had been many reasons he got the gift. Because of his crush on him. Because of the fact that Callied deserved some nice things. Because he likes seeing him happy. …but in the end, he settle on saying what was the most true

“Because I wanted to”

Cal avoided his eyes, and he gave another light chuckle, “You want to put your flowers in the storage compartment before going on?” Deciding to keep going, Let Cal, think about what this meant on his own. Hopefully coming to the correct conclusions

Cal gave a nod, as he undid the lock, and opened the hidden latch from the side. Cal bend down and carefully put the flowers in, then he held out his hand,

“Let's put that here to…to keep it safe”

A surge of warm feeling came over him, and he very carefully put the small gift box back in Cal’s hand. Cal reached forward, before his eyes widened, and quickly snatched the golden ribbon that had fallen to the ground in his admiration of the gift, and tied the lid close with a quick knot.

Cal rose again, still with a slight flush on his cheeks. Cal closed the hatch, it locked into place “There we go..” he mumbled. He reached over heart racing, as he gently covered the others hand and gave it a squeeze “Let’s go..”

The trip home was spent in mostly silence. He wondered what was going through Cal's mind at the moment. What would he be thinking of, would he be thinking of the gift, or was he still questioning his motives? Was he wondering if he made the right choice back in the park? And what did this whole thing mean for them anyway? This gift, the small wonderful little gift, just thinking about it made his heart start racing again. He hopes his face wasn’t as flushed as it felt.

Cal had gotten him something that meant so much. Something that Cal knew meant a lot to him, and given it today. ‘Happy valentines Day The words were still echoing in his mind, along with the look he had gotten. There had been something in there, desperate and pleading for him to understand. It had been buried deep. He hoped he was right, that maybe, just maybe. Callied felt the same as him. But he didn’t dwell on that thought for long. He would focus on getting Cal his gift. To show him he cared for Cal as well, However, Cal was gonna take that. He’ll see how he handles it when they get there.

They arrived in front of their small apartment building, and he spoke up to put his little plan into action. “How about you go up and turn the oven on, while I go lock up the cart? Then I can give you the gift while we wait for the pizza to heat up” It was best to let Cal think he forgot, didn’t want him to jump to the wrong conclusions. “Yeah sure,” Cal wasn’t looking at him but he didn’t push it.

“Thanks, I’ll be sure to be quick” and he steered his cart to the basement door of their complex. But quickly turned around to say to the retreating back of his roommate “And maybe look for a vase for those flowers?” He got a thumbs up, in return and he left for the basement

He had been very happy when they found this place, the basement of the complex had a little ramp that let down too, and several garage boxes, that you could rent for extra storage. Most people in the building, if they rented one, used theirs for their motorcycles which helped them get quicker around the city. For him, it was the perfect place to safely keep the ice cream cart. And the apartment itself wasn’t too shabby either, a small two-bedroom apartment. Big enough to give each other the space they needed. Cal had said that some of the tech crew had joked it kinda looked like they were living like a married couple. And it was something he couldn’t unsee himself.

Quickly going through the routine of emptying the till, taking the coolers out, and taking everything out of the storage. Double checking, he locked everything, he took the coolers, money, gifts he got from customers, the bouquet, and Callieds gift. And quickly but carefully headed back upstairs.

He heard the oven as he stepped into their small apartment. As well as some clinking of glasses. He glanced into the kitchen and saw Callied searching their topmost cupboard...Having to use his magic to stretch out and reach it. It made him smile, and he continued onward to the living room, setting everything beside the coolers on the table.

“Cal? The bouquet is on the table!”

He didn’t hear a response and continued on to put the coolers in his bedroom. He put them in the corner with the rest of his stuff for the cart. Writing on a sticky note he had to clean his cartwheels, and placing it on his laptop so he would see it. The coolers need a good cleaning as well, but that was something for tomorrow. For now, he quickly went over to his desk and grabbed his gift from the bottommost drawer.

