Archive of Our Own ^beta

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KORRA X ASAMI (Legend of Korra)

Korra sighs in blissful content as she lays in Asami’s lap. The two of them were back in the Spirit World, something they do every six months, which has been a tradition of theirs for the last 10 years. Which is exactly why they are there, to celebrate their 10 year anniversary as a couple. Not their wedding anniversary (they’ve been married for 8 years now), but the anniversary that they both feel is just as meaningful as their wedding one.

Korra never saw herself being with anyone, let alone being married. It was never something that was guaranteed for her growing up. That’s one of the reasons why she fell for Mako so quickly. He was something new and exciting and he got her fired up in ways she had never felt before. But fire and fire have no balance. She learned that the hard way.

Her and Asami though? She never saw that coming, even when she was in the middle of crushing on her. She didn’t know anything about sexual orientation. Didn’t know that such a thing as loving men and women was real. She thought her crush on Asami was simply admiration. She didn’t even know it was a crush until she had talked to Jinora about it. And with everything going on, Korra knew that a confession would have to wait. There were bigger things to worry about.

And she won’t lie…she was also worried that Asami wouldn’t feel the same. It’s not easy asking a girl if she likes girls too. It’s embarrassing actually because what if she doesn’t? Then you’re left standing there awkwardly while the other clearly knows you’re into her now. Then she gets weirded out and then she stops talking to you and aaahhh!

At least that’s how Korra felt.

Then there was that one fateful day when she and Asami visited the Spirit World and kissed among the flying spirits. 

That day changed everything.

And now here they are 10 years later.

“What’s on your mind?” Asami asks, taking Korra out of her deep thoughts.

Korra looks up at her wife and smiles. “I was just thinking how crazy it is that we’ve been together for 10 years now. Time is going by too fast.”

Asami smiles softly. “It really is, but that’s to be expected when you have fun everyday with your soulmate.”

“And to think,” Korra laughs, “we never would have met if it wasn’t for Mako.”

Asami rolls her eyes playfully. “Oh yes, how can I forget the very boy who’s attention we both fought over.”

“An uncle to our children now.” Korra blows out a breath. “That’s going to be awkward explaining that to the kids one day.”

Asami giggles once more. “Don’t worry, love. We’ve handled worse.”

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RUBY X SAPPHIRE (GARNET)***(Steven Universe)

It’s very rare for Garnet to unfuse. She knows that whatever she experiences that Sapphire and Ruby can see and feel it too in the back of her mind. She can hear their thoughts just as they can hear hers. She also knows that whatever the two of them experience separately she’ll be able to remember once they become one.

So the suggestion of unfusing was truly no bother to her. She wanted to become undone because she felt Sapphire and Ruby deserved to have their first moments with Nora to themselves. Sapphire and Ruby were reluctant at first because they also felt Garnet deserved to have her moments with Nora first. After all, Garnet was there for Steven the most. Sapphire and Ruby, not so much. They were there for Steven as Garnet. And yes, while Garnet is Sapphire and Ruby, she is also her own self. 

It’s complicated, but Steven understands.

“ I’m Garnet all the time, ” Garnet had said to Sapphire and Ruby. “ I’ll have plenty of moments with Nora. As Garnet, you two will also be with me in those moments, but I think as yourselves, with no one else in your mind, your first moments with Nora’s should be your own.”

She had a good point. So much so, in fact, that it was enough to convince the couple to unfuse.

And now here they are, peering down at baby Nora with tearful eyes.

Nora had the same light brown complexion as Stevonnie, but instead of dark brown hair, she wore a crown of pink curls. A trait she must have gotten from Rose, her grandmother. 

Grandmother , Ruby thinks. We’re grandmothers too.

Her eyes light up. “Sapphire,” she says, not taking her eyes off of her granddaughter. “What do grandmas do?”

Sapphire looks over at her wife, who was still looking down at the baby, and she smiles. “We get to love another part of Steven.”

She kisses the side of Ruby’s head as a vision flashes in her mind. It was multiple snippets of the future, of baby Nora and the rest of the family. 

“Forever and ever,” she says after the vision ended. 

Ruby looks over at her then, grinning widely before kissing her on the lips. “Forever and ever.”

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MARCELINE X BUBBLEGUM (Adventure Time) 

“No offense,” Bubblegum says as she dances with Marceline. “But you have horrible taste in men.”

Marceline laughs as she sways with her love. “What on earth brought that up? Especially at our wedding.”

“I was just thinking about your ex boyfriend Ash,” Bubblegum answers truthfully. “And how in another universe you probably ended up marrying him instead of me. I remember you telling me how much of a really shitty person he is and how you couldn’t believe you were with him for as long as you were. I’m glad it didn’t work out between you two.”

Marceline leans forward to kiss the tip of her new wife’s nose. “I’m glad it didn’t work out either. Now stop thinking about my ex on our wedding day. It’s weird.”

Bubblegum laughs and says nothing more as the two of them danced the night away.

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COURTNEY X TABITHA (Craig of the Creek)

“I can’t believe tomorrow is opening day,” Courtney says as she stands next to her girlfriend, proudly smiling at their new witchy store.

They poured their blood, sweat, and tears into it. It was a long journey, but it was so worth it. And now tomorrow their dream is coming true.

“Who would have thought,” Tabitha starts as she wraps her arm around her fiance’s waist, “that three little kids would inspire all of this? I sure as hell didn’t.”

Witches of the Creek was the name they had chosen for their new store. A name given to them 10 years ago from Craig, Kelsey, and JP. The goobers are 20 now, doing who knows what in college. When they were old enough to have social media, Tabitha and Courtney both received friend requests from the trio. Courtney thought it was cute, but Tabitha thought it was weird. They are 8 years older after all, but she does have a soft spot for them. They’re like younger siblings to her, so of course she ended up accepting.

“I can’t wait to see them tomorrow,” Courtney coos. “We opened up just in time for their summer break.”

“Summerween is gonna be so dope this year,” Tabitha cheers, already planning on so many deals to get the customers rolling. 

Courtney giggles and grabs hold of her fiance’s hand. “It’ll be the best one yet now that we have our store. I couldn’t have done this without you, love.”

Tabitha’s eyes soften. “I couldn’t have done it without you either, silly. This was a team effort.”

And then at the same time they both said: “I love you.” Their unison made them giggle and they shared a chaste kiss before Tabitha said: “You have bewitched me.”

Courtney grins and says: “As have you. Witch of my heart.” 

“Witch of my soul,” Tabitha finishes and goes in for another kiss. 

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CATRA X ADORA (Dreamworks She-Ra: Princesses of Power)

There’s a lot of things Adora loves about Catra, but her absolute most favorite thing about Catra is when she purrs. She had always loved Catra’s purring, but the sound is different now that Adora has romantic feelings for her life-long friend. Girlfriend now. Adora still can’t believe it and it’s been a whole year now since the battle; a whole year since their love saved their world. 

