Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

His holograms were muted as he swiped through the internet as early as 1 a.m., researching the things he called Blind Spots in San Dimas. One happened the day before, and one last week, and his holograms would be messed up because of it; glitching until the next day so he couldn’t get any work done. A lot of them have been happening since he’s moved to the city. Whenever they happened a giant white light would cover his entire screen and disappear a millisecond later. When Marco first arrived in San Dimas he wasn’t expecting this.

Studying thse was near impossible with so many distractions: hobbies, jobs, trying to live off of whatever money he had left for making sure he lived properly, and said Blind Spots. He didn’t have time to clean up his SD card of photos he wanted to keep due to his busy work schedule. When it’s quiet, even with the room being dark and the only source of light being his desk lamp and a bit of the moon shining in didn’t help isolate him from his thoughts. After the internet proved itself useless in finding him anything on the topic, it also proved that he needed to refresh his brain. Marco saved, closed his tabs, grabbed his keys, jacket off the hook and headed out the door. 

Crickets chirped left, right, and centre and a light wind bristled through his shoulder length black hair while he walked down the damp pathway. The sun was against a red sky during the day, then turned into a black moon. It pulsed out black cracks on the clean night sky. Trees formed shadows in front of him, and he occasionally passed small pathways to the river. The grass wetted the tips of his shoes and it sneaked into his socks. 

Eugh, great. He thought. He didn't have an extra pair either so he’s now going to have to dry them on the vents and hope they’re wearable tomorrow. Fun!

His usual walking path was nice and quiet other than the crickets and once in a while owl hoot. The cool temperature helped calm his mind. Everything at the dorm turned on a curve, he reached an open area with a bench in the park. Approaching the bench, he noticed someone sitting on it already. The spot lights someone's figure as he gets closer. 

Tripping over a tree root definitely helped snap him out of his deep thoughts and back into reality. Marco yelped and waved his arms to try to regain balance but failed and hit the ground forearm first in the wet grass. 

Agh, that’s going to leave a stain. He thought. 

“You okay?!” A voice exclaimed from afar.

Shit. Marco raked the grass beside him so the guy didn’t see. He didn’t want to disturb his night but here he was. After what felt like a few awkward minutes, Marco looked up to see the person from the bench is now standing right in front of him, offering out a hand for him to take. 

Everything froze.

The moonlight shone on the man who’s now in front of him as a backlight. It formed a white rim around his shoulders and his eyes glistened as if they’re stars themselves. It made Marco press his lips together as he felt his face get hot at the sight. He’s about Marco’s height, short, curly auburn hair attached to his small beard, and he had a bit of a moustache. He wore a silver shirt with orange stripes streaking down vertically, and a pair of grey rectangular-shaped glasses with a thick bridge resting on his nose. It suited him. Marco found himself not able to look away. Not that he wanted to. 

“So much for staying clean,” he babbled after taking his hand. It felt… soft. Marco brushed off the bits of grass to try and help him think straight.

“You too?”

“What?”

“Hate the feeling of wet grass in your shoes? Stains on nice clothing?”

Marco chuckled. “Yeah! The worst.”

“I hate it when my socks are wet. They are right now.” 

Their conversation grew from there. Marco’s never met this guy before and the two of them were already hitting it off. He found out they have a favourite video game in common (Stardew Valley), both of them love random songs from the 80s, Marco’s into photography while he liked to play soccer whenever he could. His heart pounded loud enough for him to hear it. His hands shook. 

“What if I came to your next game?” He suggested as he adjusts the tightness of his shoe. It felt loose. “I can take some shots of you and your teammates!” 

The guy smiled. Call Marco crazy but he found it super cute. “That’d be awesome! I’m sure the team would appreciate it. I know I would.”

He… he would? Marco prayed he didn't see his face turn a different colour. 

“I-I mean generally speaking!” A nervous chuckle followed after. “Cause it’s such a nice gesture and they wouldn’t expect it. I didn’t expect it but I appreciate the offer. It'd be pretty cool!” 

Marco pressed his lips together again. “Happy to put my skills to your services, Mr…?” he held out his hand as he waited for a name.

“Wilson. Grant Wilson.”

“Marco Li.” They shook hands.

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As soon as Marco arrived at his apartment, he sat on his comfortable covers, took his socks off, put them on the vent to air dry then lay on his back, sighing. Something about him has changed; mood, motivations, hell he thought he could get his assignment done now if his device would work, but he was also exhausted. They had so much in common. Marco realized how fast their conversation went. He'd like to chat with Grant again. He didn't ask if he liked coffee though. Marco cursed at himself as something spiked his back. He wouldn’t see Grant again until the soccer game. He needed to make sure his schedule was clear that day. Maybe they could go for coffee after that.

If only the Blind Spot didn't happen he could check right now. But alas.

It’s been a while… Maybe he should call them?

His phone rang a few times. They might be in-

“Li residence! Chelsie speaking.”

“Hi, Chelsie! It's Marco,” Marco answered excitedly. “How are you?”

“Marcy! Shouldn’t you be in bed?! Whatever I’m good, how are you?” 

He chuckled at the nickname. “I’m good! I miss you guys.” 

Fumbling happened on the other side. “Is that Marco? Chelsie, you said you’d tell me as soon as he called!”

“I’m sorry Dakota he just did!” 