Letting out a shuddering breath, his soul started racing as he went back to their living room. He had been surprised with how easily he had kept it hidden in their own home, but he had now, he just hoped the other liked it. Hiding the gift behind his back, he heard a sudden shout

“Ah! Found you, you bastard!” and he gave a chuckle, as he heard the faucet go “Mission successful? “ he called out A moment later, Cal appeared with a half-full vase and a triumphant grin. Nervous and thoughts of the gift were briefly forgotten it seemed. “Clearly, knew we should have one, pretty sure one of your aunts gave us this thing”

He shrugged, he honestly couldn’t remember. It was in the back of the closet for a reason. His smile grew as he saw Cal, carefully put the flowers in the vase, arranging them, so that all would be visible, and none swallowed up.

He shuffled up to the couch and sat beside Cal, as he continued to work on it. The card was set safely aside, next to the box containing his own gift. His soul skipped another beat as he looked at it. Filling him with warmth and a reminder of why was doing this, and he cleared his throat to get Cal's attention.

Cal seemed slightly surprised to see him so close, and he gave the other a shaky grin, Pulling the gift from behind his back, Cal’s eyes snapped to it. His face shrinking slightly, he hoped it was not a bad sign.

He found it cute really, the way Cal's face seemed to morph into so many different expressions. This time thou, it was making his anxious heartbeat impossibly faster. He took another calming breath. And said softly

“Happy Valentines Day, I really hope you like it”

He carefully handed the rectangular wrapped gift to him. Cal's hands shook a bit as he took it. Holding carefully and put it on his lap, fingers gliding over the paper, He noticed Cal look up so he did too, giving him what he hoped an encouraging smile

“Go on…open it.”

Cal started into his eyes a moment longer, like he was reading him, trying to figure out what his motifs were. He wonders what he found. He had nothing to hide, not from Cal, Even his feelings for him, as close to the chest as he held them. He never really hid them. Maybe not show how deep they truly went, but hide, no not fully. Don’t think he could.

But he had known his place, at least. He was Callieds friend. Best friend even, and that was enough. Callied trusted in him, and he trusted Callied. Would do anything for him, but that wouldn't change. Romantic feelings or not. Or maybe he had always had a crush on his best friend, long before he realized it. Who knows... This gift he had prepared. He hadn’t meant it as a show of his feelings for Callied. No, it was meant to show Callied he mattered, that his dreams mattered. This gift was nothing like that bronze little bell, but it would show Callied he cared, and with it that this. Whatever this here is. Was welcomed.

Callied extended one claw, to carefully slice through the tape holding the packaging together. When all was done and the other was slowly folding open the wrapping paper, his soul started racing once more. Revealing the simple red bound book, he saw the brows furrow in confusion. Carefully flipped it over, but there was no title on either side.

Cal eyed him questioningly, but he only gave an encouraging nod,

He saw the others eyes widen as he opened the first page, even further when he quickly started flipping through the rest. He saw surprise and awe in the ever-growing eyes. “Felix…” His soul made a happy little flutter as he heard his name. As Callied swallowed nervously. “Felix’s…what..what is…”

He chuckled warmly. He looked down at the book, It was a custom-ordered scrapbook. The pages were paper, and you could slide a picture on every page, On one page it is in the corner, the other in the middle, and it could be rotated slightly. And he had filled the first couple of pages himself.

“You said you wanted something you could show old and new kids in the theatre. Get them to reminisce, and be inspired. Thought it would help”

He had chosen different types of pictures. Some of the kids at opening night, in the middle of a scene they worked so hard on, Another photo of Cal helping out the tech crew. A group shot of the cast at the end of one of the plays. All of the photos he had surrounded with text and stickers, or even tickets of the shows It were just six pages, he wanted the rest to be filled by Cal. So on the last page, he left just the photo, no text.

The theatre's budget was small, what they got usually went to costuming and props for the next show. Something that preserved what they’d done, more than just the single wall of cast photos in the staff room. It proved these kids were making something. That their work could be used to help the new kids.

He saw the other reading the texts he wrote and he chuckled “I hope I captured what you loved about these moments, You told me all about it for hours, but to just put them in a few words, was a bit harder. But..you get the idea of it, right? Do You like it”

Cal nodded, eyes still going over every single word. He smiled as he saw the others absorb the pages he had made. His chest felt warm and satisfied. He did well. This was something that Cal could use, but also for himself, to see what he achieved. To never forget the little victories. He reached forward and gently squeezed the others hand for a second before standing up. Happy to let the other enjoy it for a while. “I’m glad you like it, I go throw our dinner in the oven okay?” He stood up, letting go of the other. But as he took two steps he heard a soft

“Felix..?” “ yeah?” He said turning back around to see, Cal carefully closing the book and setting it on the table as he stood up. “What is i-” He got cut off as Cal moved forward and enveloped him in a hug.