She must be thinking the same thing, Adora thinks. Otherwise why else would she be purring while putting decorations up? If anything, she’d be fighting Glimmer about not wanting to do it.

“What’s on your mind, love?” Adora asks, taking a break from her task, which was blowing up the balloons.

Catra’s task was to tie the strings to the balloons, and without looking away from her job, she asks: “What do you mean?” She finishes her knot and hands it to Adora.

Adora takes it and says: “You’re purring. Are you happy right now?”

Catra blushes as she smiles. “Well, yeah. I’m always happy when I’m with you.”

Adora’s heart beats faster in pure bliss. “Even when you’re doing a boring task like this?”

Catra leans forward and kisses Adora on the nose. “Yes, even this. But that’s only because it’s the one year anniversary since the war. Today is an especially happy day.”

Adora grins. “I knew you were thinking that. Why else would you purr? There’s no way my Catra would enjoy putting up decorations.”

Catra rolls her eyes. “Yeah, yeah, whatever. I can be a team-player too ya know.”

This time, Adora kisses Catra, but on the lips. Catra immediately melts into the kiss, but all too quickly it ends. “I like having you on my team.”

Catra smirks. “Oh? You didn’t like me chasing you down and trying to kill you?”

Adora snorts. “Oh no, I loved it.” She says sarcastically. “Very hot.”

“Yeah well,” Catra shrugs. “That’s a shame. Because I hated it and never want to do it again.”

Adora nods. “Agreed. Like I said,” she winks, “I like you on my team.”

Smiling, Catra says: “Well, I love being on your team–”

“And I would love it if you two got back to work and stopped flirting,” Glimmer says from across the room.

Adora laughs while Catra blushes and withholds a growl. “You’re such a killjoy, Sparkles.”

Glimmer chuckles. “Well, excuse me for not wanting to barf before the party.”

“Oh, come on, Glimmer,” says Adora, “You know you love us being together. We’re your favorite couple.”

Glimmer rolls her eyes. “No, my favorite couple is Bow and I.”

Catra pretends to gag. “Gross.”

“Now you know how I feel,” she teases, causing the three of them to laugh.

“Well,” Adora takes over, “We may not be your favorite couple, but,” she turns to look at Catra, giving her feline-girlfriend a wide grin, “we sure are mine.”

And much to Adora’s happiness, Catra begins purring again.

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AMITY X LUZ (The Owl House)

(TRIGGER WARNING: Mentions infertility) 

“Do you think we’d be able to have biological kids through magic?”

The question took Amity so off guard that she ended up choking on her tea. Leave it to her girlfriend to wait until she’s in the middle of a drink to ask a question like that. 

“Oh, no, are you okay babe?” Luz asks as she pats Amity’s back while she coughs.

When Amity finally catches her breath, she says: “Luz, what on earth brought that up? Are you thinking about having kids? So soon? We’re not even married yet! We’re also only 20.”

Liz grins at Amity’s overthinking, thinking it to be cute. Unless it’s seriously bad, then she has to calm Amity down. “I know we’re only 20, but it’s good to have a plan for the future, right? We’re definitely not ready to have a kid, and I would also definitely like to be married first. But I was just wondering. I don’t think I ever asked Willow. I know she, or at least her dads would know the answer if you don’t. But you’re the smartest witch I know, so I figured I’d ask you first.”

Amity smiles and gently sets her tea down on the table. “Well, lucky for you, I do in fact have the answer.”

Because at one point even Amity was curious about her and Liz’s future kids. So of course she had the same question. “Queer couples, and even straight couples with infertility issues, can indeed have biological children. All that’s needed are five things from each partner. Some hair, some spit, a couple of tears, some sweat, and some blood.”

“Wow,” says Luz, amazed. “So people quite literally put their blood, sweat, and tears into it, huh?”

Amity giggles and nods. “That’s right. The ingredients are turned into a drinkable potion. For a wlw relationship, one of the women will drink it and carry the child. For an mlm relationship, they are given a podling plant that they pour the potion on, which carries the child within it until it is ready to blossom. Straight couples can do either. Actually, wlw couples can choose the podling plant too if neither is up for childbirth.”

“Which would you prefer?” Luz asks, curiously, thinking of her own answer as well.

“I’d like to carry,” Amity answers. “There’s just something so magical—no, beyond magical—about carrying a life inside of you. It’s so heartbreaking that some women who want children are unable to experience it. If I was all powerful, I would grant them the ability in a heartbeat.”

Luz nods. “I especially hate people who make them feel like a failure for not being able to have children, and make them feel like they aren’t woman enough. I hate that people really believe that a woman’s only purpose in life is to create and birth life. It really just pisses me off. We are more than just vessels, and those who are infertile are not meaningless or without purpose. We are so much more than baby-carriers. And those assholes who think otherwise can fuck off.”

Amity gasps. “Luz! That language will get you beat by your mom.”

Luz laughs. “Actually, love, I think she’d be cussing more.”

Amity giggles and tilts her head. “Yeeeaaahhh, you’re definitely right. I love your mom.”

Luz smiles, full of pride. “Me too. And hopefully some day, we’ll be moms ourselves. And if that’s not what Fate decides, then oh well. At least we’ll have each other.”

Amity’s grin reaches her ears. “That’s right, my sweet potato.”

“But ooohhh,” Luz cooed as her imagination runs wild and her eyes light up, “think of the outfits we could put them in!”

“And the horrendous diapers we’ll have to deal with,” Amity says, trying to remind Luz of the gross parts of motherhood that no one really talks about. “I hope poop doesn’t make you squeamish.”

Luz grimaces and swallows back a gag. “Okay, baby fever gone. For now at least. The babies can definitely wait.”

Amity nods, holding back another giggle. “Agreed.” She then swiftly gives Luz a kiss on the cheek. “But when the time is right, we’re gonna be the best moms ever.”

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HARLEY X IVY (Harley Quinn)

Their daughter looks exactly like she did in the other universe. Neither Harley or Ivy knows what her personality is going to be like when she’s older—she’s only 1 after all—but considering that the other universe doesn’t exist anymore, they both can only assume that their daughter—Oak—will be an entirely different person than her post-apocalyptic variant.

She already has a different name, so that’s a start. 

“I can’t believe our baby girl is 1 year old,” says Harley with tears in her eyes as she watches her daughter sleep in her crib.

“I still can’t believe she’s even here,” Ivy says as she too watches her daughter sleep. “And that she named herself after that Avatar character in the other world. Oak is much better.”

Harley smiles and nods. “Agreed.” She reaches toward Ivy’s cheek and rests her hand there. “My Poison Ivy.” She then looks down at the baby. “And my Poison Oak.”

