Chapter Text
"Why didn't you tell me about the whole guardian situation?"
Vi glances at you from where he's sitting and drinking his morning coffee. You sort of ambushed him in the kitchen, so he appears a bit puzzled by your question. Maybe you should've been a bit clearer with what you'd meant, but you're too anxious to find out why Vi or Black didn't say anything about how the guardianship role is chosen. To make matters worse, you haven't been able to catch either Vi or Black for the last three days. Both of them have been so busy and have barely been home.
"WELL, SEEING AS I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT YOU'RE TALKING ABOUT, THAT MIGHT BE THE REASON, PRINCESS," Vi responds calmly, taking a sip of his coffee.
Yeah, you deserved that.
"With the conservatorship." You explain, standing on the other side of the island from him and placing your hands on the granite countertop so you wouldn't fidget as much, "I saw my Dad a few days ago," Vi instantly looks up from his coffee to you hearing that, "he said that just because Mom tries to get guardianship doesn't mean she'll be granted it. That the judge would consider my wants."
"IF IT GOES THAT FAR." Vi mutters and nods, "BUT YES, IT'S TRUE THAT MULTIPLE PEOPLE CAN ATTEMPT TO GET GUARDIANSHIP OF A WARD."
"Why didn't you tell me that?" You push, ignoring that Money, Stretch and Blue are coming out of their rooms, likely for breakfast.
"BECAUSE WE DIDN'T WANT TO GET YOUR HOPES UP," Vi informs you, still so calm even as he shoves a plate towards his younger brother, who has sat beside him. Guess that food wasn't for him.
"How would learning I have options get my hopes up?"
"WE DIDN'T KNOW IF YOU WOULD HAVE OPTIONS, PRINCESS," Vi reveals, only to be interrupted by Money, who clocks the nickname instantly.
"princess?"
Vi waves him off dismissively, "INSIDE JOKE."
Money gestures between you and his older brother, "since when do you two have inside jokes?"
"SINCE, NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS." Vi raises a brow, "YOU'RE GETTING ME OFF TOPIC, EAT YOUR BREAKFAST. IT'S JUST A NICKNAME YOU IDIOT."
"uh yeah, a cutesy one." Money smirks, but keeps eating anyway.
"what's cutesy?"
And there's Stretch meandering over with a hot drink of some kind, probably coffee of his own and takes the seat beside his best friend. Money points at Vi, who is rolling his eye-lights.
"sans callin' sweetheart, princess."
Stretch blinks in surprise and leans forward to look around Money toward the older brother, "wait, really?"
"STARS, WHY ARE WE MAKING A BIG DEAL OUT OF A JOKE?" Vi groans and, with his mug in hand, motions toward Blue, who has begun cooking, "NO ONE CARED WHEN BLUE STARTED CALLING HER STARLIGHT."
"yeah, cause that's like, the most blue move ever." Money refutes, definitely getting enjoyment out of miserying his brother, "it was only a matter of time before he started calling her something cutesy."
"I'M GLAD I'M SO PREDICTABLE." Blue chuckles, not even looking at your group as he makes what appears to be pancakes... you wonder if he'll make you some. Wait, no, don't get distracted by food!
"Vi and I are besties too, we have inside jokes, Money." You back up Vi, who blinks appreciatively at you before you keep going, so the others will stop cutting in, "But what did you mean by you didn't know if I'd have options, Vi?"
"WELL, BLACK AND I HAD TO GO OVER WHO WOULD EVEN QUALIFY POTENTIALLY TO PUT THEMSELVES FORTH AS YOUR GUARDIAN IF NECESSARY." He explains, evidently grateful you're not letting the others continue teasing him, "WE HAD TO REQUEST FINANCIAL RECORDS FROM YOUR MOTHER AND THAT TOOK SOME TIME."
You tilt your head, confused, "Why did you need her financial records?"
"SO WE COULD SEE WHO COULD COMPETE WITH HER IN TERMS OF INCOME. I WILL ADMIT, IT MADE THE LIST QUITE SMALL." He admits, sipping his coffee again. You start shifting in place, your stomach beginning to churn.
"Who got disqualified?" You ask, dreading the answer.
"WELL, MYSELF AND BLACK SINCE WE COULD LOOK LIKE WE HAVE ULTERIOR MOTIVES AS YOUR CURRENT PROXY AND LAWYER." He gestures to his brother and Stretch, who have been listening carefully, "THESE TWO SINCE WHILE THEIR BOOKS ARE NOW PULLING IN ENOUGH FINANCIALLY, IT'S UP AND DOWN, MEANING UNRELIABLE. THE COURT WON'T LIKE THAT."
"that's a little rude." Money chuckles, "i make plenty off my series, stretch does too, and we're making more books. you know i'm good with a dollar, bro."
"YES AND YOU'RE ALSO A RECOVERING ADDICT, PAPY." Vi replies gently, Money's smile dims, which breaks your heart, "THE NA MEETINGS YOU GO TO WOULD BE EASY ENOUGH TO DISCOVER BY THE RIGHT PERSON. YOU ARE VERY OPEN WITH YOUR PAST ADDICTION, WHICH MAKES ME VERY PROUD, BUT IT MIGHT MAKE A JUDGE HESITATE EVEN IF YOU HAVE BEEN SOBER FOR FIVE YEARS."
"ah... forgot about that." Money murmurs, pushing his food around a bit before looking at you apologetically, "sorry, sweetheart."
"You don't have to apologize." You hurriedly tell him, "If it were my choice, I'd put you forth, Papy, don't worry about it."
That seems to get him relaxing a bit as Stretch asks, "and me?"
"AS I SAID, FINANCIALLY UNRELIABLE. YOUR INCOME ISN'T ALWAYS AS STABLE, AND YOU DON'T HAVE THE SAVINGS MY BROTHER DOES." Vi answers and Stretch nods, "BLUE DOESN'T MAKE AS MUCH AS ROSALINA DOES, NEITHER DOES WOLF OR COFFEE, BUT COFFEE IS ALSO LISTED AS A DEPENDENT ON WINE'S TAX FORMS, WHICH DISQUALIFIES HIM REGARDLESS OF INCOME. IT ALSO MAKES IT HARDER TO PUT WINE FORTH SINCE HE ALREADY HAS A DEPENDENT HE'S RESPONSIBLE FOR." Vi, naming off everyone who might not be able to be your guardian if it becomes necessary is actually bumming you out. That's so many already! "TAFFY, PINK AND NEEDLE ARE UNEMPLOYED SO THEY CAN'T. BEAR IS DEEMED DISABLED, AND WITH HIS COGNITIVE AND MENTAL DISABILITIES FROM HIS HEAD INJURY, HE WOULD BE DISCOUNTED IMMEDIATELY. SPARROW AS A SCHOOL TEACHER ALSO DOES NOT MAKE ENOUGH MONEY AND HAS BEAR TO CARE FOR."
Your heart just keeps sinking further and further as he talks, "Okay, but what about Edge?"
Vi shakes his head, "EDGE'S RECORD OF BEING FIRED OVER AND OVER COULD BE SEEN AS A LIABILITY."
Now you're feeling desperate, "So... who does that leave? Sans, Red and... Papyrus?"
"TECHNICALLY, JUST SANS AND RED, ALTHOUGH PAPYRUS IS TRYING TO QUALIFY FINANCIALLY."