“Hi, Dakota!” Without waiting a second longer, he swiped the face cam upward so the video was on his wall and put his phone down. They looked so happy. “How are you guys?” 

The two of them sat down on the couch while fumbling for a place to put the device. Marco remembered that they hadn't figured out the hologram setting. He’d have to teach them. “We’re doing very well. Everyone misses you. Chelsie misses you.”

“Dakota!” 

“It’s true!” She planted a kiss on her cheek. “Wait- what time is it for you there?” 

Marco scratched the back of his neck. “Uh… 2am?” 

“Marco!” 

“I’m 23 I can stay up late! Plus you guys are three hours behind shouldn’t you be sleeping I didn’t think you’d answer!” 

Chelsie fidgeted with her sleeve. “I wasn’t expecting you to call. It’s good to hear from you!” 

Marco beamed. Calling Dakota and Chelsie was his favourite pastime. They didn’t know but it helped him with stress or when he was having a bad time for whatever reason. He’s glad they’re okay. If anything happened to them he didn’t know what he’d do. 

His eyes started to feel watery. “Sorry, I have to make this short. I’m very tired and I met someone tonight which lead to that conversation being a lot longer than antici-”

“You met someone?!” Dakota exclaimed excitedly.

“Nothing serious! Just said hi on a trail is all.”

“If you hit it off, get their number. That’s the rule. How I kept in contact with Koty here,” Dakota blushed at Chelsie’s nickname.

“Stay safe out there, Marco. Miss you!”

“I… Miss you guys too,” with that he ended the call. 

San Dimas was a fresh start, but Marco still missed home. He’ll update them about any socializing sometime. For now, he was safe, and they’re safe. That’s all that mattered.

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The next location they had to secure was in a forest just outside of San Dimas. It’s a place they always deemed safe from any security cameras and hidden from the public eye thanks to Terry’s detecting magic. The five of them met Nick there ever so often. 

He’s busy in Hell and they’re busy with D.A.D.D.I.E.S. missions it’s been hard to get together. They’ve been trying to get in touch with Nick for who knows how long that that in itself proved it’s been a lot longer than it should’ve. Being the prince of Hell, dealing with Jodie and Morgan, Morgan herself, and Glenn hadn’t changed a bit since they were kids was a lot for him. That and balancing life on Earth was hard with Cassandra and a 3-year-old. The Oak Family had a prophecy they needed to worry about, Terry’s trying to win over someone who’s just gotten a divorce. Looking at the list, Nick’s got the worst cards dealt for him out of all of them. Fuck how did he do it? Grant thought his schedule was fucked up. 

But he’s not focused on that. He was but not his main focus. He’s beyond ecstatic. Something about Marco made him feel something inside. Something . It’s not the result of him hurting someone or himself in order to know he existed. It’s something. Something he couldn’t explain but maybe words couldn’t describe it fully. Just the touch of his hand made him feel real, how strong the grip was on the hand shake, how their fingers just locked together… he loved this feeling.

“You’re awfully canty,” Terry noted. “Did something interesting happen on your night off?”

“Mm something like thaAAT-!” Terry yanked Grant backwards by the arm and immediately rolled up his sleeves, and checked his neck. “Terr what are you doing?!” 

“Making sure you aren’t marked.”

“Marked? The fuck?” He gave him a look. “Jesus, I didn’t have sex or anything. I just met someone!”

Terry immediately stopped. A smile curled up on his lips. “You met someone? Tell me everything~!” 

Grant can’t help himself but express everything about Marco. How they immediately clicked, his looks and how he’s never seen him before. All the little details. Terry did say to tell him everything. 

“And he wants to take pictures at our next game!” 

Terry couldn’t help but smile. “I hope it works out for you!” He shook him by the shoulders. “This can help. I know we have each other, but it’s okay to have friends outside of this chaotic group of ours. We’re… a lot.” 

Grant couldn’t help but chuckle. “You mean Lark and Sparrow are a lot.”

“Nick’s a literal demon.”

“He’s more tolerable than the twins!”

“Touché.”

Terry swung on a tree branch and hopped over as Grant passed by. “Did you get his number?” Grant stopped in his tracks, no response. “Grant!”

“I knew I was forgetting something!”

“Literally the thing everyone knows to do when you hit it off with someone!”

He’s right, Grant knew Terry was right. It’s just something he didn’t think about at the time and now he has to deal with it until he sees Marco again. "Look. We just met. I have no idea if he wants to see me again or if there was even a connection. We have a lot in common sure but that happens! I mean I'd like to meet again but that doesn't mean I'm immediately in l-"

Something caught Grant’s attention; a figure moving at the corner of his eye and he immediately pulled Terry’s collar at the back, forcing him behind a bush for cover. He took out his rifle in a swift movement and looked through the peephole, pushing it through the branches for a clear view. Someone in a dark hoodie moved mischievously behind trees, and his watch beeps rapidly three times to confirm the movement. Lark and Sparrow were dealing with training the kids, and they didn't get any notification telling them Nick’s on Earth. To his knowledge at least. This was a stranger. Grant hid his rifle behind him. Terry nodded in acknowledgement and they headed back. They’ll get to see Nick again. Just not tonight.

Chapter Text

When he went his therapist recommended a nice quiet area that occasionally has people come in from time to time. She said it can help smoothly transition from an eventful day at work to a calm evening, so that the stress doesn’t immediately unleash at home. Doesn’t mean it won’t, just so that he could think more clearly. Grant hasn’t gone to therapy since D.A.D.D.I.E.S. took over his life. He knew he needed to, but the missions with finding portal cracks have been too much along with his new mission on pursuing Marco. 

