Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Where is it, where is it-ah, there you are."

Hector had put the box of new paints here earlier, he almost forgot. He looked around his room, hoping to be inspired for his new project; masks for Chance's new campaign. He wasn't close with many after he was realized, but Chance had become one of the few he kept in contact with. He put the box on the table, moving a few things around to accommodate. Often he used more modern day materials, like Neoprene, but Chance made a very specific request for wooden versions. He insisted he could achieve the same look on the material, but a commission was a commission. Plus, Chance agreed to cover the cost for this new chalk paint he was excited to try.

He opened the box, grabbing the green one first. He was told he wanted a real 'creature of the forest' sort of look to focus on, this paint was just the right shade, and it being chalk would hopefully translate the 'old tree' look he was expecting. He grabbed his paint key, and popped it open. The smell hit him immediately, and he winced from it. He was hoping it was only one can, but his browns, his blues, even his yellow and reds, all reeked. He plugged his nose as he tossed them into the big trash can he kept in the room.

"Unacceptable. The nerve for them to even bring that to my house."

Hector didn't like to complain, really he didn't, but this would put him far behind schedule, not to mention the smell that was actually starting to get worse in here. He pulled out his phone and called the Valdivian number, where he got the paints from. He tucked his phone in the crook of his neck and elbow as he started to bag up the trash. The phone rang once, twice, before a robotic voice on the other end picked up.

"Welcome to the Valdivian hotline. Press one to use our automatic machine, press two to speak with a human representative-"

He pressed two as he hauled the bag over his back, taking a bit of a walk to his dumpster. It was a little far away from his actual home, especially because he worked better when he was alone, but the five minute walk to the cans was bothering him, especially with both the smell, and this awful hold music. He mumbled a few choice words under his breath the whole way over, but he spoke as soon as he heard the 'click' of someone answering.

"Hi, I hate to be that person, but I just bought paints from you and they were terribly spoiled."

The voice on the other end was quiet for a moment, and he thought he had been far too snippy, when the voice finally spoke.

"So sorry to hear that. That must've been very inconvenient and difficult for you. Do you want to tell me exactly what's wrong, or would you like just a refund?"

He paused, midway through throwing the bag into the can. Why did hearing them make his heart clench? Why did every hair of his stand on end? God, when did he last feel this?

"I…I just want some new paints, please."

"Of course, we can do that for you. And, due to our error, we would also like to give you a refund. Is that alright?"

"I…yes that's fine. Plenty…fine."

"Are you alright, sir?"

He grabbed onto the trashcan, dropping the bag and grabbing at his chest. The nerves. The feeling like he wanted to purge. The way his heart boomed like furious thunder.

"I'm…I'm sorry, do I know you? I think I know your voice."

"Oh, well I do work on this hotline a lot, it's very possible. Hopefully it's good memories, though!"

That optimistic disposition. The smile he could hear on the other end. No, it couldn't be. He had to be sure.

"Can I ask you for a favor, by any chance?"

"Whatever I can do."

"Can you call me beautiful? I'm sorry, I know it's rather odd and maybe crossing some kind of line-"

"You're beautiful. You sound beautiful and kind. And lonely. Very, very lonely,"

Oh it was. He could recognize that 'beautiful' anywhere. No one had ever said it like her, not when talking about a sunset or a model or even the stars. She said it so specifically, so honestly, it couldn't be anyone else but her.

"Are you lonely, sir?"

Panic set in and he immediately hung up. He didn't care about the trash anymore, fuck the paint, he just ran inside his house, locked himself into his work room, and buried his face in his desk. It was her. Her, his muse, his clay, his joy. Back into his life. It was a glimpse, a beam of sunshine in a dark landscape. Why now? Why did he feel so revitalized yet scared and-

"Hector! Buddy can you let me in?!"

The words scared him for a moment, grabbing a mask out of reflex, before realizing just who it was; Chance. He was a little less panicky as he cried out in response, resuming his former position.

"Just come in, door isn't locked!"

Chance helped himself inside, clearly giddy. He always loved coming over, looking around at all the masks around his workspace. It was the only room of his house that he knew where it was located (he's asked where the bathroom was a million times, by contrast).

"Hey Hector! How's it going?"

"It's going. I hope you don't think your masks are done, I need far more time than that."

"Oh actually,"

He carefully placed a box on the table, being very careful of the rest of the things around them.

"I wanted to give you more details to add, a little more personalized for some of my players, but you weren't picking up your phone. I was already visiting some friends around here, figured I'd check in on you. And this package was at your front door, brought it in for you."

Chance opened the box for him once Hector nodded at him to go ahead, showing the new cans of paint. Hector adjusted himself so he could open one of the cans, and finally, it was perfect. No smell or clumps. He groaned, digging his face into his arms.

"Oh. God."

"What? Something wrong with these?"

"No. Unfortunately, they're perfect."

"I'm…kinda struggling to see why this is bad?"

"No no it's not the paint. It's…I heard her voice today."

"Who's?"

Hector turned to look at Chance. He looked so confused, so oddly worried for him.

"Hers, Chance. Hers."

He seemed confused still, when it clicked, him snapping his own fingers upon realization.

"Oh! Our human! That's who you mean! She does have a nice voice!"

"Nice? Nice,"

Hector stood up, one hand planted at his table while he leaned a bit into Chance's space. His free hand was used to express what his vocabulary lacked.

"'Nice' is a fairly decent cup of coffee. Nice, is the smell of rain on grass. Nice, is a smile from a friend. No no no, it is not just nice, Chance,"

He wished he could stop, he wanted to spare Chance all of this, but he couldn't, simply couldn't.

"Her voice is like a cosmic event. Her voice is like finally being seen after spending ages in the dark. She is like a fresh fruit, while I have spent my life so, so hungry."

Chance stared at him, not saying anything. He was worried he had scared him somehow, perhaps even offended him. Then he sat down in a seat, put his hands on his knees, and slightly leaned in, like he was taking something in.

"Have you. Not talked to her for a while?"

"I mean. Yes. It has been…a bit."

"How long?"

Hector hesitated, suddenly feeling so terribly small under such a giant question.

"Since…oh I don't know, realization maybe-"

"Okay- why?"

Chance looked at him incredulously, as if none of this made any sense.

"So…you miss her, but you won't talk to her?"

"Feelings often don't make sense, Chance! Look, there's no words in any language to describe why I did it, at least none that truly convey, but no, I haven't talked to her, alright?"

He sat back down, burying his hand as the bravado he once felt was easily snuffed out, like a dandelion daring to grow in a perfectly maintained law. Chance slowly leaned over, placing a hand on his shoulder. It was a careful touch, no grabbing in case he wanted to pull away. Chance was always so thoughtful that way.

"Look, Hector. I don't understand it. But I do understand that when you feel, you feel hard, and someone who tries to do art like you do-"

"You do art. Wonderful, talented art that's easy to consume but heavy on the soul."

"Aw, thanks buddy. But seriously, I understand you, artist to artist. Yearning is a beautiful thing, but look at how it's kinda left something in you. So, why don't I help you?"

"Help me how?"

Chance leaned in a bit closer, a confident smile on his face. Hector never really felt any intimate, romantic feelings for anyone but his human, but Chance…he was a little different. Not in ways he was willing to explore at this time, but still different. Such a kind, understanding, eager soul.

"We'll take you back. Back to the house where it all started."

"What? No. No no no, I can't! It's too weird at this point!"

"Not if you have a reason for being there~"

He gently sang, mischief dancing behind those frames of his. Hector raised a brow, sitting up straight in confusion.

"Why would I need to be there?"

"Well! Holly delivers gifts to her all the time. She has a run there tomorrow, you can be her helper!"

"Wouldn't that be awkward to show up there randomly?"

"Not if you also bring a gift. Maybe something handmade,"

Chase leaned a bit in his chair, gesturing at his various projects with the same grandeur of a merchant selling pretty wares.

"Something you clearly put work into. She'd eat up something from the heart!"

"...I thought your genius peaked during our 'tales unbroiled' campaign."

"Thank you, people really didn't appreciate cooking themed G&G! Anyway, I'll give her a call, she'll pick you up, you can get to talking to her!"

"Well now I have to work! I have so many ideas! Oh god I'm nervous!"

"Nervousness is good! And you can put my project on the back burner if you want, I don't mind."

"Nonsense! I can get it done."

"But don't these take more than a day?"

"Not if you don't sleep and stress about it, like any artist."

"...imma make you a pot of coffee."

And boy did he need it. He worked long and hard into the night, but excitement kept him burning till morning. He didn't even feel exhaustion, his ever beating heart keeping him going. Chance was a trooper, sleeping in his guest bedroom, just to keep an eye on him. Hector made sure he was comfortable in between his work, offering whatever snacks or extra pillows he could need. He returned it in kind, carrying the box outside to meet Holly. who came to a screeching halt at his doorstep. She got off her bike, going over to Chance and giving him a hug.

"Chaaaaaaaaaance! How you doin'? You look great!"

"You too Holls! Thanks so much for this favor, by the way!"

"Course! Buddy of Chance is a buddy of mine. Hiiii! I'm Holly!"

She reached out a hand and despite how it made his skin prickly, he shook it with a small smile.

"Good to see you again, Holly."

"Again?"

Chance loaded the box onto her little rack on the back of the bike, gesturing to Hector after.

"Yeah! Hector. You know, guy was realized?"

"Uh…"

Hector gave a half ass smile and sighed.

"HVAC."

"Ooooooooooh! HVAC! Okay yeah I remember you! Oh my god you always kept the house from getting too hot from Dante over the holidays! Oh so happy to help you!"

Chance gave a small sigh as he gestured to the bike.

"Well, he's all loaded, take him away."

Holly stepped up to her bike, putting her helmet on, and offering Hector one. It was…uncomfortable, the contact he was forced to give her so he wouldn't fall off. Wrapping an arm around someone else felt like trying to drink water but only having molasses. But with how much she was zipping around the streets like she had a deadline to meet, he was a little more inclined to swallow it all. She came to such a halt on the pavement, he was pretty sure she left streaks.

"We're heeeeere! You can let go now!"

"I…I don't think I can. I'm waiting for my stomach to catch up."

"Okay, guess I'll see the human by myself if that's the case."

"God, okay, okay. I'm fine. Just. Gonna try to not throw up."

"That's the spirit!"

She got off, barely giving him a second to gather himself and his stomach, before they walked to the front door, and he couldn't help but be amazed. Here she was, skipping and whistling, while he was full of nervous dread. The type of dread that made vomit rise in your throat. The type of dread that gnawed at your stomach like a rabid dog tore through flesh, the kind that made every step feel like climbing blistering, unexplored mountains. Then Holly rang the doorbell, yelling up at the window.

"Yooooo jinglebells! Got a gift! Something special!"

"Comin'!"

God that voice struck through him like an arrow through a bird's eye. How was Holly so grinning and happy right now? He turned to look at Holly, who just smiled at him.

"You look nervous."

"I am. Wait, is that bad? Do I look bad?"

"I mean. You look like you haven't slept?"

"Is there any way you can turn back? I might just go back-"

He actually took a few steps away from the door when it opened, and there she was. She obviously saw Holly first, giving her a big hug.

"Holly bells! Hey! What's in today's package?"

"Oh some extra chocolate, paper flowers, and candles from River! She said she'd found sugar and wood shavings appealing."

"Ooh that sounds nice! Thank you! About time you let me greet you before you go running off!"

Oh the envy he felt, watching her kiss her finger tip, and pressing it to Holly's lips, making the woman explode in blush. He almost felt like he was intruding, when suddenly Holly came up behind him, and pushed him towards her. Suddenly he was right there. Suddenly she was right there. Being here was like watching divinity personified. She looked up at him through rose colored lenses, and for a moment, he thought she wouldn't remember him.

"Hello, love. I uhm. I'm sorry, I understand if I uhm. Look different than you remember. A little extra curves in places, a little low on sleep,"

She said nothing. Just stared. He could see her eyes slightly through the frames, but he couldn't place her emotions. It scared him, scared like a weary, lonely creature that knew it wasn't long for this world. He gestured to the box, chuckling uncomfortably.

"I uhm. Brought you a gift. Especially since you helped me with the paint yesterday-!"

She suddenly grabbed at his sleeves, gasping and standing on her toes.

"That was you! I knew I knew who it was! Oh my god! I hadn't heard from you in ages!"

"Are you…happy to see me?"

Her smile softened. Oh it softened the way a weary puppy softened after a day of yapping and playing under a spring sun.

"I am absolutely delighted to see you, Hector."

Oh his heart was squeezed by her words. So gentle and honest, the warmth of her hands through his clothes, the way he could just lean in and kiss her if he-

"Byeeeee!"

They both turned to look, and Hector tried to call for her to stop, but she was already leaving his voice stifled and in the dust. His human next to him chuckled.

"She was your ride wasn't she?"

"Yes. Yes she was."

"She does that a lot. You wanna come inside? Miranda is coming in like an hour, she can give you a lift."

Against the screaming of his fears, he walked inside. The place was so much how he left it; potted plants placed around lovingly, portraits and paintings hung with care, and the ever homey smell of dinner in an oven.

"This place has changed. Not a lot, but for the better."

"Ah well, new job, can finally afford proper upkeep. Like the shower? Turns out Johnny's a decent singer, the pipes were just really, really bad. How's your place? You're the only one I don't know where you live."

"Oh uhm, a little out of town. A little secluded."

"Familiar territory, huh?"

"We do tend to like the familiar."

She walked over to the kitchen counter and he followed. She put the box down, and with a kitchen knife, sliced it open, seemingly charmed by the candle she pulled out. It was a slight brown in color, and she seemed delighted to give it a smell.

"Oh River was right, this one's nice. I love her candles. You wanna smell?"

She held it out to him, and he obliged, giving it a good smell. It smelled of brown sugar and wood, giving a deep, soothing smell, like little elves making cookies in trees.

"This is nice. You have many of these?"

"Oh I have a collection. I prefer smells like these, but I do have sour watermelon, cherry pie, ocean breeze, lotus, rose- they take up a whole shelf. If you find one you like, tell me, you can have some."

"Aren't they gifts?"

"Yes, but also I have boxes in the attic. Many duplicates. Oh wait wait wait,"

She put the box of chocolates down to face him, gesturing to his own box.

"Your gift! I'm so sorry, you're right here and I'm not even acknowledging what you're trying to give me!"

"Oh no no, it's okay, I was enjoying you enjoying them. But, since you did ask,"

He opened the box, and pulled out one of the masks. It was a delightful shade of red, with studs decorating the area around the eyes, and various streaks of gold details. He might've gone a little heavy with the glitter in that gold, because how she was looking at it was making him nervous. He wished he could let her talk, but his nerves refused.

"I made these for you to go with that red shirt you always seemed to like to wear. I still remember it. I'm sorry, did I go heavy handed on the…glitter?"

He paused as she took off her glasses, and slid it over her face. She rested her chin on the back of her propped up hand, looking at him and blinking her eyes in a silly (yet very, very effective) way of being alluring.

"How does it look? Because I love it."

He couldn't reel it in if he tried. He matched her posture, only encouraged by the fact that she allowed him so close to her.

"You're beautiful. More beautiful and charming than a cool breeze going through a sweltering, unforgiving home. If that's. Uhm. Not, overstepping I mean."

She chuckled at him, a chuckle that both made him terrified, and seemed to soothe the world with its purity.

"You always had a nice way with words, you know? Taking so much to say I look nice. Though, I'm noticing the box isn't empty~"

She nudged the box over to him with a grin, and he took the hint, pulling out the other mask. This mask was similar to hers, in terms of type, but the style was very different; where hers was red, his was a cool silver. Where hers held metal studs and gold, his held blues and oranges.

"I made myself one. In case just making you one was uncomfortable."

"It's so nice…you must've slaved away for hours on these, Hector."

"I spent…time. But uh-"

"Can I put it on you?"

His nails gripped onto the countertop. She was so excited, he could see it dance in her pretty eyes. There was no mouth to catch any smiles, there was no nose to see any nose scrunches. Just her eyes. Windows to her very soul.

"If you'd like. Anything you'd like."

He stood still as she took the mask, and gently settled her pinky under his chin, to try to steady his face. God, this was the touch he missed. Her skin was so soft against his stubble, like petals floating in a gorgeous pond. Once he was steadied, the fingers combing through his hair to get the strap on his head, the occasional touch to the side of his face to steady it. God, his heart wanted to tear through his ribcage into her arms like it was a rabid hellhound. It was a beast that he was holding back, but only barely. Then, her hands pulled away, and she took a small step away, putting her fingers as if she was taking a photo.

"Wow. You look good! So detailed! And the colors really go with your eyes! You know, I've always seen your masks out and about, but to really get to just sit and look at it! I've always wanted one."

"You've…wanted one of my masks?"

"Yes! They're gorgeous!"

"Why did you never tell me? I would've made you a million!"

She put her hands down, her eyes falling, just for a second, before she faked some sort of joy towards him.

"I mean. I called. I texted. You never got back to me. I thought you needed some space, being freshly human and all."

He recalled those texts. Those calls he didn't answer. He wished he could tell her, but that one shift of her eyes, it didn't make his explanation any more healing towards her. Instead, he hesitated, and just. Said something. Anything.

"Well I can. Uhm. Make you more now. It'd delight me to make you more."

"Well, I'd like that. Let me give you something though, this is just so nice! How much is it usually?"

He watched her reach into the purse on the counter, pulling out some money from her wallet.

"No."

"No really, Hector! I'm doing great money wise, I want to-!"

"No! No no no, I can't, I won't, I shan't! I…I,"

He realized he had acted impulsively. He was suddenly in front of her, holding onto her hands in an attempt to stop the money coming his way, and had her practically pinned against the counter. They were still. Her eyes were expecting. She wanted something. Was it for him to back off? Or for him to go further? He didn't know. He wanted to know, desperately and truly. He searched her eyes, gently squeezed her hands. Not too hard to hurt her, but firm enough to hopefully, by some miracle, convey what was truly in his heart.

"I don't want that. I just want this. What we're doing now. I can't…say exactly why I haven't been in contact. I'm not ready, not yet. Just know I want to fix that now. Please?"

She was studying him right back. Her disposition was unreadable. Then, she leaned in. Leaned in until their masks gently clanked against each other. She cleared her throat a little as if she did that by accident.

"I would like that. A lot. Uhm, are you sure you don't want the money?"

"No. Never. I will uh, let you take it back now."

He was more saying that to himself, as if his hands were a separate entity he had to convince. They eventually obeyed, and she shoved the now crinkled bills back into her wallet. He was about to say something when her doorbell rang. She practically ran to the door, and upon opening it, laughed upon seeing Miranda.

"Mí vida!"

"Aye, you know I like the Spanish! And the mask?"

His human turned a bit to gesture to Hector, gleefully.

"Hector made them! Aren't they just gorgeous?"

"Yeah! Good job…Hector?"

Hector nodded with a bit of a sigh, pushing his mask to show his face. She still seemed confused.

"HVAC."

"Ohhhh! Sí, HVAC! You always kept the house nice and cool!"

"I tried."

His human kept the mask over her hair, nodding in his direction.

"I got a few things I need to grab her from the attic, are you cool with hanging tight for a bit? Then she can take you back home?"

"Of course, I'll be on the couch if you ladies need anything."

They went upstairs and he went to sit on the couch. He sighed, and pulled out his phone, dialing up Chance. He picked up after about three rings.

"Ho! What's up Hector? How's it going?"

"It's…going. Sort of. God, I missed her, Chance. Unfortunately Miranda is taking me back home in just a few. I feel as though I'm letting this connection slip away and-"

"WHO'S ON THE PHONE?!"

Hector winced as the yell came through the phone. Chance muttered something to him, before redirecting to Hector.

"That's Kristoff, he heard I was fighting a dragon next week, he thought I meant literally."

"I was hornswaggled! I almost lifted him out the window!"

"Yeah he just. Knew I was at your house man, dude's scary."

Hector took a second to process this, before raising a brow.

"Is he breaking my masks?"

"No?"

"Then I have no qualms with it, the masks are my life. He may have anything else in my home."

There was some scuffle, and given how clear Kristoff sounded, he probably took Chance's phone from him.

"Hospitality to make up for a weak man and his toys! Good man! Why do you sound sad?"

"Oh uh. It's just. I dunno, wanted more time to stay here with the human. But you know, home to come…home to, I suppose."

"I'll fix."

Then he just hung up. Hector glanced at the screen, curious, but decided it wasn't something to be worried about. Probably. He was on the couch for a good while before he let himself get curious, and joined the girls upstairs. They were chatting, boxes being shuffled in between them. They seemed to stop chatting as soon as the door creaked to make way for him.

"Hey, I hope I'm not interrupting. I just wanted to check that all was well."

"Oh not interrupting at all, Miranda and I were just catching up, kinda taking our sweet time. I was gonna invite you up here but…well I mean, how does it feel to be back in the attic?"

He gave it a look around. She had moved things around, to where the previous mess was somewhat organized, with each packed box labeled and stacked. Then of course, the elephant in the room, the HVAC machine that he used to be. It felt weird to see it, like those lucid dreams where you hovered over your own form. The old boxy, metal displeased him to look at, and he knew she caught onto it, but he instead shrugged, trying to hide it.

"Oh it's all water under the bridge, I'm not affected. A lot of boxes, though, would you like help finding something?"

Miranda nodded, sighing as she set a box down.

"Actually, you did come at a good time! We're trying to find this specific album I sent her. It's a misprint, I'm trying to give her a fixed version."

His human chuckled, looking through a box of albums and portraits.

"I told her the mistake is charming but she is not hearing me out here. So, if you really wanna help, know it's gonna be a long haul."

"Well you know me, helping machine. What mistake are we looking for?"

Miranda slid a box over to him, handing him a box cutter.

"It's a misspelling. Instead of saying 'Las Migas', they forgot the L."

He stopped mid cut of the box's tape, looking in her direction.

"So…so it just says 'ass migas'?"

His human lost it, face planting onto the box and starting to tremble, so clearly trying not to laugh.

"It absolutely says ass migas-"

Miranda grabbed an old magazine from the box, throwing it her way with a pout that was trying not to form into a laugh.

"Cállate! It's not funny and I'm going to find it!"

"It is so funny, my little pan dulce, and I hope you never find it!"

Hector tried not to snicker as he started to help. He watched them in between his search, and he could see it in between them; the sweet glances, the warm cheeks, the constant bumping of their elbows into each other. Miranda did love her, that was very evident. The human, after a while, picked up an album and tucked it behind her. She was trying to be sneaky, and he wasn't going to say anything, when Miranda caught it, pointing at it.

"Hey! Is that it!?"

"What? No! No it isn't! But Hector is still going to just. Take it downstairs."

She handed it to him, and for an almost tense moment, he met Miranda's eyes. She looked at him. He looked at her. The human looked between them both. Hector glanced at the cover. Ass amigas. They even had a second s, making it look like it was on purpose. Hector slowly stood up, and took a breath.

"I'm just…going downstairs. For an unrelated reason, BYE-"

He was booking it downstairs in a flash and she was hot on his trail, yelling at him in Spanish, all while the human laughed and tried to get her to calm down. She eventually cornered him in the kitchen, by the sink. They were all lightly panting, trying to stay serious when they all so clearly wanted to laugh.

