Chapter Text
January was always very busy for Marcy as xir family would celebrate Lunar New Year. For the last few weeks Marcy helped xir mother clean the house, put out the red lanterns, did the grocery shopping, and helped prepare the food, acts of service is Marcy’s love language after all, but xir mother criticized everything xe did. Marcy didn’t understand why xir mother insisted on hosting the celebratory feast at the house every year. They could easily go to Chinatown and eat at Marcy’s favorite restaurant, then watch the Golden Dragon Parade and fireworks instead.
Mrs. Wu insisted this was the proper way to celebrate and uphold the tradition. Maybe for some families that statement was true, but for Mrs. Wu it was for the praise of having a big house, wealthy husband, and child that’s in college. Although, nothing Marcy did was good enough, and Mrs. Wu was still upset that Marcy didn’t go to Yale or Harvard, even though xe was accepted. Truth was xe didn’t really want to go to college and since Marcy had to go, xe didn’t want to live so far away from Sasha. Despite xir mother’s feelings Marcy felt that was the best decision xe ever made, because not only does Marcy still have Sasha xe also has Anne.
Marcy looked at the decorations around the house and xe did enjoy the holiday, but the days spent with family were overwhelming, especially with the pressure to interact in an expected way. All Marcy wanted to do was have some time alone, zone out, or regroup. But, xir parents never understood what was so stressful about being around loved ones. It was only Lunar New Year's Eve and Lunar New Year that Marcy had to get through. Not so bad they kept repeating to xemself.
“Marceline, straighten your shoulders and cross your legs.” Xe's mother gestured with her hands displaying a disapproving scowl.
“Yes mommy.” Xe took a deep breath while crossing xir legs, which was a bit uncomfortable with how tight the traditional Taiwanese red dress had gotten.
“Smile.” Xe's mother drew a smile across her face in the air with her fingers. “ It’s a happy day, Marceline.”
Xe smiled and nodded. Marcy knew xir mother was right, or at least a day filled with your favorite foods, favorite people, and favorite traditions should be happy. However, Marcy wasn’t allowed to only eat the food xe liked. Marcy had to eat the food with unpleasant textures as well, or be called ungrateful. Marcy wasn’t allowed to only interact with xir favorite cousin, but to interact with everyone until xir battery was completely drained. Marcy had to smile through it all because it was a happy day.
Marcy saw xir father walk passed the living room and wanted to say hello since he's been burry in his work today like most days. Mr.Wu believed the holiday wasn’t for slacking. He knew this was time to focus and get his work affairs in order, like everyday before it. He would argue with Marcy’s mother that if he didn’t work as much they wouldn’t have a house to throw these elaborate gatherings every year. Marcy walked swiftly, but not too fast for xir mother to say something.
“Father.” Marcy called to xir father’s back.
“Not now Marceline.” He threw a hand up not even looking at xem. The man went back to focusing on his papers at the dinner table while everyone else chatted in the living room.
"Okay." Marcy said softly to xirself before turning and walking back towards the living room.
“Marceline!” Her youngest cousin called. Despite him being the younger of the two, the family seemed to already respect him more than Marcy. It sadly made sense with him being the second boy in Marcy’s generation.
“Yes Messiah.” Marcy held xir breath to keep from rolling xir eyes.
“Don’t you want to play Pictionary?”
“No.”
“But, you’re the best artist in the family.”
Marcy would have been flattered, if xe didn’t know better. Messiah only said nice things before saying mean ones. Despite xir better judgment Marcy took the statement as a compliment. “Thank–”
Xe stopped when seeing Messiah shake his head. “Don’t tell me your scenery possession is flaring up again.” He chuckled.
“Sensory processing sensitivity.” Marcy corrected. “It’s not temporary like a rash, Messiah.” Marcy sighed. Xe wished it was temporary or something to turn off. It did feel more like a possession at times with how it controlled xir body and breathing.
Marcy thought maybe xe was overreacting, and he really wanted xir company, but Marcy already played games with the family, already sat for the discussions where they complained Marcy didn’t speak enough and ignored xem when xe did.
“So are you going to play or not?”
“We just played a game thirty minutes ago.”
"Yeah, yeah.” He waved xem off.
Marcy's cheeks got red in frustration as xir little cousin had been brushing xem off all day. “Look here, I am the eldest cousin. You should respect me.”
He laughed a taunting laugh. “You’re only four years older. I’m stronger and taller than you.” He looked Marcy over with a smirk. “ I could kick your ass, if I wanted to."
Marcy moved in closer with a devious grin. “ Wanna bet?”