That one’s a personal one though.

His last mission was a big one. A Doodler’s Acolyte was taking the form of parents that went missing; specifically abusive parents. He wasn’t sure what the Doodler’s plan was, but trying to get the victim to like an abuser wasn’t the best plan. Maybe it meant well? Then again, he didn’t know if the Doodler felt anything.

The only place he could think of going to was the Library. He’s never gone, but it didn't hurt to try it out. A nice, quiet area where he's  alone with his thoughts, or focused on a book so much that his thoughts don’t drive him crazy, getting lost in a fantasy world where he’s an invisible character on an adventure with the people he’s reading about? Sounded perfect. Grant should’ve tried it sooner.

He never thought he’d be the type to fall in love at first sight, but it happened that night on the bench under the black moon and cracked sky and it never felt more right. It was as if they were meant to find each other. Did God send him there? He hadn’t gone to church in a while but maybe the Lord is still looking out for him for a reason Grant couldn’t find. Why would He look after Grant after all the things he’s done? Was he worth saving? Grant hoped to find a book good enough to get lost in so his thoughts didn’t drive him crazy.

The library took him by surprise. It’s huge and for a good reason; everyone uses it for their own reason. A sense of calm washed over him as the cool air from the air conditioned room hit his face. It has two floors; the first floor has columns upon columns of hallways filled with books from the entrance all the way to the back. Each column has a window, a study desk, a printer, and an electric scanner. The scanner only allows someone in that section if they have their library card stamped with that section’s number. 

It’s more technical on the second floor. Holographic rooms spread across the area. The person can choose if they want people to see what they’re doing, or press the hide button and make the walls more solid. Researchers use it for detective work, history stories to tell in school, and photographers use them for editing the paper or just printing out their photos. Grant’s been looking up there a lot. Whenever he can.

To find Marco again.

How could this one person drive him this insane? Grant’s trying his best to not come across creepy. He’s just worried he’ll never see him again. They didn’t have their contacts due to his forgetfulness, Grant’s not in school because of D.A.D.D.I.E.S., he was just in some online classes… until he dropped out. And Marco made him feel things. It’s the one thing he didn’t want to lose. He wanted to hold his hand again and be there for him if he needed someone.

Grant let out a sigh of relief. Marco’s inside a holographic circle in a corner of the building next to the sign out desk, and a printer. He’s moving some photos around so they’re spread out evenly on the screen. Grant took a closer look, and detected a nice close up photo of two women, one giving a kiss on the cheek to the other as she closed one eye smiling. 

“Who are they?” he asked before he could catch himself.

Marco jumped. “Holy heck you scared me!” He turned around, and Grant was more than happy to see his face again. “Hi! Hi… You from before..?”

“That’s me! Grant- Wilson.” He cleared his throat and stuck out his hand. “Grant Wilson!” They shook hands again. The touch lingered. “Sorry! I- your pictures are really good,” he noticed him play with his sleeve.

“Thank you! They’re my moms. I miss them a lot and I need to decorate my apartment so… yeah.” 

Grant stared at him for a split second. “Are they… around?”

“Huh? Oh yeah they’re just far from here,” Grant nodded. So they had that in common , he noted. “This one’s my favourite.”

He pulled a picture out of a file. It’s of the moms on a beach, and one lifted the other up in the air. The sunset light gleamed beautifully on them: the light shining in the middle and the edges of the photo are dark but he could still see the sand. Grant couldn’t help but stare at it in awe. 

“Yeah, I get why.” 

Marco smiled, but then grunted in pain. “Dammit!” He shouted, a little too loudly to get shushed by the librarian. The hologram disappears as he steps out of the area. Marco held his back with his forearm and leaned against the wall, eyes closed.

“Whoa, hey! You okay?” 

“I’m… I’m fine.”

Grant knew that saying too well. “If you’re just saying that-”

Marco made eye contact. “I promise I’m fine. It happens.”

Grant raised an eyebrow. “What happens?”

“I… get back pain ever so often. It just comes out of nowhere, but I’m used to it.”

“If you want I can give you a back massage. I have practice in-”

Marco’s eyes went wide. “What- no no no it’s fine! I’m A-OK,” he chuckled nervously. Grant knew a liar when he saw one. He’s stumbling over his words, his eyes were avoiding him, and he seemed uncomfortable. Whatever’s bothering him, Grant didn’t want to press the matter. 

Grant clapped his hands together, a little too loudly and he winced. “Do you want to get out of here?”

“I finished up so yeah we can!”

Marco took the printed pictures and they headed to the desk. When the lady asked for the amount owed, his face fell. “You… wouldn’t happen to have a dollar I could borrow?” 

“Don’t worry about it, I got it,” Grant took out the full payment and handed it to her.

“Thanks! I- I could’ve sworn I had it on me. Must’ve left it on my desk.” 

Grant waved it off. “Again, don’t worry about it!” 

Warm air brushed against Grant’s face as the cool air lingered on his back from the air conditioning then it disappeared. Marco rushed after him and strapped his camera around his shoulder as he ran. The two of them turned a corner and the parking lot faded into a hill. When they reached the top of the hill they were met with a paved sidewalk. Tree branches with flowers blooming stretched across the path just above their heads, and on the other side of the hill was the river flowing down. 