"Dame."

"I have nothing! Nothing at all!"

He was holding it behind his back, his human was trying to grab her arm and coax her away, but it was absolutely half hearted.

"No, Miranda, come on, he's innocent! Look at his face!"

"He has the face of mischief, look at this!"

He disliked how Miranda grabbed and gently squished his face with one of her hands, but given how his human was practically heaving trying not to laugh, he allowed it. She gently smacked Miranda's arm over and over.

"Miranda! Stop! Look at his face, it's adorable! Have mercy!"

He knew he was flushed, but oh he couldn't help it. The attention, the warmth in this interaction, the fact that he was included in some moment in her life. It was like catching the first falling flower in a fresh spring breeze. He was going to try to 'plead' to Miranda to spare him, when there was a knock at the front door. A hard, aggressive knock. The human immediately looked confused, taking off her mask and putting it on the counter as she went up to the door. Hector and Miranda exchanged a look, and they followed, him putting down the album and putting the mask down on the counter. The human opened the door, where two police officers stood, alongside a worried looking Chance, and Kristoff, who was in handcuffs, looking happy as could be.

"Excuse me, miss, we were told a 'Hector' was here?"

Hector approached the door nervously, putting himself in between the human, and the officers.

"That'd be me. Is something the matter?"

"Yes, we have unfortunate news. Your house was burned down, and this guy did it. Like. He admitted to it."

Hector blinked in thought, before turning to Kristoff.

"You burned my house to the ground?!"

"To help! Yes!"

Chance butted in, giving a nod.

"I watched him pack up all your stuff, put it outside, and then suddenly the whole thing was just up in flames! He walked through them, man! It was insane and scary but also like. Really impressive."

Hector was about to ask what the hell was Kristoff's problem, about to cuss him out even, when he thought about it. He complained that he didn't want to go home. Said he wanted to stay. Then it clicked. Kristoff seemed to catch onto it, meeting his eyes and nodding furiously. The officer sighed, bringing out a notepad.

"I'm assuming you want to sue him?"

"I. Ugh, no. No, it's fine."

"...seriously?"

"Yes, it's very much fine, I'm not pressing charges. Can you just let him go?"

The cops looked at him confused, muttering to each other, before carefully getting him out of cuffs. Though, given Kristoff's size, the cuffs were more of a formality than anything.

"I'd contact your insurance. Thankfully the damage was kept to just the home only, so technically we can't do anything about him."

There was a few more back and forths of formalities in these types of situations, before the cops just left. Hector took a breath, rubbing his hands together in an attempt to gather his thoughts into a neat, almost tangible little ball.

"So you at least saved my masks, yes?"

"Yes!"

"Including the ones in the back?"

Chance chimed in, a slight raise of his hand.

"I got those packed up, yeah."

"Okay. At least there's that. Bright side and everything, I suppose. I'll call around, see what places are free ton-"

Chance was ever the sweet man, gesturing to their human.

"You can just stay here right? Plenty of space? I mean. If that isn't a problem?"

He wished Chance would shut up, she clearly hesitated at the idea, but she was as kind as she was beautiful, nodding.

"Oh uh. Yes! You can stay here!"

Hector shook his head, taking a step away from her, severing any kind of responsibility that was being placed upon her.

"No, you do not have to, it's very intrusive-"

"I mean. I wouldn't…hate it."

What was that on her face? That look? Was it hope? Was it disgust? It was so hard to tell at this moment, and the eyes on them didn't help. He relented, maybe against his better judgement.

"I will pay rent."

"Got it, dollar a month."

"No-"

He tried not to laugh, to discourage this behavior. But he knew better. Knew he couldn't tell her otherwise. Chance chimed in, the slight grimace telling him he felt a little guilty about the whole thing.

"We can help you bring your stuff in. By we I mean Kristoff, I don't think he needs help-!"

Kristoff suddenly leaned down to pick up Chance, throwing him over his shoulder, hand on his ass to steady him.

"Teeny tiny little boxes! We shall be back!"

With that, Kristoff left, taking a very worried sounding Chance with him. Miranda gently whistled, seeming to have just now absorbed the whole situation.

"Never a boring day near you, my little slice."

"I try to keep things interesting. Anyway, you best be going-"

"The album?"

His human groaned, head tossed back as she wobbled to the kitchen.

"I can't have anything!"

For a moment, he was alone with Miranda. She leaned against the wall and looked at him.

"I know it's a dumb question, but you love her, sí?"

"Yes. I do. I'm sure she knows, but I don't think she knows just how much."

"It's a little hard to, when you have to share her with a hundred and one other people!"

She meant it as a joke. But something about that statement tugged at him. She came back, handing over the album with the promise of a new one, and with a kiss goodbye, left. His human looked at him with glee, and he'd never felt like he was so important, like he was such an integral part of something bigger, something more grand. Though, her hesitation at the beginning still tugged on the back of his mind, ever so briefly.

"Let's get a space for you! I'd offer you my room, but I know you'd kill me."

"Yeah no. I cannot take that much from you. The couch is enough."

"Fair enough! And of course you can keep to the downstairs bathroom. If you wanna work, we can set you up in my office?"

"Well then where would you work?"

"Attic?"

"In that cold space full of spiderwebs? Nonsense! I'll take the attic, I've already told you I'm comfortable up there."

She rolled her eyes at him, beckoning him to follow her. From the downstairs bathroom, she dug through the cabinet under the sink, and pulled out a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, essentials like that all held in bulk containers. His curiosity must've been evident, because she explained as she handed him the items.

"Sometimes people stay the night and they forget the essentials. I also have extra blankets in my closet, and plenty of pillows. Oh and extra phone chargers, extra headsets. But clothes we might have to get you, because I absolutely do not have your size. I have only Teddy's size, and Tina's currently, you're obviously in between."

"You're…so prepared for some of us to come back."

"Course! Hell, Tony is here at least twice a week, he needs it."

He opened his mouth to say something about that, but something held his tongue. Maybe it was the smile as she said it. Maybe it was the guilt that seemed to slowly sprout in his chest. Regardless, he kept it to himself, and smiled.

"Thank you. You don't have to do this, but you are."

"Oh It's…fine. Just hope you don't mind the visits from everyone else, sometimes Skips comes in at like two in the morning. Feels like I hardly sleep!"

"Does that bother you?"

There was a twitch there. A twitch of something. A twitch that she ignored with a chuckle.

"Nah. I love everybody. Oh, and because I trust you,"

She gestured for him to stay there for a moment as she went to grab something, and upon her return, came back with Teddy. The bear, not the new realized version.

"You can have him for company. If you'd like."

"Oh. That's…sweet. Thank you."

He accepted it tenderly, noticing it smelled just like her. Realizing this meant she snuggled with it regularly, he was going to give it back, when there was a knock on the door. They went back outside to open it, and there was Kristoff, boxes balanced on his arm, shoulder, and head, while still holding Chance with the other.

"I have returned with the things!"

Chance waved a bit with his free hand, focused on something else.

"He hasn't put me down, I've just been on my phone this whole time. Hey."

Kristoff let himself in, putting the boxes down on the coffee table with an odd gentleness. Hector looked over at the boxes, and that did look to be the whole collection.

"Well, thank you Kristoff. I appreciate it."

"Welcome! You need help unpacking?"

He, in truth, didn't want them here. Not for any malicious reasons mind you, it was simply because it had been such a long day, he wanted a moment to himself. Chance seemed to catch onto this, and patted Kristoff's back.

"We could. If you're tired of carrying me."

"I NEVER TIRE!"

Chance yelled a goodbye as Kristoff took him away to god knows where. His human chuckled, and her locking the door gave him such an odd moment of relief. Her shoulders relaxed too, he watched them fall ever so slightly.

"Love those guys, really I do. You need help getting situated?"

"I would actually appreciate it if I could do this myself. I'm particular about them."

"Oh of course. You come to me if you need anything, I'll just be doing some odds and ends."

And that she did. As he sat on the couch, double checking his collection, he watched her out of the corner of his eyes. She moved with less vigor than earlier, her smile settled into a more neutral expression, she even changed her attire to some lazy, clearly older pajamas. She didn't acknowledge him, aside from the occasional glance as she did a few things. It was calm. It was quiet. It was a type of peaceful domestic that he'd heard people grow tired of, but he didn't personally understand it. Existence, simple and true, people grew tired of? He went into the bathroom for a moment to wash his hands and his face, and when he came back to his little station, he saw there was a bowl of food waiting for him. The placement was careful, away from his things, but not too close to the edge that it might fall. He took a seat, and held the bowl in his hands.

It was a simple dish, full of chicken and noodles and assorted vegetables. It wasn't gourmet by any means, he could tell that the vegetables were the frozen ones in the bags. But it didn't matter. He'd take this over a five star dinner, knowing it was given in her home, without asking, without pestering. The broth was hot, definitely store bought as well, and it warmed his heart. He sat there for a few minutes, nursing and appreciating the meal. He was about to stand up when he finished it, when suddenly she was there, offering a hand.

"I'll take it."

"No no, you already cooked!"

"No seriously, just gimme. You're a guest, and I'd be sad if I made a guest do chores."

She faked an upset pout, but to his heart, she might as well be crying in front of him. He reluctantly gave her the bowl.

"You know what you're doing."

"You're paranoid, Hector,"

There was such a smug look on her face as she stacked that bowl on top of hers.

"I'm going to bed after I take care of this. Don't be afraid of being too loud, and come to me if anything, alright? I'll leave my door open for you."

'I'll leave my door open for you'. God, why did that flush his cheeks like that? He hoped it wasn't evident on his features, really he did.

"I will…keep that in mind. Thank you."

"Goodnight Hector~"

She gave him a light pat on the shoulder, and he almost chased after her as she walked to the kitchen. He wanted to rush after her, to beg for more of that touch. For the touch that made him feel, the touch that made him ache and invade his dreams millions of times. But he stayed there. Stayed there, and put his hand on the spot that she touched. He held it as he watched her go upstairs and off to bed. He laid down on the couch, and groaned.

"Aye, mi vida. The things I would do for you."

He didn't really sleep. Peacefully, at least. He had dreams of her before, sure, but they had somehow calmed during their time apart. Now, oh now. Now, it was a tidal wave that left him drowning. Visions of her skin, of her hair, her breathing, her voice, her gaze, her clothes, her teeth, her tongue- it was too much. He practically woke up in a cold sweat the next morning, his heart feeling as though it was swimming in molasses. He rubbed at his exhausted face, wanting to sit there for a moment, only to jump a bit as she poked her head into the living room. She was already wide awake, neatly dressed and makeup applied.

"Hey, I made coffee if you want any. Did you sleep okay?"

"Oh uh, yes. I slept fine. This new couch is nice."

"Ain't it? Koa sent me this one. I'm gonna be working for a few hours, but please, please please please, don't hesitate if you need anything!"

He got up after she went back into the kitchen, and he took notice of her preparing her coffee. Still made it the same as she ever did, he and Kopi knew her order by heart.

"Thank you for the pot, I appreciate it."

Then he noticed the sink; dishes from the night before, wet bits of food culminating like a mosquito infested pond. She seemed to notice him looking, and chuckled nervously.

"Sorry, usually I have that done when I have company over, I promise. I'll get it at lunch, promise!"

"Oh I was just-"

She gently bumped him with her shoulder, hands full of papers and coffee, before she used her head to gesture upstairs.

"I gotta go, if you leave, just let me know so I can lock up behind you. Oh remind me to get you a key today actually, I have copies!"

She rushed right after saying this, a phone call evident given the buzzing in her pocket. And with that, he was alone. He stood there for a moment, examining the kitchen; it was a mess with assorted dishes, crumbs on the floor, and an empty fridge, save for half a stick of butter. He knew she'd never ask, and doing so in a host's home might be rude, but the idea of taking things off her shoulders, just for a second, tempted him. So, he did it. The dishes, vacuuming the floor, and as he waited for groceries to be delivered, he even folded clothes that were just taken out of the dryer, he could tell from how warm they were (minus some sensitive clothing, those he left alone, despite the initial temptation). He met the delivery person at the door afterwards, and brought the bags into the kitchen. He knew what she liked, knew that this was a brand she liked, but the same product of a different brand? Couldn't stand it in the slightest. He remembered her buying the wrong one once, and pouting that it should've been the same but wasn't. Cam was the only real happy camper that day. He started to put things away, but froze up the second he heard her voice, curt and official.

"The fuck is this?"

He paused, mid putting away her favorite fruit, and tried to look innocent, despite her coffee fueled glare.

"You were running low on things, that's all!"

"You are a guest! I can't believe you just- did you vacuum?!"

"...no?"

"Oh my god, Hector, it's sweet, but I shouldn't have to worry about you getting all tired on my behalf just-"

"Hold that thought. You could scold me more, if that would make you feel better. Or,"

He reached into the bags, pulling out a box of doughnuts. He had to pay them more to make an extra stop, but he didn't need to tell her that.

"You could busy yourself with these instead. You didn't have breakfast with your coffee this morning."

"...I had a granola bar."

"You need more than a granola bar."

"...I do need more than a granola bar. Ugh,"

She playfully poked at his chest, motions exaggerated, but ever careful with his frame.

"You are. So lucky, Hector. So lucky."

"I'm aware~"

She grabbed the one he knew she would grab, stuffing it in her mouth, and made a motion to leave, before grabbing another, and scurrying away back to her office. He chuckled, gently shaking his head, and rubbing at the spot that she poked. Right for his heart, same as always. How poetic. He grabbed one for himself, and made his way into the living room. Though, something stopped him before sitting down. Something felt off. He walked into the hallway, and his eyes were drawn to his old thermostat, and he immediately knew what was wrong, the temperature was all wrong. His darling hadn't adjusted for the slight heat outside, she wouldn't be comfortable. Not sweating, but not optimal. He fiddled with the buttons, remembering what temperature truly soothed her.

"There we are. Much better, darling. Hope you're comfortable."

He finally got to sitting down, and started to work on his masks. Despite the fire, he still had work to do. He was just polishing one off, round and purple like a grape, when there was a knock at the door. He carefully put the mask down, making sure he didn't smear anything, before walking over to the door. There was a man standing there, muscles barely covered by his sportswear.

"Hey you, I was- oh. Uh. Hello there, fella?"

Hector recognized Dunk, despite their lack of interactions. He knew everyone here, he had to. He sighed once he realized it wasn't reciprocated.

"Hector."

"Hector! Right! Hector. My guy. My uh. Dude."

"HVAC."

That word seemed to click for him, and he pointed at him with an 'oh!' Expression on his face.

"Oooh vent guy! Okay, I remember you! Always did good work!"

"I tried. Do you need something?"

"Oh yeah- I have a game with a different type of team, so I can't give this to Makayla, but she left her notebook when she picked up Mickey the other day, just found it in his stuff. Think you can have her give it back to her?"

"Course. Pardon me but uhm. Who, though?"

"Mikey's kid! His daughter. They come over all the time to hang out, especially since Mikey lives like a couple houses down. I would've taken it there but the place is empty."

He knew of Mikey, the transaction fellow, but him having kids was news to him. It was a little cute, picturing his love tending to a bundle of littles. He nodded, accepting the notebook.

"Well thank you, thoughtful of you."

"Course! So, you sleeping over, huh?"

"Living here temporarily actually. Kristoff burnt down my house."

"Jesus- what'd you do to piss him off?"

"He was helping me."

"...do I wanna ask more questions?"

"I doubt it."

"Fair enough! Anyway,"

He took a few steps away from the door, shooting him with the fingerguns.

"Tell her to check her texts, yeah? Sent her a little something ~"

The whole day was sort of like that. Moments of work, with moments of interruptions from his former house items. Dasha bringing trays of food, Penelope bringing office supplies with cute notes on them, Prissy bringing flowers and mushrooms, heavy books from Shelly, even towel animals from Tyrell. So many visitors wanted to see her, some yelling to her window once he did the unfortunate job of turning them away. It was nice of course, to see her so loved, but Hector watched.

He always watched.

Watched how she tried to work but still made time to run down the stairs, just for a moment, to greet them with a kiss or a hug. Each one being treated uniquely, each one, just for a second, feeling so important thanks to her. And yet, her expression drained. She wasn't unhappy, he could see the glimmer in her eyes. But she was getting tired. Her shoulders slumped, just a bit. He said nothing, but he certainly saw. It was rather late in the afternoon by the time she got her break, and he thought she'd finally have a moment's peace. Hell, he even went upstairs to bring her a drink, hoping to coax her into sitting at least, but he immediately regretted it upon seeing she was getting dressed. He turned around quickly to face the hallway instead of her, and she chuckled.

"Hector. We've had sex before, you've seen this."

"That doesn't mean I'm entitled to see it whenever I please! Even if you did kinda leave the door open."

He heard her chuckle, and he tried not to jump as she put her hand on his shoulder. She was at least dressed now, albeit in what appeared to be workout clothes.

"Imma be out getting some exercise with Kristoff. Should be home in like two hours, then I should be done for the day. You gonna be okay by yourself?"

"Perfectly fine. Is he going to pick you up? You shouldn't be walking by yourself anywhere."

"If I can handle Kristoff, I can handle anyone. Thank you though, sweet that you care about little ol' me-"

"I care about the reason for my existence. Very, very much. She's important to me."

Oh her cheeks. He loved the deep color they'd get. The color was like watching love incarnate. Was it love for his words? For him? He dare not ask. He just knew he loved it, and couldn't remember how he lived this long without it.

"You're sweet, Hector. Really. I'll try not to be out too long, maybe we can hang out when I get back?"

"I would like that."

He watched her walk out the door, and it felt like all the warmth left the home with her. He sighed wistfully, going back to his masks. There was a sense of familiarity with the routine of just touching things up. He was used to the quiet, and despite the new surroundings, it was just as comfortable. But soon enough, he was finished. He sat there, contemplating what to do next, when he got a text from her. His fingers halted over the screen, seeing the unread messages she left him before this, and guilt stabbed at him. Especially at the sweet message she just left him.

'Lemme know if you need anything while I'm out, k? <3'

Wait, why was there a heart? Was that him being paranoid? Was this some sort of sign that the feelings were still there? Regardless, he took a second to breathe, and messaged back.

'Just need you'

"...oh god was that too clingy? That felt too clingy. Having regrets now."

He held pride in knowing he had a way with words, and usually he spoke with his heart, but something was making this difficult. Something was making him trip over himself, causing doubt in his mind. He put his phone down as he made his way to the kitchen, and decided to have something ready for her once she got home. He wasn't Stefan, far from it, especially given how simple he made his own meals, but for her, she needed much more. He could at least make some lovely coconut cookies, those he was always plenty proud of. He set those to the side as he got to cooking an actual meal. It was nothing outside of his cooking capabilities, just some pasta in a pot, chicken, and cheese. Mitchell Linn would've been appalled by its simplicity, but it was what he was able to do.

Then, he waited.

He went on his phone to text Chance. He was fine, ready to pick up the masks tomorrow. He looked at inspiration for more masks. He surfed the internet. He watched tv. He wrote a little. That was when he noticed the sun was starting to dip in the horizon. It had definitely gotten to be the two hours she promised. He tried to distract himself with cleaning, but it wasn't enough, he was done with it way too fast. He sent her another text.

'Checking in on you'.

He waited still. When about thirty minutes passed, worry clung at his heart. He tried to push it off, tried to be busy with anything else. But his heart refused to settle. He checked his texts, and not seeing her message, he let the panic get the better of him. He called Chance. The ringing was brief, but to him, it felt like eternity.

"Chance."

"Hey Hector! What's up?"

"I'm so sorry to be brief here, do you have Kristoff's number?"

"Oh yeah, I'll send it…there, you should-"

"Thank you."

He hung up and started to pace the floor as he called Kristoff. It rang once, twice, thrice, before the voice finally gave him a moment of relief.

"Yes?"

"Kristoff! It's Hector, is the human still with you?"

"Unfortunately no. After our many, many rounds of physical, sweaty, bloody violence-"

"Please focus."

"Right. After that, she left with Telly."

"Telly- do you have their number?"

It was some game. He called Telly, who invited her to a movie. Then Mitchell Linn invited her to dinner. Then, after they bumped into Cam, no one knew where she went, as Cam didn't have a phone, he was at a loss. No other people he could think of to call, no one to see if she was okay or where she was. He tried calling her, way more than one would, tried texting, nothing. He was thinking about where she was, since it was well into being almost four hours, he was even considering calling the police or something-

"I'm home!"

The door swung open, and there she was. Still in the same clothes she was wearing when she left, but she had a white, fancy blazer over her shoulders, and her hair was askew. She looked absolutely exhausted through her smile. He threw his phone at the couch and nearly tripped over the coffee table to get to her. He pulled her into a hug, fingers gripping into her as if she'd leave again. She smelled of sweat and food that he couldn't quite place.

"Where have you been?!"

"I'm sorry! I meant to come home when I said but Telly wanted me to go see this movie, then Mitchel took me to dinner, Johnny wanted to go singing, then the day just kinda got away from me!"

He pulled away from the hug, but still gripped onto her shoulders, looking at her face. Features he was worried he had just lost.

"I called and I called!"

"I know, I know, we kinda met up with Lux and they took my phone, totally ignoring all your calls. They didn't even tell me my phone died!"

"And you didn't think to tell me beforehand? I was this close to calling the cops!"

"I was gone for a couple extra hours, it's not that big of a deal!"

He let go of her to gesture at his own chest. His chest that felt so tight, as if she was still just wandering out there at night.

"It's a big deal to me! You're a big deal to me!"

"Why are you suddenly caring now? You spent like a year ignoring me, and now that you're here suddenly you're throwing a fit?!"

"I'm scared for you!"

"No you're not! If you did you would've called, even once! Birthday parties, Christmas, Halloween, even Valentine's day! Nothing!"

"That's. That's not the same thing as this particular situation-"

She threw her purse on the couch, but kept the blazer over her shoulders, hands on her hips, and her nostrils flaring.

"Are you fucking jealous or something? Is that what all of this is? Because they give a shit about me! Johnny walked me home! Johnny calls! Johnny loves me-!"

"Do you think I DON'T?! I love you! I spent night after night thinking about you! I wouldn't see the beauty of life without you, and the fact that you're out here wearing yourself down is appalling! The fact that you don't love yourself as much as I do!"

"Hector-"

"You don't see how your own fucking fear of loneliness is hurting you! I see you, you're going to crash and fucking burn, because you think all this love comes with strings attached! You're. Fucking. Scared."

That struck a cord. He could see it break in her. He could see the tears poking in the corner of her eyes. He regretted it the second he said it, but yet, he knew he wouldn't take it back. It was like cauterizing a wound; painful, jarring, extreme, but essential. He tried to say something to mend this, some means of explanation, but she snuck past him, running upstairs, and slamming the door. He rushed up the stairs, he was about to turn the knob, when she yelled at him through the door.

"Don't fucking come in here! I don't wanna see you!"

He halted. He wanted to come in and explain, but he remembered her. Remembered when he was once scared of being seen, scared of what would come from it. How she respected it. Never pried. Never pushed. He let go of the knob, putting his hand on the door as if it was her very heart.