Messiah's smug smile faded as memories flooded his mind. Marcy wasn’t physically strong and even if xe was, Marcy wouldn’t physically cause harm. However, that didn’t stop Marcy from making a trap that locked the boy in his room with the lights out because he was afraid of the dark. Or stop xem from creating a replica of the horror doll placing it in his bed. Marcy only did these things when he broke xir action figures on purpose, or ripped pages of xir graphic novels, or whenever he was a real pain in Marcy’s ass.
“Mommy, Marceline threatened me.”
“You little sh–”
“Marceline, be nice to your cousin. You’re the eldest, act like it.” Xir auntie shook her head.
“Yes auntie.” Marcy rubbed the back of xir arm. Marcy looked up in time to catch xir cousin sticking out his tongue once his mother’s back was turned.
A hour later Marcy and their cousins were finally excused to socialize on xir own while the elders retired to the dining room to talk over a traditional plum wine. But, not before Marcy's grandmothers complimented how pretty of a young lady xe was and how xe would make a husband very happy. As much as xe knew it came from a well meaning place, Marcy wished they would just ask xem what human or martian xe was, instead of assuming. Marcy also wished they wouldn’t marry xem off, especially to men. Marcy walked outside kicking xemself for feeling so deeply, and tried to convince xemself that it was no big deal.
“What up cuz?”
Marcy looked up with a smile at xir favorite cousin. The cousin who taught xe how to make pizza bagels, the first person xe came out to, the cousin who started calling Marceline, Marcy, to show that he believed xe was xir own person, and the only family who uses xir correct pronouns.
This cousin was the only blood relative Marcy would have wanted Anne and Sasha to meet. But, their cousin was never around for Christmas and the way Marcy dug xirself into a hole during the holidays xe wasn’t sure if the trio would have been dating after New Year’s. Marcy was glad they were and hoped one day xir favorite cousin and dates could meet.
“Marcelino!” Marcy waved with a toothy grin.
Marcelino is the first born of the family in Marcy’s generation. He is ten years xir senior, the son of xir father’s eldest brother, and his name stood for warrior, so Marcline being named after him was supposed to be a fragment of whatever he became. Marcelino became immaculate to his family, so Marcline was destined for greatness since xir name meant young warrior after all. Marcy was great, but xe needed to be the type of great that xir parents approved of.
“Let’s go talk.” He gestured for Marcy to follow.
“Wait up.” Messiah came running up behind them. “I want to hang out with you too.
“Oh you do?” Marcelino looked between his two cousins.
“Yeah.” He puffed out his chest proudly.
Unlike Marcy, Messiah respected Marcelino, all the cousins did. They were all envious that Marcy was the only one named after him and how close they were. Marcelino was kind hearted towards all his cousins, but it was very clear Marcy was his favorite.
Marcelino looped an arm around Messiah's neck before looking back at Marcy. “Marcy, has Messiah been nice to you?”
Messiah's eyes filled with worry as they pleaded for Marcy to lie on his behalf. “Of course.” He stuttered.
Marcelino squeezed his neck a little tight, but not tight enough to hurt him. “Silly cousin, I said Marcy not Messiah, so why do you speak out of turn?”
“Sorry cousin.” He said quickly.
“It’s okay. You got confused. Go on Marcy.” He gestured for xem to continue.
“Yes, he’s been nice.” Marcy said unconvincing as xe was terrible at lying which Marcelino knew.
Marcelino shook his head “Marcy don’t protect someone who hurts you, it doesn’t matter if they're family. Understood?”
Marcy nodded slowly while looking away. “Understood.”
“Messiah, I saw you teasing Marcy and then got xem into trouble.”
“I–”
“Don’t lie.”
“Sorry.”
“I’m not the one you should apologize to.”
“Sorry Marce —” He stopped when his neck was squeezed again. “Marcy.” He corrected himself.
“Good. One day you’re going to need your older cousin's help and xe doesn’t owe you just because you're family. You must earn xir loyalty with your own and your kindness. Understood?”
“Yes Cousin.” His words shook past his lips.
“Don’t be sad. I love you, okay?”
“Okay.” He sniffled.
“Just be better, okay?”
“Okay.” He nodded slowly.
“Good. Now go play with the other kids.” He gave his cousin another firm squeeze to his neck before releasing him and pushing his head forward.
He gestured to Marcy to follow him to the back of the house out of ear shot. “So, you like this dress?” He asked genuinely while gesturing to it. Marcelino could pull a lot of strings, he was the reason Marcy was allowed to move into a dorm. But his reach only went so far, as he couldn't get his auntie to excuse Marcy from wearing a dress to a family gathering.
“I don’t mind the dress. I like dresses sometimes. I just wish it wasn’t so tight.” Marcy pulled at it while making a face at how xir body felt it was being poked by pins and needles.
“I’ll buy you a new one when I go to Taiwan.”