Ivy leans into her wife’s touch, smiling softly before saying in a hard voice. “We are not letting her watch Avatar. Ever. She can still change her name in the future and I’ll be damned if it’s Neytiri. It’s best she doesn’t know that franchise exists.”

Harley nearly burst into laughter but bit her lip to not wake Oak. “Agreed. I mean, seriously, what was she thinking? Talk about extreme. She definitely got that from you.”

Ivy snorts. “Girl, please. She got that from you 100%.”

Harley hums, amused. “Yeah, you’re probably right.”

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LOONA X GIGI (Helluva Boss)

It was two months after Sinmas when Loona realized she had a crush on one of her best friends. Gigi. The most drop dead gorgeous brown poodle Loona has ever laid eyes upon. It wasn’t love or lust at first sight, but she did think the poodle was hot when she first met her. Being the disaster bi that Loona is, she’s used to being attracted to almost everyone she meets. So her being attracted to Gigi was no biggie. 

Her flirting back with Gigi was no biggie.

Because true friends flirt with each other. And if someone is going to flirt with her first, of course she’s going to flirt back. Well, only if they’re cute, that is. Which Gigi certainly is. 

And her being jealous when Gigi would go out on dates and talk about her hookups was also no biggie.

Because it’s normal for friends to be jealous when their best friend is hanging out with other people, whether they be dates or not. And it’s normal to be jealous that your friend doesn’t want to fuck you. It would be totally weird if they did. Not very ‘friend like’. Unless you are friends with benefits. Which isn’t what Loona wants. What she wants is to at least be a possible option. What’s wrong with that?

Because Loona would never go through with it, but she at least wants to be asked. There’s nothing wrong with that at all. 

And the reason why she wouldn’t go through with it is because of the risk of ruining the friendship she has with Gigi. One of them will develop feelings most likely. One of them won’t reciprocate. And both of them will lose their friendship. Which is something Loona isn’t willing to risk.

But oh, when Valentine’s Day rolled around and Gigi was going out with some Golden Retriever bitch—oh, sorry, butch— the sadness and jealousy hit Loona hard. She thought it was because Gigi wouldn’t be about to make it to their Galentine sleepover; she thought it was a mere friendship jealousy thing that she was feeling. But after talking with her dad about her feelings, he made her realize that the jealousy she was feeling wasn’t platonically based at all. It was romantically based.

And that made her even more sad. Gigi should be going out on a date with her . Not some Golden Retriever tramp.

But yes, if it wasn’t for Blitzo, Loona wouldn’t have realized she has a crush on her best friend.

And honestly, as much as she appreciates her dad’s help with the realization of her true feelings, she’s currently annoyed with him because of it. Because now her future interactions with Gigi are going to be awkward. At least for her. Because now she’s going to be listening to Gigi talk about her sexcapades and begin to imagine that it’s the two of them instead. Because now whenever Gigi talks, Loona is going to have to look at everything that’s not Gigi’s lips or her breasts, or the curve of her hips.

And Loona just knows she’s going to be caught slacking and she is so not looking forward to being called out for it. 

She can’t lie for shit when it’s something she actually gives a fuck about. Something she doesn’t give a rat's ass for? Lying is easy as pie. Or whatever the fuck it is humans say. But also, with a Hellhound’s hearing, Gigi would know that she’s panicked and trying to lie, so Loona is totally fucked.

She wonders if there were moments where her heart rate sped up and she didn’t realize it. Did Gigi? If she did what was she thinking? 

Loona shakes her head to get rid of the thoughts before she spirals again, and right when she does, Blitzo walks through the door. 

“Hey, Loony!” He says as he puts the groceries on the counter. “I wasn’t expecting you to be home. Usually you’re out with Russ and Gigi.” He wiggles his eyebrows suggestively. 

Loona groans as she gets to her feet. “I was supposed to, but then I chickened out.”

The playfulness on Blitzo’s face is replaced with worry. “Oh, no, how come?” He suddenly gasps. “Oh my poor baby! You’re not feeling sick are you?” He’s by her side before she can blink and is checking her temperature.

Loona swats him away with a growl. “I’m fine, dad. I flaked out on them because I’m nervous to be around Gigi. Now that I know I have a crush on her, my awareness is gonna ruin things. I wish I never knew what I was feeling. It’s like Vortex all over again. Ugh I was such a loser dweeb around him. I don’t want to act like that around Gigi.”

“Well, between you and me, I like Gigi a lot better.” Blitzo beams, full of excitement and approval, not that Loona needs his approval. 

“Why’s that? You didn’t even know Vortex all that well, except that he was a bodyguard to your ex.” Loona says, defending her sorta friend. 

“That’s exactly it,” Blitzo says, matter of factly. “Not him being Verosika’s hound, but because he was never around—“

“Oh like you would have allowed that anyway.” Loona grumbles. 

“Touché, but I never did because of reason two. He’s a male! He’s got a penis and balls filled with sperm that can get you pregnant. And look, honey, I will support you no matter what, your baby will be my grandchild after all, but I just don’t want you to throw your life away. You’re so young—“

“Wait, hold on. Is that the only reason why you like Gigi then? Because she can’t get me pregnant since she’s another girl?” Loona asks on disbelief. 

“Pretty much yeah.” Blitzo answers, nonchalantly. 

Loona groans. “What if she was a shitty ass person? You wouldn’t care because she doesn’t have a dick?”

“Pretty much yeah,” Blitzo repeats.

Loona growls and it makes him laugh. “Oh Loony, take that stick out your ass. I’m just playing. I love Gigi because 1) she has great taste in style, 2) she’s funny, 3) she can really beat a bitch up, and 4) she makes you smile and laugh more than anyone else I know. Anyone, no matter their gender, that can make you react like that gets my blessing.”

Loona’s eyes soften and her tail slightly wags. “Oh, um, thanks dad.”

Blitzo puts his hands on his hips. “Don’t thank me yet. Thank me after you guys become a couple. When are you going to tell her how you feel?”

“When I know for sure she feels the same way.” 

“How will you know if you don’t ask her?”

“I can’t—“

“Wow I didn’t take you for a pussy bitch at all—“

“WHAT?!” Loona’s teeth are bared, and her claws are out, ready to strike (not her dad but something close). “You fucking asshole! I’m not a pussy bitch—“

“Then prove me wrong,” Blitzo interrupts, arms crossed and a stupid smirk wide on his face. “Confess your feelings like the brave hellhound I know you are. If she says she doesn’t feel the same and the friend group is destroyed then oh fucking well. You can make new friends. I know you’re capable of it. You just gotta put yourself out there. Now are you a scaredy pup or no?”

Loona’s ears perk on realization (once again) that her dad was right. It’s gonna suck if she doesn’t feel the same and it’s gonna suck if she doesn’t want to be friends anymore, but this is Hell so pain is part of the deal. There are also plenty of other Hellhounds to be friends with. If Gigi doesn’t want anything to do with her then fuck her . 