"...are you alright hearing me, then? Can I just stay here?"

"Fucking. Whatever, Hector. Stay there. Yell at me that I'm scared to be alone again."

He sat in front of the door, putting his forehead against the wood.

"I didn't want to. That wasn't fair of me. I just assumed so many awful things, my love."

"You fucking like hurting me and you don't even know it."

He held himself upon hearing this, feeling like a monster. It didn’t matter if he was right. He could've been more gentle, could've understood her and had his temper in check.

"...can I tell you something?"

"What."

"...I thought you loved me because you were obligated to do so."

"...what?"

Her tone didn't sound happy, but she certainly didn't sound repulsed by him. She seemed confused, and he watched the shadows under the door, feeling weight against the wood. He swallowed nervously before he continued.

"Before you realized me, I asked Skylar why this was something that you were doing. She said it was to keep the military from having the technology. So…I thought you loved me not because you wanted to, but because it was right. It was right, and you always do what's right because you're such a soft person."

"Why are you…saying this, right now?"

"Because that's why I didn't contact you back. I thought it was some sympathy play. Then I saw you with everyone and how scared you were to be alone…I realized I hurt you. Even if I felt it was right, I hurt you. I know you're just being nice and-"

"Hector I'm fucking in love with you."

He scanned the lines in the wood, as if etched in them were the true meanings behind her words.

"I…what?"

"Hector I loved you. I loved you and I kept inviting you to things, but I left you alone because I thought you found something better out there. Someone to love and cherish and I didn't wanna take you back here where this was all you had. I wanted to love you, but I never went to you because god, you were free! And I saw how great you and your masks were doing and I felt so fucking awful that you came back. You came back and you were as sweet and as attentive as you always were and…g-god Hector I'd let you go a million times if it meant you'd be happy. I love you. You were the one I loved amongst everyone else. And…god I lashed out because I felt so overwhelmed. You were back and you suddenly cared and I thought you'd take it away. It was like you said. Surely you're not lucky enough to have something you've always wanted, and get to keep it."

"...you remembered me saying that."

"I do. I think about everything you've said every fucking night. Look, don't feel bad about all of this, please. I don't want you to feel obligated to anything. I-"

"Do you remember how I also said I'd do anything for you?"

"Hector please-"

"I live to help you relax. I've heard you, I've failed you. Tell me what you want. What you want is what I want."

"Hector, your heart is already out in the world! I-"

"My heart has, and always will be, with yours. You are the prime feature of my thoughts, forever and always. Tell me what your heart needs. Tell me how I can mend it. Tell me what my hands, my soul, my words, my desire, can do for you."

"...there's no wrong answer?"

"No. Only yours. I will leave, I will visit, I will go and do anything you ask. Name it, mi corazón."

For a moment she said nothing. His life hung in the air like a silent judgement, and he let her think. Her wants were his, even if it tore him from the inside out.

"...stay."

"Then I will stay. I am yours. And you are mine."

"..."

"Do you not like this? You may take it back at any point."

"N-no. I just. Uhm…"

"Please, tell me."

"Could you…say it again?"

"Say what?"

"That I'm…yours. I…like how you said it."

Mischief tugged at the corner of his lips. His fingers dug into his own thighs in excitement. He loved doing as she liked. Really, really liked it. He forgot just how much he liked playing with her, and she seemed to forget just how much she liked being played with. It was time to remind her.

"You. Are. Mine. You give me the power to do what it is you desire, and I mold that power to delight you. I will do anything for such power between us. If that power is with my voice, then my love, I shall coo and woo. All. Night. Long."

More silence. He felt like he couldn't breathe. The anticipation was so thick, when the door suddenly opened. She was standing over him, but the brightness on her face and cute little ears made her look just so compliant, look so meek.

"I wanna be mad at you. I really, really do. You got a kick out of that."

He rested his cheek on his propped up hand, sighing as he gazed up at her.

"Only because you did. You did, didn't you?"

"Don't you get a big head, Hector."

"You think it's big? I mean big is generous-"

"HECTOR."

She wanted to stay firm and mad, but her shoulders were practically shaking as she was fighting back laughter. He made himself get up so she could face dive into his chest, snickering and sputtering, gripping onto his shirt and punching his shoulder, weakened by amusement.

"You are. So absolutely tickled."

"It was the delivery, it was unexpected, holy cheese rolls, Hector."

He couldn't resist wrapping his arms around her, finding such delight in how she melted into his hold.

"I love your laugh."

"And I love you. All of you. Even though I'm gonna beat you up later."

She looked up from his chest, chin resting upon him, and there was silence. A short, comfortable silence, only his breathing and the sound of her gently fiddling with his clothing, possibly in nerves.

"Can I enjoy you before the beating up?"

"Depends. Do I get to kiss you?"

"You can. But I know you want more, and I live to give you what you want."

She was going to ask something, but it was too late. No more waiting, no more stalling. He cupped her face in his hand, and finally, like he had not breathed his whole life until now, kissed her. It was a kiss that melted her, a kiss that let herself be bent to her own desires. He continued to kiss her, taking a step forward, and she took steps backward. It was like a dance, her body working to accommodate his own service, till she bumped into her own bed. He parted from the kiss, allowing her to look at the situation. His intention was obvious, and if she wanted to turn around and stop him, he'd know. There would be hesitation in her eyes, a corner of her lip pursed in doubt.

She sat herself down on her bed, polite and nervous, as if this was so new.

"I'm…a little nervous."

"This isn't your first time, though."

"It's my first time with you, since you've been realized. My first time with you, knowing you want to stay. I mean not to brag, I'm pretty good at the whole thing, but I've never felt like I wanted to impress anyone like this."

Oh if his heart were a sturdy safe, she'd be a persistent little pin, cracking into him far too easily. He smiled, planting a knee onto her bed and planting his palms onto the space behind her.

"You impress me already. With your heart, you're understanding, you being the most beautiful being in the world is just an extra little delight. If you enjoy yourself, I will be impressed, if you keep showing what's in your heart, I'll be impressed. Now, I'm going to kiss you again. When I do, I'm going to do everything I know will thrill you to no end. Is this alright?"

So frazzled, so overwhelmed. It was nice to see it on someone else for a change, someone else to put their worries and their faith in.

"Y-yeah. But I uh. I do wanna ask for something first. If that's okay."

"Anything your golden heart yearns for."

"Can you take your shirt off? Like I'm so tired of seeing it on you."

He raised a brow, holding onto the fabric with confusion.

"It's bad? I thought it was fetching on me."

"No-Hector I'm saying I wanna see your body that badly."

"Oh. Oh! So you do like it though? Because I can get new clothes."

"Hector."

"Right, right. Sorry, I just like this shirt- but as you wish."

He wasn't gonna lie, there was something that emboldened him about how she oggled him. The way her eyes wouldn't be on anything else in the room. He slid his jacket, then his shirt off, and he was just a little smug about how she gripped onto the sheets below. Wouldn't be the first time they'd be gripped tonight.

"Okay. Yeah. Better, much better. You've changed since the last time."

"I know! Isn't it lovely,"

He tossed his clothes to the side as he held into his frame. Where was once rigid, cold, sharp metal and vents, was replaced with layers of hot, soft muscle and fat, littered with way more hair than he ever thought he could have.

"The way I've changed? My frame is comfortable now. More suited for you, easier to be enveloped by you. Plus I…I like looking at it now."

"Well what a coincidence. I do too~"

He accepted her clear request for another kiss, smiling through it as he felt her hands practically paw at him, stroke at his skin, feel at the delightful stretchmarks he had learned to adore. She was so full of love, her love enveloped in his own like a greedy, starving thing. God, he was hungry. Hungry for her in ways he couldn't even begin to describe. He enveloped her lips completely, getting so carried away, he almost didn't let her breathe. Air was important, but also so unnecessary, just an obstacle to stop those kisses. He allowed her to breathe, burying his face in the nape of her sweet, tender neck.

"Do you remember Grate Expectations?"

"...maybe."

Her hands were at his back now, fingertips just tickling at the skin of his back.

"Do you remember this one line? After the mist parted? After you were held really, really close?"

He didn't see her face, but he didn’t need to. Knew she was suffering. Suffering in a sweet symphony.

"Hector, c-come on."

"I was going to wait, but if you insist on being impatient, my love,"

He gave her neck just a small kiss, before baring his teeth, and sinking them into her skin. It was euphoria in its most simple form. The satisfaction in the way she dug her fingers into him, the sharp exhale from surprise? Satisfaction? Maybe both. He let out a shuddery exhale, keeping his nose buried in her, as if he could smell just how excited she was for him.

"God, I'm sorry. I know you liked it, I can hear it in your breathing. But I'm so, so sorry that I like it possibly more. I want to bite every single inch of you, my love. But for now, just…one more. Just to tithe me over."

He turned his head to find a new spot, a little closer to her collarbone this time, and bit yet again. He was more forceful with this one, loving how her warmth, her flesh and her muscles were his to consume like this. He thought for a second he perhaps bit too hard this time, but the way her fingers dug into his hair, gripping it in some sort of silent plea to continue. He heard her swallow as she spoke, and even though he could only see sheets and skin from this angle, he pictured her mouth all full of drool as she spoke, and it brought just as much excitement to him as her voice.

"You know what I uhm. What I just realized?"

"Hmm?"

"That I'm wearing more than you right now. That doesn't seem fair, does it?"

"...no. I suppose it doesn't,"

He lifted himself up a bit to look at her face, and dear god was she making it hard to take things slowly, looking up at him with big, curious eyes, mouth slightly open like she was hanging onto his every word.

"You got to choose what I took off. I take it I can do the same?"

Her little nod in confirmation, oh he wanted to keep her here forever, away from any cruelty in the world. He scooted back a little, ignoring the fact that he clearly had an erection, and was especially ignoring just how much she was looking there. He dipped his fingertips into the waist of her pants, and hesitated just for a moment. Not for his own, but to silently ask her if this was alright. Upon receiving anticipation, he proceeded. He pulled those pants off of her, swearing under his breath as he saw how much she had ruined her underwear in her own arousal. She seemed to find her voice, even though it came out as cracked initially.

"Y-you know. Underwear are kinda like pants."

"Really?"

He was trying not to laugh, despite how frustrated it was clearly making her, given her dramatic scoff.

"It's called under PANTS, right?"

"...that's actually very sound logic, I wanted to poke fun, but that's a point."

He almost jumped a bit with how quickly she sat up, face scrunching up in a poor attempt to glare at him.

"God, do you want me to say it, pervert?"

"...pervert. You think I've been a pervert? Dear,"

He reached up to cup her face in his hand. His hold wasn't hard mind you, easy to pull away from if she wanted, but she chose to let herself be pulled, not disliking how his nose was practically smashed against her own.

"I've been a gentleman so far. If you want a pervert, I can oblige. A gentleman plays these adorable little games. A pervert would tell you to tell me you want me to take your underwear off. How are we doing this?"

"......"

"Your face is panicky, but not scared. But you're also not saying anything."

"Yeah sorry I kinda malfunctioned for a second- you're hot and it makes it hard to think. Sorry I know that doesn't answer your question."

"Ha. Something about you calling me hot. It's foreign to me."

"I can start making it very, very familiar to you."

It was his turn to get flushed, especially with her grin as mischievous as it was. He took the opportunity to return it in kind, hooking a finger into her underwear.

"I would like to get familiar with you. Very familiar."

No resistance, not as he slowly peeled them off of her, letting it hang down to her ankle. His hands gently slid up and down her legs, loving the way the skin was littered in those gorgeous goosebumps. He was rather comfortable, pressing his cheek right up against one of her legs. One leg became two though, as she clearly didn’t want to let him go. He met her eyes, taking great delight in how shamelessly excited her grin was. He squeezed his hand underneath him, ever so slowly rubbing at her folds. They were warm, wet, practically begging for him to do more than what he was already doing.

"I'm good at reading you, usually. I'm familiar with your tells, the hints your body gives me. But please, if I misstep anywhere, for any moment in time, stop me. Your pleasure is mine."

He tried not to absolutely melt as she reached down to lightly scrunch her fingers in his hair.

"I'll keep that in mind. Sweet of you, but I trust you. You know me."

"God, yes I do. I know every inch. I know you really, really like this,"

He kissed her stomach. He kissed her bush, before finally, finally, burying his face right into her. Love potions were a fictional concept, he thought, right up until now. As he sat there, fingers gripping into her thighs like they were keeping him from death, he was in love. In love with every lick, in love with every suck to every fold, in love with every bit that coated his tongue and slid down his throat. She was a gift, ever giving, endless, delicious, all for him. This was something to be earned, and given how quickly she was breathing, how her eyes only rested on him, he knew he was earning his keep. Earning his right and privilege to all of this.

"God, if this is how I end, please, please do not rescue me."

His sentence was gasped out, his stupid body not letting him go without air for too long. He helped himself again as soon as he stopped feeling dizzy, practically smothering his nose into her in doing so. He felt so undignified here, her love dripping down his face and chin, just like his air used to envelop her. He felt pride in a way, hearing her mutter his name over and over, like a broken record. The pull to his hair gave him a bit of a start, but he didn't care. He knew what it meant when she tossed her head back like that. Knew he was doing something truly, and utterly perfect.

She came only a moment after, and he gripped onto her, wanting her to not waste a single bit on the sheets. No, no, it was all for him, the greedy man that he was. He would've kept going, he really, really wanted to, but he saw her frame, shaking way too hard for his comfort, her breathing a little quicker than he wanted. He pulled away from her, breaking the string of fluid connecting them as he wiped his mouth with the back of his hand.

"Darling? You okay?"

She swallowed, finally letting go of the sheets to wipe sweat from her brow.

"Y-yeah. I'm. Sorry. You're…really, really good at that. God."

He chuckled to himself as he gently took her hand, and kissed the back of it.

"It's an honor to have done right by you. Are we done, then? I-"

She reached to grab his belt buckle, and pulled him right to her. Her eyes were dazed, but definitely determined.

"No. If you wanna quit that one's thing. But I need it. It's been over a year Hector. That's a long, long time to wait for you."

"To…wait for me?"

"Yeah. Waiting for you. Waiting for all of you."

He was going to argue, especially since she looked exhausted, but god. The way she cupped his cheek in her hand. The way she gave him such pleading eyes. He couldn't say no to those eyes. He sighed, holding a hand over the one on his cheek.

"Alright. Whatever you desire. I live for you. Just let me look for something in your drawer, safety as always."

"What if…I don't want that?"

He blinked. She didn't want protection. He had considered that in his fantasies, but here, with her bare, soaked pussy and his boner trying to escape his pants, it was so much more real and jarring. He took a deep inhale.

"If you want that. I should…disclose something."

"Yes?"

"I…tried to do this with others, while we were apart."

"Really?"

"Tried. Men, women. I've never…finished it let's put it that way, but I've tried. I never really liked it. It's just…to be with you in the way you're hinting at. It's demanding of my honesty."

He thought she'd be mad, explode at him even. But instead, she looked meek, embarrassed, slowly shutting her legs.

"I've…been with a bunch of people from the house. Is that something that you're not interested in? Should I have said that before any of this? Are you uncomfortable?"

Oh. Oh how awful of him. He scrambled, grabbing her hands and putting them to his chest, tightly, like she wanted to help her reach into his chest to read the poetry that was in his heart.

"No! No no no, I was fully aware. It did not bother me, you have so much love in your heart, to give it to others is to be expected! I'm just saying this because holding this information would eat me alive if I kept it inside."

"You promise? Because I understand if that is an issue."

"No. No no no. I'll take you as you are, experiences and all. You do not judge me for my liaisons, I shall not judge you for yours."

"You're not just saying that?"

He gave a gentle shake of his head, taking a second to kiss her knuckles.

"To lie to you would hurt you. To hurt you would be the end of me. That's why I told you this. I do not mind you if you do not mind me. Honestly. I would not lie, especially not when it involves something as sacred as your body."

He yet again, wished he could somehow take it back, while still getting the message across. She seemed uncertain for a second, before slowly opening her legs again.

"Only of you promise you're okay, and not just saying that because you want to fuck me."

"Never, never. If you told me to stop all of this, right now, to convince you, I'd stop."

She seemed like she tempted it for a minute, before she gave such a pout.

"It wouldn't be as much fun though, would it?"

"No. No it wouldn't."

He couldn't help but chuckle as he leaned in to kiss her, right on her forehead. He loved getting this. Loved getting to have these conversations and these embraces and-

"Can I pull you out?"

He froze a bit as she asked that, suddenly very aware of what state he was in, like Adam and Eve finding shame upon their own nude form.

"You…want to do that?"

"Very much, yes."

It's what she wanted. What she asked for. So he scooted closer to her, practically looming over her in a way that would've been imposing, had she clearly not absolutely loved it.

"Then. Do it."

No hesitation, this woman. He held a steadfast disposition as she reached for his belt, then undoing it. He reminded himself not to cum yet upon feeling the warmth of her palm, but feeling her gently stroke his length, even for just a second, god it overwhelmed him. It felt like a moment of admiration, a moment of her saying he was special to her. She held onto him as he gently pushed him against her. He wasn't inside, but one little movement could get him there. She took his hand, making him hold it instead, while her hands were eagerly gripping onto the sheets.

"Whenever you're ready. No rush, I'm ready."

So patient with him, despite the fact that she was clearly chomping at the bit. He sighed almost woefully, gently rubbing his head against her folds. He wanted inside, so terribly badly, but not yet. So close, but not yet. Yearning makes the heart grow fonder, and his own heart was full of nothing but delicious, decadent devotion.

"God, I love you. I'm going to give you all of me because it's what you deserve. You are patience and kindness and love and beauty and…god, I need you. I can't hold it anymore."

He loved yearning, but the way she clung to his every word, the way there was no pressure for him to do something, the way she'd let him lament and monolog. He gently pushed into her, swearing under his breath as he held onto the headboard above her. He didn't hesitate to push in fully, feeling his balls press right up against her. He thought he was almost barbaric in his approach, but then she reached up, gently panting as she seemed to almost admire the view.

"Don't hold back, okay? I know you treat me like a flower, but…I don't want filtered love. I want it all."

She shouldn't have said that. She shouldn't have. Her own heart was worth more than all the gold in the world, he couldn't help himself. So…he did as she wanted. And fucked her. It was different from love making. He did love her, obviously, but making love was delicate, making love was tenderly, almost vanilla. Here, he was fucking her. Here, he was bucking his hips into her in a way that felt like was moving the entire bed, here he was staring at her sweaty face, here he made a realization.

He was fucking love right into her.

"I shall give you every bit of me. I know I keep saying it, but every time I say it, I feel like I find more to give you. God, loving you is never-ending, loving you is an experience, loving you is…god loving you makes me whole."

She tried to laugh, but it was a little strained, what with the whines bubbling in her throat. She reached up further up his frame, before clearly gesturing to his face.

"Gimme."

What a simple expression. He let go of the bed post, wrapping his arms around her back, practically squishing her as he kissed her. Kissed her and wouldn't stop fucking her hot, welcoming body. He wanted to cum, wanted to cum the second he entered her, but he wanted to wait. He held it back, for her kisses, for her own moans, for her tongue gracing his own. His hands roamed up her back, before they buried themselves into her hair, and gripped. He couldn't see, but he knew her toes were curling, knew her whines blended with giggles meant he was getting her there.

"H…how should I…do this, when I'm ready?"

"Inside."

He almost came right then, just at the mere mention of it. Last time they did this he was protected, it was fairly clean. It was a clean, romantic affair. But this. This was loving and lustful. He stopped kissing her for a moment, resting his forehead against hers, but didn't once stop fucking her. He'd sooner die than stop fucking the woman whom he loved.

"Are you sure? B-because I want to, I want to just as much as you do, but is that- fuck don't tense up like that- I don't want you to have any regrets."

She cupped his cheeks in her hands, as if she was holding something true and precious.

"You're never a regret. I'll say it if you want."

"G-god, I don't know if I…if I can…"

She was relentless, she ghosted her lips over his, threatening a kiss, and said his name like it was the sweetest ambrosia.

"Hector~"

"I can't hold it back if you say it-"

"I need you to do something for me~"

"Think about what you're doing to m-me, please-!"

"I need you to cum in me~"

She had no idea what she unleashed. He felt a growl bubble in his throat, in a place so primal and almost nasty, and he just. Gave it to her. He continued to fuck her with reckless abandon, practically squishing her frame as she came and he still fucked her through it, and finally, finally, came. He filled her with all the love. Love that had been waiting for her all this time. Love that he made sure wasn't wasted, love that he didn't dare deprive her of. He finally stopped his ruthless rutting, and he swore he heard a mumble of a thank you from her.

He laid there, on top of her, open, drooling mouth hovering over hers, cock throbbing inside of her. He was a mess, he was sloppy.

"I…I'm…I'm sorry. Do you regret this at all?"

"Do…you?"

"No. God, no. I'd do it a million more times."

"Then I don't either. Not when I got to fuck someone this cuuute~"

She held onto his chin, and started to kiss him. They weren't the same lustful kisses, but rather, little, rapid pecks all over his face. He couldn't help but laugh at this boisterous barrage, playfully failing to push her away.

"H-hey! You can't call me cute after that!"

"Just did, whatcha gonna do about it, huh?"

"This."

He held onto her face, turning it to his side, and buried his face into the nape of her neck, and blew right into it. The sound was loud, and childish, and the laugh that escaped her. Oh it could put any music to shame.

"Oh my god, knock it off!"

He did it once more, just to hear that laugh, before he kissed her, right on her searing cheek.

"How are you feeling? Is anything hurting?"

"Nope. Cannot feel my legs, but that's a good sign! Shit was bussin'. And I do not know why I fucking said that."

"...I do not know what 'bussin' is. But, would you like me to get you something?"

"I would appreciate some water, if it doesn't put you out."

"Never. I'll get it."

"Wait, kiss first."

He leaned in to give her a kiss, and was going to get up when she mumbled for another, then another. By the fourth time he was snickering at her.

"You have to actually let me get the water if you want it, dear."

"But kisses…"

He smiled, ever so gently patting her cheek.

"If you let me get you water, I will double your kisses."

"...fine. Still angry."

"And I love it. I will not make you wait long, I promise."

He slowly pulled out of her, maybe with his gaze lingering a little longer than usual. After pulling up his pants, he went downstairs to get her a cup of water, and stopped for a towel on the way back up. His breath hitched upon coming back, as he really got to see the vision that was his love; hair sprawled all over her pillows, blanket covering her body, and a look of such ease upon her features. She put every painting to shame. He forced himself to approach despite his nerves, and she accepted it gratefully.

"Thank you."

"Of course. I got you a towel too."

"Ain't you sweet to me~"

He tried to hand it to her, but she was mischievous, leaning over and kissing his hand as she took it from him. She took the towel and cleaned up as she could, before patting the spot next to her. He sat down, and she handed him the cup.

"...I had no idea I was thirsty."

"Yeah you really don't till after. I'll split it with you, though."

He helped himself to a fair sip, before she polished it off with a sigh of content. He reached over and adjusted her blanket a bit, to cover up just a bit more, to keep her comfortable.

"Comfortable?"

"Almost!"