“Cou–”
“I insist,” he waved a dismissive hand with a smile. “I also bought you a Christmas gift.”
“You already got me a red envelope.”
“Nonsense, that’s for Lunar.”
Marcy shook xir head and let it go. Xe knew xir cousin was determined to give xe the gift so Marcy was going to have it, if xe wanted it or not, but honestly Marcy wanted it. Marcelino was the only one who bought Marcy gifts that xe actually liked, such as games for xir switch, a graphic novel from xir favorite author, merch from a show, or cash to use throughout the semester.
“Here.” He handed xe a red bag with red tissue paper with gold tags and ribbons. Red and gold represented good fortune, joy, and prosperity, especially around Lunar New Year. So, from the looks of the luxury of the bag Marcy knew it was something special.
Marcy reached in the bag and pulled out a traditional Taiwanese pants suit that was usually worn by the men. Xe rubbed xir fingers across the gold embroidery of the red suit. “Wow, this is beautiful.”
“I had it custom made to fit.”
“I –” tears were forming in the corner of xir eyes.
“Hey, don’t cry, cuz.” He placed a hand on xir shoulder. “You’re a young warrior, remember.”
“You told me thugs cry too.” Xe sniffled.
He giggled lightly. “I did say that, huh?” He brought Marcy in for a tight hug. “I have to get going, so I wanted to give you your gift first.”
“Don’t leave. Everyone can be so awful.” Marcy sniffled some more. “I know they don’t mean to be, but it still hurts.”
“I know. I’m sorry.” He pulled back to look at xem. “I thought I would give you this to wear when you see your dates tomorrow for the Golden Dragon Parade.”
“Tomorrow?!” Marcy said, shocked. “It's Lunar New Year.”
"So?" He said knowing very well the answer.
"You know mommy won’t let me go."
"None sense, Lunar New Year's Eve is the day most of the family is here anyway. There's only a handful of people tomorrow."
"Still you know how Mommy is."
He chuckled. “Here’s the thing, what auntie doesn't know won’t hurt you.” He raised a knowing brow. Marcy's mother would never physically harm Marcy, but words can hurt despite what the children's nursery rhyme of sticks and stones might say. “Auntie doesn’t know when my flight leaves tomorrow, so I’ll say you’re going to the festival with me.”
“You’ll do that?”
“Cuz, You know I’ll do anything for you.”
“I wish you could meet them.” Marcy said rubbing xir fingers over the soft fabric again.
“I will meet them, but I don't want it to be over a video call. They both mean a lot to you, so I want to meet them properly over dinner. You know I’m never in the states long enough.”
Marcelino took his name literally and became the highest rank warrior, well, soldier in the military. And for brownie points, enrolled in the service, medical school program. In a few more years he’ll officially be Dr. Wu. Marcy knew xe would never be as ideal as him to xir family.
“Okay.” Marcy looked down at xir golden heels while nibbling xir lip. “Can I ask you something?” Xe said in a whisper, but xir cousin heard.
“Go on, Marbles.”
Marcy always liked the nickname and especially since xe got it. Marcelino always noticed how much Marcy would fidget which he didn’t mind, but Marcy's mother did and she would scold or pinch xem lightly to stop. So Marcelino gave Marcy xir first marble to rub between xir fingers under the table. Marcelino have been calling Marcy marbles ever since.
“Why are you so understanding?” Marcy said in a small voice. “The rest of the family isn’t.” Xe shook xir head. “You’re the poster child of this family, so why do you go out of your way for the cautionary tale of the family?”
“You’re not a cautionary tale.” He said firmly. “My name means warrior, but my heart means peace. You never got to meet our great grandmother. She used to say our spirits chose our flash, so spirit has its own will.” He rubbed a hand through his hair. “Our family talks a lot about spirit, but forgets it when it comes to family expectations.” He looked at Marcy who was listening closely. “I know how it is to be expected to be the opposite of who you are. My dad always wanted me to be tough. You reminded me to be soft.”
“Soft thug?” Xe teased.
“Soft thug.” He laughed. Marcelino took out a cigarette and lit it, catching Marcy's face turning into a frown as he took a drag of it. “Come on cuz, don't look at me like that.”
“You’re going to be a doctor, so you should know better.”
“These things will kill me before the war.” He chuckled.
Marcy nibbled xir lip feeling overwhelmed by the statement. “Don’t joke like that.”
“Sorry. You know there is no war happening now.”
“Still.” Marcy sighed.
He ran a hand over his top bun. “I’ll start using nicotine patches, okay?”
“You promise?”
He closed his eyes and sighed. Marcelino never broke a promise to Marcy, so he needed to make sure he could keep this one before he agreed. He looked over into xir worried eyes. “Fine. Shit! I promise.”