He's... what? How is he doing that? He'd have to make more money for that to happen if he doesn't already make enough, but it's not as if he can just ask the gym he works at for more money, so how?
Then it hits you.
Papyrus has been working more. You've noticed him leaving earlier and staying longer. He's hustling and taking on more clients to get more hours, thereby increasing his income. No wonder he's seemed so tired lately! Your poor friend is working himself to exhaustion just so he might qualify to put himself forth as your guardian if it becomes necessary. That's... that's so damned sweet, and he didn't even have to do that!
"i'm shocked red makes the cut." Stretch murmurs, probably meaning for only Money to hear, but you all do. Well, maybe not Blue, he's a bit farther away, but you know Vi does, who raises a brow at the tall skeleton.
"RED MAKES WELL OVER SIX FIGURES IN INCOME, HE HAS NO CRIMINAL RECORD, AN OUTSTANDING SAVINGS ACCOUNT, INVESTMENTS, A RETIREMENT FUND THAT HONESTLY PUTS MINE TO SHAME, AND NO BAD DEBT. THAT TRUCK OF HIS IS ALREADY PAID OFF, AND HIS NAME IS ON THE DEED TO THIS HOUSE ALONG WITH SANS AND A FEW OTHERS, MEANING HE HAS EQUITY TO LEVERAGE IF NECESSARY. HE PAYS HIS PART OF THE MORTGAGE ON TIME EVERY MONTH AND HAS NEVER BEEN LATE TO PAY A BILL OF ANY KIND." Vi lists off all the ways Red is perfect for this role, your mouth actually dropping as he goes on, "I WOULD ACTUALLY STRUGGLE TO FIND A WAY THAT HE IS NOT PERFECT TO BE A GUARDIAN."
"how 'bout he's the crankiest guy you've ever met?" Money chips in, snickering, "love the guy, but boy, he's got a temper."
"...WELL, YES BUT WE'RE NOT TELLING THE JUDGE THAT." Vi relents but appears to be trying not to laugh, "WE CAN JUST PRETEND HE'S MENTALLY STABLE."
"C'mon, guys, Red isn't that bad." You argue. Stretch laughs.
"you remember how he was when your mother was here, right? tried to launch himself across the table?"
"Well, yeah, but he was feeling protective, that's all!" You're not letting them besmirch Red when all he's tried to do is help you.
"oh, how romantic!" Money coos, teasingly, making you huff, "when did he first get all protective, sweetheart? i must know! tell me of your torrid love story with our beloved red."
"It's not funny, guys." You frown, "Red's a good guy."
Apparently, none of you hear a door open, since Vi, Stretch and Money are laughing too hard. Blue, like yourself, doesn't seem overly pleased with the attitude they're taking toward his best friend, and you can't blame him. You don't like that they're making fun of Red just because he snaps at you sometimes. That doesn't mean anything; it doesn't make him a bad person. He just has a lot of feelings that he feels he can't express, so he gets angry. That doesn't make him a bad choice of guardian.
"it is kinda funny." Stretch is still laughing, "the idea of him being a guardian."
"Why? I think he'd do a great job!" You argue, "He's responsible, patient-"
"PATIENT? YOU THINK RED IS PATIENT?" Vi cuts you off, sputtering a bit in laughter, "THE MAN WHO ALL BUT SNAPS AT YOU IF YOU LOOK AT HIM THE WRONG WAY?"
"He is patient!" You raise your voice a little, but it seems to make them laugh more. They're actually being real jerks right now, and you don't like it. "Whenever I ask him questions, no matter how stupid they are, he always answers them, and he makes time for me when I ask, even though he's probably super busy!"
"GUYS-" Blue tries to get everyone's attention, but the others are too lost in their giggles to listen.
"yeah, and i bet he bitches at you the entire time you ask him those questions." Stretch points out, a sort of heat of annoyance rising in your chest.
"i can hear it now," Money sighs, "why ya fuckin' askin' me? go bug someone else!"
"That's not funny!" You finally shout, all three skeletons actually sitting back in their seats, sockets going wide, "You're all being such assholes right now! Red's my friend, I'm not going to just stand here and let you all make fun of him-"
"STARLIGHT!" Blue calls out loudly, startling you and making you jump. Whirling toward your friend, you find him watching you all before he points toward the direction of the kitchen entrance.
Following where he's pointing, your soul jumps into your throat, seeing that Red is currently standing there. He's staring at you, his fists clenching and unclenching as if he doesn't know how to respond to what he just witnessed. How should he respond? He just heard three people disparage him in a way that would hurt anyone, not just Red. Yes, he has a thick shell, but that doesn't mean his feelings can't still be hurt. You take a step toward him.
"Red-"
"whateva." Red mutters, backing out of the kitchen, "it ain't nothin' i ain't used t' hearin'."
Finally, Vi, Stretch and Money look quite sheepish for their behaviour as they should. They were being so mean! Red doesn't stay to listen to any apology, though, and just storms off, probably back to his bedroom. You hate that he thinks they all genuinely believe those things about him. You know the others care about Red's well-being, but they seriously stepped in it this time, and now you're the one angry.
Teeth clenched, you pivot toward the three, "You three owe him an apology! That was such a shitty thing to do!" You snap, none of them arguing with you, "And for someone who once said to me the joke is only funny if everyone is laughing, Money, you sure turned out to be a liar because I sure as hell didn't find that funny, and I doubt Blue or Red did either!" Money turns his head from you, his cheekbones a very obvious purple. He knows what he did wrong, "If this was all a mistake, then apologize! Don't dick about with it!"
Huffing, you start to storm out of the kitchen so you can run after Red, who is probably pretty hurt right now. As you go, you hear Blue speak.
"SHE'S RIGHT, YOU KNOW. I GET THAT RED IS GOOD ABOUT BEING RAZZED AND TAKES IT ON THE CHIN WITH GRACE, BUT YOU WENT TOO FAR THIS TIME."
"we didn't mean to..." Stretch murmurs as you're walking away, and Blue huffs himself.
"THEN DO WHAT FIA SAID AND APOLOGIZE."
You don't hear anymore of their conversation since you're already jogging across the living room toward Red's room. Hopefully, he'll answer the door when you knock. Anxiously, you bang on his door, probably a little harder than necessary, and wait, but he doesn't answer. Damnit, this might be pointless. You can't just leave him, though. Banging again, you call out this time.
"Red, it's Lissa. Can I come in?" Once again, there's no answer, so you try a new tactic. "If you don't answer the door, I'll climb through your window, you know I'm good at that." You're completely joking, but apparently, Red doesn't get the memo, "Red-"
The door flies open to reveal your scowling friend, who snaps, "what? what th' fuck do ya want? ya 'ere t'tell me yer sorry an' coddle me? well, i don't fuckin' want it!"
"No, that's not what I was doing!" You push, "I wanted to make sure you're okay!"
"like i said, doll, 'm fine." Red grumbles, his teeth grinding. You can actually hear it, making you wince.
"You don't seem fine, Red." You point out, even though you probably shouldn't, "Look, can I just come in and we can talk?"
He eyes you carefully, "why? ya wanna tell me i'd be a shit guardian too?" You blink in surprise, and he points at you, "that th' others are probably righ' an' 'm bein' too sensitive? go ahead, i know they're yer best friends an' all, so ya wanna defend 'em!"