“How long have you played soccer?” He asked as he caught up. “The Doodlers haven’t been a team for like… gosh I don’t remember the last game this town has had with them.” 

He filtered his thoughts carefully. This was an okay conversation to have. “I guess the team just hasn’t been the same since my dad left? He impacted a lot of people including my friends. And me. But then…” we got sucked into another plane of existence and I got kidnaped by my friend’s grandparents that wanted to use us for Daddy Magic and now I’m feel-less, then when we got back we were too focused on healing and saving the world. Soccer just died. “Life got busy.” Plain and simple. 

“You mentioned playing again soon. You miss it?”

“Uh, yeah. I miss it. Gave good memories and brought my friends and I close together. We’re still friends, it’s just been difficult to plan events. Our schedules are fucked.” He laughed at the truth. The only times they could really hang out were during missions. But he can’t tell Marco that part.

Marco kicked a pinecone as they continued down the path. “Must be hard. I’m glad you guys are keeping in touch though. Long lasting relationships don’t always last.” 

Grant nodded. “No. No they don’t.”

“Shit, sorry was that too depressing?” He asked quickly. “Just speaking from experience because my friend group didn’t last long. Doesn’t mean yours won’t.” 

“It’s okay! I mean you never know. Friendships break all the time.” 

“Well, I hope this one doesn’t.”

“Yeah, yeah me too.” 

It took him a hot minute to process what was just said. Marco wanted to stay friends. That relieved a huge weight off his shoulders. If he wanted that, Grant had someone to talk to. He had someone to go to, and Marco had someone to rely on. Something gnawed at him.

Just ask dammit! 

“Still on for me taking pictures at the soccer game?" 

"If you're quick enough to catch me." He didn't just say that...

If looks could kill Marco’s smile would’ve ended him. “I’ll see you then!” Cold air brushed against the two of them, causing Marco to shiver. Not thinking about what he was doing, he took off his orange jacket with blue stripes and handed it over. G.W. was written in the hood on the right side near the collarbone. “Oh! Y-you didn’t have to, I'm okay.” Grant raised an eyebrow, not lowering his arm. “Okay okay. Thanks.” He put it on. It was comfortable.

They started to turn back as the sky faded into the black sheet and red cracks. Grant eyed Marco’s hand, fighting the urge to hold it. It was right there but he decided against it. Might be too soon. Grant made sure he got to his car and they waved goodbye. 

As soon as he closed the door, Grant laughed to himself excitedly. He wanted to hang out more. Marco wanted to hang out with him more! His mind reeled with possibilities, excitement, nerves, all of the emotions. This man is killing him. He thanked God for the time they had and blessing Him for finding him at the library. Grant made a mental note to go there more often.

On the way home Grant cursed at himself for forgetting his number. Again. 

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The floor rumbled and cracked from beneath his feet as Sparrow forced it open, but Grant was able to jump out of the way just in time, flipping onto his hands then back on his feet again. That didn’t stop Lark from firing a pistol, missing him made a point that he was there. Grant didn’t have any weapons on him. This was hand and shield vs magic and weapons training. They had all sorts of combinations so they could be prepared for anything that came at them. If Grant didn’t have a weapon on hand, he had to know how to handle himself against those that did. One part of that meant knowing where the bullet came from, and if the magic user was going to use a spell again. The one rule they had was no poison. 

Keeping that in mind, Grant looked to the right where the bullet came from, but Lark wasn’t on the balcony. A vine wrapped around his arms, tying them close to his waist. Shit! He was distracted for too long. Sparrow pulled him closer, and he fought back by digging his heels in the dirt. He heard a knife’s blade get taken out of its sheath, and Lark cried out as he threw an arm out to attack. Grant turned out of the way, getting Lark to cut the vines loose enough for him to break free. Sparrow glared at Lark who landed beside him, and gave his twin a toothy nervous smile in return. 

Sparrow lunged at Grant, grappling him into a tight hug and dug sharpened nails into his skin at his collar bone, causing him to scream in pain. Not too deep, but enough for him to feel it. Thankfully wounding the opponent was allowed in training. One reason why it was his favourite thing to do as a D.A.D.D.I.E.S. agent. Feel alive again. He hadn’t forgotten that’s how Marco made him feel. Alive. Something about that feeling empowered him. He loved it. He had a crush on Marco. He didn’t know how to describe it before and it might be way too soon to tell but he doesn’t know how else to describe it. He does know that love at first sight exists for some, and he fell under that small group. Grant grabbed hold of Sparrow’s hands and managed to declaw him off. He elbowed the Love Wolf in the stomach, making him recoil and kick him to the ground, knowing that’d activate Lark’s next move. 

The two of them circle around Sparrow, who was able to escape through the gap, holding his side, concluding his fight was over. Both of them had their daggers out, but knowing Lark Grant knew the circling would go on forever. Neither of them liked going first. Giving in, Grant sprinted at his target and pounced at him and grabbed his armed hand, not giving him a second to react and forced Lark into an arm lock. He then locked his legs in between Lark’s, and much to his protesting which he’ll admit he’s a stubborn piece of shit, Grant managed to bend them to the ground and force him on top of himself. 

“Give up?” Grant whispered in his ear.

Lark scoffed. “You wish,” only his voice was restrained.