I’m a brave bad bitch and I got this, Loona thinks to herself. 

“Let’s do this.”

She pulls out her phone and opens up her message thread with Gigi. She hesitates as fear flashes through her, but when she looks at her dad and he gives her a nod of encouragement, she swallows the fear down and begins typing.

Hey G. I have a confession. I’m sorry if this ruins your night. I wasn’t even going to say anything but I’ve got to prove my dad wrong so…here I am. Okay, so I’m just gonna come straight out with it. I have romantic feelings for you. We can talk more about it in person if you want, but that’s all I’m going to say for now. I don’t want to make this a long text, so…yeah. See you soon?

Loona sends the text and then reads it over, not saying a word to her dad as she rereads it three more times. Blitzo, trying to be patient, stood waiting very impatiently . He’s way more excited about this than Loona is, and just when he was about to ask if Gigi had responded yet, Loona suddenly gasps.

Her eyes were wide and her ears were straight up in alert as she reread Gigi’s message over and over and over again. 

Well it’s about damn time! I feel the same about you too. But god damn, you sure know how to keep a girl waiting ;) Let’s talk more about this over dinner tonight yeah? 

“Oh my god no way!” Loona explains, happily. Her tail was wagging at full speed and her heart was beating faster. 

She starts typing her response when Blitzo says: “What did she say?? Is it good? I’m assuming it’s good. But what was it?”

And while her father continues to beg (as well as start to climb on her so he can see her phone) Loona was more focused on her reply. 

Yes of course! I’ll pick you up at 6

Perfect! It’s a date ^_^

It’s a date, Loona texts back, completely unbothered that Blitzo was now sitting on her shoulder like a bird.

A date, she thinks to herself with glee. I’ve got a date with my best friend.

And little did she know that tomorrow, they wouldn’t be best friends anymore. Instead, they’d become something sweeter.

Girlfriends. 

And nothing is cuter than a pair of dogs in love.

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CHARLIE X VAGGIE (Hazbin Hotel)

Charlie’s eyes were wide and brimming with tears as she stared down at her girlfriend on one knee. Her heart was pounding so fast that she swears it’ll burst out from her chest at any moment. Surely she must be dreaming. There’s no way Vaggie is proposing to her on the same night that she (Charlie) planned on proposing to her (Vaggie).

Maybe she’s seeing it wrong. “Vaggie,” she starts, breathless. “What—“

“Charlie Morningstar,” Vaggie says, her nervousness as clear as day. “I had a whole speech that I wanted to say to you but I’m so nervous and forgot everything that I had wanted to say. Everything except for that I love you. More than anything. I want to spend the rest of my life with you as your wife and you as mine. Forever and always. Will you marry me?”

Charlie wipes away the tears that fell down her cheeks. She sniffles and then laughs in disbelief and amusement, which confused Vaggie for a moment and sent a spike of fear through her veins. But before she could ask, Charlie, who still hasn’t answered yet, reaches for the box inside her jacket pocket.

She gets down on one knee and opens the box, making Vaggie gasp.

“I’ll marry you only if you marry me.” Charlie says, blinking back her tears so she could get a clear look of the love of her life. 

Vaggie laughs. “Oh my god, this is hilarious. We’re so in sync.”

“Apparently so,” says Charlie. 

“I’m so in love with you.” Vaggie beams. If she could glow, she’d be as bright as the sun right now.

“I take that as a yes?” Charlie asks, grinning.

Vaggie nods, eagerly. “Yes! Yes I’ll marry you.”

“And I’ll marry you!” Charlie says quickly as she gets to her feet and helps Vaggie get to hers. “100 times yes!”

They help each other slip on the other’s ring, and share a passionate kiss. Friends and family who were hidden away and were recording the whole thing, cheered in the background, and while the lovely couple did in fact hear them, it did not bring them care to stop their passionate kiss. 

Their first kiss as fiancés. 

And someday soon they will share their first kiss as wives. 

Needless to say, the Princess of Hell began wedding planning the very next hour.

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CERISE X HOWLEEN (Ever After High and Monster High)

***Also published in Spooky Love***

~*~

Her bare feet left imprints on the damp soil as she ran through the wet woods. It had rained earlier that morning, but the sun was out now, as well as the creatures that live in the woods. Squirrels scavenged for nuts, birds collected twigs, and deer gnawed on the moist grass. But the wolves that roam the lands? They ran. 

And she ran with them.

Her red hood flowing behind her like a trail of blood.

After Raven had declared that the Rebels should write their own destinies during Legacy Day, Cerise fled to the human world as soon as she could. She had done research way before the events of Legacy Day, and what she found had struck her to her very core. 

Others like her live in the Human World. People with wolf-like abilities. People who, like her father, can turn into wolves. Werewolves, the realm calls it. Cerise can’t turn into a wolf like the werewolf monsters in this realm can, but she has the ears, eyes, and heightened senses of one. She’s one of them. One of the pack.

Which was the first thing she searched for. Luckily, Cupid, who had lived a long time in the Human Realm, helped navigate her in the right direction, which led Cerise to Monster High. Cerise was put off by the idea of starting school again, but when she was told that werewolves go to the school, she was sold. 

And meeting Howleen definitely sealed the deal.

Cerise has known she’s liked girls for a few years now; since she was thirteen. Like another big secret of hers, (being half-wolf that is), she kept her bisexuality in the closet. Not even her best friend Raven knew. Cerise had planned on coming out to her once they graduated Ever After High, but alas…plans change. No, instead, she came out in the middle of the school year at a new school. All with the help of Howleen, her fierce and loyal werewolf girlfriend.

And fortunately, FaceTime and text messaging works amongst the realms. Which means Cerise was able to come out to Raven, who has her 100% support and love. However, it’s one thing to come out to your friend; it’s a whole different level when it’s your family. It’s also something Cerise wanted to do in person rather than over the phone.

But it’s been a year since they graduated. A year since she came out. A year since she and Howleen became a couple. She’s able to visit her home-realm, but Cerise is scared. She’s afraid coming out to her parents will be a grave mistake.

Sometimes she feels silly for thinking this way. After all, according to them, their society had a strict rule of Royals not romantically mingling with Rebels, especially if they were destined to be the Villain of the Tale. Her parents were never supposed to be together. Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf. And to this day, their love and the question of who Cerise’s father is, is a secret that may never be revealed. 

So why should she do the same? Why should she come clean? Why should she emerge from the shadows? Her parents have been safe all these years living in hiding. That’s what Cerise wants for her and Howleen; safety. She’s not saying that she doesn’t feel safe with her parents, but…one can never be too sure.