He looked down surprised, to find Cal's head buried in his chest. And he wasn’t able to control his blush, as he slowly warped his arms around Cal in return. “Thank you…” he heard softly.

His soul beat raised again, as did the flush in his cheeks Because Cal was definitely hearing that. But Callied didn’t let go, quite the opposite, he seemed to hold on a bit tighter. So slowly, ever so slowly he rested his head on top of Cals. Feeling the others soft fur against his face, the tips of Cal's ears against his Jaw.

“No…thank you, my gift is nothing compared to yours” Cal shook his head lightly, beneath him “No…yours is..” Then he heard the other let out a sigh, and a slight chuckle “I aint doing this, ‘no you’ game”

He chuckled softly himself, squeezing Cal closer to himself. He was gonna enjoy every single second he got out of this embrace. “Would you….would you still have given it today?…if I hadn’t given mine?”

He gave a nod, “Yeah, yeah I had planned to give it today” He heard the other take a shuddering gasp, the arms that were wrapped around his waist moved up to hold onto his back instead. Making him feel more surrounded by the other's presence. And it took everything in him to not squeeze back harder.

“If-if Charlotte hadn’t shown up, you wouldn't have complained, and wouldn’t have said what I did. And I think…I think I might have chickened out on giving you mine…”Cal admitted, sounding guilty,

His soul was nearly stammering out of his chest. The other had gotten it for the purpose of giving it today. TODAY! Of all days, a valentines Day present. It could still have been a gift for a friend. Part of him still expected it to be just that. But another part, a hopeful part that he stifled so many times, through the past few years, was screaming at him to not be so blind.

“That’s okay” he whispered “Knowing you, you would get your message across either way” There was a slight tremble going through Callieds frame, and he pulled back slightly. Trying to check on him. Callied did as well, meeting the other's eyes and freezing in place. Never had he seen them from this close. And he was mesmerized by them, trying to commit the shade of brown to memory. And Callied was staring right back, a flush was covering both their cheeks.

“Fuck…I am hoping I am reading this right, if not…sorry”

Before he could react, or even fully understood what Cal had set. One hand had let go of his back, come to the back of his head, and pulled him down into a kiss. His eyes widened, and his blush deepened. Cal had closed his eyes and was pressing closer clumsily. His brain did him a solid and not overthink, and he pressed his lips back against Cals. It took a few tries but as his own eyes closed, their lips had found a rhythm. Softly gliding against each other back and forth.

He raised one hand to cup the others cheek and keep him close. Callieds tail was whipping excitedly back and forth. His own was probably twitching as well. As the realization that he was kissing his best friend was washing over him. His best friend, Who’s lips were currently still pressing against his own. That he now knew tasted lightly of ginger. Whose fur was stuck between his fingers as he held their cheek.

That was blushing just as brightly, keeping him close just as tightly. And he responded to every questionable move of lips with an answer of his own. But the need to breathe did soon come, and they pulled apart. Not far, he could still feel their breaths fan over their faces. Their eyes met again, and they leaned in once more.

This time he could feel a tongue probing at his lips and he didn’t hesitate to open them. Pulling the other closer against himself. Feeling the heat rise beneath his fingers, gently stroking the cheek with his thumb. Trying to tamper the noise he made as tear tongues touched. Callied's hand moved from the back of his head to the top, scratching lightly between his ears, Wich he felt twitch in response.

His soul was hammering against his chest, and he could feel Cals hammering in turn. Callieds tail had wrapped itself around the arm that held Callied to his chest. He was having trouble keeping up with all the sensations flooding him. This time Callied pulled away, panting lightly. And he looked down at him, his lips wet, eyes wide. He was gorgeous.

He had to stop himself from leaning in for a third kiss. But he wanted to, he wanted so badly to just keep on kissing. And as he looked at him, the words that he had kept locked away for so long. For years and years tumbled out of his mouth.