Grant tightened his arm around his neck, but not too tight. “Come on, Larky-boy~.” The taunt came out as if he were singing. He kept squeezing his prey as if he were a python ready to feast. He could feel the hunger of it as his body tightened everywhere around Lark, not letting him go despite him trying to pry his arm off. He could-

Two pairs of arms untangled him from Lark. His friend gasped for air, and the two detachers were Terry and Sparrow.

Grant held his head. “God, god I’m sorry, Lark! I felt you grabbing at my arm but I didn’t stop and I could’ve-” 

“I’m fine, Grant. Really. I’m fine,” Lark’s voice was hoarse.

Terry released him at the same time as Sparrow. “We were calling your name. Didn’t you hear us?”

“No- no I was completely lost. Sorry. Something just kicked into gear and defeating Lark was the only thing that came to mind.” 

“What kicked into gear?”

Grant felt his cheeks heat up as if he were a kid again. “I uh,” he scratched the back of his neck. “I might have met someone?” Everyone froze mid step. A smile grew big on Terry’s face, and Lark and Sparrow turned to look at him simultaneously. Grant chuckled nervously. “Look! It’s nothing serious. We just hit it off, have a lot in common and- and I want to see him again that’s it!”

“Grant…” Lark started warningly, but was stopped by Sparrow. Good. He knew how Lark got with this type of thing.

“Happy for you, man!” Sparrow chirped. “You need this. A break from all of us is well needed.”

“I- I didn’t say that!”

“A break from you two maybe. You’re a lot to handle.”

Lark smirked, crossing his arms. “Grant seemed to handle us just fine. Where did that energy come from?” 

“I… probably from the fact that I met someone special?”

Sparrow tackled him to the ground and pinned his hands down. “Go for it! You got his number, right?” Grant turned his head to avoid eye contact, only to see Terry pinching his eyes and smiling. “ Right?!” 

"It might not even be love at first sight, Sparrow!" There's a pause.

“This idiot forgot," said Terry.

“Twice…” He admitted. This is the closest they’ve been in a while he wanted to be as open as possible. 

“W- twice? Grant!” 

He struggled against Sparrow’s grip. Where did his strength go? “I found him at the library and forgot again. He wants to hang out but how can we when I can’t contact him?” 

The room was filled with disappointed groans. 

“You suck at this.” 

They laughed. “Sparrow, can you get off me?” 

Sparrow looked like he was considering but eventually let go and helped him up. “How’d you figure out the spark?”

Grant dusted himself off. “I’ve met guys before, but none of them had this… connection as much as him,” he was flailing his hands. “We instantly bonded. There was a spark! I know there was. A-and when we shook hands something about the touch made me feel real. I- I feel like it’s him, but I don’t want to be too attached in case it’s not.”

“But you don’t want to let go either,” Lark interjected. Grant nodded. “That’s a tough one.” 

“Love works in mysterious ways,” Sparrow chirped. “As someone who’s found Rebecca, I should know. I have no idea how she stayed this long. Especially how everything is with D.A.D.D.I.E.S.”

Grant groaned, grabbing his head. “Agh, secrets! That’s another thing! I have to keep secrets from him. You know how that is with me! Ever since my dad shot that guy in For Knights and lied to me about it, it just hit hard. How am I supposed to lie about my double life?” He tapped his thigh with a closed fist. “I’ve managed to keep it together so far, but as things get harder and if the relationship happens, how can I?”

Terry came over and clamped a hand on his shoulder. “It’s to keep him safe. Rebecca knows because Sparrow is a terrible liar-”

“Hey!” 

“He’s not wrong.” Lark interjected.

“-Inherited by Henry, but it also worked because of the prophecy they were given. She had to know. Ma-” Grant gave him the stink eye, cutting him off. “Your crush will have to be in the dark, unless he somehow magically finds out about everything. I know lying sucks for you, but if he gets involved he can get hurt.” 

“It's not a crush, Terry I just met him!”

"Love at first sight exists~!" 

"I just get flustered at the idea!"

Terry just laughed. “You’re smart. You can do it.” 

Yeah, but how?

Chapter Text

He retraced his steps of the heat waves marked on his thermal imaging camera while pushing branches out of the way. The signal’s strong as orange took over the hologram hovering over his watch. Marco’s stomach turned as he got excited. He was so proud of the invention! Humans would show up as blue while other things would be white. Ever since the Blind Spots he’s been on a grind to figure out what’s been causing them. This watch he invented to help him see what he couldn’t out of his own eyes was a work in progress for a while and didn’t think that it’d be in good use. A Blind Spot hadn’t happened in a while. But then it did last week after he met Grant Wilson and Marco got the motivation back to finish it. He just hoped it worked. 

The hologram flashed and beeped red, then the area around him rumbled. Marco couldn’t get over how the technology worked in his favor. Loose tree branches fell close by startling the shit out of him. Marco almost screamed but remembered he needed to stay quiet in case anyone nearby was sleeping. Then again, he’s in a forest. 

As he pulled a treebranch, his scanner picked up something white. It was about 33" (83.82 cm) and looked... human. When Marco glanced up, a small boy stood before him. He had shoulder length black hair, deep brown eyes that sparkled brilliantly and was covered in olive green from head to toe except for a red shirt underneath. Marco raised an eyebrow. 