"That's not at all what I was going to say! They were huge assholes, Red!" You refute imploringly, watching him relax a bit, "And you're one of my best friends too, you know! I'm here defending you, not them!" You point at him, his sockets widening a bit, "I know you'd be an amazing guardian and that they're wrong." You tell him, your tone softening, "I know I wouldn't be in better hands than yours."
Red seems to simmer down hearing that, but you still watch as his eye-lights search your face as if trying to find any fallacy with your words. Well, he's not going to find any because you're telling the truth. Those guys were out of line, and you're definitely on his side in this matter. After a few tense moments, Red must see this since he clicks his tongue loudly, rolls his eye-lights, but moves aside to grant you entry into his bedroom. Beaming, you promptly stride into his messy room, not wanting to test his patience, which might already be thin from what he heard earlier.
As usual, his room is cluttered and messy, but it's honestly better than it typically is. Glancing around to take it all in, your gaze eventually lands on Red as he walks toward his bed to sit down. You raise a brow.
"It's less messy in here than usual."
"yeah, there's this thing called cleanin', maybe ya heard o' it." He responds gruffly, dropping onto his bed, which is actually made for once.
"What? No way." You gasp in mock surprise, Red just rolling his eye-lights once more, "I meant when did you clean it? Or why, I guess, is a better question. You seemed pretty content with how it was before."
He shrugs, "felt like it fer once."
You stare at him for a good thirty seconds before blurting out what you think the real reason for the clean-up was.
"It's cause you had a crap ton of pillows and blankets to clean up, isn't it?"
"pretty much," Red admits, not appearing all that embarrassed about it. You knew it. There had been SO much bedding in his bedroom during his heat that the rest of his room being tidied at the same time wouldn't have been a huge ordeal, "so, ya wanted to talk, so talk."
That's true, you did say you wanted to talk to him, and you are getting distracted by the state of his bedroom, which, in hindsight, is a little silly. Who cares what his bedroom looks like? It's not as if you have to live in it, right? Nodding, you step over to his bed and take a seat beside him. Red isn't one for emotional chit-chats, so you'll have to do most of the talking here, most likely.
"They're wrong, you know." You repeat yourself from earlier, "You're a lot more patient than they're giving you credit for." Nudging his foot with your own, you smile, "No one impatient would have been able to show me that math is easier than I think it is."
Red snorts, but isn't quite smiling yet, "it is easy, yer jus' doin' it wrong."
"Uh, or you're a math genius, you ever think of that?" You argue. Red shakes his head and leans back on his hands to look at his ceiling, probably so he doesn't have to look at you or face his emotions about this.
"i ain't a genius, doll."
"Might need to tell Edge that then."
Damn, that got his attention. Suddenly, his ceiling is no longer interesting; those burning red eye-lights of his snap to you.
"what?" He barks, and your smile turns to a smirk. Got him.
"Edge once told my Dad that you're a genius."
"no 'e didn't." Red asserts, "yer jus' messin' with me."
Now you're shaking your head, "No, he really did! At that dinner with my parents that Edge and Needle went to with me, my Dad asked if any of you were doctors, and Edge said that no, but quite a few of you had Ph.Ds." You explain while Red listens carefully, "And when my Dad asked if Edge had one, he said no, but that you did and that it was in mathematics, and you're a genius." He's flushed an adorable red hue as you talked, "I told you I knew about the Ph.D, but guess I forgot to mention your little brother thinks you're a genius." You sing.
"i ain't, though." Red protests, "i ain't nothin' like a genius."
"You ever had your IQ tested?" You debate still in that sing-song tone, and Red huffs.
"IQ is pseudoscience, doll. y'would get different results dependin' on who gave ya th' test."
You blink, making note that his flush hasn't gone away, and a voice in the back of your mind nags at you that Red may not be as forthcoming right now as you might think he is. He's totally had his IQ tested, hasn't he? Why would he want to hide that? Unless the test actually did give him a score that proves he's a genius, and that's why he's claiming it's all bunk. Plus, he didn't actually give you an answer to your question, just said that it's pseudoscience, meaning he definitely had it tested, your grin growing.
"You've had your IQ tested." You snicker. Red averts his gaze; he knows he's been caught, especially since he's flushing even darker. "You did!" You grab his arm and shake, "What was your score? Tell me!"
"doll, it ain't-"
"Tell me, tell me!" You cut him off and start chanting for him to tell you.
He's not getting away with this. You must know how intelligent Red actually is now. It's not that you want to know, it's that you need to know, or you might actually combust from curiosity. This appears to work since Red eventually grows tired of your whining and growls loudly.
"fuckin' fine!" He sighs in aggravation, but you know that's all hot air, he's not actually upset, "i was tested as a babybones cause i was too understimulated in school." He mutters, "this were before boss was even born an' i was forced t'get tested again as an adult cause o' th' score i got as a child."
"And?" You're way too giddy for this. "What was the number?"
"...173."
Your jaw drops open. Did he just say... one hundred and seventy-three? You open and close your mouth a few times, but no sound actually leaves your throat. That's a high score! He's not just a genius, he's extraordinarily gifted! An extremely small population of people ever have a score that high. What does he mean he's not a genius? You're in the presence of a rarity right now, and you get the feeling you've been in the company of many since if Red's score is this high, couldn't Sans's also be? Eventually, you manage to sputter and guffaw loudly as you blurt out.
"Red your IQ is higher than Stephen Hawking's!"
"fuck me, can we not make a big deal outta it?" He grumbles, clearly flustered, "it's nothin' big, 'm jus' a guy. havin' that number don't make ya smart, i do lots o' stupid stuff."
"Well, yeah, you're not impervious to mistakes." You agree, "But you do fit the category of genius IQ, Red, so Edge wasn't lying."
Red groans and flops back onto his bed, covering his sockets with his arms, "this is why i don't fuckin' tell people!"
You soften at the sound of his frustration. If you had to hazard a guess, you'd say that Red thinks you're going to treat him differently or believe you are an idiot next to him, which, yes, you might be. However, at the same time, he's still just that grumpy guy who made you a nest when he was in heat, the guy who once made you a pillow fort when you were sad so you could watch movies and the one who always makes you feel so comfortable when hanging out. There's no bullshit with Red, no need for fancy words or formalities. He is right, he's just a guy and being smart doesn't change how you see him, mainly because you already knew he was bright. Turning your body, you plop yourself down next to him, but instead are on your stomach.
"I know you're just a guy, Red." You murmur, your friend moving one of his arms so you can see him looking at you, "Trust me, I know you're just a guy." A light laughter escapes you, "All this does is help me make more sense why you and Sans have tried building that machine, it's cause you're smart enough to figure it out... well, hopefully anyway." You finish with a slight teasing jab. It does the trick, though and Red snorts.
"i don't even know if i wanna figure it out anymore." He admits, "kinda like it 'ere."
"It's cause of me, isn't it?" You sigh with fake dramatics, pleased that Red is finally smiling, "I'm that amazing, you can't live without me!"
"yeah, ya keep thinkin' that, sweetheart." Red pokes your forehead, making you giggle.
"I think I shall! Someone has to think I'm awesome, so why not you?"
"uh, probably cause th' tyrant literally thinks th' sun shines out yer tigh' lil ass." He cackles and even smacks your butt to emphasize, but too bad, all he gets is pelvis. Hey, you don't have the ecto summoned all the time, okay? There's no point to that.