Marcy hugged him tightly. “Thanks Cousin.”
“You’re welcome, Cuz.” He threw the cigarette to the ground before stepping on it. “Time to go back to killing my liver since you're saving my lungs.”
“Marcelino.” Marcy whined.
“Hey, one bad habit at a time.”
“Fine.” Xe hugged him a little tighter.
“You’re braver than I am.” He hugged back.
“Yeah right.” Marcy shook xir head.
“You’re going to go and be who you want despite what people think and that takes a lot of bravery. When I told auntie to let you stay in the dorm, it’s because I wanted you to have time to figure yourself out without being watched.” He looped an arm around Marcy pulling xem more into the hug. "I’m going to request leave, so I can meet these dates of yours. They are part of the reason you’re so brave. I owe them my thanks."
“Awe, I know they’ll love to meet you.”
“I can get you three some plum wine in the meantime.”
“Anne would not let us drink it, even if we wanted to.”
“Oh, Anne keeps you on the straight and narrow?”
“Me dating Anne and Sasha does the opposite of keeping me straight.”Marcy laughed as xir cousin shook his head and laughed too.
The next day Marcy was so excited to see xir dates and enjoy the public festival with them. It had been almost three weeks since Marcy saw them in person and the quick FaceTime while xir family was asleep wasn’t enough. Xe was moving a marble between xir fingers, the same marble Marcelino gave xem all those years ago as they sat in the back of the rideshare. Marcy insisted that Sasha didn’t pick xem up since xir family was still at the house. Marcy got out of the car and took a deep breath before walking up to the door and knocking on it gently.
“Marmar, you look gorgeous.” Anne reached up to place a hand on Marcy's cheek. Marcy placed xir hand on top of Anne's while pressing more into their touch.
“Thank you, Anna Ba-”
“Damn! Anne, who is the stone cold fox?” Sasha whistled while walking towards the two in the doorway.
Marcy's face was as red as xir suit. “Stop,” was all Marcy could get out.
Sasha pretended to think. “I’ll think about it, if you tell us where we’re going?”
“Nope. It’s a surprise. Let me put this on you.” Marcy held out two red blind fold.
“Okay.” Anne turned their back towards Marcy so xe could put on the cloth. They took a deep breath feeling excited but nervous for the surprise.
“Don’t worry Anne, I got you.” Marcy gave Anne’s shoulder a gentle squeeze before xe slid the silk cloth over Anne's eyes. Marcy tied it tight enough to block their vision, but loose enough not to cause discomfort. “You look lovely by the way.” Marcy took in the view of Anne’s red suit, white button up, red tie resting on golden chains with their hair pulled into a low curly bun. Anne's cheeks deepened in color to match what they were wearing when they felt Marcy's eyes on them.
“Marmar, stop.”
“Sorry not sorry.” Marcy teased before waving Sasha over.
Sasha rolled his eyes before facing their back towards Marcy. “Only because it matches my dress.” Sasha held her hair up making it easier for Marcy to put the blind fold over Sasha’s eyes, xe tied it a little tight at first to get back at him for the eye roll.
“Hey!” Sasha protested.
“Kidding.” Marcy laughed while loosening the blind fold.
“I’m trusting you here, Wu. Be nice.” Sasha pouted.
“Sorry, you're right.” Marcy placed a gentle kiss on Sasha’s cheek. “Better?”
“Yes.” Now it was Sasha's turn for her face to match his dress.
Marcy took another look at xir dates feeling incredibly honored that they both wore red for xem. Xe had told them how traditionally Lunar Year was first a way to ward off Nian (/nyen/, which sounds the same as 'year' in Chinese), a terrifying beast that showed up every Lunar New Year's Eve to eat people and livestock. One of the ways was to ward the beast off was to wear all red, so in modern times a lot of folx still do.
Marcy was so full with appreciation as xe led the two to the back seat of Sasha's car to let them in and fasten their seatbelt. “Maybe I should have put on your blind folds after getting you both into the car.” Marcy laughed nervously. “Oh well.” Xe shrugged before closing the passenger side and getting into the driver side. Marcy put on xir seatbelt and looked in the rearview mirror at xir dates. Sashanne knew Marcy was taking them somewhere to celebrate the day, but didn't know where. Marcy smiled at them trusting xir and headed towards their destination.
Once Marcy parked the car xe got out to open the back door and lead xir dates out one by one before locking the doors. Marcy took both their hands and attempted to walk backwards at first, but once xe started to stubble Marcy quickly reposition xemself to lock arms with the two to lead them.
“Marmar why do we have to wear these blind folds?” Anne giggled while feeling their date gently pull them along.