"Hey, kid. You okay?" He asked cautiously. The boy didn't say anything but just blink. Fair, Marco was a stranger. "Where is your dad?" The boy wiped his snobby face and pointed to the right, which showed a tree intertwining with another tree, but no dad. "Let's get you home. It's not safe here. Can you point me to your mom?"

He followed the direction the boy pointed to. While Marco might not know the area, the toddler did despite his young age. He was smart for his age while Marco could barely navigate the area he's been in for a few months and couldn’t figure out why the Blind Spots were happening, and couldn't even figure out his own feelings. Then again he's a toddler. Toddlers don't think about those things.

The points led to a luxury apartment building with a black fire escape, and balconies zig zagging out of the windows. Marco looked at the kid and back at the apartment in astonishment. He didn’t think there were this big of apartments in San Dimas. Then again he couldn’t afford it. There was a backyard area with a private playground surrounded by a gate, and a forest surrounded the gate. Whoever this kid's parents was better have a good reason as to why he was able to escape into the woods of all places! Why did he point to the oak tree as an answer to his question? 

Marco was led to the 4th floor room number 66. Before knocking, he checked the area for a way to escape. The only thing he saw was down the hallway, a door opened to the fire escape on the side of the building. Marco pressed his lips in a flat line.

“Oh, Taylor, honey!” 

“Mommy!” Taylor ran towards a woman with short black hair with a bit covering her face and  her green eyes sparkled as the light shone on them. She squeezed her son close and lifted him on her hip. 

Marco couldn’t help himself. “He’s three! How could he escape through the fire escape!” 

The woman’s face fell. “He- no! No, he was with his dad! I’m sorry, who are you?” 

“Marco Li,” He introduced and crossed his arms. “Taylor did point to two trees that intertwined with each other when I asked where his dad was, but no dad! How could you just leave him alone outside?” 

The mom kept holding Taylor. Marco could tell she loved him, but how could she just leave him unsupervised? 

“I- you’re right,” he wasn’t expecting that. “My life… has been complicated since I’ve met his father. I’ve been in shambles trying to make it the best for Taylor by getting a good paying job,” she explained. Marco’s demeanor softened. He could relate to that. “But when I’m gone his dad takes Taylor.  Taylor, honey, where's your father?” 

“Daddy in trouble,” he said, giggling. “Boom!” Taylor made an explosion with his hands.

Marco raised an eyebrow. “Does this happen often?” 

“Yeah,” she answered, sighing with a little growl in her throat. “This is the first time Taylor has been brought back by a stranger though.”

“Maybe I don’t have to be a stranger,” he stuck out his hand. “I’m Marco! Marco Li.” 

“Cassandra Swift,” they shook hands. Cassandra adjusted Taylor, but then put him down. She glanced at him as if examining something and pointed at him. “Is that your sweater?” 

Marco blinked. “Huh?”

She scratched her neck and nervously chuckled. “Sorry! It’s just- someone I know has the same one.” 

“Maybe it’s his? I met someone else a few days ago. Gave me his sweater cause he saw me cold.” 

“That’s sweet of him. Catch his name?”

“Grant. Haven’t seen him since we met at the library.”

“I can give him his sweater back for you if you’d like! My husband’s friends with him.” Cassandra reached for his wrist, but Marco retracted. 

“I- I’d rather do it. I’m sure I’ll see him again. Seen him twice in one week so maybe we’ll bump into each other sometime soon.” His cheeks heated. He couldn’t help it. Marco had no idea why he was so hung up about Grant. He’s met him twice now and Grant made him have butterflies in his stomach whenever he got close, or just talked about him. He offered a back massage and that made him nervous. Was it the physical touch or the meaning behind it? Marco sighed frustratingly. This feeling was weird to feel. He didn’t know what to call it.

Cassandra just smiled. “Alright. I’ll let you do that. Thank you again. Maybe we can go out for a coffee sometime?” 

“Yeah!” He responded, maybe a little too quickly. “I-I’d like that.” He cleared his throat. The two of them exchanged goodbyes and Marco left with a smile on his face. 

╧╤╧╤╧╤╧╤╧╤╧╤╧╤╧╤

He huffed a breath due to being annoyed that nothing was showing up on his scanner to tell him anything, so he decided to call it quits. Marco took a few pictures of the area to help him remember where he’s been, a giant tree in the middle of a fork in the road, and made his way home. 

The sky was a mixture of dark red on the bright red as it prepared to go full black. It got damp on his way back. The rain ever so slightly fell and his shoelaces were wet from landing on the sidewalks and he hated the feeling of tying them up so his shoes felt tighter on his feet after they got wet. Marco didn’t know why he hated the feeling; it just sucked to him. Wet string felt weird. 

His scanner beeped. Marco tensed and goosebumps rose on his arms and legs as he heard something… unordinary behind him. The cracking of bones made him shudder in disgust. His watch beeped twice rapidly, but he was too focused on what it was. Turning around, he scanned the area with his eyes trying to pinpoint where it was, then used his scanner to find it. Something white was hiding under the bench. He felt his pupils dilate as what he found under the bench was terrifying. The thing blinked one eye after the other, showing bugged out eyes. The head tilted upwards, showing a big smile. Slowly, an arm popped out and grabbed the top of the bench to pull itself out, scaring the shit out of Marco making him jump back but not run. It took him a bit to notice, maybe because it was dark, but she hit the light, that the smile on her face was most of its face. It didn’t help that the street lamp flickered. Her hair’s pulled back in a ponytail and its skin isn’t… normal skin. When its head hit the light from a different angle, the hair was pulling back some skin from its face, and her bones were about to come through her skin. He wanted to puke. 