She patted her chest, and it took a second for him to think, before he realized what she meant. He was…a bit embarrassed. Not when he put his chin on her chest and laid onto her frame. So warm, so safe. He looked up at her, searching for any signs of her being uncomfortable.

"I'm not too heavy or anything?"

She shook her head, reaching over to gently play with his hair, occasionally scratching his scalp. It felt like any woes melted from his mind, and he could tell by her chuckle, that she was amused by him.

"Never. You're just right. Just perfect."

"Oh…don't start all that. Can't handle such affections."

"We could talk about the elephant in the room instead?"

He sighed slightly, somehow absolutely knowing where she was going with this.

"About your relationship with everyone, you mean?"

"Yeah. Do you need me to sort of…curb that?"

"...you would stop being romantically interested in over a hundred people for me?"

"I'd stop being romantically interested in a thousand people. Sexually too. Which is really hard, but relationships are hard, aren't they?"

He thought about it, pondered it. If he wanted her all to himself, he could have her. No one could kiss her, woo her, love her like he could. He stared at her as she stared at his features, being comfortable with the time he desperately needed.

"...I'm okay with you still seeing them like that."

"Are you really?"

"Yes. Genuinely, I would be okay with it. You have a big heart, it takes many to tend to it. But, how we do this going forward, that's what I'd like to discuss."

"Of course. Name it."

It was so odd, him being listened to, every one of his words treated like they were gospel. He was almost ready for another fight, that's how aghast he was in this simplicity.

"I need communication. I need to know you're okay if I can trust others with you. I'll blame Lux for today, but moving forward, just. Text me beforehand, a little call, anything."

"Okay, very fair. I can do that. Anything else?"

"That you just. Give me a little extra time, at the end of the day. A little more than most."

"Seems reasonable. I mean given that we're living together now, that definitely shouldn't be an issue. I do go on trips sometimes though, I went to see Willi, was gone for like a week, what about that?"

"Case by case basis. More communication on that."

She was starting to drift a little, he could see it in her eyes, in the slow pace of her petting, but she continued as best as she could.

"Okay, yeah. What about you? If you wanted to see someone?"

"Oh I very much doubt it'll happen. But the same applies my way. These are my conditions, are you sure you can accept them?"

"Mhmm. You're special, you deserve special treatment."

"...could you say that again?"

"Ha. Okay, yes,"

She stopped petting him, in order to grab at his chin, as if she didn’t already have all of his attention.

"You're special to me. You're my special man. Who…looks like he's gonna keel over."

"S-sorry, I just. Well, some semblance of…ownership I suppose. It's nice."

"Oh don't start that kinda talk again, I'm way too tired to go again."

She kissed his forehead, and he sat there, knowing he was looking at her all twitterpatted and tantalized.

"Apologies. Talk for tomorrow, then."

"Assuming that's all you had to say. I want to hear all your boundaries."

"No. I have nothing. Thank you, for…asking. You asking that means the world to me."

She nodded, eyes fluttering closed, her voice low and almost mumbly.

"Course. Anytime. We share…everything together now."

"That means everything to me. Thank you."

There was silence for a moment, where he thought she had actually fallen asleep, when he heard her speak, just as he was going to turn off the light.

"Hector?"

"Yes?"

"Tomorrow imma suck your dick. And it's gonna be great~"

"I…what? You can't just. Say that-and you're asleep. Okay. I'm. Gonna be okay."

He was not. That sentence clung to his mind like a darkness, and genuinely, he didn’t know how he managed to fall asleep, given a promise like that. He woke up to the sound of her phone ringing, and she jumped a bit from it, clearing her throat as she picked it up. Her voice was chipper and bubbly, unlike her half asleep, messy haired, eye crusted face.

"Heeeey Kopi! How's the most brewtiful person around? Uh huh. Oh uh. Kopi imma be honest I'm a little swamped today. Yeah no, raincheck, definitely! I'll bring some pastries from this one place, we'll make it a whole thing. Uh huh. Yeah, love you too!"

She hung up with a groan, shuffling in place a bit to get herself more comfortable.

"Everything alright?"

"Yeah, Kopi wanted to go out for coffee. Thank you."

"For?"

"Giving me a reason to stay. I have today off, I wanna spend it getting at least a bit more sleep."

He smiled, scooting up a bit to kiss her cheek. The way her tired smile formed, it was like discovering beauty in the world for the first time.

"Course. As long as you like. I will be here if you'd like."

"No I want you to go sleep on the floor Hector, yes, bring that ass here."

He may have jumped a bit as she actually did grab his rear, not really expecting that. It made him chuckle, a little higher pitched than he would've liked.

"You're uhm. Welcome to my company as long as you'd like."

He didn't know how long he was graced with the ability to sleep there, hours, minutes, regardless, it was far too short. Anything less than eternity was short. This embrace, this warmth, this safety.

"Hector?"

"Yes?"

"I gotta get up. I've been needing to pee for like twenty minutes."

"I'll go make us coffee."

He made a motion to get off of her, slightly surprised at the peck to his lips right before they parted. He got to the kitchen and checked the clock. It was early morning when Kopi called, and now, it was almost one in the afternoon. No wonder he actually felt rested. He poured himself a cup of coffee right as she came in, a look on her face.

"Hector. You know I love you. Like a lot."

"What did you say yes to?"

"Well…Holly crashed. But she has a million deliveries. And I volunteered to take over some for her."

He took a second to breathe, because he wasn't mad at her, just at the situation.

"I will go with you. We can get it done faster that way."

"You'd help me? It's gonna be an all day thing."

"All day with you? Oh that's torture. I'll live."

Her smile of relief was worth its weight in gold.

"You're the best. I'll buy us breakfast? Er, lunch?"

"Deal. And a kiss, after I brush my teeth. Which I should've done by now."

She was on him before the sentence hung in the air, a hand planted right over his heart, and a smile on her lips.

"I wouldn't mind it. You're sweet enough as is, cancels it out."

He knew he was blushing, he always did that when he turned to look away from her.

"You should not be flustering me like this."

"You're right, you're right. Because I know if I do,"

She dug her fingers into his belt, and practically yanked herself to him, till they were chest to chest.

"We'd never get out of this damn house~"

He was contemplating it, really he was, because he was a terribly greedy man, but he remembered their agreement. That she'd give her time to others. So, he fought off the urge to take her right back upstairs, and pressed his forehead against hers.

"I'm tempted. Very tempted. Save it for when we get back?"

"Course. I meant what I said before bed afterall."

She let go of him and walked away, probably to go get ready herself, and he had to sit there with that thought before doing the same. They walked out to her car, and after getting a simple lunch (that he was a little upset by, because they gave her the wrong order initially and they were being a little rude about it), they stopped by Holly's house. It was a small apartment type place, and Hector had to stay outside while she went in, upon her prompting. Apparently Holly only let her see her like this, and he didn't mind. The waiting was only about five minutes, before they were both lugging boxes downstairs. Boxes of different sizes and weights, all loaded up into her car. Hector sighed in relief when the trunk closed.

"Okay, where are we going first?"

"Well first it's Jerry. Then Ironaldini, he's right next door to his shop."

It was a short drive there, and he almost hated it. He liked driving with her, liked the music she put on the cars radio, liked her pointing out various dogs people walked with or hairstyles she liked. He had a brief fantasy about going on a field trip with her, it didn't matter where really, before they parked. She scrambled for the packages, and pulled out about four of them that he helped carry. He walked with her down the street, passing by multiple shops. Shops he recognized when he would come over and sell his wares. It was so much nicer though, walking with her by his side.

"So have you gotten into any other hobbies since the realization? Because Jerry is like, super into trains."

"I've heard. And not really? I mean I do bake occasionally now, but that's more for me. I like a little treat."

"You have a favorite treat?"

"Genuinely, pies. I don't make them though. I just like them because you'd make them all the time and I'd make the smell waft throughout the whole house. I can never recreate that smell. Smelled like…love. Simple as love can get."

"Oh. Aw, that's kinda sweet. Pun intended,"

She started to walk ahead of him, walking backwards with the load in her arms.

"Did you have a favorite one?"

"I prefer the warm ones. They had such a nice smell. And you made the apple ones a lot, it's almost sentimental to me at this point."

He hurried a bit ahead of her to open the door to the shop, making her give a bit of a sarcastic curtsy in response. They both walked in, and Hector took the space in; surprisingly spacious, full of adults and children and different sets with different toys. In the center was a big model train set that commanded the most attention, and that's where Jerry was, huddled over it. That is, until he looked in their direction. Then, he scrambled to put things down carefully, hurrying over to her in clear excitement.

"Hey! It's you! You're early, I'm not getting that new set until next week!"

"Holly kinda burnt out again, so I'm here to deliver your package for you! Me and Hector!"

"Hector?"

Hector shrugged, readjusting the boxes in his hands.

"HVAC."

"Ooooh! Yes yes, I remember! You were a maestro with the temperature! Back when I collected all that junk! You know, it feels refreshing to let go of that hobby. I mean, I took it way too seriously,"

He paused suddenly, taking a deep, very frustrated inhale.

"Billy, If you touch. That bench. One more time. I'm banning you from my store."

The child, behind him, seemed to freeze, stepping away from the set in caution and maybe a bit of fear. Jerry seemed to knock himself out of his anger to gesture at the table.

"Here, you can set it down here!"

Two of the boxes were set down at a nearby table, and she leaned against one to give herself such a flirty tone in her body language.

"So, I'm still allowed to touch the trains, right?"

He stopped mid opening the box, to look at her. He couldn't blame him, she always knew what to say and do to get under your very heart.

"You can always touch my trains~"

That made her laugh, and even lean over to gently squish his face. A squish that he sank into, and he knew if he wanted to, she could whisk him away to another room and do anything she wanted to him, and he wouldn't put up a fight at all.

"I'll take you up on that next time we hangout, promise. But, I do have other things to do. Promise though, Jere bear~"

"I'll be waiting! Definitely! Every single day, even! You uh, wanna take any trains with you?"

"I would but I think Billy is beating me to it."

"Gosh heckin darn Billy- imma go deal with him, I love you! Please come back!"

They left Jerry to scold this child, and Hector sighed as soon as they walked out.

"It's so odd to see that."

"See what? Him having beef with a child? Because that's normal, Billy's mom does not pay attention to that kid."

"No no. The way people fawn over you. I mean it's not surprising, it's just wild how easy it is for you. You could get people like Jerry to do anything you wanted."

"And you."

They were talking as they talked, and her voice got serious as she said that. Not mean or warning or curt, but rather, a fact. A fact that was well known between them both. He nodded, his mind in a bit of a daze at not just the look, but in how she really did know him like that.

"Yeah. And me. Definitely me."

She gave a satisfied chuckle as they went to the next shop, her opening the door for him this time. It was a quaint store, full of items that initially appeared to be magic sets, but upon closer inspection, were various ironing kits for different types of clothes. Ironaldini was currently giving an example of a product to some woman, but seemed to almost hurry her along as soon as he saw them.

"Ah, my little bunny~"

She seemed to get such a kick out of it, given her almost fangirlish grin.

"Hiiii Ronnie~. Came by to give you some stuff. Even got a buddy to help me!"

"Hi, Ronnie."

"...only my bunnies get to call me that. But how nice of you and your little friend!"

He didn't expect her to. He didn't ask her to. But she nudged Hector with her elbow with a nod.

"Actually he's my boyfriend. Like, my live in boyfriend."

Ironaldini gave him a once over, as if seeing him in a new light, before giving an almost impressed 'humph'.

"Ah, you're someone else's bunny now?"

"Well we agreed, basically, that I'm a lot of people's bunny. So we can still do our little magic acts, long as it doesn't bother you."

A grin, one of sheer, carnal excitement, came over his features. Next thing he knew, Hector was holding all four boxes, the magician was in between them, and he had her in handcuffs. Handcuffs that he was pulling onto, keeping absolutely no distance between them.

"Long as you part the curtains just how you know I like it, bunny~"

Her laugh was full of embarrassment, excitement, and she playfully squirmed away from him, as if it was all too much.

"Ronnie! Come on, not now! We're not even backstage!"

He muttered something to her, something he couldn't quite catch, but with a snap of his fingers, she was suddenly out of cuffs, holding them in one hand and with the other, wrapped around her frame.

"Next time, then, my little bunny?"

"Definitely next time~"

He finally let her go, gesturing at the boxes he was now holding. He sat them down where he was instructed, and Ironaldini opened the boxes, looking at the content with delight.

"Oh good, Holly was able to procure what I needed. It's a new outfit for me and Bobby! We have a magic show next weekend!"

"...oh my god they match. Oh that's so cute."

"Course we match! Bobby is practically my own! Thank you for the delivery, dear."

"Course! We have a few more runs to go through, so we can't stay long, but I'm looking forward to seeing you soon."

"As am I darling,"

He suddenly pulled out flowers from out of nowhere, making such a show of presenting them to her. Bird of paradise, her favorite, and he grinned at how much he knew it'd please her.

"As am I~"

She thanked him ever so sweetly as she accepted them, and Hector was surprised she managed to escape without him jumping on her bones. He had that look in his eyes, like a man who just discovered lust. They walked out of there, and he expected her to be distracted by her flowers, but she seemed to ignore them, looking at him as they walked to the car.

"So that's how things would be, if you don't want my relationships with others to change. How are you feeling about it?"

"Oh. You're…double checking with me?"

"Yeah, I am. I mean a man just gave me flowers and offered to cuff me up in front of you. If it's overwhelming, I understand it."

He gave it a moment's thought, taking things in around him. Her gait, her attention, people walking along the same street as them.

"Actually, no. No. I would've been possibly upset or uncomfortable, but you checked in with me. I appreciate that. That little moment of care. It makes me feel seen. So, no. No, flirt away. It does not make me feel less than."

They made it to the car, and she seemed full of relief upon his words.

"Good. I'm glad I checked. Anyway, just two more people to drop things off to, Dante, and Artt. I checked with Artt, he's out clubbing with Dante, so they should be in the same place. Then we can go home!"

"Sounds lovely. I already miss the couch."

"You and me both."

They dropped off the flowers, and after grabbing four more boxes, went and walked off yet again. There was a building with a line out the door, and he was a little surprised that she just walked to the head of the pack. That is, until he saw Dorian standing in the front. Upon seeing her, he gave a nod, and a very small smile tugged at his lips.

"'Ello love. Hector."

"God you recognize him! Feels like no one has lately!"

"It was my business to know. You plannin' on coming in?"

"Yeah! A delivery for Artt and Dante. Are we allowed in?"

"'Old on, gotta do the mandatory check. Let's 'ave a look,"

He inspected her for a moment, gave her a firm, almost protective kiss on her forehead, before nodding.

"Clear. On in, then."

"Ha, love ya Dorian~"

They both flinched a bit as a man in line quickly approached, yelling that Dorian was playing favorites. Hector stepped in between the situation and her right when the man decided to touch Dorian. It was but a shove, but that's all Dorian needed. Dorian grinned. A big, huge, satisfied grin, accompanied by a cracking of his knuckles.

"Cheers, mate."

They both walked in, ignoring the sound of a body hitting the pavement with some force, and he wasn't gonna lie, it was a little overwhelming. The people, the lights, the incredibly loud music. He took notice of how uncomfortable she was, the way she shifted, the way her smile tightened. He was going to offer to let her go outside, when a voice called out to them.

"Hey firecracker!~"

Dante. Tattoos and abs and pompadour and all. She smiled at him, welcoming the slight hug he had given her.

"Dante! So good to see you! How's Mr.Matchmaker?"

"Good, good. Better if you let him set you up, like he's been trying to do."

"Dante, you're gonna try to set me up with you."

"Hey, 'you' is a pretty good guy, give him a shot."

She chuckled at him, and he saw it in Dante's eyes. Eyes that said 'everything you say is funny. Everything you say settles in my heart. Everything you say is music'. He wondered if she noticed, especially as she gestured to the boxes in her hands.

"Uh huh. These two are for you. You got Artt here too?"

"Oh yeah yeah,"

He took the boxes from her, and called out in the distance.

"Yo Artt! Doug! Guess who's here?!"

Artt and Doug approached, with Artt clearly being more excited than his companion.

"My little co creator! It has been ages!"

Artt made Doug grab the boxes as he hugged her. A real, tight hug that made her laugh.

"Artt, you absolute bacchanal! So good to see you! And you too, Doug."

"Sup Dorkcules."

Artt chuckled at him, turning to look at Hector.

"And you!"

"Yeah, Im H-"

"Hector Valentino Airnesto Conditionado! In the very flesh!"

"Oh. Uhm. You remember me?"

"Art never forgets an artist, and I never forget a yearner, they're my favorite! Now just what are you two doing together? An artist and his muse?"

He hesitated a second, standing up straight and (hopefully) proud.

"I am. Her boyfriend. And we're helping Holly deliver things."

"Well take a look at that! How marvelous!"

"But we've all fucked the dork-"

He was cut off when Artt smacked a hand over his mouth.

"Don't worry, he likes it- but how wonderful! Oh I always did think you two would be cute together! Stand side by side, won't you?"

She listened to him, standing next to him and even grabbing a hold of his arm. It was a firm, tight hold, as if saying no one was allowed to take him from her. Artt laughed loud and heartily.

"Oh see? I knew it! Ugh, I wish I brought my paints!"

"That's not what's in the box?"

"No, they're yoyos for Doug's performance! He's going to yoyo fifty of them at once! Aren't you, dear?"

Doug scowled upon finally getting his mouth back, but nodded.

"Yeah. Gonna call it walkin' the dork."

"Oh fuck off, Doug."

"Oh sure Sophia can walk you and it's great, but when I try to suddenly it's an issue."

She was going to say something else when suddenly voices called out to her. Curt and Rod, who pushed past Doug and Artt in order to get to her. She let go of him to accept their hugs, and didn't seem uncomfortable by them resting their arms at her shoulders.

"Yo if it ain't our girl!"

"Lookin' fine as fuuuuck!"

"Curt, Rod! My guys! You guys heading home?"

"Nah, we just got here!"

"Rod, you still got the mustache. Looks like ants."

"Pfft, weak-"

"I mean at least it's bigger than the line in your pants."

Curt stood there, opened mouthed, and Rod braced himself for what was coming up.

"She said-"

"I heard her, man-"

"THE LINE IN YO PANTS!"

Rod rolled his eyes, and he was fighting off a laugh himself, even as Curt was laughing right into his shoulder.

"That was uncalled for. Cold as hell. We missed you, bitch."

"Damn straight we did!"

"Say, Curt, you think you'd mind if we borrowed her for a quick dance?"

"I personally don't think she would?"

They offered their hands to her, she glanced at Hector, and he nodded, letting her be whisked away. Dante chuckled, nudging him with his elbow.

"You want a drink my guy? On me."

"Yes, I would love one, actually."

They all went to the bar, and Hector accepted his glass. He didn't know what it was, and didn’t care, just that it felt smooth going down. Artt nursed his as he sat to his right, while Dante sat to his left.

"So! You and our human. What is so special about you two?"

"You mean compared to everyone else's relationship with her?"

"Yes."

"I agreed to go back and live with her, for one. And I'm officially her boyfriend, so I suppose I'm special in that way."

Dante nodded in understanding, taking a sip of his own drink.

"Hey, congrats. You guys have been working your way up to it? How long have you guys been serious serious?"

"Few…days."

"...wait,"

He turned a bit into his seat to face him, looking at him as if he'd grown a second head.

"You guys have been seriously dating for a few days. You can't seriously date that long."

"I don't think it particularly matters. At least, not when it comes to my feelings."

"I agree, feelings are important. But so is like. Realism? Okay, how much did you guys chat in between, then?"

Hector hesitated, fussing with the garnish on his drink.

"We…haven't. We only started talking for a few days. I kind of…ignored her. But we did talk that out!"

Dante and Doug had rather explosive reactions, Doug laughing and Dante letting his forehead fall on the bar table. Artt scoffed, shoulders squared and a scowl on his face.

"Oh come now! Yes, feelings do grow with time, but love is all about what's in the heart! I support Hector!"

"Thank you, Artt. And yes, it's not ideal, but it's what we decided! She loves me and I love her!"

Dante groaned as he lifted his head up from the counter.

"Dude. I've set people up plenty of times. Hundreds of people are in love because of me. And what you're doing? Kills relationships. Rushing into shit just because you guys have a lotta feelings. Terrible idea."

Doug chuckled, pointing at them with the drink in his hand.

"Nah, let him crash and burn. It'll be so funny."

"Doug, shut up man, I'm being serious. Look, Hector, be in love, that's normal and fun and great. But unless this relationship is serious, all of this is kinda one big omen."

"...I think I hear what you're saying."

"Oh thank embers. Look I hated to tell ya, but-"

"I need to marry her."

"...what?"

"You're right. I need to be serious, because I am serious,"

He finished his drink in another gulp, nodding and smacking his glass on the counter.

"That settles it! I'm going to marry her!"

---------------------------------------

"Just one second, guys! Just uh, just one!"

God she was hating it here. Don't get her wrong, she loved Curt and Rod, hilarious and gorgeous as they were. It's just right now, it was very overwhelming. She made an excuse that she needed a drink, and joined Hector at the bar. Him, Dante, Artt, and Doug were having a very animated discussion, one that seemed to be snuffed by her presence. Hector chuckled at first, but his tone was immediately worried.

"Love? Everything alright?"

"Yeah just. Ugh, a little out danced. I told them I needed a drink, but I really just needed a second."

Hector's brow furrowed, before he stood up, nodding at the people he was drinking with.

"I'll handle this,"

She was going to say it was fine, that she really didn't mind it after a little break, when he suddenly had his hand on her side, and pulled her into him, almost possessively. Curt and Rod approached, and didn't get a word in edgewise as he practically squished her into him.

"Sorry, gentlemen, I have to take her home now."

Curt and Rod glanced at her, clearly to make sure this wasn't some weird macho shit, but probably seeing her all blushy, started to chuckle and 'woop' a bit.

"Daaamn okay! Get it my guy!"

"We see you, we see you! Don't let us fuck up your flow!"

He nodded at them, and after nodding at them, he walked her back outside. He didn't say anything till they were out of sight, and he let her go, clearing his throat uncomfortably.

"Sorry, for that. That felt very brazen, and a little…aggressive. I just heard you wanted out of there, and…you're giving me a look. I'd say embarrassed, but you don't look embarrassed."

"N-no. I was just…surprised that you grabbed me like that. I mean, it's sweet why you did it, but uhm. I d-dunno."

She hated his eyes. Eyes that twinkled in mischief when he found something that made her weak. She was going to argue with him, fight with him about this, when he wrapped his arm around the small of her back, pulling her to him with a bit of a forceful pull.

"You like this, don't you, my love?"

"Oh my god, no, shut up!"

They were at the side of the building. Not too close to the entrance to be very noticeable, but not hidden enough to where someone wouldn't be able to catch them. Especially not with how he leaned into the nape of her neck, planting just one sweet kiss, with his stupid lips and the way his stupid nose smooshed against her skin with his stupid breath that tickled her skin. It weakened her, enough to where she gripped onto his shoulders like they were a lifeline. And. He. Liked. It.

"You're practically shaking, you poor thing. All because I held you? Made it clear you were all mine? That you're going home with me?"