"Oh, I have a tight ass now, do I?"
"y'hang out with th' boss, so i figured somethin' o' his had t'rub off on ya."
Now you're cackling. You can't believe that Red just said that Edge is a tight ass. He's not wrong. Edge is a regimental person, so being uptight just comes with that territory, but even he can get down and dirty like the rest of you. It's funnier when he does too, since it comes off so unexpected from someone like him.
"Stop!" You wheeze out, "You can't just say that!"
"but i did, whatcha gonna do about it?"
"Evidently, stop breathing!" You're still wheezing, "I'm remembering why I love hanging out with you."
Well, now, that's a big ol' grin if you ever saw one. Apparently, Red is quite pleased that you love spending time with him!
"ya migh' be th' only one, doll."
"Lies." You cough, barely managing to compose yourself, "Blue and Sans love spending time with you, too."
"eh, they're not as nice t'look at."
You gasp, jaw hurting from smiling so much, "Why, good sir, are you flirting with me?"
"what's a good sir? 'm jus' an asshole." Red chuckles. You roll yourself so you're basically on top of him, making that chuckle turn into a cackle as you lament.
"Yes, but you're my asshole!" You exclaim, "Which we've come to learn is tight!"
"get offa me!" Now Red is the one wheezing as he shoves you off of him, "yer insane."
"And proud of it!" You beam, rolling until you can sit up and look at him, "And we should get outta here. Come on, let's go do something!"
Red nudges you with his foot, and you swat at him, "that came outta nowhere, what do ya wanna do?"
You hum and tap your chin just to be dramatic, but you actually are thinking about what you could do. Something laid back would be best; you're not in the mood for anything strenuous, and you doubt Red is either. Mini golf might be fun, but could you actually see Red mini-golfing... well, yeah, but that's not vibing with you right now. A museum? Nah, not today. Wait, that's it! This is perfect! You've got the perfect idea for a lazy, quiet day!
You snap your fingers and point at him, "Let's go see a movie, you and me! We'll go pick out a random movie, whatever is about to leave the theatre, so it's not crowded, get a crap ton of salty buttery popcorn, a diet soda for yourself," You poke his leg, "and go watch a movie!" You put on that singing tone again, "I'll even put on something a little skanky for you~!"
At first, he snorts loudly, but you can't blame him for that. The idea of you in anything skanky is hilarious, but after he's done laughing at your joke, he seems to like your choice in activity.
"You know what, doll, that sounds great." He sits up, "let's do it." Beaming, you stand up only to end up squeaking loudly when he playfully smacks your pelvis again, "better be real skanky, though, 'm lookin' forward to it, now."
Giving him a jestful curtsey, you try not to break out into cackles again, "I aim to please!"
Leaving it at that, and because you promised him something cute or more skanky, you leave him to get ready himself. Exiting his bedroom, you don't bother addressing the others that are currently still in the kitchen, talking in hushed voices. Passing by without a word, you hurry upstairs and enter your room, where you immediately get into your closet so you can find an outfit. You're currently wearing some baggy sweats, hardly the outfit you want to go out on the town in.
Hunting through your clothes, you try to ignore the voice in your head telling you not to wear certain things. That you'll look super ugly in that, or that people will stare. They'll stare regardless, so you might as well wear what you want. Plus, after talking with Sparrow about loving yourself, you figured you'd give it a try. You won't always succeed; there'll be days when no matter what you do, you'll hate your body, and right now, the thought of putting on something you used to wear is giving you that cold dread in your chest.
But you want to try.
You won't get anywhere by not trying to love the body you've been given, and if Sparrow can try to love the body he's in, you can try to love yours. It'll be tough, and you doubt you can do it alone, but you'll still give it your best attempt. Maybe starting small might help? Something you could pair with your sneakers or wear with leggings. Arms and shoulders first, legs later, or vice versa. You could also just be bold and wear a summer dress despite it now being fall. It's not as if you feel the temperature like a human does, plus it's warm here. You've only seen snow a handful of times in your life.
Stopping at where your dresses are hanging, you give them all a once-over, figuring if you're feeling up to it now, you should just go with that feeling. Picking out a sleeveless pink gingham, halter-neck dress that you know will at least go to your knees, you slip off your sweats, glad that you actually put on underwear this morning, and slide the dress on over your head. This was a piece of clothing that Pink actually bought you recently, courtesy of Sans's wallet, that you never thought you'd wear. Evidently, both Taffy and Pink love buying you clothes. Any time the two of them go out, they seem to come home with something cute for you to wear. A lot of it has ended up in your closet until now.
Smoothing down the dress, you check out how you look in your full-length mirror that's attached to your wall by your door. It has a high neckline, so your ribs and sternum are covered, but your shoulders and arms are on full display. Each joint and divet is there for the world to see. Even some of your legs can be seen since it stops at your patellas. A light, fluttery sensation can be felt in the pit of your stomach, but not the good kind. Does this genuinely look cute? Are you just fooling yourself, or do you actually look incredibly silly? It's difficult for you to discern.
Taking a few deep breaths to steady the swirling nausea in your stomach, you slip on a pair of clean sneakers. See, some of your sneakers are clean! It's not all dirt and smudges with you every single time. However, you're now left with the decision of whether to wear a cardigan with this. It would make you feel infinitely more comfortable, that's for sure, but that's not the point. The objective here is to push yourself outside your comfort zone to prove to yourself that you can wear the clothes you used to without any problem. Back before you changed, you wouldn't have bothered with a sweater unless you thought you might be cold, and you know for a fact that you won't be freezing in this as you are.
Grinding your teeth, you force yourself to grab your bag and sling it over your shoulders. It takes more than a few deep breaths, but you manage to do it without throwing up, and leave your bedroom before you can change your mind. You put one foot in front of the other and make your way downstairs, where you know someone will probably mention your choice of outfit. You wish they wouldn't, since it makes things more awkward for you and less likely to dress like this, but you also understand where they're coming from. They don't get to see you in this stuff a lot, so they seem to get excited for whatever reason when you finally do.
Passing by the kitchen and trying not to stop so they see what you're wearing, you shoot Red a text that you're ready in the living room. You hope no one will notice you standing and waiting, but that was too much to ask for. Thankfully, it turns out to be a positive experience.
"YOU LOOK CUTE!"
The voice comes from behind you, and you spin around to find Blue smiling at you while drying a dish. Looks like he got to make the food, then clean up, but that's probably so Vi won't get so anxious. Money and Vi are no longer there, but Stretch sure is. He's literally staring at you, appearing quite surprised, which is not as helpful as he might think. Ignoring him for now, you nod.
"Yeah, Red and I are gonna go hang out."
Blue beams, "I HOPE YOU HAVE FUN. I KNOW HE'LL APPRECIATE IT AFTER THIS MORNING."
"Speaking of," You return your attention to Stretch, who is still staring. Okay, you get it, you're wearing a dress! Does it look that bad? Blue said you were cute, though? Was he lying? No, he wouldn't lie about this, right? ...Right? "You still have to apologize." You're directing that to Stretch, but he's not answering. What is happening? You wave at him, "Hello, is Papy in there? Can he stop staring, please?"
Stretch startles and blinks as if he didn't realize he was basically oogling you just then. His cheeks flush, and he starts to stammer while wildly flourishing his arms. Well, that's cute.