“Hi!” It said with a bit of gravel in her voice. Its head stayed facing forward, but she looked down at him with its eyes. “ Hi..!” Its voice was now small.  

Marco ran. He wanted nothing to do with that and he bolted, his camera bouncing against his hip. He had no time to take a picture but why would he want one of… that? Taking the lens cap off and turning on to the proper setting too would take time in itself and that would stop him from running away from the monster giving it time to get close to him which was the last thing he wanted. Getting far away from that thing was top priority. Schmegan could yell at him all he wanted, he wasn’t about to die because of a photo.

The streets were narrow so there was no way that thing could make its way through with how big it was. He heard the cracking of bones again. There’s no possible way… 

He turned a corner but cursed immediately as it was a dead end. The thing approached, crawling on all fours, joints sharply pointed upwards and distorted. Marco looked around for any sort of way out but found nothing. His back was against the wall, and he closed his eyes tight, waiting for a strike.

A shriek from the creature echoed through the alley and he covered his ears for how awful it was. Marco slowly opened his eyes and uncovered them, seeing someone on the creature’s back, blood splattering out of it. The man had tan skin, a scruffy beard, and messy blonde hair. A rope was tossed from behind and the man suddenly doubled. The second man grabbed the creature, forcing it back by its neck with the rope. 

Someone’s hand grabbed his wrist firmly. “Come on, let's get you out of here!” And he was pulled out of the alley, and Marco was pulled out of the way before the thing’s hand with skin pulled back on the fingers dug deep into the wall where he was just standing. 

Marco tripped over his own two feet but managed to get it together as the person forced him in between the creature and the wall to escape. Marco exhaled soundly as he was no longer squeezed by the tight escape route but was yanked around the corner. Two hands clamped on his shoulders. A man with a beard and scruffy blonde hair and bright green eyes looked at him, then around the corner. 

“Stay here. Or get home. Got it?” Marco just stared wordlessly. The man shook his shoulders once. “ Got it?! ”

“Uh- yeah!” Marco replied, getting it together. The man hit his shoulder before disappearing behind the corner. Marco blinked, then started running. He had no idea what just happened and wanted no part of it. That creature was going to give him nightmares. 

Then he stopped. As if on auto pilot, he turned on his heel and ran toward the danger. 

His watch beeped rapidly twice but he didn't pay any mind to it. He heard rubble crack above him and looked up; seeing a fire escape staircase detached from the apartment building and fell towards him. Looking forward, a kid caught his eye; small with black shoulder length hair wearing a green hat and jacket playing with a toy truck not paying attention to anything.. Couldn’t be more than three. Marco didn’t think twice before running to him, picking him up, making him cry for leaving his truck. He ran for his life as fast as he could, rolling on his side and hitting the wall of the building across the street, making sure the child didn’t get hurt, clutching his face into his shoulder and holding him close. Marco stayed low and covered his face so no debris got in his eyes. Thank God for the streets being so narrow. As he opened his eyes, seeing that the staircase stopped screeching down just above him. Marco exhaled in relief. That’s twice now that his life was in danger. But he saved someone. 

The boy was sobbing. Marco realizing he was clutching him tightly, he let loose. Cradling him in his arms, Marco looked around for his mother, but no one was in the streets. Dad wasn’t there either.

“Taylor?! Again?!" Taylor only sobbed and pointed up at the building Marco ran from. 

Marco held him close again and Taylor wrapped his arms around his neck tightly and ran inside the building. Cassandra was at the front entrance, anxiously pacing back and forth, looking as if she’s biting her fingernails but not. Her short hair unkempt, bags under her eyes, and clearly stressed. But that stress faded as soon as she eyed Marco. 

“Oh my god, Taylor!” She gasped, covering her mouth as tears fell. “He- he just escaped and I felt the whole building shake!” The two of them made eye contact. “Thank you so much Marco,” she wiped a tear. “Thank you so much.” 

Marco smiled. “I just hope he’s okay. The fire escape fell and it was a rough landing. Shouldn’t be more than some scrapes though.” 

She lifted Taylor up, examining him. “He’s been through worse, but I’m sure he’ll be okay. I just hope Lark and Sparrow are fine.” 

“Lark and Sparrow?” Those names were new.

“I-” She thought for a moment and put Taylor on her hip again. He rested his head on her shoulder, clearly tired from his long day. Marco couldn’t agree more. “They’re out there with whatever’s happening.” 

So she doesn’t know what’s going on. He’s glad he’s not the only one.

“I’ll see if I can find them.” 

Without hearing a response, he headed out the door, and turned the corner right beside the apartment where the creature was… there? It wasn’t anymore but it was not too long ago. At least ten minutes! Could it be defeated that quickly?

Instead of the creature, two men, one being the man who saved him before on the ground holding his side while the other hovered over him with a concerned expression on his face. He had two hands on his hip. Marco, remembering he always has some sort of first aid in his bag, rushed over. 

“Let me,” he said. “I know first aid.” The other man jumped, lifting his hands, startled. Marco could’ve sworn he saw a glow coming from his palms. 

“You know first aid?” 