"God fucking-"

She pulled herself back a bit in anger, grabbed his stupid face with his fat and his facial hair and his melted eyes and plump little lips. And kissed him. It was the type of sloppy kiss that you'd expect at the side of a place that reeked of booze and sex. She had her tongue practically caressing his, before she pulled away. His face had the audacity of looking like that. Dazed, like he had not a clue what was going on.

"Mi…vida?"

"I'm taking you home. I'm taking you home because you wanna act like this. Then when I get home, you are sitting on my couch, and you're getting your dick sucked. Do you want that?"

His face was so dark and almost steaming, she couldn't resist it. He slumped a bit, not looking so big and bad like he was a second ago.

"I…I do."

"Say it."

"I…want to go home and h-have you suck my…dick. I'm sorry, that word felt so ugly for the pretty lips that I want."

"God, Hector."

Is all she could say as she grabbed his hand, and walked him to the car. They got buckled in, and the car ride was silent. Not uncomfortably, but in a 'if he said anything she'd pull over and just fuck him wherever they ended up' type of way. She only finally looked at him once they hit a red light. He was staring at the glove box on his side, gripping onto the seat underneath him. He was trying to cover it, given how he tried to adjust how he was sitting, but there was no mistaking it. He had a hell of a boner right now. One that strained against his pants in a way that had to be uncomfortable for him.

"Hector."

"Y-yes?"

"Pay attention to the light for me."

She reached over, and pushed her hand past his pants. Through his underwear, she started to stroke him. She liked touching him, every single part of his body was reactive to her slightest touches. He looked around frantically, as if they'd get caught.

"W-wait, you can't do this in here!"

"Do you want me to stop?"

He was biting his bottom lip now, watching as her hand stroked his girth and gently pinched at his tip. He shook his head, making his little curls bounce as he did so.

"N-no."

"That's what I thought. Focus on the light."

He obeyed, and she watched him squirm in his seat, hips occasionally bucking into her palm, hoping and craving for more. His face was barely focused ahead of him, biting into his lip so hard she was worried it was going to bleed. He only had some relief when he spoke, breath ragged and whimpery, like this was a punishment he couldn't handle.

"I-i don't think I can…make it the drive."

"You don't have to. I'm going to keep getting my fill of you. If that means I have to drain these balls, so fucking be it-"

"GREEN LIGHT."

The urgency in it gave her a bit of a start, but she did pull her hand away, and continue to drive. She watched him occasionally, seeing him grip onto his seat belt till his knuckles turned white, all while he seemed to refuse to face her at all. She finally pulled into the driveway, and despite how shaken he seemed, he made it inside the house. The second she closed the door behind them, she took a hold of his face, to get his full attention.

"Go lay down on the couch for me, won't you?"

"Yes. That is. A thing I will go do-"

He scrambled to do as she commanded, damn near tripping over the coffee table as he made his way to the couch. He looked so nervous, as if this was his first time ever. She walked over to him, standing in front of him, before grabbing that stupid, weak chin she loved so much, and making their eyes meet.

"Are you excited?"

He was scared a moment ago, but something changed when he met her eyes. His shoulders relaxed, he sighed like a contented dog, and practically melted into her hold.

"With you, I only know excitement. You could tell me we were just going to hold hands, and I'd be so terribly excited."

She sighed, every angry, embarrassed part of her leaving with the breath. She knelt down a bit to give him a bunny kiss, much to his delight.

"Wanna hold hands after, cute guy?"

"Yes please. Pretty please."

"God, Hector,"

She got down on her knees in front of him, hands on his knees as she parted those thighs of his. She met his eyes as he just sat there, hiding most of his face behind a hand, while the other hand gripped onto the couch like it had personally wronged him.

"You're so, so lucky you're so beautiful. I can't stand it. I can't get enough of you-ah ah ah, look at me. You want this, you gotta watch me. And you love watching me, don't you?"

He tried to look away earlier in shame, but now his eyes were locked onto hers, and he ever so slightly nodded.

"I…do. I love watching everything you do. But in this case I…hesitate."

"Hmm? Why?"

"I mean, I know this is something you don't like doing-"

She raised a hand a bit to halt him, confusion on her face as she rested her cheek against his thigh.

"Who said that?"

"Well no one said it! I just. I mean you're doing something for me, how beneficial or pleasurable can it be for you?"

"...wait you thought I was going to suck your dick…to be nice?"

"...well when you say it like that, it sounds unreasonable."

"I'm just trying to like. Be on the same page. Do you not think sucking dick makes someone horny?"

"I know it can! I just. Didn't think it'd arouse you. That me not doing something in return would arouse you."

She looked at him, he looked at her, and she scoffed. She stood up, wiggled herself out of her pants, despite his protests of confusion. She did the same for her underwear, and gestured between her legs. Fluids dripped down her inner thighs, and despite the fact that this was a little embarrassing, she kept going, purely because of the idea that he thought such things? Drove her crazy.

"This is literally because I wanted to suck you off. Let me break this down for you,"

She walked over to him, each step being watched by him as if he was in danger of some kind, before she loomed over him, one hand on the couch, the other reaching between her legs, and very obviously playing with herself. He wanted to look away, possibly to 'save her the shame', but she forced her forehead against his. His, that felt hot and sweaty to the touch.

"I like you. I'm attracted to you. I'm very attracted to you, physically even. Emotionally, spiritually. When I look at you, when I think about you. You are making this happen right now. You don't have to sit there and do anything to me. In fact, don't. I don't want you to lift a finger right now, alright?"

"I…o-okay. I won't…lift a…finger."

"Good. You're good at that, you know? Taking things that are given to you."

"Only if they're from you. Only things from you, do I accept graciously. Anything given from you, to me, is a blessing."

She always liked it when he spoke. Not just how it sounded, how it looked. He always had plump lips, soft ones, ones that stuck together ever so slightly as he spoke.

"Anything, given?"

"Anything."

"Hector, open your mouth for me."

He seemed confused, but he obeyed regardless. He opened his lips just a little at first, as if worried he was doing this wrong. Then, she raised her hand, dripping with herself, and pushed it against his lips. Past his lips, right against his tongue. It was awkward for only a second, probably because he was still in shock, but she pressed on. Pressed on, sticking both of her wet fingers back and forth against that wet, hot tongue. He looked at her with such adoration, such affection. She didn't gag him, like she was momentarily tempted to, instead, slowly pulling out the soaked fingers, and squished his face.

"You like how I taste, right?"

"More…than anything."

He spat a bit after he said that, mumbling something under his breath, that he didn't mean to do that, but she found it just precious.

"Good. The next time you don't think I'm attracted to you, I want you to remember how I taste. Remember my taste on your tongue,"

She got back on her knees, like she was before, and pulled him out of his pants, letting his cock free from its clothed confines. She remembered when she first saw it, how she almost found herself staring at it. It wasn't huge like Freddy, but it was more than enough; a damn good thickness, hair messy and untrimmed, paired with balls that she knew were just absolutely aching.

"And I'll remember your taste on mine~"

She didn't wait for him to talk himself out of it before she planted a firm kiss at the base. His breath hitched in clear surprise, and she loved it. Loved him finally sitting there, and letting him have something. Have another kiss, another, as sweetly as she could, from his tip, the base, to his balls. She was shameless, making every kiss loud and dramatic, like it was a game. A game she was absolutely winning, feeling it throb with every one of her touches. Then, he spoke.

"I'm…allowed to make requests, yes?"

She planted another fat kiss at his ever leaky tip as a reward, nodding.

"Course you can. What's on that pretty mind?"

"I know you said no finger lifting, but…I'd like to play with your hair."

"If you'd like to, you may. It was more of a figure of speech, Hector. If you want to do something, please, do it."

He reached over to push some of her hair out of her face, being as gingerly as possible as he tucked the strands behind her ear. She swore his dick twitched as he did it, but she didn't wanna embarrass him. Too much, anyway.

"Thank you. You may continue. If you'd like to."

"Course I would. But it was sweet of you to ask. You know you make me feel safe?"

He didn't respond initially, possibly because she had just trailed her tongue from his balls, all the way up his tip. It was slow, careful, just so he could see care was being put into it. Into him.

"I…live to make you feel safe. Your safety, your comfort, it is the only way my heart feels truly settled. Even though my heart is beating a million miles a minute."

"Do you want me to stop?"

"God, no, no. If you are willing, I am willing. As desperately as I can say this, please, don't stop."

"Atta boy~"

She reached up to give him a little pinch on his cheek, before she decided he had waited long enough. They both had. She had sucked dick before, obviously at around a hundred lovers you get practice, but this one. This gave her such a rush, it felt like this was her first time all over again. It felt so ridiculously special. She pushed the tip past her lips, giving a soft exhale through her nose as she did so. The familiar taste of salt hit her tongue, slight, but enough for her to enjoy it.

She looked up at him as she slowly took more, and he was forcing himself to look back at her, despite the fact that his free hand was biting into his hand, clearly nervous. She took in more, just a little, a little embarrassed that the fullness in her mouth made her moan into him. She used one of her hands to steady herself on the floor, while the other slowly, yet firmly, rubbed and massaged his balls. He was so sweet during this, constantly petting her, constantly letting out these loud, shuddery breaths. He tore his drooly teeth away from his reddened digits, instead balling his hand up into a fist and resting it under his chin.

"I'm…trying not to silence myself here. Even though I want to. You're…doing such a fantastic job. You're kind, you know, in everything you do. Looking at me, studying my reaction, using your t-tongue like that. You care about me. And it's hard for me to keep my composure. You…make it hard for me to keep my composure."

She was listening to him now, starting to move her head back and forth with a bit of a rhythm. She could go a lot harder, could gag on him even. But he was a lover before anything, he needed this connection, needed things to take a little bit of time. Though, she did notice his hips were starting to roll into her rhythm, trying to match her pace. She could feel his balls brush against her chin, could feel the precum lubing up his cock and coat her throat. She knew she was dripping down her own legs, but she couldn't help it.

He was getting there. He was getting there and he hated it, he could tell from the mumbles under his throat. Mumbles of him saying he could hold it and how he didn't want it to stop. So, she pulled away with a bit of a 'pop', and started to jerk him off with her hand. It was a loud, wet sound that she could listen to for hours.

"You can cum inside."

"N-no, that's so messy, I-"

"Please? I liked it when you came last time. I want you to cum."

He looked defeated, before he nodded, very determined.

"Alright. You like it, I will give you what you like. I'm…almost there. I need to finish. Please, please. Be good to me."

She put him back into his mouth, getting back into it a little faster this time, and Hector had gained a little confidence, holding onto the back of her head as he was putting in just the same amount of love. Not too much, he continued to let her keep the pace she was setting. His breathing was getting ragged now, his brow was sweaty.

"I'm going to…g-give you my love. I'm going to pour all my love down your throat. And I'm…I need to thank you before I d-do. I wanted to be more eloquent, b-but god, god, thank you."

He finally came. Not without much more coaxing or convincing. Just came, hand on her head to steady her so she could take it. His load was hot against her tongue and throat, thick, sweet to contrast the salty that coated his skin. She kept sucking, until he was fully done, until she heard those shuddery moans of overstimulation. She pulled away from him, wiping at her mouth so nothing would spill on the floor. He sat there, trying to steady his breathing, trying to form some words, something romantic or touching to say. She chuckled, reaching to hold his hands, and giving them a little squeeze.

"You're welcome. You're welcome, and I love you. Now, how about I get you a bath going? Would you like that?"

"I…I don't relax for my own, and you haven't had a turn-"

"What if I get in the bath with you? Would you be more willing then?"

"...I would. Yes. I would be more willing."

She chuckled, helping him to his feet and guiding him upstairs to her bathroom. She had him wait on her bed as she started the water, and even had some nice, foamy bubbles going. Barry was nice enough to send her some really nice beauty supplies like that. Not to mention some really nice candles to match the similar, wooden smell. As the tub filled up, she stripped down to her birthday suit, double checked that they had towels within reach, and helped herself in.

"Hector! It's ready!"

The door opened and he walked in, seeming to avert his gaze the second he saw her.

"I'm sorry, I know you said with, but I still wasn't expecting it."

"You didn't change your mind, did you? It's soo lonely in here~"

Maybe it was how she said it. Maybe it was because she did actually feel lonely in this big ol' tub. But he did meet her eyes. He still felt nervous. But he smiled as he started to take off his clothes, turtleneck and all. She liked his body before, but god time was good to his ass. He got some fat on him now, giving him a stocky frame that looked as confident as he deserved. Legs to match too, he looked well taken care of, and she loved it.

"Well, we can't have that, can we?"

He carefully got into the tub, and she immediately got greedy, cuddled right up behind him, and started to scrub his hair. He tensed for a moment, not expecting it, but relaxed quickly, despite his nervous little smile.

"What are you doing?"

"Taking care of your hair. And no it's absolutely not an excuse to touch it."

"I'm…surprised you like it."

"Your hair? Course I love your hair. I like loads about you. Your hair,"

She gently grazed her fingers through his hair, giving it a little scrunch, before letting her hands wander down his wet shoulders, his wet back, admiring him as if he were a painting.

"I like your body. And I like your mind. I like your words. It's kinda crazy how many things I like are in the tub with me right now."

"...you know I've never especially loved myself. But after being realized, I genuinely do enjoy myself physically. But I think this is the first time I've ever considered loving myself."

"You shouldn't need me to convince you of that. But, until you learn to love it all by yourself, I can help you. You make it easy, anyway."

He turned to look at her, making her pull her hands away from him. For a second, she thought she said something wrong, but his smile was so soft, his cheeks colored and his shoulders slumped.

"I can say many things to you. I like words. I'm good with them. But I can only say I love you, at the end of the day."

She returned his smile, taking a hold of his shoulder and his arm.

"I love you too. You and your blush. Your neck gets all red."

"It…does?"

"Did you never know that?"

"I mean I did wear turtlenecks because it was familiar to me, but. Oh. Am I blushing now?"

"Oh terribly,"

She lifted herself up to kiss at his neck, adoring how he was trying not to turn his head away in embarrassment.

"And I love it~"

She wasn't gonna lie, this domestic shit was kinda great. The tender bath, her washing his hair, him turning on the heat to keep them from getting cold at night, the cuddles before bedtime, and even now, as she wrapped up a nice sandwich for him to take, she couldn't help but feel joy. Maybe it was temporary, who knows? She heard him walk downstairs, going to his little station at the table, and starting to pack up his masks.

"I'll be back by evening, are you going to be able to entertain yourself?"

She chuckled and joined him by the couch, watching him work. Box packaging, the careful stacking of the masks, his hands moved automatically, he didn't even have to look while he worked.

"I'll be fine. I'm more worried you're going to miss me."

"Oh trust me, I already miss you. I almost thought of just staying in bed with you today. But alas, I need to work. It's what I love, and the money I make helps the one I love."

"Oh don't even,"

She saw it coming a million miles away. She would've dodged it if she didn’t love it. Him reaching over and pulling her to his chest. He leaned in, his fluffy hair pushing against her forehead as he did so.

"You cannot keep doing that!"

"But you love it. And I love you. Now, I'll let you eat-"

"Sandwich is for you, dummy."

"...wait what will you eat?"

"What will-Hector I'm staying at home, I have a fridge."

He pulled away when she put the sandwich in his hands, and he still looked unsure.

"I know, I know. But this looks like a nice little sandwich. If it were a regular sandwich I wouldn't have minded it but-"

"Hector."

"Yes?"

"You have a big, fussy head. Go work, eat, and come back home."

He softened when she placed her hand on his cheek. He held it for a moment, turned his head to kiss her palm, and then nodded.

"Alright. You're right, you're right. I'm off then, please call me if anything."

"Course. I'll be entertained, I got some friends coming over. I'll be just fine, and we'll save you some pizza!"

"Lovely. I love you."

"I love you too."

They shared a kiss goodbye, a quick peck, before he left. She took a second to stand there, and just breathe. She made herself look at the table, look at all of his things that were still here. He was coming back. He wasn't leaving for another year, not again. She walked over to the window, and watched him leave, boxes in his hands. She watched him until he was out of sight. It was fine. She was fine.

"Okay just. Stay distracted."

And that she did. She set up some snacks she had, some paper plates and cups, some video games, all while she took some phone calls for work. A confused customer, and entitled one, a rude one, all your basics that she handled with ease. There wasn't a single customer she couldn't appease. She finished her last customer when the doorbell rang. Just in time!

"One second guys, I'm coming! Telly, tell me you brought enough pizza, you know how much me and Freddy can put…away."

She opened the door and her entire body froze. At her doorstep was Keith. He was wearing the same thing he wore when he left her home, but his smile had changed. Had gotten soft, sweet like sticky honey.

"Hello, love. It's been a long time."

"You shouldn't have come back, Keith."

She was going to shut the door on him when he stopped it with his foot, hands folded together and purposely shrinking himself so he looked smaller.

"Please! Please, just let me speak!"

"I dunno, let me get my fucking 'diaper off' first."

He flinched at this, and she was gonna slam it, this time not caring if it hit his face, when he got onto his knees. It was so earnest, so pleading.

"Please. Just five minutes. You can time me! If I do not make peace with you, I will leave!"

She didn't want to. But something in her heart missed him. Missed the sweet nothings he used to whisper, the way his key seemed to know where all the spots were. She sighed, and opened the door.

"Five minutes."

He got up in a second, his face exploding in joy that seemed to highlight his wrinkles.

"I knew you would see to reason! Eso!"

He stepped in, she shut the door, and she set the timer on her phone, placing it obviously on the coffee table.

"Five minutes."

"Okay okay- so first. I would like to say sorry. I didn't treat you right, not when you were an open lock for me. You didn't deserve that."

"And?"

"And you deserved the love I had given you. You earned it, you needed it, and I took it from you."

She looked down at him as she loomed over him from his seat on the couch. He was sitting there, at her mercy, but she didn't feel any more powerful.

"Why don't I believe you? Why do I feel like you're just trying to trick me again?"

Keith took a bit of an inhale. A deep one, like he wanted to say something, but also wanted to say anything else. He put his hands on his knees, and forced himself to go on with it.

"Maybe if I tell you why I did it?"

"Besides being a selfish asshole?"

"Yes, besides that. I-"

"One fucking minute Keith."

"Okay okay! I did it because I was free! My heart was out there and I wanted every wild experience there was! Yes I went a little wild, but I was just thrusted into the world! The world after a hundred years of being stuck. My dear,"

Keith suddenly took off his mask, and then grabbed her hand. She was going to pull it back, when he planted it softly against his cheek. She could feel the warmth, the cheekbones, and even his crow's feet. His eyes became helpless at her, like a lost little puppy.

"I need open arms, an open heart. I was alone out there. Please. Please, don't make me be alone anymore. I'm scared. Scared of being forgotten and left alone all over again. Imagine everyone moving on like you didn't matter. Like you could've never existed, and it's so important to people you've grown used to. Love felt so fleeting, I didn't feel as though I was really loved. Like you loved me out of obligation."

Words that pierced her very heart. She relaxed, thumb gently grazing against the side of his eye, wiping away an imaginary tear. The alarm went off, and she turned it off, sighing in defeat.

"What do you want, Keith?"

"Just to spend the night. Spend the night somewhere safe. I can be gone first thing tomorrow. Please."

"...I will have to talk about it with my boyfriend. If he says yes, then yes."

He paused for a moment, as if her sentence was scrambled or in another language.

"Your…boyfriend. You live with your boyfriend?"

"Yes. And his opinion matters. You can stay until he gets home."

"I apologize. If he saw you like this, he'd be beside himself."

"I mean, technically no, because our relationship is fairly open, but with you specifically-"

Keith suddenly stood up, a mischievous tug at the corner of his lips.

"Odd that you mentioned an open relationship. You didn't have to say that."

"N-no, It's not I was just correcting you. Keith-!"

Suddenly his hand was at the small of her back, suddenly his hand was practically carrying her cheek. His nose was barely touching hers, the hair on his mustache just tickling her own skin.

"I did miss many things about you. Your kind heart. Your naive, bright eyes. Your lips."

"Keith. Keith, come on."

She didn't want this. Didn't want that she wanted this. Then Keith whispered.

"Come on, then. Let me unlock you all the way~"

"Fuck-"

And he kissed her. He was old, old as shit, but that didn't deteriorate any of his vigor. He kissed her like it was what he was meant to do, even remembered the way she liked a finger being traced up her spine. She swore she felt that touch sneak under her shirt, and for a moment her hands grabbed at his pants, when the doorbell rang. Like teenagers caught making out at an unsupervised party, they broke it off quickly and with a panic. Keith cleared his throat, hands now folded behind his back, like he was a gentleman, and not the master of undoing any lock he got a hold of.

"You should probably answer that."

She nodded, trying not to shake as she walked up to the door, and opened it. Telly, Bodhi, Rebel, Freddy, Parker, Abel, Dasha, Luke, Lyric, and Dorian were all there, each having brought something for their planned party. Luke grinned, presenting his box of various (and definitely bitten into) treats from around the world.

"Ranger! I brought snacks!"

Telly interjected, holding boxes of pizzas, and motioning to Bodhi's own box of snacks.

"I brought the pies, he brought some snacks, to say we ain't contributed? That ain't facts!"

Bodhi scooted a little closer, clearly as an excuse to get closer to her, presenting his box.

"Brought all sorts of goodies, broski! Puddin' pies, bagel bites, push pops, cheese balls, oh and puddin' pops! Gotta let us in before they melt!"

"Okay yeah uhm- listen. Before any of you come in. We have. A guest. And I need you all to behave."

Dasha scoffed, hand over her chest, other holding onto some dish wrapped in tinfoil.

"What?! We behave with guest! Do we not behave?"

Abel put a hand on her shoulder, immediately sensing her distress.

"Oh no honey, sure she didn't mean it like that! Must be an ornery guest is all! We'll be fine, sugar, just let us in."

She hesitated, but them in, and the awkwardness was thicker than Telly's ass. Dorian, who had brought truffle chips, damn near dropped them.

"Keith."

"Dorian, my good friend!"

Rebel, who had brought the alcohol, picked up a bottle, and had it not been for Freddy, was about to damn near throw it.

"Ah HELL no! I'm not letting this lemon party ass loser in this fucking house!"

She tried to quell her angry friends, especially because Keith looked so worried and almost scared right now.

"Guys, hey, we said we'd be cool!"

Freddy growled in Keith's direction, but kept them cool alongside her, barely holding Rebel back.

"Guys guys, I don't like him either! I could bite his head off! But Cool Kid said not to! We gotta respect that!"

Luke was one of the few that surprised her. He was still for a moment, before looking down at her.

"Remember when I told you I left a gun hidden somewhere in ya house?"

"Yeah?"

They all sort of jumped as Luke punched the wall. His fist went through, and he didn't hesitate to take down more of the wall as he dug into it, elbow deep, before pulling out an actual shotgun. She was busy taking in the absurdity of it all when he aimed it at a very nervous Keith.

"I wasn't crunkin' lyin'."

"Luke no! Oh my god no don't it's Freddy all over again-!"

Parker interjected, hands held out to both of them, a very serious look on his face.

"Let's all calm down, alright? It's not monopoly, we can be civilized! I'll do the same thing I do when me and Harper fight. Keith, pick a number 1-20."