"o-oh, y-y-yeah, i'm here! s-sorry!"
"Wrong person that needs that, but thanks for breaking the stare." You reply, "Didn't realize I looked that bad."
"n-no, you don't look bad! you just look super cute, so i... well i mean..." Stretch babbles while you raise a brow until finally he looks away and pulls his hood up over his skull as if hiding. It reminds you a lot of Coffee, honestly, "s-sorry, you look really pretty, that's all!"
"So pretty I broke you?" You ask, but Stretch just seems to hide deeper into his hoodie, "You know what, I'll take it, especially since I'm feeling kinda self-conscious in this."
"REALLY, WHY?" Blue questions as he puts a dish away.
"Reasons." You evade the question, not because you don't trust Blue, but because what you're attempting to do is in its infancy, and if you end up failing, you'll have to explain a lot less.
Blue tosses you this curious look, but thankfully isn't able to interrogate you for too long since Red finally joins you. Relieved, you smile at his approach, making note that he's changed his clothes as well. Instead of his regular zip-up red-and-black hoodie, he's wearing a black pullover with a red plaid flannel shirt thrown over it. Same colours, different vibes! He's also wearing black jeans that are a bit ripped in the knees and some black combat-looking boots. Red sure does love that grunge look, but it works for him!
"Hey, you look good!" You praise when he gets closer. He nods toward you.
"so do you. makin' good on yer promise."
You strike a pose, the skirt of your dress swishing with the motion, "Of course I did!" Red snickers as you right yourself and smooth down the skirt once more, "Ready?"
"yep, but ya realize th' theatres probably ain't open yet. it's still th' morning."
You shrug, "So, we'll go get breakfast first, problem solved, although it's probably more like brunch at this point."
"is there a difference?"
"No, not in my esteemed opinion anyway." You reply, backing toward the door with him following.
"oh, yer esteemed now, when did that happen?" Red smirks, "migh' have t'mark it on my calendar."
"red?"
Both of you stop hearing Stretch call out to the shorter skeleton, and your heart sinks watching as Red's smirk turns into a fierce scowl as he sighs, then looks to Stretch. The taller skeleton is striding over almost hesitantly and rubbing the back of his neck in the way you now realize means he's nervous.
"what?" Red barks, rightfully feeling a bit hostile. Stretch stops and fidgets in place for a bit before murmuring what he needs to say.
"i uh... what happened before, that was out of line. we were mean, and even though you and i don't exactly get along-"
"this is an interestin' way of apologizin' ashtray." Red interrupts with a growl. Stretch's socket twitches, and you assume he wants to snap back, but you're pleased when he doesn't. Don't start a fight, if Red is harsh, just ignore it, Stretch, please!
"...look, i'm sorry." Stretch forges forward, "i don't actually think you'd be a bad guardian. i don't think edge would care about you as much as he did if that was the case." He explains, and Red seems to relax a bit, "i don't really have an excuse other than i was an asshole like flicka said, so i'm sorry."
Red observes him carefully for a moment. It's a tense one that leaves the room so deathly silent you'd do anything to break it, but by the end, you're able to breathe easier when your grumpy friend shrugs.
"everyone can be an asshole sometimes, ashtray, it happens. yer fine."
The tension in Stretch's shoulders releases along with an apparent breath he'd been holding.
"still, i'm sorry." Stretch nods toward him, "you mean a lot to my brother, and flicka." His eye-lights jump to you for a quick second before going back to Red, "i'll try not to be an asshole in the future."
"well, i didn't say that." Red chuckles, "s'no fun if ya jus' give up ashtray. kinda like our mutual dislike."
Stretch snorts, "i'll uh, try to remember that."
"great, so is this over?" Red asks, motioning between him and Stretch, "kinda got a thing t'get ta."
Stretch nods, "yeah, sure, have fun." He waves.
Smiling at him, you blink gratefully and try to mouth a thank you while Red walks toward the door. You're not sure it can translate, since your mouth is only slightly malleable. Evidently, it must, since Stretch's grin grows and he waves again toward you. This whole interaction has put you in an even better mood as you nearly skip out the door in glee. However, as you leave the house with Red following behind, spinning his keys on one of his fingers, you can't help but ask a crucial question.
"So, you can teleport, right?"
"shortcut." Red corrects, making you roll your eye-lights as he unlocks his truck.
"Fine, shortcut." You correct yourself while he snickers.
"yeah, what about it?"
"Why do you bother with the truck if you can just shortcut to wherever you want to go?" You question as you hop into the passenger seat. Red is already in the driver's seat by the time you finish and shrugs.
"sure i can shortcut, but it takes magic t'do so. boss an' i don't waste magic unless we absolutely hafta. 'sides, i always wanted a truck like this." He admits, starting up his vehicle, and the sound of country music fills the cabin. Ah, how you somehow forgot Red loves country.
"Right, Stretch explained that to me once." You muse, "He said my magic was playful and fun to teleport with."
"shortcut."
You deadpan at him, making note of the shit-eating grin, "Is there really a difference, dude?"
"nope." He laughs, beginning to back out of the driveway. You knew it! Vindication never felt so great.
The drive into town is fun. You and Red joke around; you tease him about the country music while he tells you he can easily pull over, and you can walk. Great fun! Besides the threats of abandonment on the side of the road, it is decided that you'd stop to grab some food somewhere. You suggest that the two of you go bug his brother at work, and not just because that in itself would be entertaining, but since you genuinely do love Lucky Patrick's. Plus, they open for breakfast, so you figure, why not? Red had just snorted and said why not then admitted he'd never actually gone to see the place Edge was working at yet.
And that's how you found yourself sitting at Lucky Patrick's while Wanda gushed over getting to see you again as she took your orders. You love how happy she seems each time you come in to eat there; it honestly makes coming back here worthwhile. Well, that and the food is delicious, but there was little doubt there. Edge is the one cooking it after all. Well, him and a team of cooks, but who's counting?
Wanda tells you she'll input your orders with a bright smile and heads back to the kitchen, where you know she's going to tell the younger brother that his friends are here. You doubt Wanda realizes that Red is actually Edge's older brother, but you hope she finds out before the end of the visit, just so you can watch that interaction. You get the feeling it'll be a good one. This leaves you and Red to yourselves, and your friend raises his brow the moment the cheerful woman walks off.
"she's uh... cheery." He manages without making a face, and you withhold your giggles.
"Aw, Wanda's great, she's one of the owners."
He nods toward you, "she seems t'like you a lot."
"Of course she does, I'm a delight." You reply as if you're stating the obvious. Red snorts and leans over to poke your forehead, which you allow him to do.
"yeah, keep thinkin' that, sweetheart."
There's that nickname switch again. You've noticed that Red has called you that a few times now, and you're starting to wonder whether it's going to replace doll or if he'll just have more than one nickname for you. It's not an issue if it changes, especially since you love it when he calls you doll, but you love sweetheart too. You'll take either at this point since they're symbols of his friendship and affection toward you.
"Hey now, Horace and Wanda offered me a waitressing job!" You refute but have no real bite behind your words, "I don't think they'd do that if they didn't like me."
"or they're smart an' know hirin' an inverto is more likely t'bring in monster customers."
"Pretty sure Edge being the head chef here does that all on its own. They don't need me for that."
Red hums and swiftly replies, "yeah, but yer cuter, that sells more."