However, she also wants acceptance and support from those who mean the world to her. And if they truly don’t support and love her, then why should she even consider them Pack? Why bother with those who would want nothing to do with you? Especially when there are better people more worthy of your time and company. Cerise knows if she doesn’t come out, she’ll never know if they love her unconditionally or not. 

Cerise stops running when she makes it to her favorite spot in the woods; a cliff, which shows hundreds of trees along the horizon. It’s Autumn time in the Human Realm, so the leaves are all sorts of colors. Red, brown, yellow, orange, green. It’s her favorite time of the year, and the festivities that the people of the realm host are just as fun as the ones back home.

This is my home now though, she thinks as she stares out into the open space, It has been for the last year. It was never supposed to be permanent though, but…

Cerise’s wolf ears twitch at the sound of noise coming from behind her. She looks and sees Howleen in wolf form. She’s just as beautiful as an animal as she is in her human form. Thick, orangish-brown fur, big golden eyes, and the sharpest of claws and teeth. She walks up to Cerise on all fours before shifting into a cloud of orange and pink smoke which reveals her human self.

“The plan was to go hunting,” is the first thing she says, “not tree gazing, Cerise. What are you doing in our special spot?”

Cerise smiles softly at the word ‘our’. “I just needed a place to think real quick, is all. I can’t really think straight to hunt right now.” She plops down on the ground and starts picking at the grass, feeling a little sheepish that she couldn’t control her thoughts for one moment and had let her instincts carry her away from her task. “I’ll try not to do it again. Can we sit for a moment, though? I know the pack is hungry, but–”

She’s cut off when Howleen crouches down to kiss her nose. “Of course we can, silly. There’s nothing wrong with needing a breather. Are you okay?” She sits next to Cerise, looking concerned. “Is this about seeing your parents and coming out to them? You don’t need to unless you feel safe and ready.”

Cerise nods. “I know. It’s just…” she sighs then leans back so she’s laying down on the grass, not caring that it’s wet from the morning rain. “Everything is so perfect right now. There’s no conflict. I don’t want to be the cause of that happening. But then it’s like…I also don’t want to keep you a secret from my family. I don’t know what to do.”

Howleen leans back to lay next to her and says: “You've got to really think deeply on what you feel is right, my love. Consider the pros and cons, but please don’t let me be an influence. This is about you, Cerise. I’m fine staying in the shadows with you no matter how long it takes.”

“And what if I never want to leave the shadows?”

“Then that’s exactly where we’ll stay.”

Tears brimmed Cerise’s eyes, but she didn’t let them fall. Howleen’s sister, Clawdeen, worked hard on Cerise’s makeup, so she doesn’t want to ruin the work. “I love you.” She blurts, smiling. “Thank you for being so patient and understanding.”

Howleen leans forward and kisses her nose again. “Of course, babe. But guess what?”

“What?”

Howleen quickly gets to her feet. “I love you more than you love me!” She shifts into wolf form and dashed towards the trees.

Cerise scrambles to her feet, stumbling over her red hood, and shouts: “No, I love you more!” She finds balance and chases after her werewolf girlfriend, feeling envious that she couldn’t turn into a wolf too. A feeling she never felt while at Ever After High. Over there, she wanted so desperately to be human, but over here? She wants nothing more than to be a full werewolf. 

She used to be so ashamed of her wolf-heritage, but ever since coming to Monster High, she’s learned to embrace it like she never thought she would. She doesn’t hide her ears and isn’t afraid to use her wolf sight, which changes her eye color to gold. She doesn’t hold back her speed and strength. And while she knows she’s not a full wolf, she also knows that she actually is in the only ways that count. Heart, mind, and soul. She doesn’t need to shift in order to be a Child of the Moon. She doesn’t need to shift to be part of the Pack. Because Howleen’s family welcomed her with no hesitation.

And as she’s running after Howleen, she couldn’t help but wonder if her own mother ever chased her father like this when he was in wolf form. It made her smile against the breeze that kissed her face and blew through her now white hair, streaked with brown stripes instead of the other way around like it was last year. She wondered if her mom ever felt envious at not being a werewolf like her father. Or if her father wished to be human like her mother. And here Cerise is…the perfect combination of both. Wolf and Human. 

Maybe she has nothing to worry about after all. Her parents' situation and Cerise’s aren’t too different. Maybe if they were to look at Cerise and Howleen, they would see themselves.

Because after all, just like her mother, Cerise was a girl…

That fell in love with a wolf.

Chapter Text

CLAWDEEN X CATRINE (Monster High)

***Also published in Spooky Love***

~*~

Clawdeen was fuming and it was all thanks to Toralei. Not only did Toralei deliberately ruin her favorite tiger striped shirt, but she also was the reason why Clawdeen became frustrated and said some not so kind words. About Toralei and her kind. Werecats. 

Like all Werebeasts, Werewolves and Werecats share the same moon. They are shifters with more similarities than differences. The same can be said about Vampires, though strangely they are not categorized as a Werebeast, even though they can shift into bats and are also Children of the Moon. It is just something that has always been. The same can be said about the two feuds that have been going on with the Werewolves. Werewolves have been in conflict with Vampires and Werecats for centuries, and while Clawdeen is in no way prejudiced at all like her grandparents are, Toralei just brought out the absolute worst in her. Her words would make you think she is racist against the felines, but that’s not true at all.

It’s not all werecats she dislikes. It’s just Toralei and the Twins and every single other one that acts like them. 

“I hope you drown in a river you flea bitten, hissfitting,  pussycats  ! You cats are nothing but trouble and this school would be better off without you!”

And just like how werewolves hate being called dogs and/or mutts, pussycat is a derogatory term for Werecats. They also hate being called hissfits and take it real personal when you wish them to die in a body of water. The whole sentence she had said was real personal and rude, but they did deserve it after all.

Needless to say, Toralei and her two friends, Meowlody and Purrsephone were pissed. So much so in fact that Toralei actually got violent, causing the two of them to, as the humans say, “throw hands”. They caused quite a bit of damage to each other, drawing blood as well, but with their super healing abilities, it wasn’t much of a worry. Though, they still got into an immense amount of trouble. Toralei’s punishment was one month of suspension, while Clawdeen’s was a day due to her technically defending herself.

So here she is now, cleaning the attic of the school, and hating every second of it.

That is, until a certain someone decides to visit her.

Her ears perk at the sound of her girlfriend’s soft steps and her mouth nearly waters at the scent of her. But the words that came out of her girlfriend’s mouth almost made her whimper.

“You know, for someone who hates werecats, you sure do wear a lot of cat print. It looks to me that you secretly want to be one of us, and yet you believe we shouldn’t be at this school.”