Keith hesitated, clearly still put off by the weapon in Luke's hands, and looking at Parker like he was some sort of lifeline.

"Uhm…twenty?"

Parker pulled a d20 from his pocket, and rolled it, a smile on his face. Once it landed, his face got serious. Serious, and he looked at Luke with an almost scary look of determination.

"Luke. Take the fucking shot."

"PARKER MY MAN!"

There was screaming, a couple of supportive chants, when Abel stepped in, physically holding Keith, right off the floor.

"Luke! Calm it down, you are not shootin' him in here!"

Keith sighed in some sort of relief, sweat beating down his forehead.

"Thank you, Abel. You're always so understanding and-"

"You take 'em out back! It's polite! Suggestin' you mess up all her furniture, shame on you!"

They looked like they were actually going to take him outback, when she decided enough was enough. She physically stepped in front of Abel, and pointed down to the ground.

"You put him down! All of you seem to forget this is my house, my bridges for me to tend to! I said Keith is fine, so he is fine! If any of you love and respect me like I know you do, you will put him down, he-"

She pointed at Keith next, then the kitchen.

"Will sit on the kitchen table while we have fun, be quiet, and we will enjoy ourselves! Alright?!"

There was silence amongst themselves, before Abel, like a puppy, nodded obediently.

"I'll go set him down for you, sugar."

"Thank you, Abel."

Abel did so, while Dasha put a hand on her shoulder, worry over her pretty face.

"Is love okay?"

"Yeah, Dasha. Thank you. Let's just have fun, yeah? Telly said they somehow have a show that we all might like!"

Telly heard mention of his name and jumped onto the couch, grabbing a remote.

"This evening was soundin' like it was botched, but I've got a show that should be watched!"

They tried to enjoy themselves, really they did. Most of them did, watching tv, playing by Parker's rules (him and Luke got into a screaming match about new rules vs old rules and she was sure Parker was gonna leap and bite him, up until she had to make it a written rule for the table), having snacks upon snacks, watching movies with Bodhi mumbling lines he knew by heart. It was fun. But she kept looking at Keith, who sat obediently at the kitchen table, like a child on timeout. She didn't want to keep looking, and she couldn't blame Dorian for doing the same. They were about to plug in Bodhi's old gaming system, when she couldn't stay quiet.

"Guys? Can we at least have Keith sit here? Even if it's on the floor?"

Luke nodded, tapping the barrel of the shotgun that he had leaned against the couch, right by his side. He was careful with it, safety on and barrel down and everything, but you best believe he could switch that shit in a heartbeat.

"He's welcome to try to take a damn seat."

Dorian finally stepped in, clearly disliking being quiet for so long.

"I agree with the lady of the 'ouse. Ain't perfect by any means, but-"

"Oh shut up Dorian, y-"

"Rebel, write down what you're gonna say. Can't sound as bad if Lyric reads it out."

Rebel groaned, scribbled something on a piece of paper given to her by Lyric (he always had them on hand), then handed it over to Lyric. He cleared his throat, and read.

"Let's see here, 'Keith has skull fucked Dorian into a lobotomy, his opinion ain't worth the dust thats gotta come out of that dick'- jesus, Rebel?"

Rebel gestured to Dorian, scoffing loudly.

"He's looked at his ass like five duckin' times! Rose tinted lenses, fuck that, cum covered contacts with his ass-"

Abel, looking a little sick, gestured for her to stop, and cleared his throat.

"Can we use more delicate language, please? Look, I ain't too fond of Keith, none of us are. But if it's what our lovebug wants, who are we to deny him?"

Freddy nodded, scooting over a bit on the couch and patting the spot.

"Keith, come on. At least here we can keep an eye on you."

Keith approached, rather meekly, taking a seat. The mood in the room had died down significantly, everyone glaring at him, and even Dorian scooting closer to where their favorite human was sitting, protectively. No one was focusing on anything but him now, the poor guy looked so small. She decided to grant him some leeway, wrapping an arm around him with a bit of a forced smile.

"Oh hey! I was gonna keep this a secret, but you guys wanna be clued in on some news?"

"Sure, hit us, Cool Kid!"

"So Valdivian is hosting their annual new years party, right? And they usually have someone else to tend to all the planning and junk. I offered to do it, and in exchange, they said you guys can come! The whole house!"

That seemed to reignite some excitement, with Bodhi practically launching his fists in the air.

"Yo! Choice! All of us?!"

"Totally, Bodhi. Now no one say anything, I have actual invitations I wanna send out, but I figured since we're all here!"

Freddy loomed over Keith to get into her space, loudly whispering.

"Do you already know where you're getting catering from?"

"I have some ideas! Including someone's favorite duck~"

"YESSS!"

Freddy practically howled his answer, and that caused an uproar amongst everyone else, excitement evident on their features. Parker scooted into her space, curious.

"Can I bring games?"

"It's more of a formal event but fuck it up Parker, bring some games."

"FUCK YEAH BITCH. And acid?"

"I will get a vibe for the party and get back to you on that,"

She turned to look at Keith, giving him a reassuring squeeze.

"You can come too, if you'd like."

"...really?"

"Yeah. You deserve a fair chance. Seriously."

Keith melted a bit at this, gently thudding his forehead against hers.

"Thank you. You're so good to me."

And she tried to be as the hours passed. As games were played, food was thrown. Granted, they more or less pretended Keith wasn't there, but it was still a fun time, where they all adored her input, her ideas and her opinions. They were full, drunk with fun (though Rebel might've actually gotten drunk), and she was almost sad to see them go. Freddy chuckled as he held onto Rebel and Lyric, both who definitely drank more than most.

"Imma take these guys home. Sorry about the mess cool kid."

"Oh don't sweat it, Freddy. Thank you for taking care of them, it was so good to see you again!"

"Course cool kid, we had a blast. And hey! Looking forward to that big party! I need to bring anything?"

"Just your cool vibes and that hot bod, Freddy."

His face exploded in blush, laughing a bit as he kept Lyric from calling onto her lawn.

"Aw, makin' this yeti blush. We'll see you!"

She gave Freddy a bit of a kiss, one to Rebel (after telling her no, they weren't gonna fuck on the lawn right now) and one to Lyric (who was struggling to find words, but she definitely heard him muttering 'monumental' after her smooch) waving them off. Bodhi walked up, wrapping an arm around her.

"Call us if anythin', sex pot."

"Course. Next time though, we're gonna see more of bedroom Bodhi~"

He snickered as he gave her a little kiss, waiting on Telly before moving on (they were roommates afterall). Telly bid her farewell with a kiss themselves, then smacking Bodhi's ass as they caught up. Dasha and Abel were next, sneaking a kiss on both of her cheeks.

"We will see you at the party!"

"Gonna be the luckiest man there~"

She snorted, gently brushing them off.

"Have fun you two!"

She bid farewell to Parker, who left while video chatting a rather loud Harper, and doing so happily. Dorian stepped out next, placing a protective hand on her head.

"You gonna be alright? I know Keith is…Keith."

"I'll be fine. It's just gonna be a night. how were you with everything? I saw when you guys accidentally touched hands for the chips earlier. You got really stiff after that. Like, more than usual."

Dorian glanced at the house, before sighing. It was a sigh that made him sound aged, tired.

"Alright. But if there's trouble-"

"Do you want me to uninvite him? I kinda didn't think about it before I said he could come."

Dorian considered it, really he did, but relented with a sigh, shaking his head.

"No. No, I'm big enough to 'andle what I gotta. Thank you. No one really asks the door what they want."

She reached to where his hand was, gently patting it.

"Anytime, Dorian. Seriously."

Dorian left right after that, and she walked back inside, where Keith was sitting on the couch with Luke right next to him, gun comfortably on his lap like it was a pet. Hell, he was patting the fucking thing. She sighed, walking over to Luke and patting his shoulder.

"Luke, you can go home if you want."

"Don't wanna."

Keith looked at her for some kind of help, and she couldn't blame him. Luke wasn't exactly all together, making him a little prone to…impulsive choices, let's say. So, she put her hands on his shoulders, and put on a little sweet voice, just for Luke.

"Come on, my big bad soldier can ease up a little, right? It's just Keith."

"I…i mean…"

"I'm your ranger, I can handle stuff. I can handle you, can't I?"

Poor Luke's face was absolutely exploding, he knew what she meant. Knew she could handle all the resilience he had in him.

"I…i mean, yes, I uh. See your point."

"Atta soldier ~"

That made him stand up to attention, letting out an almost squawk.

"I'm. Gonna go hide this again. I'll. I'll say bye before I leave."

She couldn't stop him before he seemed to just disappear into her house. She sighed in relief, as did Keith.

"That was. A lot. While you were outside he put the thing right to my temple. It was terrifying."

"I mean. You pissed off the one loved by over a hundred people. Kinda not your smartest idea."

"This is true. But it is smart of me, to realize your kindness does not have an expiration date. Your kindness is ever beautiful to me."

Keith was leaning in again, and she hated that she felt that pull. That draw of comfort, of a man who knew her as well as he did. Then the front door started to creak open. She immediately jumped off the couch and to the door, catching Hector on his way in. He looked tired for a moment, but he seemed absolutely revitalized upon the embrace she suddenly had him in.

"Mi vida, so happy to see me!"

"Of course I am. You know you just missed the party."

"I had a feeling, it still smells like pizza in here! You saved me some, yes?"

He was about to step inside, but she pulled herself to him, hands planted firmly onto his chest. His face looked surprised, and his smile came with a bit of color.

"What has gotten into you?"

"Well you remember how you're my boyfriend?"

"It's my favorite memory since having met you, yes."

She tried not to feel just awful, but his adoring little look was not helping at all.

"That means you have boyfriend responsibilities. Which means we have to…talk about things."

His face fell into clear worry, and he took a hold of her hands in worry, looking around, as if for some intruder.

"What's wrong? Are you safe?"

"Oh I'm safe, I promise! I just. Someone wants to spend the night. And I need your input."

She let him walk inside further, and his eyes met Keith's. He was silent for a moment. Then she saw his brow furrow. Saw his eyes harden and his lips pursed.

He let go of her hands, but she noticed how one hand stayed with her as he stepped forward towards him. His other hand pointed outside, and his voice…his voice came out barely composed. No sweetness, no familiar kindness.

"No. No no no, you get OUT of this house!"

Hector could be described as creepy, unsettling at best. But scary. Scary was never one you could associate with him normally. But here and now, even Keith shrank from his sudden fierceness. Despite this however, she grabbed onto his sleeve, trying to plead with him.

"Hector, please, he just wants to stay the night! Please!"

"No! No no no, I'm not having this! You said I have a say, this is my say! I-"

"Am I interrupting something?"

She had forgotten Luke had gone upstairs, and she was going to be nice to him about this. Poor guy was confused, when Hector gestured again to the door.

"Get out! Get out now!"

"Okay okay! Damn."

He scurried out of the house in a hurry, and Hector focused his fury back towards Keith.

"You. Get out. Get out, get out now. You are not welcome here! Not here, not by anyone who's worth anything, not now, not ever!"

"Hector, please! He's said he's sorry! I-"

"You, excuse us, do not get off that couch or I'm going to unleash hell,"

He excused both himself and her to the kitchen. His furious eyes immediately shifted for her, turning soft and sweet, like sugar, holding onto her hands so protectively and tenderly.

"You are so kind. Your heart is so open and eager to take burdens from people. So please understand I mean this with love- we should leave him out there to freeze to death."

"Hector Valentino Airnesto Conditionado!"

"Do not full name me! He stole from you, misplaced your trust, my love, he hurt you! I can forgive so much and I believe in giving people chances. But hurting you, so flippant and so, just so-!"

"Hector, please. You hurt me too, I gave you a chance."

Hector opened his mouth to respond, but he stopped, licking his lips in a moment of thought.

"That's another thing I admire about you. The stubbornness. Alright. He can stay for tonight. But I pick where he sleeps. You being uncomfortable is something I will not allow, no matter how much you look at me with those eyes."

He wanted to be mad. And yet, he couldn't be, not truly, not at her. She sighed in relief, bringing his clutched hands to her lips.

"Thank you. Really, I appreciate you just listening."

They went back out to the living room where Keith was, and he seemed to grin upon somehow already knowing the answer.

"Did we get a yes?"

"We did! But you do need to sleep where he says."

Hector was trying so hard to be nice, she could see it in his glare.

"Exactly. And, to be extra cautious, we're going to be in the same bed tonight."

She gently scoffed, a hand over her chest.

"Demanding to sleep with me? How cheeky of you, Hector~"

He seemed to realize what she meant, and seemed a little ruffled by it, trying to keep his composure in front of Keith.

"I know usually when we do it happenstance, but tonight it is because I said so. So there."

Keith chuckled, nudging him with his elbow and an all too big of a grin.

"Guess you should thank me, eh?"

"Do not touch me. I'm not even going to say please. Do not touch me."

Keith backed up a little, slightly off put by the cold reception he was getting. She helped Hector grab some extra blankets and pillows, and she followed him, thinking he was using the office because it wasn't a very comfortable place. Then he opened the closet. Then he opened the trap door. Keith looked confused, hopeful that this wasn't the very obvious answer.

"What ah, what are we doing?"

"You're going to sleep here."

They watched as he threw the blankets and pillows into the crawlspace, before gesturing it to him. Keith took a step back, as if the place was dangerous, before nervously chuckling.

"Oh. Ha. This is. Funny. Okay, you gave me quite the scare, friend! I-"

"I'm not your friend, and I am not joking."

There was an uncomfortable pause between the three of them, with Keith silently pleading for her help.

"Hector, come on."

"Come on nothing. My choice is made. He does not like it, he can go sleep outside. Your choice."

Keith shrank visually, lightly trembling as he stared at the door.

"Can I just. Take the floor in here?"

"No. This door, or the front door. Your choice. Make it now. My love is tired, I will not allow her to lose any sleep over any of your indecision."

Keith hesitated, he really did, before, with a little shaking, climbed down the hole. She was going to ask if he was okay, when Hector shut the door. She looked over at Hector.

"Hector."

"Don't. Please don't look at me with that face, this is far more kindness than he deserves."

"It doesn't feel right."

"Neither does letting him, someone who hurt you, be close to you."

"...can I tell you something?"

"Yes?"

"Remember the new years eve party I mentioned?"

He didn't need her to elaborate, she could see the frustration on his face. He sighed, rubbing at his forehead harshly.

"My love, no. You didn't."

"I'm sorry! Really, I am, I hate making you mad-"

"You didn't make me mad. Him taking advantage of you makes me mad. I'm sorry this is something you have to deal with."

"Can I…still invite him?"

"Yes. It's your party, your relationships. Just. Please, please, take care of your heart. The same way I would."

"...Hector?"

She opened her arms out to him, and he immediately gave her what she wanted, wrapping her up in a hug. He felt so warm, so squishy, he smelled like paint and wood and sweat.

"Oh, my good girl. Come on, let's get you upstairs, into bed."

She nodded, and he walked her upstairs. After they got into comfortable clothes, she hopped into bed. She watched him for a moment, noticing he wasn't coming to bed right away. There was something in his coat pocket he was fiddling with. The moonlight showed contemplation on his features, like there was something he wanted to ask. She sat up a bit, trying to peek at what he was messing with.

"Everything okay?"

He jumped, ever so slightly, quickly putting his coat on her nightstand, before finally getting into bed. He clung to her, resting his chin on the top of her head.

"I'm fine. I just worry about you. I was thinking about you all day. Then I come home and I see someone who hurt you and…I'm sorry you've seen so many ugly parts of me."

"Everyone has that. I like it. It's you. Like how you thought the real you was gonna be ugly."

The chuckle in his throat was loud in her ear, making her gently squeeze him in delight.

"Well I'm no Cabrizzio."

"Don't be mean to either of you. Especially because, and don't tell him this, I'm way more attracted to you."

"You're not just saying that because I'm your boyfriend?"

"Not at all. Especially with how you treat me. That's like, a good chunk of the attraction."

"Really? Like what?"

"Like when you brought me water after we fucked. When you asked me if I'm okay. Or just. When you hold my hand sometimes."

He was silent for a moment, hand on her back as he rubbed his thumb against her.

"That's…sexy?"

"Oh very. I'd tell you what I like about you physically, but I don't think we'd get much sleep~"

"You are absolutely incorrigible. If it weren't for the fact that he'd hear you, I'd let you be as…relentless as you tend to be."

"I can be quiet!"

"...."

She lifted herself up to look at him and his avoidant gaze.

"I am not that loud!"

"Mhmm."

"Oh my god!"

She lightly smacked him, and he chuckled into one of his hands. He was lucky it was so cute.

"I'm sorry, but you sort of are. Which usually I wouldn't mind, even with others, but not him. He doesn't deserve that."

"...wait you'd seriously be down to share? Like I haven't thought about it but you can't just say that shit."

He gave a little 'humph' in thought, shrugging.

"I'm not against it. The Hanks, Parker. I have room for….creativity."

She stared at him. He was staring at her with nervous blushing and bitten lip, while his eyes danced with mischief. She loomed over him, basically sitting in his lap at that point.

"I need to fuck you stupid."

"You're too loud."

"I'm fucking not!-"

He put a hand firmly over her mouth, leaning into her space. She could feel his hot breath through the slight crack of his fingers.

"You are. But I can keep you quiet. Nod if you'd like that."

She nodded without even thinking, and he chuckled.

"Good. Juuust keep listening to me~"

And listen she did. Yes, it was fun, terribly so, and yes, he made sure to tucker her out, but sleep wasn't something that she could get. Not when guilt gnawed at her. So, while he was asleep, she slid out of bed, and went back to her office. She used the light on her phone to guide her as she opened the once locked trap door. She was thankful she didn't scream when he suddenly launched himself at her, clinging to her. He was breathing quickly, his grip was strong, his voice course and scratchy.

"Don't. Don't make me go back in there. I c-can't."

She sat there, heart pounding from the initial surprise, before it was overcome with guilt. She gave him a reassuring squeeze in return, letting him sink into her, and trying not to feel anything as he buried his face in the nape of her neck.

"Hey, it's okay. You're up here now. You don't have to go back in."

"I…don't?"

"If you can stay quiet. Come on, we can get you on the couch."

She guided him to the couch, leaving him a second to get a cup of water for him. She turned on the tv for some light, but kept it very low, so it couldn't be heard upstairs. She sat next to him as he nursed the drink, just wanting him to stop shaking.

"Thank you. You didn't have to come back for me."

"Yeah, I did. It wasn't fair of him to do that. I understood it, but that wasn't fair. That was scary for you. Hard for you."

"It…it was. I wanted to be anywhere but there. Like…here. Here is very nice."

He gently rested his head on hers, and she felt relief, seeing the trembling (save for his hands) come to a halt. She reached over to hold them, a little touched as the shaking slowly stopped.

"It is nice, Keith. You gonna be okay by yourself though? As long as you stay quiet, he shouldn't know what happened."

His eyes locked onto hers, and seemed to settle, like they were getting comfy by a fireplace. His voice was low, his voice was sweet.

"Stay with me a little while longer, won't you? Not long, I promise. I just…need a little sweetness."

"Keith, I know what you're doing."

"What? Can't I just look at you? Can't I just be close to you? Can't I just, for a moment,"

He had started leaning into her, making her back suddenly meet the pillows, making his lips just ghost over his.

"Be sweet to you? I know you like your sugar~"

She could've said no. Should've. But she didn't. She let him kiss her, let his hand hold her face and slide down her neck and down her stomach. His touch was like picking a lock; delicate, with a sense of purpose and a goal. His hand made it down her thigh, giving it a squeeze that he clearly remembered she liked. She muttered in between their kisses, hating the smirk that clung to his lips after.

"Keith, don't…don't get me worked up here."

"Please. Allow me to be more comfortable with you. Allow me to give you…eye candy, if you will."

He sat up, practically straddling her, and started to undo his jacket. She watched in terrifying anticipation, and then she saw chest hair. Just the smallest little tuft poke out, and realization hit. If he took off more, if she saw more of this old man and all that gray hair she remembered fondly, it'd be all over. Like cracking a whip, the realization hit hard, and she pushed at him.

"Get off."

"I'm trying~"

"No, I mean get off of me. Get off of me right now, Keith."

He seemed to catch onto her meaning, and scrambled off of her, face dropping in concern and worry.

"I'm sorry! Did I do something? Did I go too fast?"

She sat up quickly, and tried to calm herself. It felt like having just escaped a chase against a lion.

"Keith we can't do this. I care about you, and I want to do this, god I do. But I will not do this at his expense. Yes our relationship is open. But you hurt me. And if I did this, he'd be disappointed. I need to love me the way he loves me. So…no. No, I'm saying no to this."

Keith looked perplexed, like she had taken a sharp left turn when he was supposed to go straight on ahead. He clearly had something he wanted to say, but he sighed, clearly giving up his true intentions.

"Very well. I understand. I was lucky for this opportunity, and he's even luckier."

"Thank you, Keith. Now get some rest."

She got up, and kissed his forehead, before heading upstairs. He was still asleep, thankfully. She crawled into bed, expecting him to wake up and question, but that didn't happen. Instead, half asleep, he pulled her back into his arms, ready for more snuggles and snoozing. It was really early in the morning when she woke up again. She decided to treat the boys, mostly because memories of last night killed her on the inside. She slipped out of bed, and went to the kitchen. She started to mix batter, peel apples and cook bacon. She even made sure her eggs were extra fluffy, even though it took a little extra care. Once everything was cooked (the apples were especially perfect, she almost didn't want to share), she went to get Keith from the couch. He got up with a rough groan and a swear in a language she didn't understand.

"God, I feel dead. Am I dead?"

"Probably not. But let's get you out of here, yeah? I made breakfast."

She held onto his hand as she walked him into the kitchen, and helped him down onto his seat. She gave him a plate full of bacon, apple pancakes, and eggs, with a good cup of coffee to nurse it with. His fingers, his movements, were tired, uneasy.

"I…thank you. This is a lovely spread."

"Course, Keith. I'm gonna go get Hector, you relax, okay? You won't ever have to go back there."

"I…don't, do I?"

"Nope. Never gotta go back. You're out here."

She let him eat, while she went upstairs to her bedroom. Hector was still asleep, laying on his front, face practically smothered by the pillows. Unlike her (apparently, she had been told this by others who stayed over), who snored like hell, he slept silently, as if being so considerate even in his sleep. He was an angel, really he was. She kneeled down to kiss his soft cheek, and he smiled a bit. He refused to open his eyes, but he was certainly awake.

"Mmm…good morning, love."

"Morning, made breakfast."

"Ugh, I thought that was in my dreams. Do I smell apples?"

"For the pancakes, yes. And eggs, and bacon."

"And-"

"Coffee, yes."

He rubbed at his face tiredly, yawning as he tried to force himself awake.

"You're everything, my dear."

"I try. Now come on, before it gets cold!"

She smacked his ass, making him yelp just so adorably. At least he finally opened his eyes.

"I was waking up!"

"Yeah but you have a nice ass."

He finally made it downstairs in his robe after, choosing to completely ignore Keith, in order to focus on the food.

"This all looks lovely- did you eat?"

She held him by the fluffyness of his robe to stop him from making her a plate, making sure he was listening.

"Eat. Eat, and be nice."