He looked at the two. They look identical. One with messy hair and a scruffy beard, the one hovering over had glasses and hair scrunched up in a ponytail. “It's essential. Everyone should know it.” He didn’t miss how ponytail glared at the scruffed looking man who averted his gaze. “What’s his name?”

The wounded one nodded at ponytail. “Lark. I’m Sparrow.” 

Marco nodded. He took out his kit consisting of bandages, alcohol wipes, first aid tape and everything else he needed. Sparrow gave him a permissive nod, and Marco took that as the go ahead. He lifted Lark’s shirt, revealing a slash of some kind from the creature. He cleaned it, receiving a hiss from Lark. 

Right! Cassandra’s friends.

“Hold still, it’ll be worse if you move,” he instructed. “Also, a friend of yours is worried about you.” 

“Who?” 

“Cassandra? Her kid was in danger and I was there just in- Lark hold still!” 

Sparrow chuckled. “I’ve told him that so many times and he still moves. I’ll hold him.”

“Fuck off, Sparrow.”

“Shut up and hold still!” 

Marco couldn' help but laugh at the bantering, confirming that they were twins. One thing still bothered him though.

“What just happened?” 

“The creature followed you and we stopped it,” Lark said simply. He didn’t say anything else. 

Marco held his head. The creature flashed in his mind. “Can it come back?” 

“Uh… maybe,” Lark responded. 

No answers. Got it.

“Thanks for saving my ass back there. I would’ve died without you guys.” 

Sparrow waved him off. “No worries. You’re not hurt, are you?” 

Marco shook his head. “I’m fine. It didn’t get me.”

“I never got your name. You’re a catch,” Lark complimented. Marco couldn’t help but blush. “Who are you? What are you doing in a place like good old San Dimas?” 

“Fresh start in a town I’ve never heard of before. My hometown kept getting these things I call Blind Spots, so thought I’d come here to avoid them. But they happen here too.” 

Sparrow raised an eyebrow. “Blind Spots?”

“Once in a while everything turns white for a split second, then things go back to normal. Happened a ton where I lived and experienced one a week ago.” The twins looked at each other. “What?” 

“Sorry, we just… never heard of that before,” Sparrow said, rubbing his fist with his thumb. “We should take you home. It’s not safe here.” 

Marco rubbed the patch on Lark’s hip to make sure it stuck. “I’d appreciate that, Sparrow. Thanks.” 

╧╤╧╤╧╤╧╤╧╤╧╤╧╤╧╤ 

The ride home was awkward. The twins stayed silent as Marco sat in the back. Lark drove despite Marco protesting against the idea but Sparrow told him to give up the argument due to it being almost impossible to win. Giving in, he hung up the towel.

He took the advantage to think. The two of them saved him from whatever that thing was. Did Sparrow’s hands glow? Marco could’ve sworn he saw them glow a light faded green for a split second. Where did the creature go? Did it disintegrate? It can’t just disappear out of thin air like magic.

“Where did the creature go?” Marco felt as if something was up. Creatures couldn’t just vanish unless magic existed.

Sparrow looked at Lark as he spoke. “It disappeared into a purple swirl and vanished after it died.” 

Something about Sparrow’s voice was off putting, but Marco couldn’t put his finger on it. “Alright,” he responded simply. If they’re giving simple answers, so will he. He wished he didn’t give a full answer of the Blind Spots but he couldn’t take it back now. 

Marco took out his phone, cursed that it was dead, then took out his notebook and wrote down what he saw. The vehicle was vibrating, making it harder to write but if he didn’t now he would forget later. Wanted to make sure the creature’s descriptions were right despite hating having to think about it.

What about Taylor? Why was he out by himself shouldn’t Cassandra be more alert? Where was his dad? What would’ve happened if…

Marco shook the thoughts out of his head. That was rude. He couldn’t judge Cassandra when his own life was in shambles. Maybe he could help her out somehow if the dad wasn’t in the picture. Or maybe the dad was just out that night. He couldn’t just assume things just based on meeting her once.

Meeting Cassandra, Lark and Sparrow felt like a lot in one day. He wanted to meet new people, but didn’t think it’d happen this fast. He would’ve been fine if it were just Grant, but a larger friend group had alway been a hope of his. Then again they’re not even friends, he just knows them. But meeting them was a start even if it was the weirdest of circumstances. Marco didn’t believe in coincidences. Maybe his wishes are being granted. He’s been lonely for quite some time, and now he has a job and knows some people in town. 

“This is your place?” Lark asked, turning the corner.

“Uh, yeah! Yeah that’s it.” Marco replied. “Thank you for the ride. I honestly didn’t feel comfortable walking home.” 

“No sweat! Glad we can help.” 

Marco shifted awkwardly. “Right! Well, see you around town?”

Sparrow smiled. “It is a small one so maybe. Stay safe now!”

It's a small town. Maybe they'll see each other again.

Lark didn’t leave until he got in the apartment building. He smiled and waved then let his arm fall. Marco's tired. It's been a long day. As soon as Marco got to his room, he cried. Today was a lot. He got chased by a monster, saved a kid, and met three new people. Big events overwhelm him. Usually he'd tell his parents about it but they're busy and didn't want them to worry. Especially about the m

He wanted to tell Grant about what happened. Would he believe him though? Being chased and being a hero? It was crazy. The world was crazy. The world was also throwing things at him and he needed to run in order to catch them.

Right. He didn't have his contact. Another reason for them to meet up again. After all, it's a small town.