“Martian, it seems like we’ve been in the dark forever.” Sasha whined.
“Sasha, it’s only been thirty minutes. Be patient, you two.”
They both playfully groaned, while Marcy smiled and continued to guide them. Marcy stopped and unlocked xir arms and stepped away to watch xir dates look around confused, not being able to see anything. Marcy couldn’t help but giggle at their faces.
“MarMar!” Anne pouted while feeling the air.
“Mars.” Sasha whined while feeling around too.
“Okay, big baby stop whining.”
“Anna Banana, just a few more minutes, okay?”
“Okay.” Anne nodded.
“Why do they get the nice voice?”
“Because they are being nice with their impatience.”
“Whatever.” Sasha muttered and stomped.
Marcy stepped closer and could see xir dates reaching for xem. Marcy laughed and walked into their grip. They curled their hands into Marcy's pocket and pulled xem closer.
“Marmar. Can I have a kiss?”
“If you give them one I want one too.” Sasha tilted her head.
“Well, studies have shown that if one sense is taken away it heightens the other, so for scientific purposes lets see. Shall we?”
Marcy watched Anne and Sasha nod their heads and Marcy smiled at how adorable they were. They leaned to Anne’s lips first slowly brushing their lips against Marcy’s before pressing them gently together. Marcy angled their neck to deepen the kiss a bit, but pulled away to keep it sweet. The trio haven’t had a actual make out session. Marcy shook xir head putting a pin in the thought for now. Xe went to Sasha and tried to do the same move of the lip brush, but Sasha instantly grabbed at Marcy's shirt and pulled xem in to deepen the kiss. Marcy once again backed away to keep it simple.
“Are we interrupting?”
“Who’s that?” Anne felt around grabbing at air again.
“Yeah, announce yourself.” Sasha said, looking around with his blindfold still on.
Marcy laughed gently, “Y’all can take your blindfolds off.”
Sash and Anne did so quickly, seeing someone who looked Sprig’s age with purple and pink hair next to two women who looked their parents' age, one tall and slim muscle built and the other short and curvy. Sasha Anne were holding their breath as Marcy walked closer to them with a smile as xe pulled the people along.
“So, this is my family, Maddie Flour my little sib from the big/little program, the one I joined when I was thirteen, but that's a story for another day." Xe said while trying to ignore xir dates raised eyebrows. "Maddie is also the sib who wrapped y’all gifts, and pushed me to be honest with you both.” Marcy chuckled.
“Thank you for getting Marcy to talk to us." Anne said appreciatively. "So, your last name is Flour like—”
“Yeah, my dad co-owns Spoonful of Sugar .”
“Oh, I never seen you there.”
“Yeah, somethings were complicated." She rubbed the back of neck. "... but I think they're better now." She said with a soft blush across her cheeks at the thought. "So. you’ll see me there.”
Anne noticed the blush and wasn’t sure if that was a blush of affection or embarrassment, and what exactly was complicated, they wonder. Anne decided to focus back on Marcy and put a pin in that for now since it really wasn't any of their business.
"I look forward to it." Anne smiled at Maddie before turning back to Marcy. “Sorry Marmar. I interrupted you.”
“Awe,” The two women cooed.
Marcy blushed. “It’s okay, Anna Banana.”
“Awe.” They cooed again.
Marcy cleared xe throat. “ So, this is Yunan and Olivia my queer mothers. They were my mentors at the big/little program.” Marcy smiled proudly.
"Queer mothers, huh?" Sasha said curious.
"Sometimes us older queers spiritually adopt younger queers becoming their queer mother, father, per, or par." Olivia said gracefully.
“I want a queer mother or two.” Sasha protested.
“It usually happens naturally.” Olivia said.
“Uncle Grime and your Auntie Be Be are the queers that adopted you .” Marcy informed.
"I love them, but I want a queer mother.” Sasha crossed her arms over his chest.
“Well, if you and Master Marcy work out we could be you and Anne's queer mothers' in law.” Olivia teased.
“Ha ha, don’t be silly.” Marcy said, trying to change the subject quickly. “Maddie does magic.”
“Like a magician?” Anne said excited while clapping their hands.
“Don’t insult me.” Maddie said nonchalantly with a stone face.
“Oh, I didn’t mean —”
“I’m a witch.”
“Oh.” Sasha and Anne said a little taken aback.
“I see the stereotype written all over your faces.” She pointed dramatically. “Get rid of them.”
“Gone.” Anne said with their hands up.
“ Gone.” Sash said, shaking off the urge to say something snarky, because this was Marcy's sib after all.
“Good, maybe I’ll read your cards.”
“That would be cool.” They both said.
Marcy wrapped an arm around Maddie's neck and brought them in close. “They might be my younger sib, but she is my mentor in all things magic. Maddie knows all the elements of spells.”