"For you, I will be hospitable."

She gave him a peck on his lips, before leaving him to serve himself and eat. She brought a few cups of coffee to the table, taking notice of how little Keith had eaten. She put the cup of coffee by him, gently rubbing his back.

"Keith, you okay? You wanna shower? Let me get you some fresh clothes?"

Keith suddenly stood up. It made Hector tense up, gripping the utensils in his hands a little too tightly.

"No. I'm…I'm going to go. I thought a lot last night. About many things. I…I appreciate you giving me the time. Your chances,"

Keith leaned in to kiss her forehead, the feelings behind it almost regretful, as if there was more to say, more to do. Their eyes met, and he nodded at her.

"They mean the world to me. So thank you, for being kind, my little lock. Goodbye to you, and to you."

Keith nodded over at Hector. Hector kept his eyes on him the whole time, like he was a protective guard dog. He swallowed the food that was in his mouth, before he nodded at the direction of the door.

"Bye, Keith."

Keith nodded, accepting this dismissive stance with a wipe of his clothes.

"I shall see you at the party that you so graciously invited me to. I'm looking forward to it."

He walked off, and she looked towards Hector, a silent plea that she hoped he got. He knew her well, sighing as he gave her a nod. She went after Keith, knowing she didn't have long at all before Hector got worried and came to check on her. She met him right as he opened the door, grabbing his sleeve.

"Keith, wait. You have something to say, I can tell. Please."

He hesitated, looking at her hold, then her face. He took a step up to her, gently cupping her face in his hand.

"I wanted to say many, many things. But…your life has changed. So these things must stay in my heart. But just know that you were on my mind. A lot. Your innocence, it's always taken me. Goodbye."

He finally let go of her, and she watched him walk out that door. She didn't know where he was going, just knew that soon enough Hector was at her side, hands rubbing together in clear worry.

"Everything alright?"

She sighed, gently thumping her head onto his shoulder.

"Yes. I'm okay. I just…his face, Hector."

"I know, my dear. I know. I'm sorry. It hurts my heart to see yours strained."

"It's…fine. You're right. This was for the best. Let's just have breakfast, yeah?"

"Would it be odd to ask to feed you? Just a few bites?"

She snorted, taking a hold of his hand and pulling him towards the kitchen.

"Only If I can do the same, you cute little windbag."

--------------------------------------

"Are we ready or are we ready?!"

Hector looked up from his things. He was waiting for her to finish getting ready, when he was caught in a sentimental moment. His stuff blended together with hers on the dresser, his clothes in half of the drawers and the closet, a few of his masks she particularly liked, a few photos she had hung up or taped to the mirror. He loved those pictures, dates at the ice cream shop Chairmi worked at, at a black tie event during Keyes performance (they had made amends, thankfully. Sort of), even during an auction date at Airyn's work. These months had been the best months of his entire life, and tonight, he was going to make sure he'd preserve that. He had been waiting and feeling his feelings (as Artt would tell him to do) when Lucinda poked her head in. Lucinda had offered to 'doll her up' for the event. He got off his seat, phone back in his pocket.

"I've never been more ready. Though I don't see how you can top that fantastic red shirt of hers."

"I'm Lucinda Limitless, I'm always topping things! Step in gorgeous, show him how easy it is to prove him wrong!"

And she didn't step in. No, she practically floated into the room. The fantastic red shirt was somehow improved upon, being turned into a fantastic red dress. One with more ruffles and studs and golden chains, and given how she was biting her finger at seeing her exposed midriff, Lucinda was clearly very proud of her piece. Barry poked his head in after, gesturing to her makeup and her hair. Reds, golds, silver rhinestones around the eyes. He never thought she needed any of this, she was gorgeous on her own, but he knew he was blushing right alongside them, he could feel it.

"She didn't need much help, but didn't I do right by those lips?"

He never complained about having to share her, but god, did he feel such envy as she leaned in to kiss Barry's cheek, leaving a big, bright mark on his flawless skin.

"You did a fantastic job, Barry, as always. Your work with Lucinda? It's fantastic!"

Lucinda scoffed, loudly and dramatically.

"And what about me kissies?!"

His human chuckled, leaning in to plant a kiss right on her lips, then gently patting her cheek.

"Be a sweetie and help Barry in the limo, will you? I'll help you in a second."

"Noice!"

Lucinda left with Barry to the limo (provided by Lucinda) outside. They really did love each other's company, yapping away at each other over this and that. That left him alone with her. She gestured to her dress, cheeks all rosy and tempting.

"So? Honest opinion, do we like it? Because I feel way out of my comfort zone. Like the hair, the makeup, even the jewelry is kinda-"

"May I miss you?"

The question caught her off guard, but she gave a soft chuckle in response,

"Don't you mean kiss me?"

"I miss you every second I'm not kissing you, love."

She took a hold of his suit and pulled her closer to him. She was so soft against him, it was driving him mad.

"The beautiful guy wants to kiss me? Really?"

"The beautiful guy wants to do far more, but I'd hate to smudge that pretty makeup."

She was absolutely delighted when he finally got that kiss, and god, the way she wrapped her arms around his neck, made him feel like he was so important, so seen. He forced himself to pull away, knowing if he clung on a second longer, they wouldn't leave. She looked at him and chuckled, using her thumb to rub at his lips.

"Shoot, I did get makeup on you. Red looks good on you, but it feels like it's killing your green scheme."

"I do not care. I'll wear your colors always."

"Why'd I think you'd say that? Now come on, help me get my shoes on, please."

"Course, love."

She sat on her bed and he pulled her shoes out from inside the closet. He knelt down in front of her, and for a moment, she was distracted with her phone. She had such cute eyes that twinkled when she was at attention. Such a heart underneath that chest. Such legs. Legs that were barely contained by those black stockings, each little diamond shape having little hearts. He couldn't resist, after carefully putting the shoes on her, kissed her knee. She looked away from her phone at him, amused.

"What are you doing?"

"Trying not to rip these off with my bare teeth."

That took her by surprise, given her nervous laugh, blunt, a little loud.

"Hector!"

"I'd apologize if I didn't mean it. I very much mean it. You're so precious to me, my love,"

He kissed her leg again, and again, stopping short of her thigh. She was trying to hide her nervous smile under the cover of her phone, but he knew it. He could read her signs blindfolded. He rested his chin on her knee, taking a deep sigh of content.

"If it were up to me, we wouldn't leave. I'd keep you here and love you. Pamper you. Coddle you. You don't know, truly, how you are my undoing. And if we had time, how much I could undo you."

"I uhm. I mean, I'm tempted. Yep. Absolutely. But also, I do want my work friends to see you. You're important to me, I want them to know you."

"God, you're sweet. Kind. Considerate. You sure we don't have five minutes? I can work quickly."

"Hector! You are too much,"

She laughed, leaning over to gently smack him, but with the way her eyes were eating him up, the idea didn’t repulse her.

"But, if I could consider it, regale me. What is it you have planned in that head?"

He never understood why she loved his voice, but when he spoke, she clung to everything he said. They could be at a table full of people, but his words never fell on deaf ears, never met an uninterested set of eyes.

"I'd eat my way into your heart. I'd overwhelm and adore you. I'd swallow you whole. I'd cling to you until you're shaking, just how I like. Just how you like it. I'd take all your wishes, all your desires, and blow it right into you. I would part you with patient hands, read your love like it is my scripture. Your breath would falter, your spine would bow for me. I'd only need five little minutes."

"It's been five minutes since we left, vent man, Jesus!"

He turned quickly around to Lucinda, who seemed almost impressed, while Barry was trying to give them privacy by looking away. He was worried his love was going to be upset, but instead she chuckled, almost smugly. Though her cheeks were such a delightful shade, he almost wanted to just kick them out and have them leave then be.

"Hey, he just knows what I like, I will not take shade here. Now you guys all loaded up? Great, let's go, I need drinks, preferably lots of them!"

They hopped into the limo, and while he wanted to talk to her during the right, Lucinda demanded more of her attention, talking about how great she was the whole ride. Barry tried to speak to him as well, but they were either about toucans or pinball machines. Hector kept the conversation going, to be polite, but looking at her was such a distraction. Thankfully the ride there wasn't long, and Hector whistled a bit once they pulled up. It was a giant villa, surrounded by water fountains, plenty of plant life, and as of right now, plenty of people, many of whom he recognized. Once parked, Hector got out first, and opened her car door, when-

"YO IT'S THE PLUG!"

"OUR PLUG!"

"OUR DOG!!!"

Suddenly he was damn near tackled when five himbos surrounded him.

"Oh! The Hanks! It's been a while!"

Hank #1 gave him a drumroll to his shoulder, Hank #2 was giving him his usual gummy smile, Hank #4 kept chanting 'dude, dude, dude' at him, and Hank #5 was gently shaking his shoulder. Hank #3 meanwhile, gave him a look over, and whistled.

"Daaaamn when did you turn into a bear? Because your ass is trying to steal all the hunnies!"

Hector chuckled a little awkwardly, still not used to such rampant affection.

"Well thank you! I'm glad you still hold me in such high regard! You all look well!"

Hank #5 met the eyes of a passing Wallace, flagging him down.

"Oh wait wait, you haven't met the little in person, man! Wallace, baby me, bro!"

"Wallace was watching your kid?"

"Oh dude, Wallace is great with kids! He thinks babies are rad, don't you Wallace?"

Wallace, ever big and ever powerful, walked over to them, ever so gently handing over the baby. The baby was wearing one of the t-shirts that had a fancy suit printed on them, matching his fellow Hanks. Hank #5 grabbed him, making him look at Hector.

"This here is your uncle, lil' hanger! He's super rad."

Hector hesitated, but…well, there was something adorable about the way he grabbed at his finger, with that little babu grip, that kinda melted him.

"Oh…wow. I'm a tìo."

"Uh…no? Uncle?"

"...yes- anyway, you all look so happy and well!"

Hank #3 nodded, clearly proud of himself.

"I mean we are kinda killing it. You know, nursing school for me, Hank #4 is a rent a bro-"

"A what?"

"Oh, it's where nerds rent his time to make them feel cool. Keeps Hank #0 in diapers. You got any kids comin' your way?"

"Not yet. But, I do have my baby."

They were about to ask what he meant, when his love stepped out of their ride, with the help of Barry's hand. They, alongside Wallace, stared at her the way they should, like she was what invented the word 'beauty'. She waved at them before coming around the vehicle, and opening her arms to them.

"Hanks, my loves! Wallace!"

Hank #5 was the bravest of them it seemed, accepting the hug first, with everyone following suit, including Wallace. Hank #3 made an obvious show of checking her out, whistling loudly.

"Daaaang girl, that's a dangerous stunt I can get into~"

She chuckled, grabbing a hold of Hector's suit to pull him closer to her.

"You guys are gonna have to wait in line, Hector is kinda my main squeeze here,"

They seemed a little lost, and she sighed.

"He's my squirrel suit."

How that made sense to them, Hector had no idea. But they gawked, ooed and awwed.

"Yo serious?!"

"Aye I knew our guy had rizz!"

"Aura farmer, called it!"

Hector had no idea what the hell they meant, but given the energy around them, he assumed it was a good thing. They went on inside as the Hanks continued to praise him and hype him up, and he was in awe. The place was packed, with art on the walls, shiny marble floors, chandeliers, a rather big bar, and plenty of food vendors, including Stefan off in the distance. He looked at her, still holding his arm, and gestured to the crowd.

"Would you like a minute to mingle? I could use a minute and a drink."

"Ah good, I'll know where to find you."

She gave him a kiss on his cheek. A big one that most certainly smudged lipstick on his face, before calling out for Gaia in the distance, something about a trip she just went on. He excused himself to the bar, and took a seat at one of the stools.

"Ah, if it isn't the vents. You look well."

He looked to the side at Volt, who was dressed to impress, a tray of empty glasses in his hand. He recalled the drinks the man would leave in his vents for him, occasionally.

"Good to see you, Volt. Didn't think you'd recognize me."

"Oh of course we do! Livewire sends us pictures, me and Eddie would be foolish to not recognize the one in her bed so often, wouldn't we Eddie?"

Eddie looked up from the drinks Bev was garnishing for him, barely looking up for the conversation.

"Yeah, she keeps us updated, and she likes you."

"Oh. That's…sweet. You sure you guys don't want to talk to her?"

Volt sighed, dropping off the glasses and holding the tray under his arm before leaning against the bar.

"She'll come our way I'm sure, but me and Eddie enjoy working. Work horses, we are. Though, Eddie is more of a work stallion~"

"Volt."

Eddie warned him, but there was a twinkle in his eyes that clearly enjoyed the compliment. Hector felt warmth from it, a little safety in his fellow lovers.

"Fair enough. Working is good for the heart, I feel. Allow me to put you to work then, a drink, please. Something light."

The three of them chuckled at this, and Eddie pushed a glass his way after a moment. It smelled fruity, and it held a delightful orange color.

"Cider. Lightweights love 'em. But if you want something fun, you can do Johnny's order, he likes those boozy milkshakes."

"I'll keep that in mind for my next one, thank you."

He nursed it as he watched her. Watched as she chatted with Stella, hugged Teddy, applauded the act Drysdale and Washford were putting on, even feeding Vaughn cheese. He didn't know how long he was sitting there, just watching, but Volt had gone this way and that. On this newest trip back to the bar, Volt brought back a tray of food, setting it in front of Hector. Cut up steak, nachos, a little bit of fruit, and some kind of cake.

"You've been here for a while, you should eat something."

"Oh. Thank you, Volt."

Eddie seemed to be in a bit of a lull in terms of drinks, throwing a rag over his shoulder to watch her with him. She was swaying with Tyrell, looking happy, gorgeous, so freed.

"You don't wanna go join her?"

"Not now, not yet. She needs me to sit and watch, for a while. She'll always look back to me, and I think it's a comfort. Plus…I'm used to watching. I love watching."

"Pervert."

"Bev."

Beverly chuckled, and honestly he did too.

"No no, it's alright. I suppose it does give off that impression. But…no. It's security. I'm just waiting. The time has to be perfect for this."

"To dance?"

He gently shook his head, and from his jacket, pulled out the little box for the ring. They all stood there, gawking, and upon Hector nodding in consent, Eddie held it up to look at it.

"Holy shit. This is…nice. Like. Really nice. Can you afford this?"

"It was a gift, actually. I was talking about wanting to make things official, and David wanted to help-"

"My ears are burning! Hector!!"

David Most walked in, giving Hector a firm pat on the back as he sat next to him. He was always a large, intimidating man in stature, but his face was gentle and interested.

"David, so nice to see you."

"Likewise! So, haven't had the chance, huh?"

"No. It just…doesn't feel right, yet, you know? I apologize that I'm stalling on your gift-"

"Oh no no no! I don't mind! I'm just excited! She talks about you a lot, me and Franklin aww at it all the time! Eddie, a mojito, please."

"On it boss man."

He accepted another drink to accompany his food, before leaving right after, upon seeing Franklin in the distance. Chance seemed to take his place, hooded up, and wearing one of the masks he had commissioned of him previously. The theme for this one was 'locked away', hence all the silver keys and golden locks.

"Ho there, friend!"

"Hello Chance. You having a good time?"

"Oh absolutely. Gang's loving your masks!"

Chance sat next to him as he gestured to a few other mask wearers; Chairmi, Dasha, even Kristoff. They returned the wave, and Volt chuckled.

"Is your friend aware of your predicament?"

"Very. He told me I should go for it."

"Really?"

Chance nodded, accepting whatever drink Eddie slid his way.

"Their romance has a pretty good story progression! Character development too! I fully support it. Plus, she keeps my buddy happy."

Hector gently smiled at him, gently pushing him with his elbow.

"You're a silly man. And a very good friend. I appreciate you."

"Aw, buddy. I appreciate you too."

He was going to offer Chance a genuine smile, when he noticed Bev and Volt were clearly watching them. Bev gestured at them, and slowly brought her hands together.

"Now kiss."

"Bev."

Volt gave a dismissive wave of his hand.

"Oh come come. What happens at the bar stays at the bar. Having said that, yes, kiss, the tension is killing me."

Hector looked towards Eddie for help, and he shrugged.

"I dunno, stop giving a guy 'fuck me eyes', thats a you issue."

Chance snorted. His snort was always quiet, like a mouse, which contrasted his rather large, built frame. He patted Hector's back, keeping the hand on him for a good moment, in comfort.

"You found out how to ask her yet?"

"I've just…been watching."

And he continued to watch her. She was currently having a rather passionate discussion with Friar Errol. Something he was excited about, and she was positively animated. What was it that brought her excitement? Why did it make him feel so itchy? Volt seemed to catch on to what was wrong, leaning into his space.

"I'd go for it before Ironaldini comes in here. I've seen them both together, don't think that feeling will go away."

Hector put the ring back in his pocket with a sigh.

"Are they…that close?"

Bev gave a 'seriously?' Type laugh, nodding.

"Oooh yeah. Like next to you, she's kinda nuts about him. They talk all the time, he's constantly trying to impress her, and the look."

Volt nodded in an exaggerated way.

"Oh yes. The look. The looks they have. It's loving. A little lewd. Not as lewd as Cam and Jean Loo mind you, but lewd."

"I- wait Cam and Jean Loo are together?"

Volt nodded in the distance, towards the bathrooms. Cam was looming over Jean loo, and whatever he was saying was clearly flustering the neatly dressed, once toilet man. Bev snuck in a bit, a grin on her face.

"Cam told me once it's because he 'likes his potty mouth'."

Volt, practically cheek to cheek with her as they watched the very obvious…touches, clearly a bit mischievous in his own gossip.

"I heard it's a lot of rear end related activities. Which is hilarious given his old profession."

Eddie snapped at them a few times with his fingers, pointing at Hector.

"Guys, focus. Loverboys instead of fuck boys here."

They parted after this, and Volt lightly patted Hector's shoulder.

"Apologies. Yes, Eddie is right. You should say something. While the whole admiring from afar has its time and place, going and taking charge? What a proclamation you must make!"

Hector watched just a moment more. That magician was there. Right there. He was dressed as nicely as he ever was, and he was practically glued to her hip. Hector had seen them interact before, but this was different. It wasn't just lust or love. No, he was clasping her hands against his chest. He was practically fawning at her feet. And she was so soft with him. So tender, like she felt something for him. Then, he read his lips.

'I love you, my honey bunny'.

It was sweet. It shouldn't have upset him. He agreed to this, he wasn't making her uncomfortable. So why did jealousy rear its ugly head so much? It was the 'my'. The claim of it all. Hector found himself getting up with a nod.

"I'm going."

They gave him a small applause in support, and his body moved before he could stop himself. He walked past people he knew, people he didn't, and before he knew it, he was right next to her. And even though he was right there next to them, he didn’t let go of her hands. She didn't seem to notice, given her smile.

"Hey! There you are! Ronnie was gonna get a drink with me-"

"May I dance with you?"

She blinked at him, studying him as if she didn’t recognize him for a moment.

"You…want to dance? Here? In public?"

"I need to, with you. I need it now."

She glanced over at the magician, a sympathetic smile on her face.

"Drinks after? I can't say no to that face."

"That's…fine. Yes. Of course. Have fun, my dear."

"Oh don't worry, I won't leave you with nothing~"

"Oh!"

She took off his top hat, covered them from view, and leaned in. After a second, she put the hat back on his head, amused by the literal steam coming out of him. She finally turned to Hector, and put her hands in his.

"Let's dance. Something slow?"

"To savor you more? Yes please."

She walked him to the dance floor, signaling something to Mac, the one who had been controlling the music in this part of the party. The music went from upbeat, to slowly dying down to something calm, something that brought the couples closer together. He didn't like dancing, he wasn't good at any of them really. But she never minded. He could hold her, he could sway. And that's what he did, hands at the small of her back, her arms around his shoulders. She watched his face, he watched hers. She smiled at him, so pure of delight.

"You wanna know something?"

"Absolutely."

"I like looking at you."

"Oh hush, I can't look you in the eyes when you say things like that."

"But it makes your cheeks all flushed. I like it."

"You are such a tease, I can hardly stand it."

"You liiiike it~"

"I love it,"

There was a comfortable silence between them, one where it felt like no one was around. But there were people around. People who he knew loved her, but, as selfish as it was, he knew his love was so much more. It's why he was selfish, and just forced it out of him, like uncaging some violent creature.

"The balcony. I would like to meet you on the balcony in five minutes. Can you do that?"

She seemed taken aback, before she nodded.

"Yeah. I can do that. Five minutes."

He lifted her hand to his lips, kissed her knuckles, and walked away. Once he knew she couldn't see him, he bolted for the bar, nearly slamming into various party goers in his wake. Eddie and Bev barely got to say hello before he interjected.

"I need something strong. Something that'll make me feel like I can handle anything, but not strong enough where said thing is jumping off the balcony."

Eddie nodded, immediately getting to work pouring things into a glass.

"Liquid courage, comin' up. Or liquid stupidity. But hey, splittin' wires."

Eddie handed it over and Hector took it all in one swig. He immediately coughed, hands over his mouth as his throat, his nose, his stomach, and even his eyes burned.

"H-holy- what was that?!"

"Liquid courage. I make it burn, because it's for emergencies. If it tastes good everyone's gonna tear this place a part."

"Oh…ow…it does…settle nicely, after a moment. A painful moment."

"Yep. Go get 'em tiger."

He took a deep breath, and looked to where she was. She was trying to make her way up, like he asked, but she was constantly being stopped by others wanting her attention. Short of whisking her away from a crowd like this, he didn’t know how he'd this. He sighed.

"If I could just. Get five minutes for everyone to leave us alone. Just five…"

He heard Eddie sigh before him, before seeing him slap his towel on the counter.

"Bev, you got the bar for a minute?"

"Course."

"Good- you owe me vent boy. Volt! Let's go!"

Volt was already approaching when Eddie flagged him down, curious.

"Leaving? Before the work is done?"

"No. We're taking a break. Me and you are gonna dance."

Volt looked like he told a joke. Then, when Eddie actually started to come out from behind the counter, literally gasped.

"Eddie!! You haven't danced in public before!"

"Nope. But, he needs a distraction, so, fuck it."

Volt was so excited he started to do little movements with his feet. Sort of a mini dance, with each careful, bouncy step causing little sparks of electricity spark against the marble floor. His hair itself seemed to crackle with pure excitement, making him light up like a slow rolling bolt of thunder.

"Oh yes, Eddie! Let's do it! I tell people you dance better than me, no one buys it!"

"Yeah yeah,"

Eddie took a hold of Volt by his shirt collar, pointing at Hector.

"You. Don't fuck this up, alright? You say it, or I'm kicking your ass."

Hector nodded, and watched for his opening. A very excited Volt's voice roared through the crowd.

"Mac! Cut a rug or pull the plug! Our dear Eddie is going to dance for us!"

And just like that, everyone started to crowd around them. He took the chance to get up and hurry up the stairs to the second floor, and went out the balcony. The sun was starting to dip in the horizon, causing a blend of oranges to light up where he was standing. He stood there, thinking, wondering. The greenery surrounding him was plentiful, bountiful, little flowers blooming amongst vines, just for them. Then, he heard steps join him.