You blink, not expecting that compliment. That's the second time today that Red has said you're good-looking. First, he said you were prettier to look at than Sans and Blue, and now he's comparing you to Edge. This is an interesting turn of events. You wonder where that's coming from all of a sudden.
"Party foul." You make an X with your arms jokingly, "You can't say that when you raised, Edge. Isn't he like, supposed to be your cute younger brother always?"
"y'have seen boss, right?" Red raises a brow, "cute ain't how i would describe 'im."
"Okay, but he had to have been cute at some point in his life." You point out, taking a sip of water that Wanda had brought earlier. He shrugs.
"sure, but then he'd bite m' hand or throw up on me an' then 'e weren't so cute no more."
You burst into laughter, the sound filling the establishment, and you know other customers are looking at you because of your sudden outburst. Covering your mouth, you attempt to stifle your chortling, but it just makes you snort, which has Red smirking and poking your forehead again before calling you a little oinker. You swat his hand away while coughing.
"Did... Did Edge... throw up on you often?" You wheeze out. Red groans like this pains him, making it harder to compose himself.
"boss has a delicate stomach, don't tell 'im i told ya that." Red explains, "it's somethin' 'e's always 'ad an' when 'e were a babybones, sometimes the food he ate would jus' not sit right with 'is stomach." He makes this disgusted face that has you chortling and snorting again, which must've been his objective since his smirk returns, "an' fer some reason, boss jus' hates holdin' any type 'o nausea. me, i'll jus' deal with it, but he'll jus' throw up an' be done with it. so... yeah, 'e puked on me a lot."
"Oh my stars." You're barely able to breathe as you try not to cackle in this restaurant, "Please... Please tell me more... I n-need to know!"
"I DREAD TO KNOW WHAT THE MORE IS."
Oh, this is so not going to help with your unfortunate case of the giggles.
Suddenly, Edge is there, arms crossed with his brow raised as he stares down at you and his older brother. Red just waves at him nonchalantly.
"hey, boss."
"HELLO BROTHER, WHY ARE YOU HERE?" Edge replies with a sigh. Red just points at you, still purple-faced and struggling to breathe.
"doll wanted t'come 'ere fer breakfast before we see a movie."
Your laughter becomes easier to control as some sort of emotion you can't quite catch flashes across Edge's face. You're a bit confused about what it is until you remember how he felt while he was healing you. Edge had felt love for you in that moment. At least, that's what it seemed to you. It suddenly makes it difficult to look him in the eye, your laughter dying as a flush creeps into your cheeks. Why is this happening? Black confessed his crush to you and never elicited this reaction, so why is Edge? Is it because you find him so handsome? You can see that Black is attractive too, though, so you don't think that's it. Maybe because, despite Edge having those feelings, he isn't making you feel cornered or on the spot by telling you? It could also be that he's just also so darn sweet to you and makes you feel so respected like a pretty princess... okay, it might be that last reason for sure. It's that, or it's because you actually felt his love for you. That one emotion felt so pure and warm that you don't think you could ever forget how it made you feel. It was as Edge thought everything would be alright as long as he could keep gazing upon you, and that, believe it or not, is a heavy burden to bear. You're not sure if you're up for it, but by your pounding soul, maybe you are?
Red must be able to see the change in your expression, and his smile falters a bit, but Edge must be none the wiser for the moment since he just sighs once more and places his hands on his hips.
"YES, SHE SEEMS TO ENJOY BOTHERING ME AT WORK."
"It's my favourite place." You murmur sheepishly. Edge finally notices your discomfort, and his expression immediately changes. He becomes softer, but more alert, as if he's on the lookout for someone who might be hurting you.
"WHAT HAPPENED?" He asks, directing that question to Red, who shakes his head.
"uh, beats me. she was fine a second ago."
"WELL, EVIDENTLY SHE WASN'T." Edge scolds, then turns his focus to you, which only sets your face on fire even more, "WHO DID IT?"
"No one, I'm fine!" You reply, "Sorry, I didn't mean to make you worry, I'm seriously fine!"
"WAS IT YOUR MOTHER?" Edge narrows his sockets, "DID SHE TRY TO CONTACT YOU?"
"No, she hasn't, it's nothing, Papy, I swear." You protest once more, hating that you delight in how his cheekbones light up every so slightly at you calling him that nickname. Now you know the true reason he loves it so much.
"YOU CAN TRUST US, YOU KNOW." Edge huffs, crossing his arms once more, "IF SOMEONE IS BOTHERING YOU, THEN YOU SHOULD TELL US..." He trails off and appears to be looking past you as if in thought, or something just occurred to him. You tilt your skull, wondering what's going on. Red seems to be doing the same, but you don't have enough time to ask what's up since suddenly, Edge asks, "IS IT THAT HUMAN?"
And that certainly catches Red's attention, his eye-lights whipping from his brother to you, "human?"
"YES, EVIDENTLY THERE IS A "SUPER CUTE" HUMAN WHO HAS BEEN TEXTING HER."
"Okay, first off," you interrupt, seeing Red's mouth open to reply and knowing you have to take your chance to cut in here or they'll never let you, "his name is Zach, and yes, he has been texting me, but he's not bothering me." You explain quickly, "I promise, there's seriously nothing wrong, guys. If there was, I would definitely tell you."
Both appear dubious as they stare at you, probably looking for a lie in what you just said. Well, they can look all they want, you told the truth. You're not bothered by anyone other than your own feelings, but you're not about to explain to Edge or Red that, especially Edge. How can you explain that you might be developing feelings for him, and all it took was him healing you? It doesn't make sense to you at all, but maybe in time it will, not if you have these goobers breathing down your neck about it, though.
Eventually, the two of them blink and give each other a look, but you don't think they're going to push it. Hopefully.
"IF YOU SAY SO." Edge murmurs, looking you over once more as if making sure you're okay. It's sweet of him to do so... he is not helping with this whole maybe crush business! "IF SOMEONE IS BOTHERING YOU, THOUGH, PLEASE TELL US."
You nod, "I know, I will. I'm one of yours after all, right?"
From the corner of your socket, you can see Red's grin return at you, remembering his words. Edge also appears to relax hearing you say that. Honestly, you wondered if he'd think you were weird for saying something like that, but nope, he and Red are just on the same wavelength without you realizing until now.
"YOU KNOW THEN, GOOD." Edge smirks as he replies, apparently appeased by what you've said, "SAVES ME THE TROUBLE OF EXPLAINING."
"Nah, Red did that already." You laugh lightly.
"LOOK AT THAT, YOU FINALLY DID SOMETHING RIGHT, BROTHER." The younger brother teases while Red huffs and kicks his foot out to clip Edge. Unfortunately for the shorter brother, Edge manages to dodge it easily, chuckling as he does.
"yeah, yeah, ain't y'supposed t'be th' one cookin' round 'ere?"
"IT'S JUST BREAKFAST, HOW INCOMPETENT DO YOU THINK THE COOKS HERE ARE?" Edge raises a brow.
"i dunno, they hired ya, so how should i know?"
Edge immediately shoves his brother's skull playfully, the older brother's small laughter turning to cackles as he does. You love seeing them like this. It just proves how close they truly are and shuts up any doubters who think Edge and Red don't get along. They love each other deeply, that much is obvious, at least to you.