Clawdeen sighs. This is exactly what she was fearing would happen. That her secret werecat girlfriend would make a comment about Clawdeen’s not so kind words to Toralei. Clawdeen slowly turns around to face Catrine, her ears lowered in submission, and her nerves on high alert. She prays this doesn’t turn into an argument. Catrine isn’t the type to argue, she’s mature and likes talking things out, but sometimes you never know. Maybe today isn’t going to be a talking day for her. Maybe Clawdeen overstepped with her words, even though they weren’t directed at Catrine at all.

“Hey, babe,” Clawdeen says, nervously rubbing the back of her neck. Catrine is glaring at her, not saying a word, which causes Clawdeen to break. “Cat, I’m sorry. I really am. Please don’t be mad at me. But you gotta understand that I didn’t mean all werecats. It’s literally just Toralei and the twins. You and Catty obviously belong here, but those three devils? Back to the pound where they came from. All they do is cause trouble. You know I love all monsters, but those three? They could go to hell for all I care.”

Catrine sighs and shakes her head like a disappointed parent. “Oh, mon amour. Why do you let them get to you?”

“I don’t,” Clawdeen retorts, quickly. “But once they ruin my outfit, of course I’m going to have things to say. And when you put a claw on me? I’m using fangs next.” Her anger dies down again and she’s looking at Catrine with sad eyes. “My words didn’t hurt you though, did they?”

Catrine stays silent and that was all Clawdeen needed to hear. Tears sprang to her eyes instantly and her voice brakes when she speaks. “Oh, Cat, I’m so sorry. I really didn’t–”

“It was only for a brief moment,” Catrine quickly explains, “It stung at first, but I knew you were only talking about the three of them. Not all werecats. I swear, I’m okay now. Pinkie promise.”

That was a thing between the two of them. Pinky Promises that they never ever broke. And when you pinky promise something that means you meant it and are serious. No crosses count and no lies. So hearing those words calmed Clawdeen down.

“Okay,” she said, taking a deep breath in. “I really am sorry though. I didn’t mean to offend you or cause you even the briefest of pains. I just–” Clawdeen is cut off again, but this time it’s due to Catrine kissing her.

Clawdeen melts into the kiss and tries not to giggle when she hears Catrine purr. She loves hearing those purrs, especially during cuddle time. It knocks her out in under five minutes. 

When they pull apart, Clawdeen laughs. “Okay, I’ll take the hint. You don’t want me to dawdle in despair. Correct?”

“Obviously,” Catrine giggles. 

“Well, that’s too bad,” Clawdeen states, confidently. “Because if that’s how you’re gonna shut me up, then I’ll keep dawdling.”

Catrine kisses Clawdeen’s nose. “Silly, pup. Now,” she looks around the room, “got another broom somewhere? I’m gonna help you. The faster we get this done the faster we can go home. You have your designs to work on and I have my portrait of you working on your designs that I need to finish as well.”

Clawdeen laughs. “Don’t lie to me, Cat. You just want cuddles.”

Catrine joins her girlfriend’s laughter. “Maybe.” She winks but then slowly frowns.

Clawdeen notices and asks: “What’s wrong?”

Suddenly, Catrine is bashful. “I just…I’m sorry I’m overthinking again.”

“About?”

“Us.”

“What about it?” Suddenly, Clawdeen’s heart is racing.

“Everyone knows that we’ve been working together on our projects, your clothes and my paintings,” Catrine explains, avoiding eye contact, “but no one knows that we’re together- together. I was just wondering if…if you’re ashamed.”

“Ashamed?!” Clawdeen repeats, completely in shock.

“And I wonder,” Catrine goes on, while it’s on her mind, “is it because we’re alike or is it because we’re different?”

“What do you mean?” Clawdeen asks, confused. Because what the hell is Catrine even talking about?

“Are you ashamed of us because we’re the same, meaning that we’re both girls, or are you ashamed of us because we’re both different, meaning you’re a werewolf and I’m a werecat. Is it both? We’re looked down upon, not once but twice. First for being female lovers, and second for being different races of Werebeast–”

“Well, we’re still both Werebeasts, so I don’t think our subcategories should matter–

“But they do though–”

“Weren’t you the one telling me that I shouldn’t care what others think and not let them get to me?” Catrine is silent and Clawdeen couldn’t help but say: “Ha! Got you there.”

Smiling, Catrine waves her off and takes the broom from her. “Yeah, yeah. Whatever. Now go find your own broom.”

Instead, Clawdeen kisses Catrine, making this one last longer than the previous one, and when they part for air, Clawdeen rests her forehead against Catrine’s and says: “I’m not ashamed of us. I love us. I’m just…not ready yet.”

The truth is, Clawdeen has been ready for a while now. The only reason why she hasn’t come out yet is because she’s been secretly planning a coming out party that will surprise both her friends and Catrine. And getting detention/cleaning duty has definitely set her back a few hours. 

Catrine nods. “I know. I’ll wait forever if I have to. Just…reassure me once in a while, okay?”

“Of course, babe,” she pulls her into a tight hug. “I’ll do it everyday. Starting now.”

And so, she covers Catrine’s face with kisses and whispers in her ears sweet words and promises that make the butterflies in both of their stomachs flutter.

They have many differences and similarities, but Clawdeen’s favorite thing about them that they have in common is their love for each other.

Not all Werecats are bad like Toralei and the Twins, and if she’s going to fight and die for one it’ll always and forever be Catrine.

Chapter Text

CLEO X TORALEI (Monster High)

***Also published in Spooky Love***

~*~

Cleo shed no tears when she broke up with Deuce for good. Partially because they ended things on good terms, and partially because she has fully accepted a part of herself that she has been trying to hide for centuries. She’s finally happy and finally ready to be her true self.

“I always did have a feeling there was some sexual tension between you and Toralei,” Deuce teased, making Cleo gasp.

“I beg your finest pardon?” She says, disgusted. “The filthy feline and I have no chemistry whatsoever.”

“I never said anything about chemistry,” Deuce chuckles. “Just sexual tension. You know she’s a lesbian too, right?”

Cleo rolls her eyes. “Please tell me you aren’t trying to set me up with her. And just because we’re both lesbians don’t mean we should automatically date each other.”

“I never said anything about dating either,” Deuce smirks. “All I’m saying is that, since you’re fresh out of the closet with no experience with the same sex, that you should…ya know. Get some practice in there.”

A blush creeps into Cleo’s cheeks, fully realizing now what Deuce was getting at. Cleo has never had any sort of experimenting with other girls, but despite her lack of experience she knows she’s attracted to them, and only them. Men were never it for her. She, unfortunately, was a victim to comphet. For a very long time. 

Scowling, she says: “If I’m to get practice, it certainly won’t be with her.”

Deuce laughs. “Why not? I thought you Egyptians were crazy about cats? You have two feline goddesses, after all. What were their names again? Basket and Set-something?”