“Alright Marc.” Maddie blushed embarrassed. Maddie was the only one who called Marcy Marc, but Marcy was starting to feel xe wouldn't mind if other did too, especially Sashanne,
“Okay fine, I’ll stop bragging for now. Everyone ready to eat?” Everyone nodded and Marcy led them to this slim building that had a slim red staircase with a line from the top of the stairs to around the corner. “This is my favorite place. You’re going to love it.” Marcy beamed.
The place was packed but cute and cozy with the red lanterns hung above them and the red table cloths on the tables. They all sat down at the lazy Susan table where Marcy ordered traditional foods, such as steam fish, spring rolls, rice balls, and dumplings that symbolize wealth, prosperity, good health, and togetherness. Marcy also ordered a few floral teapots. The six talked about Marcy and how much they all cared for xem. Marcy’s face was tomato red as xe tried to get them to change the subject, but it always came back to the love and care for xem.
After dinner there was an hour gap before it was dark enough for the fireworks. They went to an outside cafe table where Maddie sprayed it with spiritual water and wiped it down before putting the cloth on it. She set up her selenite crystal for cleansing, their amethyst crystal for calming, and her obsidian for protection. They pulled out her tarot cards, playing cards, and oracle decks.
“Are you three ready?” Maddie looked at them with no change to her face.
The three held each other's hands and took a deep breath. “Yes.” They said in unison.
"You are going to love Maddie’s readings. They are so good.”
“Oh shucks, Marc.” If the three looked real close they might have seen a hint of a smile on Maddie's lips before it faded into stone face again. Maddie told the three to touch the deck to leave their energy on it and they did so. “This is how I do my cards, don’t touch others cards without permission,” they said sternly.
“Okay.” The trio said in unison and nodded. Marcy nodded in solidarity because xe knew all the rules.
“This spread is to show who you are to each other, how y'all see each other, and how y’all think the others see you.” She looked at them with a devilish grin and they squeezed each other's hands tightly. “Are y’all ready?’
“Yes.” They continue to squeeze each other's hand and breathe deeply.
“Don’t be nervous. Tarot is a lot of things, but one thing it isn’t, is scare dare. Okay?”
“Okay.” They said in unison.
Maddie pulled three cards in total for the trio. They looked over the piles after flipping them to reveal the images. Marcy looked over the cards too as xe knew the images and studied all the meanings from several books, but was still learning how to trust xir gut. Maddie said intuition was the key ingredient to every magical working.
“Interesting.”
“What?” Anne said worriedly.
A smile brushed across Maddie’s lips. “Sounds like you’re ready to know?”
Anne looked over to Sasha then Marcy who both nodded. “Okay, we’re ready”
“Looks good. You are strong, meaning that at the core of who you are is strong and can stand any test.” The three smiled at each other. “You think of each other as the hermit which isn’t bad, it just means you see each other's independence and worry that you don’t open up for support.” The three exhaled. “You three are The Lovers .” The three silently squealed. “You feel that you are good for each other no matter what happens.”
“That’s great.” Sasha said.
“Oh, Maddie’s not done.” Marcy said.
“Your playing card is the three of hearts which is the three of cups in tarot meaning enjoy these moments and don’t get too caught in the future. You’re a puzzle building yourselves.” Maddie then laid out an Oracle card. “Inner peace, which means don’t let outside influences make you change your inside feelings for each other.”
“Oh my Frog. Thanks Maddie.” Anne said.
"Yeah thanks." Sasha added.
“Also, thank your ancestors.” Maddie said.
They all closed their eyes, took a few breaths, and thanked their guides. Marcy and Anne had a deeper connection of doing this with family, at their respectable temples, or on their own, but this was all new to Sasha and she was trying her best.
After the reading Yunan pulled Sasha to the side.
“Look kid, you seem nice.”
“Thank–”
“Let me finish.” She threw her hand up. “But, I don’t trust you.”
“What did I do?”
“Nothing. I don’t trust anyone with my kid’s heart.” She straightened up when she saw her wife giving her a look to remind her to be gentle. “I’m a lover, but I'm also a fighter, so you choose wisely which side of me you want to see.”
“Are you threatening me?” Sasha said a little appalled but impressed.
“Hmmm.” She thought real long and hard as she rubbed her chin. “No. Well, at least I hope not. I don’t think Marcy or Olivia would be too happy with me if I did.” She straightened up. “Just be gentle with Marcy’s heart, it’s been broken by family and friends before xe even got a chance to date. I don't want to see it broken again. You got that?"