"Hey now," You chime in, drawing their attention, "Wanda and Horace offered me a waitressing job too, you know. You saying they hire bad people?"
You're absolutely joking around, but you can see the immediate surprise on Edge's face at hearing his employers offered you a job.
"DID THEY?" He asks before Red can say anything about your playful jab. You nod.
"Yeah, they did. I got my job permit recently, so I've been thinking about it."
"y'should take it, doll." Red offers his two cents, and now you're the surprised one at seeing Edge nodding along more enthusiastically than you thought he would be.
"YOU SHOULD. KNOWING THOSE TWO, THEY'D PUT YOU ON SHIFT WHEN I'M SET TO WORK SO I CAN TAKE YOU TO AND FROM THE PLACE." He points out.
Huh, that's actually an excellent point. It's not as if you can drive yourself, so you'd have to rely on the others to get you to and from any job you choose to get. If you worked here, it would be extremely easy to get to work since you know Edge would be happy to drive you if he was already set to work that day. Plus, it is kind of cute to see Edge looking so pleased at the thought of you working alongside him, and honestly, it might be a good way for you to suss out whatever is going on with your feelings regarding him. It's sounding more and more like a good idea. Maybe you could work at Muffet's and here both part-time, maybe one or two shifts a week? That feels doable!
"That is... an excellent point." You tell him, nearly giggling at the way he puffs his chest out a little, "Maybe I should take it then."
You think it's so cute that Edge looks thrilled at the idea of you coming to work here. Sure, it's probably because he's looking forward to spending more time with you since he most likely has feelings for you, but you're not going to deep dive into that. Not today anyway. Instead, you chat with both Red and Edge about other things until your food comes. That's when Edge saunters off back to the kitchen and allows the two of you to eat your breakfast. Although it's technically brunch at this point, you don't see much of a difference there. Besides, you're not exactly eating a ton anyway since you're going to a movie after this, and you were promised popcorn. Yes, you promised that, but it still counts!
Once you've finished eating, you and Red pay for your separate meals, say goodbye to Edge, and then head off to the theatres. Since it's nearby, you end up walking over, although you wish it were a less windy day, since that's not the best combination for the dress you're wearing, but you make it work. Thankfully, without showing your pelvis to any bystander. That would be a gigantic nightmare, and the thought of that even being a possibility makes you nearly shudder.
Arriving at the theatres, you find it less busy than you were expecting, but you should've anticipated this. It is the matinee showing, and most people prefer going in the evening. Personally, you like going early afternoon, like you are right now with Red. It's less crowded, smaller lines at the concession stands, and honestly, since you're an inverto, it's not as smelly now, which is a huge bonus. All you can really smell is that delicious popcorn that you can't wait to get into. You first need to pick a movie, though. That proves to be easy, thankfully.
There's a new horror movie playing, and whenever Red had made you that fort so you could watch movies, he played a lot of that genre, so you figured he must like it. When you were looking at the movie board showing the timings, you zoomed in on the spooky-themed title and pointed it out. Your friend seemed most enthusiastic about that movie, so you got tickets for it. This might actually be the first time you've gone to the movies, though, and chosen at random. Guess there really is a first for everything.
With a movie chosen, you get snacks while snarking with Red playfully, enjoying each time you get him to laugh or smile. What happened earlier definitely wasn't fair, but it does seem like you've cheered him up at least, which was the entire point of this outing. So, success! Feeling pretty damned chuffed, you take your snacks, glad that Red is here since he apparently is great at juggling all this stuff, so when you get to the employee who checks your ticket, you don't have to struggle to grab them. Red just moved things around and handed them to the guy, like it was the easiest thing in the world. If you tried that, you'd be covered in buttery popcorn and soda right now. Not a good look.
What's luckier, though, is that the theatre is empty when you enter it. The movie starts in less than ten minutes, and there's not a soul in sight, meaning that it's very likely that it'll just be you and Red. There is nothing better than getting a whole theatre to yourself, and you cherish it like the jewel it is each time it happens. This also means you can sit literally anywhere, so you take a seat a little farther back in the middle. Perfect!
"dunno if it bodes well fer this movie that we're th' only ones 'ere doll." Red comments, sitting back and pressing his feet up against the seat in front of him. Why not? It's not as if anyone is sitting in front of him.
"Hey, maybe it's a hidden gem that no one knows about yet, you don't know! That, or it's about to be horrible," You snicker, popping a kernel of popcorn into your mouth, "but we'll be able to make fun of it all we want since we're the only ones here."
"fer now."
You huff, "Oh ye of little faith. The movie starts soon, I bet it'll just be us, and even if someone did come into this theatre, I doubt they would sit anywhere near us since what psycho would choose to sit right next to the only other people in an otherwise empty theatre?"
Red shoots you this look that has you nearly snorting, "jus' wait fer it, doll."
You should've listened to Red.
In your defense though, who seriously chooses to sit next to a stranger when the theatre is literally empty? Oh, that's right, creepy human men. That's who. Unfortunately, that seems to be what you get when, just a minute or two before the movie is supposed to start, three young men enter the theatre. A sort of sinking disappointment fills you, knowing you wouldn't be the only ones here, but it's not long-lived since you're so sure they'll sit far away from you, and you can still enjoy this time with Red. You're snuggled into the comfy seat, with popcorn, candy, and Red's scent close by, leaving you content. Well, you were until you noticed those guys haven't moved from the entrance yet. They're whispering to each other, and you can't help but notice one of them is watching you rather intently. Not you and Red, just you. At least, that's what it feels like. You try not to look at them and focus on your friend who is right there beside you. There's no way they'll try to sit beside you. There's no way they'll try to... they're going to sit right beside you. Seriously?
A weight settles in your chest as the three men start walking and move right to where you and Red are sitting. Your friend notices as well and snickers while telling you he told you so, but you can't focus on that. Instead, you're too preoccupied with your rolling stomach and the fact that not only have they chosen to sit right next to you and your friend, but they've also chosen to sit next to you specifically. What's worse is the fact that the guy who had been staring at you while they discussed where to sit is the one right next to you. Well, nothing like watching a horror movie and being extraordinarily uncomfortable, right?
Shifting in your seat, you try not to show your immense discomfort, even though the human keeps looking at you. This sucks. Why did these guys have to come to this movie? You hate it when this happens, and it happens more often than you'd like. Human men who think you're interesting or think you're a monster and want to add a notch onto their bedpost so they can brag to their brain-dead friends that they bedded a monster. It's disgusting and way more common than people think. The only thing worse than being a monster surrounded by humans is being a female monster surrounded by humans. Yes, you were in the Facility for years, but that didn't stop cleaners, orderlies or other workers from hitting on you. They usually didn't last long, but it still happened.
You're trying not to make it obvious that you're leaning away from these human men, but evidently, you're not as subtle as you thought, or maybe Red is more perceptive than you gave him credit for. Still, you're grateful when he suddenly nudges his arm against yours to draw your attention. Focus swivelling to him, you find him watching you carefully, his eye-lights flickering between you and the creeper sitting next to you. His smile is gone, and all that you find is a deep frown along with a low-pitched growl in his throat that you barely hear, meaning those human men certainly wouldn't.
"switch seats with me." He mutters, and you blink in surprise.
"We can just-" You go to tell him you can move somewhere else in the theatre, but Red cuts you off with a growl.
"doll."