“ Bastet and Sekhmet,” Cleo corrects him, hands on her hips. “And yes, while they’re both felines, Bastet is the gentle cat, and Sekhmet is the fierce lioness. And while Toralei is a werecat she is neither gentle nor fierce. So, I doubt she’d be a spectacle in bed.”

“Only one way to find out,” Deuce taunts, wiggling his eyebrows. 

Cleo rolls her eyes, but her thoughts wonder. 

She admits that Toralei is definitely attractive, and yes there have been a few times where she caught herself checking her out, but never has she pictured them being intimate. Until now that is.

“I wonder if her tongue feels like sandpaper,” Deuce jokes, causing Cleo to grimace and give him a shove. 

“Deuce!” She says in horror. “You are so disgusting! Oh my Ra!”

Deuce laughs, while Cleo holds back a giggle and some thoughts.

Great, now she’s wondering about it too.

“Well, hey,” he says, “I’m sure you’ll figure it out in good time. There’s no need to rush these kinds of things. Besides, you’re Cleo de Nile. You don’t rush for anything.”

Cleo smirks and straightens her posture. “You’re damn right I don’t.”

The bell suddenly screams them, signaling the start of school, and making a groan come out of the both of them.

“Come on, beastie,” he says, using the term that Cleo and the girls sometimes use for each other. Ghoulfriend probably isn’t the correct term to use now. “Let’s get this day over with.”

“Agreed.” Cleo grabs her bag and the two of them head to class, no longer as boyfriend and girlfriend, but as two very good friends. Cleo admits she’s a little sad–she never wanted to hurt him, and she knows that he must be hurting more than he’s letting on.

But for centuries, Cleo has hurt herself the worst by not being her true self. And for once, it was time she chose herself and not ‘the people’. Nefera and her father will be ecstatic that she and Deuce broke up, but they will be furious as to why. 

A meow suddenly gains Cleo’s attention, and she looks in the direction immediately. She sees Toralei and the Twins talking and laughing about something near their lockers. Toralei must have felt eyes on her because she makes eye contact with Cleo, and to Cleo’s surprise, her heart speeds up and she looks away in a panic, blushing madly.

She knows it’s only because of the conversation she just had with Deuce. It has nothing to do with her being attracted to her. Not at all. She’s not going to be like all the other Mummies that hookup with Werecats because of some ancient bond Egyptians have with cats. Absolutely not.

But she’s a De Nile, and one thing about her is that she tends to be in denial all the time.

But she’ll figure it out eventually.

She always does.

Chapter Text

CASTA X CATTY (Monster High)

***Also published in Spooky Love***

~*~

Everyone loves a good enemies-to-lovers romance story, but to Casta, her favorite trope was friends-to-lovers. For a while, she was unsure why, but then she found out her best friend, Catty Noir, was dating some Egyptian prince, and the intense feeling of jealousy arose. She’s never felt so possessive of someone before, and at first, she assumed it was a normal friendship type of jealousy. But then the dreams started happening, dreams of her and Catty being…well…more than friends. She then knew why she loved friends-to-lovers romance books.

Her realization hit her faster than a flying broomstick at 113 mph.

She had a crush on her best friend.

A witch and a black cat.

It just makes sense.

But no, the Egyptian boy just had to get in the way of that. That also makes sense too though. Egyptians are crazy about cats for some reason. Even Cleo’s sister Nefera is dating a werecat. The notorious Toralei Stripe.

Casta’s not even sure if Catty likes girls in that way. If she did, though, they would have been one helluva popstar couple. Casta can see it now; their fans would lose their minds at their dating announcement. Catty and Casta had toured together before, but as a couple? That would have been epic. The tickets would have been sold out within seconds.

But no. Casta realized her feelings too late, and now here she is, chilling in a random cemetery in Salem, MA, typing up a message on her iCoffin to Cupid. Because if anyone can help her with her complicated romantic feelings, surely it’s the Angel of Love. 

Dear Cupid, it’s me, Casta. I know I could have called in to your radio show, but I didn’t want to risk a certain someone recognizing my voice. As much as I wanted to go anonymous to save myself from embarrassment, I figured if you knew my real identity, it would be easier for you to help me. I’m in love with my best friend. Catty Noir. But as I’m sure you know already, she’s dating Seth Ptolemy. I don’t know what to do. How do I move on? Should I tell her and risk our friendship? Or should I keep it a secret until I die? I’m in desperate need of your help. Thank you.

Casta reads her brief email over and over until finally, she hits the send button. The easy part is over; now the first phase of the hard part. Waiting.

Luckily for Casta, she got an answer about twenty minutes later. 

Oh my arrows! Hello, Casta. I must say this is quite a surprise. Being in love with your best friend and them not feeling the same or already being in a relationship can be quite a confusing and frustrating time. I always push that communication is key, and while I know expressing feelings towards those who don’t feel the same way is risky, not telling Catty how you feel is going to eat at you forever. You never know…perhaps she feels the same and is trying to distract herself with Seth. This has happened before with many couples I know. But don’t get your hopes up. It’s a 50/50 chance. If she’s a true friend, she won’t let this come between you guys. It might be awkward at first, but true friendships usually get over it and things go back to the way they were before. 

My suggestions would be for you to talk to her first and then move on from there. If she’s accepting and understanding and wants to continue a friendship--actually, even if she’s not accepting and wants to cut all contact, the best thing for you to do is allow yourself to grieve. Cry as much as you need to. Don’t hold back. Holding everything in is not healthy. If she still wants you in her life, then make sure that you also sometimes distance yourself. This can make moving on a bit easier, but it also depends on the person. Some people heal with their unrequited love interest being near, others not. Also, it might be best to stay away from romantic media. Being bombarded with stories and songs about love while being rejected only makes the heart hurt worse. And lastly, since you’re a singer, let your feelings inspire you to create. Creative outlets have always been good strategies to unleash complicated emotions. Keeping a diary or journal to express your feelings is a great way to heal, and with you being a singer, I know you’d create some deep songs that others can relate to. But only do so when you’re mentally okay. Who knows, maybe people will come to you for the same advice you’re asking me for.

I hope my advice helps. Best of luck to you, Casta, and please keep me updated.

Love, Cupid

Casta read Cupid's email over and over again until her eyes hurt from not blinking. She sighs, feeling completely defeated. She knew that communicating with Catty would be the best option, but she was hoping there would be a better solution that didn’t involve talking with her unrequited love. And while the Angel of Love always, always, always gives the best advice that should always be listened to, Casta couldn’t help but reject it.

And she tells Cupid just that.

Dear Cupid,

Thank you for taking the time to respond back to me. It really means a lot, and I really do appreciate it. However, I’m not sure if communicating with Catty is something I will be able to do. It might be the right thing, but I’m too fearful. I don’t want to risk anything. Even when I know nothing bad will come of it. I know we’ll still be friends because I know Catty’s heart, but I also know that one can never be too sure–

Before she could finish her email, Catty’s picture pops up on her iCoffin, with one of her songs playing. She’s calling her, and it makes Casta’s heart race. She takes a moment to calm herself before answering.