“Love you” His cheeks couldn’t possibly grow any darker, and he felt the heat spread down his neck and chest. He saw Cal's eyes widen once more. And he felt his nerves rise, scared. Oh so scared he had screwed everything up. That this couldn’t be what he thought it could be. That he had just ruined the best relationship he had. And then a slow smile broke over Callieds face.

The hand on his head slid down till it was cupping his cheek. He felt the thumb stroke his cheek. And with a dark flush on his own face Callied whispered back

“I love you too”

Oh… Oh…. He felt himself start to shake, then laugh. Cal loved him…Callied Loved HIM! And then he picked the other up and spun them around as he kept laughing “Woah! Hey! Carefully you big buffoon” But Cal was laughing as well, there was no heat in the words, as he was clung to just as hard.,

He kept swaying them back and forth. He pressed a kiss against the others cheek, something he had wanted to do for ages. Then he pressed another a bit higher, then another, and soon he was leaving kisses all across Callied's face.

“F-felix~! “ the other laughed loudly, half-heartily trying to pull away, “Come on, haha, Felix!!!” He didn’t stop for a second, He was gonna shower Cal with all the love he could muster. Then he felt two hands grab his face holding it in place. And suddenly the roles reversed. Cal started leaving pecks all across his face.

He felt his face turn its darkest shade yet as he laughed. Happily, deliciously, not really knowing how to react now that the affection was turned to him. The kisses slowed down, a last one placed on the tip of his nose that twitched in response.

Cal let out what could only be described as a giggle, face quickly flushing at the realization. He leaned forward, letting their noses touch. Nuzzling them together softly. If was soft, and he finally got why there were nose-nuzzling championships underground.

He did it again, just to feel that warmth spread. Cal shyly returned the favor, He felt his hand shake against the other's waist. If he just tilted their heads, they could kiss again. Something in the others shy seeming eyes changed. It was small, like a flicker of understanding.

“Felix…?” His own cheeks burned, and Cal still sounded a bit out of breath. His hand had fallen to the others shoulder, and he squeezed it briefly. Cal turned his head slightly, their lips almost brushing. He felt his own eyes widen as he looked into Callieds eyes. A question, was in there, as were nerves. But this time he took the step. And slotted their lips together once more.

He was sure he would never get tired of this taste. If Callied would let him of course. The hands cupping his face were holding him in place. But had no intention of going anywhere. He was also quickly getting addicted to the others taste, this warmth, this love. Reaching up a hand to cup the back of the others head, Pushing him further against himself, Changing direction as he felt his fingers brush against Cal’s ear. Scratching at the base, and feeling them move against his palm.

They stayed like that for a while, hands holding cheeks, ears, and the back of each other's heads. Jus slowly learning what the other liked, until eventually they slowly parted, lips swollen. And their bodies slightly trembling. Giving Cal a last slightly trembling kiss on the forehead, and then being pulled down and receiving one in return. They slowly let each other go. Leaving a bit of space between them.

He started down at his…. Could he call Cal his boyfriend now? Was that allowed? It still kinda felt like he was dreaming. All of this was kinda to good to be true.

“So..” he mumbled “That happened “ Cal averted his eyes to the side, the blush still on his face “Sure did..” He tried to suppress another chuckle but didn’t manage “I am glad it did..”

Something in Cal's shoulders relaxed, and he felt himself relax with it as well “Yeah…me too”

Both of them just kinda stood there with grins and blushing faces before Callied pointed a thump over his shoulder and asked “Pizza?” He let out a startled laugh “Pizza”

They could figure out, the details of this new relationship later. For now, some celebratory food sounded great. After they put the pizzas in the oven, they leaned against the counter, waiting on the timer. He listened with a smile to Cal’s story of what the sponsors were demanding him to add to his next play. While he gave some small anecdotes about his day. It was chipping away at the weight of everything that had changed, and reassuring them both. That at the same time, they were the same as they had always been

And as they sat at the table mid-way through eating their pizzas. It was that he reached over, and took Cals’unoccupied hand. Callied put down the slice he was about to take a bite out of. Gaining a light flush on his cheeks once again.

He squeezed the hand softly “Happy Valentines Day…Callied” He felt the small tremble in his hand, but he could also see the way the others mouth slowly curved up “Happy Valentines Day, Felix”

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