That's all he says, and it's said with such intensity and conviction that you know there's little point in arguing. Nodding in agreement, you stand up, as does Red. He steps back to let you first sit down in what had been his seat a moment ago, his comforting campfire scent still lingering and allowing you to breathe more easily. Your friend then shimmies past you and plops himself down into your seat, meaning he's now the one sitting next to the humans. He's put a purposeful barrier between you and those men, and honestly, you could nearly cry in relief that he noticed. The humans also very obviously notice your movement, and the second Red's seated, the creepy guy who had been next to you leans forward to look at you.
"What's wrong? Didn't want to sit next to me?" He says, a sort of fake hurt to his tone that you don't like, "I was just being friendly."
You don't want to reply to this guy; you want him to just go away! Luckily, you don't have to.
"she don't wanna talk t'ya." Red snarls loudly, looking at the guy with a ferocity that has you wondering why they don't just run away, "back th' fuck off."
The human blinks and glares at Red beside you, "What're you, her Dad?"
"i ain't any 'o yer fuckin' business, human. ya made 'er uncomfortable so jus' fuck off." Red snaps.
The guy scoffs, despite his two friends looking nervous at how annoyed Red seems. They're right to be worried since anger is rolling off of Red in waves. He isn't happy that this person is challenging him over your comfort.
"Well, that's rude. You're not her boyfriend-"
"Yes, he is!" You jump on that immediately without thinking. It's a plausible lie; one skeleton dating another doesn't seem all that odd, right? Plus, if they think you're taken, then they might just piss off, "This is my boyfriend." You motion to Red, "I'm taken, so I'm not interested."
The idiot looks at you, giving you a once-over, making you nearly pull down the skirt of your dress more. It feels as if he's trying to look through your clothes, and you're seriously not about it. You're also hoping that Red doesn't mind the lie and goes along with it.
"yeah an' i ain't really feelin' all that generous about ya tryin' t' hit on m' girl." Red adds with an appropriate growl. Bless him. You could seriously kiss him right now for going along with your madness to get these guys to leave. Idiot raises a brow.
"Oh yeah? Prove it."
Prove it? Prove what? That you're a couple? Shit. Well, what do you do now? Even Red seems to hesitate here, since how the hell do you prove you're together? Does this guy want you to give Red a lap dance right in front of him or something? Grind on him a little? What? ...Wait, there is one quick way to prove it. Stars, you seriously hope he'll forgive you for this one. You just can't think of another way to prove it other than literally putting on a live sex show for this creeper.
"Red." You whisper to gain his attention.
Your friend turns his head from the guy to look at you, and that's when you do it. Red definitely can see it coming; his sockets widen as you lean in and raise your hand to wrap around the back of his neck to pull him into you. That's all you see, however, before you close your sockets and press your teeth against his in a kiss. Red is stiff at first, and you feel so guilty over this and, honestly, a little hateful toward the idiot who made you feel this was the only option. At least, that's how it was at first.
But then Red kisses you back.
You feel his warm hand on your cheek, drawing you closer, and he relaxes into it as his magic melds with yours, creating sparks that you swear those three idiots can feel. You draw in a sharp breath through your nose, trying your best not to let this go too far. This was just as amazing as when you were in heat. The way his magic tingles up your spine, the musky sweetness of his scent has you nearly swooning. Now, imagine if your tongues were involved like last time? You'd be a goner, you just know it. Maybe you already are, and Red must be too, since when you finally pull back, panting ever so slightly, you end up stunned when your friend leans in again, but doesn't kiss you. No, he tenderly brushes his teeth against your cheek right next to your mouth in a way you know is marking. You suck in air sharply, your sockets wide and your eye-lights trembling. That was... wildly affectionate from Red, and you get the feeling he did it on instinct, since when he pulls back, he's got this almost dreamy expression before it hits him what he just did.
You'll admit that it's amusing when it does. His sockets sort of become wide like yours, and he pulls his hand away from you, but you can see it shaking slightly while his entire face turns bright, almost neon red. He could stop traffic with how brightly his skull is right now. However, your plan did work. You're just not paying enough attention to those losers to see them get up, but you do hear one of them at least scoff about this being a joke. Sorry, no joke here! You literally just got scent-marked. The scary thing, though, is that you're not all that mad about it. Red just got a bit carried away, that's all, no biggie. Although your friend definitely feels differently, as shown by the way he seems to shrink back into his hoodie as he sits forward in his seat to face the screen. It's actually incredibly cute to see him so bashful.
However, you don't want him to feel guilty over what happened. You initiated that after all, so it would be silly for you to be angry that he got caught up in the moment. It could've happened to anyone! As the theatre lights begin to dim and the screen lights up to start the previews before the main feature, you reach over to grab Red's hand. He understandably startles at the contact and glances at you, but doesn't pull away. His cheekbones are still glowing when you lean over slightly to whisper.
"Thank you."
He raises a brow, that blush dimming, "...what fer?"
"Protecting me." You murmur back and feel him squeeze your hand, "I'm also sorry for the ambush there, I just thought it was the only way to get them to go away and asking would've given it away, so... yeah." You finish lamely. Red chuckles softly.
"yer fine, sweetheart. it didn't bother me none, s'jus' a kiss. i ain't th' tyrant who'd get his panties in a bunch over somethin' so small."
And there's that new nickname again, giving you that ooey gooey warm feeling inside. You're glad it's dark in this theatre, or else he'd be able to see how goofy your grin has become over a simple nickname switch.
"an' besides," Red continues, drawing you from your thoughts, "y'don't gotta thank me fer keepin' ya safe. i'll always make sure no one hurts ya." He moves his hand so his fingers can weave between yours gently, "yer evidently m' girl now, right?"
A giggle escapes you that you manage to keep quiet, although you don't really care much if you disturb the three turds behind you. They suck, so they can suffer for all you care, right now. The only good thing they did was help bring you and Red closer together, but other than that, they can go sit on a cactus.
"Looks like." You agree, "Does that mean I still owe you that blowjob?"
Unlike you, Red doesn't bother attempting to stifle his laughter and bursts into raucous cackles. The humans say nothing about it, so you figure they know not to bother talking to either of you at this point, which is great. You want nothing to do with them.
"nah, now ya owe me two." Red quips once he composes himself.
"Darn."
"why? y'that appauled at th' thought of m'dick, sweetheart?"
You snort, "nope, not at all. I felt it when I grinded on you in heat. Trust me, it was pleasing."
Red actually sputters here, clearly not anticipating that remark from you, but it was true. You knew he was packing, you felt it, but it's not as if you're asking him to whip it out or anything. You're just playing around, but you get the feeling that he didn't realize you could tell what was going on when you'd made out with him before. Oh, you knew. He'd been wearing thin pants, and so had you. There was zero secrets there.
"fuck me, yer gonna be th' death of us all ain't ya?" Red mutters. You stick your tongue out at him a little bit, your ecto giving off a faint purple glow.
"Probably." You joke, and Red shakes his head but also sighs, a clear smile on his teeth as his eye-lights find yours. Those red burning orbs flicker ever so gently, showing off the almost pulsing magic that forms them. You've always admired the intensity of his fiery coloured eyes; it just seems to fit his personality so well.
"y'know what, sweetheart?" Red replies, sounding gentle for once, your own expression softening, "i think i'd be okay with that."
You smile back at him, thinking about how, honestly, you think you would be too.