Sasha could have said something snarky and even thought of it, but knew how much Marcy loved xir mothers, so Sasha smiled in response. If she was being honest the woman was almost as intimidating as her auntie Bebe, well maybe little more since she knew her auntie wouldn’t actually hurt her, but she was not so sure about Marcy’s mother Yunan.
Sasha looked over at Marcy and smiled softly. “I will handle xir heart with care. I promise.”
“Thank you, soldier.” She muttered the last line.
“So should I get Anne for you?” Sasha gestured with his thumb.
“No. They seem trustworthy.”
“Hey.” Sasha said to Yunan's back since she was already walking away.
Olivia had pulled Anne to the side to give a firm talking to which came out more as an invite for tea.
“Marcy means so much to us, and I know xe means a lot to you.” Olivia smiled appreciatively. “You should come over for tea next week, so we can get to know you more.”
“I would love that.”
“Maybe you could sleepover too?”
“Umm, I’m babysitting my siblings next week.”
“Oh, they can come too. The place is spacious enough.”
“I’ll think about it. Marcy and I haven’t spent the night with each other yet.”
“No rush, dearie.”
The two continued to talk and laugh as Olivia shared stories of young Master Marcy and how xe would always set the capes of fire that Olivia made. Sasha looked over to see the two hugging and even whipping tears. Sasha shook her head because only Anne could have anyone love them. Sasha smiled and thought fondly to himself, yeah, anyone could love Anne.
The trio met back in the middle to cuddle up with Marcy in the middle while watching the fireworks together. Marcy looked over at xir family feeling brighter than rainbow sparkles that filled the dark sky. Xe thought about how traditionally it was a day for the public, but it felt more like a family day than any family day xe ever had. Marcy's beautiful sight started to blur causing xe to touch xir eye. Wow, crying again, xe thought. Marcy looked back at xir family enjoying the fire in the sky and before looking at xir wet finger as a promise to run towards the people xe loved and cared for instead of away from them.
Sasha drove their dates back since he no longer needed the blind fold. She pulled in front of Anne's house and Anne beat her to the driver side to open his door. Sasha scolded with a head shake, but secretly it felt nice to have Anne as her gentle-them. They both went over to Marcy and side to open xir door and offer their arms which Marcy locked in.
“I appreciate you letting me meet your mothers and sib.” Anne said with a sweet smile outside their front door.
“Yeah Mars, they were really cool.” Sasha said out loud with a shrug. a little scary in their own ways. Sasha laughed nervously. As the thought crossed her mind.
Marcy smiled amused by the nervous laugh. “Sashy, as long as you two keep being the best dates in the world you have nothing to worry about.”
"We can do that.” Anne said and before they both engulfed xem into a hug.
“I wasn't worried.” Sasha added unconvincingly.
“Sure.” Marcy laughed with a head shake.
“Marmar, how much time do we have left with you?”
Marcy looked at xir phone “About an hour.”
“Oh good, we both got you something.”
“What? Y’all shouldn’t –”
“But we already did, so.” Sasha shrugged.
The three went into Anne’s house and into their bedroom. Anne closed the door and they all sat on the couch. Marcy looked at xir dates anxiously.
“So is this the surprise?” Marcy laughed nervously.
“No, silly.” Anne laughed sweetly. “You trust us?”
“Yes.” Marcy said without hesitation.
"Then close your eyes.” Sasha added.
Marcy did so as xir heart was beating a little faster against xir chest. “Is this to get me back for the blindfolds?”
“That’s a good idea, why didn’t we think of that Anne?”
Anne giggled. “Shush Sash, you’re going to make poor Marmar more nervous.”
“Serves xem right, having us blindfolded forever.”
“It was thirty minutes.” Marcy corrected.
“How would you like to have your eyes closed–” Sasha looked at her phone, “twenty nine more minutes.”
“Jeez it’s only been a minute?”
“Yup.” Sasha nodded.
“Okay fair point.”
“Enough wasting time we have less than an hour left with Marmar.” Anne insisted. “Put your hands out.”
Marcy did as instructed and felt something light placed in both hands. “What is it?” Marcy put xir tongue to the top of xir lip.
“Open your eyes Martian.”
Marcy did and saw two traditional red envelopes. “Where did y’all get this?”
“We got it when you first told us about the Lunar New Year.” Sasha smiled proudly. “We ordered it from an authentic Taiwanese shop.
“We want to show you that we’re glad you share this part of yourself with us.” Anne smiled warmly. “I know we’re not your elder, but we wanted to wish you good fortune. I know you said the envelopes represent that.”
“Oh, you two, are my good fortune. You are my red envelops.” The tears were forming again and Marcy hadn’t even opened the envelope. “You both already wore red to show me that you appreciate me.” Xe sniffled.
“Well, when have you known us to stop at one mushy gesture?” Sasha said with a smile playing on her lips.