“Hey, Catty,” she clears her throat to get rid of any nervous tones in her vocal cords, “What’s up?”

“Hey, Casta,” Catty says, sounding down. “Can…can we talk in person? I…I have something I want to tell you. Something I need to tell you, but it has to be in person.”

Oh my god, Casta thinks, eyes wide. She’s pregnant!!

“I’m at the cemetery right now,” Casta tells her, “Meet me over here?”

“Yeah, that’s perfect,” Catty replies. “I’ll be there in 20 minutes.”

She hangs up before Casta could tell her bye, which is out of character for her feline friend. Whatever is on Catty’s mind must be really serious. Casta couldn’t help but be anxious.

My message to Cupid can wait, Casta says inwardly. Right now, I need to prepare for whatever it is that Catty has to say. 

And never has 20 minutes felt so long. It was the longest 20 minutes of Casta’s life. 

She had moved herself away from her favorite willow tree to meet up with Catty at the cemetery gates. When Catty arrives, she flashes Caste a fangy smile and hugs her. “Hey, how’s it going?”

Casta clocked Catty’s awkwardness immediately, and she could definitely feel her tenseness in their hug. “It’s going good. Although I’m a little nervous about whatever it is you're about to say.”

Catty nervously chuckles, and she looks away, embarrassed. “I’m nervous too. It’s…it’s nothing bad, but it’s big. Huge. It will change everything.”

Casta couldn’t help herself; her nerves were unbearable. So without a second thought, she blurts: “You’re pregnant, aren’t you?”

“What!?” Catty's eyes go wide at the wild assumption, and her jaw slightly drops for a second. "Casta--"

“Oh my Hecate, Catty! Were you and Seth not being careful?”

“Casta–”

“Was it an accident?”

“Casta–”

“Was it planned? Are you going to keep it?”

“Casta–”

“Girl, your manager is going to kill you. Forget your parents. It’s your manager and the rest of your PR team that are gonna–”

“CASTA!!”

Casta jumps at her friend’s outburst, but fires back in the same tone. “WHAT?!”

Catty sighs and closes her eyes, seeming to prepare herself for Casta’s next reaction or figuring out what words she wants to use. Casta patiently watched as her best friend composed herself, but when Catty finally opened her mouth, her words were more shocking than the assumption of her being pregnant. 

“I broke up with Seth.”

“What?!” Casta’s eyes are wide, confused, but internally, she feels a little bit of relief. “Why? What happened? Was he cheating on you?!” Seth didn’t seem like the type, but you can never be too sure about someone these days. 

Catty shakes her head with a smile. “No, he didn’t cheat on me. He…” her smile falls, and tears form in her eyes. “He was perfect, actually.”

“Then why did you break up with him?” Casta asks, heavily invested in what the hell had transpired between the two of them. Because the last time she saw them was almost 24 hours ago. What on earth had happened?

Catty opens her mouth to speak, but then closes it quickly, fear filling her eyes. She shifts her weight on her feet, making it seem like she was torn on either turning away or taking a step toward Casta. Casta remained as still as possible so she didn't spook her feline friend. Whatever is going on in Catty’s mind must be serious for her to be acting like this. Like…like a scaredy cat. Which is so unlike her.

Finally, Catty takes a step forward and reaches for Casta’s green hands. She gives them a gentle squeeze and rubs her thumbs over Casta’s soft skin. Catty kept her eyes on their hands and ever so slowly, entwined their fingers together, turning the act from platonic to very…intimate. At first, it felt friendly, but now it feels like a lover's hold. The act made Casta gulp.

“Catty?” Casta asks, unsure of what the actual hell is going on. Her heart is racing and her face is heating up, the feeling similar to when she’s conjuring something up over a bubbling cauldron. 

Without looking at her, eyes still locked on their conjoined hands, Catty musters the little courage she had left and says, “I broke up with him because he wasn’t you.”

“What?!” Casta exclaims, taking a step back. But not once did she loosen her grip on Catty’s hands. “What do you mean?”

Please don’t be a prank, she prays. She knows Catty would never do something like that, but despite this knowledge, it is still normal to be fearful of a cruel joke. Even friends can be mean, accidentally or not. 

“What I mean is,” Catty starts, still not looking at Casta. “I love you, Casta. Ever since we were 16, I’ve been in love with you. These last two years have been torture, not being with you the way I wanted. I only started dating Seth because I wanted to move on, to finally get over you. But…I couldn’t. Seth did everything right, but he just wasn’t you. And I understand if this is weird for you, and I understand if you don’t want to be friends anymore and–”

Catty is interrupted and makes a surprise noise when Casta suddenly steps forward, leans down, and crashes their lips together. Usually, Casta thinks before she acts, but after hearing Catty's words, the only thing she could think about was kissing her; to shut up her ridiculous fears and to prove she feels the same. Catty didn’t have time to kiss back at all because Casta is suddenly pulling back and saying, “I’ve been in love with you since we were 13. Since the first time I heard you sing during our first meeting…it sealed the deal for me. You’re all I’ve ever wanted for 5 years. No one else.”

Happy tears fill Catty’s eyes. “Are you serious? This whole time, we could have already been dating.”

Casta giggles. “No, literally. And it’s so funny because when you called, I was in the middle of emailing Cupid about my feelings for you and what I should do. Being in love with my best friend, who is taken, is such a horrible thing to deal with; you don’t understand.”

“Well, I mean, I kind of understand–”

“But remember, I never dated anyone else, so it's a little different for me. The jealousy I felt was through the roof.”

“Yeah, well, the made-up scenarios in my head made me jealous enough.” 

The witch and the black cat laugh together, the noise creating a beautiful melody that sings through the air.

But Casta couldn’t help herself. She had to know, even if it meant bringing the good mood down a bit. “So…how did Seth take it? I’m assuming you told him the truth about why you were breaking up with him?”

Catty nods. “Yeah. It was the right thing to do. I couldn’t lie to him about why I was doing it, and I certainly couldn’t keep the relationship going. I had to finally be honest. And I must be the luckiest black cat in the world because he was so understanding and caring. He didn’t give me any problems at all.”

Wow. Seth really is perfect.

“That’s really good,” says Casta, thankful for Seth not being a jerk. “So now what?”

Catty grins. “Now, I’d like for you to kiss me again and for me to kiss you back.”

Casta’s stomach does a flip, but she smiles. “So mote it be.”

And while the two embraced, Casta knew five things.

1) Catty was right. This does change everything.

2) Cupid was also right. Seth was just a distraction.

3) She needs to email Cupid the big news as soon as possible.

4) Catty is an amazing kisser, and she loves her.

And 5) The fans are going to lose their shit.