“True,” Marcy laughed still trying to hold xir tears back.
"I'm not mushy per se, but I'm a team player." Sasha added.
"Sure." Marcy rolled xir eyes with a head shake.
Anne smiled shyly. “The envelope is technically the only thing traditional, because I don’t have any money.” They laughed lightly before gesturing for Marcy to open the envelope.
Marcy opened it with excitement . “Is this a coupon book?” Marcy squealed.
“Yeah, I hope you like it.” Anne touched the back of their neck shyly.
Marcy flipped through the pages. “I want to redeem this one.” Marcy ripped out the coupon and presented it to Anne.
“Wow! Already?” Anne took the paper and smiled while raising their eyebrow. “This one Marmar?” They teased while waving the paper.
“Amphibia-lutley.” Marcy said with a toothy smile.
“Okay.” Anne playfully shrugged to act as if their heart wasn’t pounding with excitement as they leaned in to give a simple kiss.
“Hey.” Marcy grabbed their tie gently when Anne tried to pull back. “Don’t short change me Anna Banana.”
Anne laughed and looked at Marcy's hands around their tie. “Marmar?”
“Oh I-” Marcy let go.
Anne reached for xir hand putting back on their tie “Go for it.”
Marcy's face was as red as three of their outfits as xe pulled Anne towards xem for a full kiss. “Wow.” Marcy said once they finally broke apart.
“Same.” Anne said, a little breathless. “You can let go of my tie now.” Anne giggled.
“Oh yeah.” Marcy put a hand to their neck and looked over to Sasha smirk. “So, Sash.”
“You’re ready for mine?”
Marcy nodded, leaning tapping xir lips, “Kiss.”
“I meant to open the gift.” Sasha playfully rolled her eyes.
“Kiss first.” Marcy pouted.
“Fine –”
Sasha last words were cut off by Marcy's lips, the kiss deepened quickly and they both found their hands gently in each other's hair. Anne looked smitten thinking they’ve come a long way from that shy kiss on Halloween night, well technically November 1st. Once the two broke apart they both were trying to catch their breath. It may have been a gentle kiss, but it was filled with emotions.
“Jeez Mars, what’s got into you?” Sasha said with a red face looking at Marcy's face that match. “Not that I’m complaining. Just surprised, that's all.”
“I haven’t seen y’all in person in weeks and haven’t been able to kiss y’all just as long. I’m trying to make up for it.”
Anne giggled. “No more going that long again. But, why now? you weren’t so –” Anne thought for a minute as they nibbled their lip. “... so passionate earlier.”
“I-” Marcy eyes averted to the floor and xir dates cuddled next to xem.
“Don’t be sad Marmar, I’m sorry.” Anne cooed
“It’s not you, Anna Banana.” Marcy caressed their cheek. “Just have a few more days with my family and it's less of them with each day, but still hard." Marcy smiled shyly. "I wanted to carry both of your kisses with me for luck.” Marcy looked between to Anne and Sasha who cooed before they place gentle kisses all over xir face and lips. “Okay, okay.” Marcy said, becoming overwhelmed, and the two stopped.
“Martian, don't worry we’ll be sharing a dorm again in no time.”
“Yeah.” Marcy's heart grew at the thought. “Okay. I’m ready to open your gift.”
“Yes. Please.” Sasha leaned back but was still close and Anne did the same.
“Yay! More cash.” Marcy cheered as xe open the envelope to be pleasantly surprised by a silver charm
“It’s for your charm keychain. I got it made when you told us about, Lunar New Year.” She smiled shyly. “I did some research and found out that dragons represent luck, strength, and health in China and Taiwan. I hope it’s correct, I saw the same dragons in the parade, but if it’s wrong I’ll take it back –” Sasha's nerves were calmed by Marcy's hand on his cheek.
Marcy rubbed Sasha's cheek tenderly and the tears were falling from the entire trio's eyes. “I love it.” Marcy said before the two leaned in to share a kiss. They pulled apart with a pleasant sigh before pressing their forehead against each other for a moment.
Marcy lifted up and reached for Anne who leaped in xir arms to snuggle into the both of them.
“Anna Banana?”
“Yes Marmar?”
“You want to double down on that bet?”
Anne laughed, “the one about having the best time togayther?”
“Yeah.” Marcy cuddled into the two more.
“Are you game, Sasha?” Anne asked.
“I’ll triple it!” Sasha smiled, cuddling in more.
“All in favor say, yay!”
“Yay!” The three said.
“All opposed, say Nay.” Everyone stayed silent and Anne smiled. “The Yays have it!” Anne placed a sweet kissed on each of their foreheads as a promise to be there, even during the worst times.
*The End*
(or is it?)