"Love, I-"

It wasn't her. It was Keith, who gave an apologetic smile.

"Sorry, friend. You were expecting someone else."

"Get out, Keith. I have enough on my grate as is."

"I apologize, I shall get out of your hair momentarily. May I speak for just a second?"

Hector took a deep inhale, genuinely frustrated, before finally turning to look at him.

"What? What could you possibly want, here? In my biggest moment?"

"To tell you that she isn't coming."

The warmth of the sun suddenly held no reprieve for him, for his blood went cold, icicles even.

"...what?"

"She isn't coming, my friend. Least, not anytime soon. I apologize."

Keith was approaching him and it was starting to unsettle him. But more importantly, it was making him angry.

"What did you do? What did you do to my love?"

Keith gave a bit of a shrug, suddenly standing very, very close to him.

"I hid her away after I got what I wanted from her."

"If you touched her-"

"Oh no no, my friend. I'm not a monster! I did nothing so insidious. No,"

He held up her little clutch purse. He remembered that bag anywhere, he bought it for her specially for 'the pretty red dress she'd wear at the party'. A smirk laid over those lying, snake like lips.

"I just took what she could offer. In here, her official login details, all in her phone, all in here, able to be sold for the highest bidder. Or, if Valdivian was smart, to buy it back from me."

"...there's a reason you haven't run away. There's a reason you're telling me this."

"Ah yes, smart one you are,"

Keith leaned into him, hand planted on the railing, and whispered in his ear.

"Two reasons. One, to see that stupid little boyfriend of hers realize he failed to protect her. Two, because you have something very valuable. The ring, which you won't be needing anymore."

Keith pulled away, just enough for Keith to show the ring box now in his hand. Hector moved before he could think, shoving him into the room, and shoving him hard. It felt good, striking him as he did. Keith was sent back, dropping the ring. Hector immediately dove for it. Expenses aside, this was the key to his future, to an eternal promise to her. Keith collected himself, kneeing Hector hard enough to send him to the floor. Keith loomed over him, about to deliver a blow when he was down, when suddenly a nearby table was slammed right against him. Hector looked up, seeing no assailant, (but he swore a voice nearby said something like 'not yet') but a wounded Keith, a part of his suit torn up and a bit of blood coming from his arm. Unfortunately, his age did nothing for his vigor. He shoved the table off of him, but Keith was already at the balcony, smirking, flipping him off, and falling off that 2nd story. Hector jumped to see him, but there were no signs.

"Fuck. Fuck, fuck!"

He immediately ran out the room, calling out to her. He couldn't hear anything, especially over the loud music and the commotion, and his blood was pained with panic. So many rooms, so much everything. The alcohol churned in his belly and panic made his legs tremble. That was when he saw something in the corner of his eye. Something…purple? He didn't know what called him, but he followed it to what appeared to be a closet, just a room away to where he actually was. The closet was being held closed with a cane, and a voice was calling for help on the other end. He immediately pushed the cane away, and she fell right into his arms. She looked up at him. He looked at her. She practically jumped for his face, and he leapt for hers.

"Hector!"

"Darling! Are you hurt?!"

"Are you hurt?!"

"Who cares?!"

"I do!!"

They inspected each other, every crease, every strand of hair. She seemed fine, unhurt, nothing out of place. Minus…the tears. Tears welled up in her eyes, and she had him in a vicegrip.

"I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry."

"Sorry? For what? I don't care about what he took from me!"

"I do! You said not to trust him and I did and he hurt you! I'm so stupid and I can't say no and-"

He leaned in to kiss her forehead. It was a kiss that he practically smashed his nose into her in order to do so.

"I don't think so. You shouldn't. You're so kind and understanding. I wouldn't change that heart, even if this happened again."

"N-no it's not. He…he stole…he s-stole…"

"Stole what?"

A man stood there suddenly, in a black suit. He had a serious looking face, long, white hair. He was holding a huge bouquet of flowers, and concern in his eyes. His features were oddly familiar in a way Hector couldn't place. She wiped her eyes and sniffed.

"John?"

"Hey you. What's going on?"

The man knelt down to her level with such concern, Hector almost felt like he intruded on something.

"Keith stole something from me. Something really, really important."

"Did he? When did he leave?"

He suddenly turned to Hector, and he almost felt a bit of fear, like he was the one being chased.

"Less than five minutes ago, I'm sure. Through the balcony."

This John fellow inspected him for a moment, before suddenly grabbing his sleeve, and pulling it to his face. There seemed to be the smallest bit of blood on his suit that he didn't see before, and the man gently dabbed at it with his finger. He inspected it in between the gloves, nodding.

"Got it. Love, you take these,"

He placed the flowers in her hands, and nodded.

"And I'll take care of this."

"I'm assuming there's room for one more?"

Sophia. Hector recognized her voice and her strong, powerful steps before he even saw her. His love sniffed, trying not to rub away her own makeup.

"Sophia? You made it here?"

"Of course,"

Sophia knelt down to her level, gently holding onto her chin.

"I needed to see what belongs to me. And you,"

She stood back up, looking at John.

"You and I are going to handle this."

"Sure you wanna keep up with this? Keith is a slippery one."

"I'm sure. Not only did he upset my wretch,"

She snarled as her grip tightened on her own whip, making Hector gulp. She always did frighten him.

"He dared. Touch. My. Monique. No one gets away with it. I hope you can keep up with me."

"Yes ma'am. You two, keep the crowd calm, and see if anyone saw anything."

John picked up a candelabra sitting on a nearby table, before they both left. Before Hector can try to figure out what to do next, especially given the crowd seemed fine, still entertained by Eddie, Dorian suddenly rushed up the stairs. He was a physically fit man, so for him to be panting like this, meant he was either running quite a distance, or something else. Hector took notice of his messy hair, his half assembled attire, his unbuckled belt. Before he could speak, Hector beat him to it.

"You couldn't stop being a man whore for one day, Dorian?!"

"Hector!"

"No no, 'e's right. I should've been more on guard, and I…wasn't. I'm sorry. I've failed."

She frowned at him, but reached over to gently squeeze his arm.

"You're kind. He abused that. You didn't do a damn thing, Dorian."

Dorian didn't agree, he could see it in his eyes. Hector didn't agree either, but he held his tongue, and Dorian chose to ignore it similarly, focusing on the task at hand.

"Let's focus on the mendin'. Me, Wallace, and Maggie will do a parameter check, be real discreet. You two focus on makin' sure no one knows the goings on, don't want a panic."

They nodded as Dorian left to do as he said. He was scrambling, wondering what next to do, panicking about what the hell to do and how he had failed to do his job as her boyfriend, and how if he couldn't do this one simple thing, did he really deserve this? Deserve her or-

"Hey. Whatever happens. We're gonna get through it together, okay?"

She was gently squeezing his hand. Her eyes felt pain, still mourning for what she had physically lost. He squeezed her hand back.

"Why do you do this?"

"Do what?"

"Find…love. Find love despite everything. You should be riled up with hatred and vitriol!"

"I could be. I'm definitely mad. But you're safe. How mad can I be?"

He didn't deserve her. Didn't deserve this kindness, the type of purity that unraveled his heart like it was an ever falling apart ball of twine. He gestured to the crowd with a nod of his head.

"Would you like to join them? Keep your mind off of things?"

"Can I be honest?"

"Always."

"No. I love them all. But god, do I hate parties. I wanna go home, be in my pajamas, and eat ice cream."

"And maybe just write while we have something playing on tv in the background on low?"

"Oh. My. God. Yes."

He chuckled at her unbridled excitement for the idea of something so domestic. She was every good part of his life. Whatever they held in common, he revered and adored. But that killed him. Something about how she was taking all of this. About how she was just taking the humiliation that she should've been feeling. He wanted to do something stupid. Pull away from her, tell her she should be with anyone else, someone who could actually protect her from all of this. But while he knew he was selfish, he knew he wasn't that selfish. Not more than he was giving to her.

"So you know how much you've changed me?"

"Hmm?"

He realized he had brought this up seemingly out of nowhere, the pause between them spent in his own head. He gently gripped onto her hand, a little tighter.

"I would've done something stupid, just now. Because you deserve, I feel, more than all of me. But you love me, don't you?"

"Pfft, no matter what. You seem surprised somehow."

"I just. I say this because…well, remember how I wanted to see you in private?"

"Yes?"

"Well…there's a reason for that. I do not have it anymore, but…my love, I-"

"HECTOR!"

"PARTNER!"

Both Franklin and David were running at them, clearly out of breath when they finally caught up to them. David spoke first after a very dramatic deep breath.

"We just got wind of the Keith situation! Are you both alright?!"

His love sighed, clearly seeing that this information was slowly starting to leak out.

"We're fine, he just stole from us. He…stole my phone. With all my Valdivian information on it. I'm sorry-"

Franklin immediately went up to hug her, much to her clear confusion.

"Hey! No! You're safe! Whatever comes after, we'll work through it!"

David nodded, patting Hector's shoulder.

"That's all that matters, ultimately. But uh, Hector. Did he…you know?"

"Unfortunately."

That seemed to crush David more, giving his frown.

"Oh. Oh no. Of all the things…don't worry. We can fix it."

She clearly wanted to ask what they were talking about, but decided against it when she caught the attention of someone down below. Hector followed her gaze to Dorian, who was pointing behind him to the outside door. She took a hold of Hector's hand, and alongside David and Franklin, went down the steps and somehow dodged the crowd to meet him. Dorian motioned for them to follow him, and he explained as he shut the door behind them.

"Good news and bad news."

She braced herself for the worst, nodding in clear nerves.

"Good news first."

"Good news, word from Sophia and Scandalabra-"

"John."

"Right, John-"

Hector had to interject more in sheer bewilderment.

"That was Scandalabra?!"

"Yes. Now, we got an update, your items 'ave been retrieved. Sophia and John are on their way back as we speak."

"Oh my god. Oh my god! Oh what a relief. What's the bad news, then?"

"Sophia 'it Keith with her armored truck."

Hector sat with that for a minute, before saying exactly what he thought.

"Did she back him up too?"

She whipped her head at him, and he gave a bit of a shrug in response. Dorian sighed, before nodding.

"She did. Twice."

"I like Sophia."

She glared at him, muttering for him to at least be kinda nice. She looked up at Dorian, her eyes turning soft.

"Is he?"

"No. Still breathin', just broken."

"And you're handling it…how?"

"Been…better. But he 'urt you. 'urt you when we gave him another chance. So, I won't lose sleep over it."

She was about to comfort him when said armored truck pulled up. Sophia stepped out, her clutch in her hand.

"My little wretch! I have returned what is yours!"

His love immediately went to her in a hug, and she took it gratefully.

"Sophia! You're the best! He didn't hurt you?"

"He tried to, but I've handled many stupid, insolent men like him. He was no more troublesome than a mutt. Having said that, we should discuss the reward you owe me."

"O-oh! Okay!"

Sophia stole her for a moment, just as John got off the truck too. He approached Hector, handing him his box, and wiping a bit of blood from the corner of his lip.

"This is yours?"

"Yes, thank you. Did uh…you see-"

"I know what's in it. Don't worry though, she doesn't. Good luck, I need a drink."

He patted Hector's back as he went inside. David, who had chosen to stay with him while Franklin went to check on her with Sophia, peered over at him.

"We got it back. Are we still going for it?"

"...maybe. I'll…think about it. But I don't feel…good enough. Strong enough. Kind enough."

"Lovin' the self rejection! Always a fascinating flavor!"

Hector looked towards the voice behind David. Reggie, all decked out in a red dress that barely covered anything of his, while Skylar, who was walking with him, was dressed in a white suit, tailored for her given the way it was decorated fashionably with heart cufflinks, as well as her heart jewelry. She glared at Reggie before looking at Hector.

"Hey, Hector. It's been a while. We saw some commotion, everything okay?"

"Keith."

"And?"

David interjected then, and Hector sighed, showing Skylar the box. Skylar immediately knew, gasping and putting her hands over her mouth.

"Hector. Really?!"

"I'm…hesitating, now, honestly."

"Good, lovin' that energy!"

Skylar turned to look at Reggie again, shushing him loudly.

"I told you, you can drink only if you behave."

"Ugh, fine, fine. Go on, comfort him or whatever."

Skylar turned to look back at Hector, offering another sweet smile.

"Why is that, Hector?"

"I don't feel like enough. This is all a mess. I almost want to break up with her just so she can be spared from me."

"...Hector? Can I touch you?"

"I…suppose?"

He thought he'd hate the contact, really he did. Then, she reached for him, cupping his face in her hands. Her tone was kind, her touch was delicate.

"You know you were the first realized from that whole house?"

"Yes. I recall."

"She said she wanted you to go first. Because 'the world needs someone as kind as this'. She cares about you. She adores you. And the fact that you think you aren't good enough for someone who thinks you are plenty good enough? Shows you have so much heart, Hector. Me and her, we were the most excited to get you outta there!"

"...you…you mean that? She said that?"

"Mhmm. You're a gift you tried to throw away, but we chose to treasure you. You're a home for many. For her. Do it. Ask her. Even if she said no, there'd be no way she'd say it in a way that wouldn't show she loves you and sees you. Go, be seen."

Hector didn't know he was crying until she wiped the tears from his face. He moved before he could think, throwing his arms around her and squeezing. She softly chuckled, returning the embrace and patting his back. Reggie faked being sick, making barfing noises, much to Skylar's chagrin. Hector finally let go of her, wiping his face. To his surprise, Reggie reached over and offered him a tissue.

"Don't- I'm doin' this to get some ass later."

Skylar grinned like she had won something.

"Ha! You're being a mr.nice pants~"

"Goood bitch you're lucky you're a wonder with that strap- aight go you vent dweller, hope she says no."

Hector didn't hesitate any more. He turned, and he ran. He nearly ran into the armored vehicle as he did so, nearly tripped over himself as he ran, but he ran. He ran right to her, grabbing her hand.

"Sophia I need to borrow her."

He didn't wait for permission before he pulled her right to him. She looked shocked, clearly surprised by the sudden embrace.

"Hector? Everything okay?"

"No. No, I've been waiting for this for ages. I've been waiting and hesitating, but no more. I'm going to ask you something that has been digging and clawing at my heart and I need you to give me an answer, any answer, do you understand?"

"Uhm, yes?"

He immediately got onto one of his knees, and held out the ring, despite how much he was clearly shaking.

"I need you. I need you the way no one else can have you. I adore you with everything I have and I'll do anything to make us permanent. I constantly think I'm not good enough. But if you deem me good enough, for this honor, for this privilege, I promise. I promise I'll do anything you need at any time of day."

She stared at him. Said nothing. He swore he felt his heart wanted to seize up and keel over. He knew others were watching, and in some sick way, he felt like a pervert. Like he was a creep for wanting this. Then, she spoke.

"No. No, oh my god, no,"

Reggie barked in laughter behind them, and he felt disgusted. Disgusted with himself, his actions, like underneath his skin, felt oily and slimy. Then, seeing his face, she scrambled, digging furiously into her clutch.

"Oh no! No no no not like that! Oh my god I'm sorry I just- here, look,"

She got down low too, and pulled out a ring herself. He gawked at her, flushed, panicked face all over her features.

"I was going to ask you after the party! When everything had kinda died down! Oh my god, Hector!"

"You…were going to ask…me?"

"Yes! I've been trying to ask you for months but It never felt right! I asked Franklin to help me with the ring!"

"I…asked David."

They turned to look at said couple, who was clearly watching them, before they looked at each other.

"You did that and didn't tell me?!"

"You did it too, Franklin!"

"Oh my god that's so us!"

"We should kiss."

"And steal their thunder? No! After though, definitely after."

Hector blinked, head absolutely spinning.

"Wait…so is this you saying yes?"

"Yes it's me saying yes!!!"

She grabbed his face, and kissed him. He didn't know how, didn't know why. But it felt different this time around. The way she held him was different. She held him like he was everything.

And she breathed life into him like he was something.

Chapter Text

He couldn't resist wrapping his arms around her, finding such delight in how she melted into his hold.

"I love your laugh."

"And I love you. All of you. Even though I'm gonna beat you up later."

She looked up from his chest, chin resting upon him, and there was silence. A short, comfortable silence, only his breathing and the sound of her gently fiddling with his clothing, possibly in nerves.

"Can I enjoy you before the beating up?"

"Depends. Do I get to kiss you?"

"You can. But I know you want more, and I live to give you what you want."

She was going to ask something, but it was too late. No more waiting, no more stalling. He cupped her face in his hand, and finally, like he had not breathed his whole life until now, kissed her. It was a kiss that melted her, a kiss that let herself be bent to her own desires. He continued to kiss her, taking a step forward, and she took steps backward. It was like a dance, her body working to accommodate his own service, till she bumped into her own bed. He parted from the kiss, allowing her to look at the situation. His intention was obvious, and if she wanted to turn around and stop him, he'd know. There would be hesitation in her eyes, a corner of her lip pursed in doubt.

She sat herself down on her bed, polite and nervous, as if this was so new.

"I'm…a little nervous."

"This isn't your first time, though."

"It's my first time with you, since you've been realized. My first time with you, knowing you want to stay. I mean not to brag, I'm pretty good at the whole thing, but I've never felt like I wanted to impress anyone like this."

Oh if his heart were a sturdy safe, she'd be a persistent little pin, cracking into him far too easily. He smiled, planting a knee onto her bed and planting his palms onto the space behind her.

"You impress me already. With your heart, you're understanding, you being the most beautiful being in the world is just an extra little delight. If you enjoy yourself, I will be impressed, if you keep showing what's in your heart, I'll be impressed. Now, I'm going to kiss you again. When I do, I'm going to do everything I know will thrill you to no end. Is this alright?"

So frazzled, so overwhelmed. It was nice to see it on someone else for a change, someone else to put their worries and their faith in.

"Y-yeah. But I uh. I do wanna ask for something first. If that's okay."

"Anything your golden heart yearns for."

"Can you take your shirt off? Like I'm so tired of seeing it on you."

He raised a brow, holding onto the fabric with confusion.

"It's bad? I thought it was fetching on me."

"No-Hector I'm saying I wanna see your body that badly."

"Oh. Oh! So you do like it though? Because I can get new clothes."

"Hector."

"Right, right. Sorry, I just like this shirt- but as you wish."

He wasn't gonna lie, there was something that emboldened him about how she oggled him. The way her eyes wouldn't be on anything else in the room. He slid his jacket, then his shirt off, and he was just a little smug about how she gripped onto the sheets below. Wouldn't be the first time they'd be gripped tonight.

"Okay. Yeah. Better, much better. You've changed since the last time."

"I know! Isn't it lovely,"

He tossed his clothes to the side as he held into his frame. Where was once rigid, cold, sharp metal and vents, was replaced with layers of hot, soft muscle and fat, littered with way more hair than he ever thought he could have.

"The way I've changed? My frame is comfortable now. More suited for you, easier to be enveloped by you. Plus I…I like looking at it now."

"Well what a coincidence. I do too~"

He accepted her clear request for another kiss, smiling through it as he felt her hands practically paw at him, stroke at his skin, feel at the delightful stretchmarks he had learned to adore. She was so full of love, her love enveloped in his own like a greedy, starving thing. God, he was hungry. Hungry for her in ways he couldn't even begin to describe. He enveloped her lips completely, getting so carried away, he almost didn't let her breathe. Air was important, but also so unnecessary, just an obstacle to stop those kisses. He allowed her to breathe, burying his face in the nape of her sweet, tender neck.

"Do you remember Grate Expectations?"

"...maybe."

Her hands were at his back now, fingertips just tickling at the skin of his back.

"Do you remember this one line? After the mist parted? After you were held really, really close?"

He didn't see her face, but he didn’t need to. Knew she was suffering. Suffering in a sweet symphony.

"Hector, c-come on."

"I was going to wait, but if you insist on being impatient, my love,"

He gave her neck just a small kiss, before baring his teeth, and sinking them into her skin. It was euphoria in its most simple form. The satisfaction in the way she dug her fingers into him, the sharp exhale from surprise? Satisfaction? Maybe both. He let out a shuddery exhale, keeping his nose buried in her, as if he could smell just how excited she was for him.

"God, I'm sorry. I know you liked it, I can hear it in your breathing. But I'm so, so sorry that I like it possibly more. I want to bite every single inch of you, my love. But for now, just…one more. Just to tithe me over."

He turned his head to find a new spot, a little closer to her collarbone this time, and bit yet again. He was more forceful with this one, loving how her warmth, her flesh and her muscles were his to consume like this. He thought for a second he perhaps bit too hard this time, but the way her fingers dug into his hair, gripping it in some sort of silent plea to continue. He heard her swallow as she spoke, and even though he could only see sheets and skin from this angle, he pictured her mouth all full of drool as she spoke, and it brought just as much excitement to him as her voice.

"You know what I uhm. What I just realized?"

"Hmm?"

"That I'm wearing more than you right now. That doesn't seem fair, does it?"

"...no. I suppose it doesn't,"

He lifted himself up a bit to look at her face, and dear god was she making it hard to take things slowly, looking up at him with big, curious eyes, mouth slightly open like she was hanging onto his every word.

"You got to choose what I took off. I take it I can do the same?"

Her little nod in confirmation, oh he wanted to keep her here forever, away from any cruelty in the world. He scooted back a little, ignoring the fact that he clearly had an erection, and was especially ignoring just how much she was looking there. He dipped his fingertips into the waist of her pants, and hesitated just for a moment. Not for his own, but to silently ask her if this was alright. Upon receiving anticipation, he proceeded. He pulled those pants off of her, swearing under his breath as he saw how much she had ruined her underwear in her own arousal. She seemed to find her voice, even though it came out as cracked initially.

"Y-you know. Underwear are kinda like pants."

"Really?"

He was trying not to laugh, despite how frustrated it was clearly making her, given her dramatic scoff.

"It's called under PANTS, right?"

"...that's actually very sound logic, I wanted to poke fun, but that's a point."

He almost jumped a bit with how quickly she sat up, face scrunching up in a poor attempt to glare at him.

"God, do you want me to say it, pervert?"

"...pervert. You think I've been a pervert? Dear,"

He reached up to cup her face in his hand. His hold wasn't hard mind you, easy to pull away from if she wanted, but she chose to let herself be pulled, not disliking how his nose was practically smashed against her own.

"I've been a gentleman so far. If you want a pervert, I can oblige. A gentleman plays these adorable little games. A pervert would tell you to tell me you want me to take your underwear off. How are we doing this?"

"......"

"Your face is panicky, but not scared. But you're also not saying anything."

"Yeah sorry I kinda malfunctioned for a second- you're hot and it makes it hard to think. Sorry I know that doesn't answer your question."

"Ha. Something about you calling me hot. It's foreign to me."

"I can start making it very, very familiar to you."

It was his turn to get flushed, especially with her grin as mischievous as it was. He took the opportunity to return it in kind, hooking a finger into her underwear.

"I would like to get familiar with you. Very familiar."

No resistance, not as he slowly peeled them off of her, letting it hang down to her ankle. His hands gently slid up and down her legs, loving the way the skin was littered in those gorgeous goosebumps. He was rather comfortable, pressing his cheek right up against one of her legs. One leg became two though, as she clearly didn’t want to let him go. He met her eyes, taking great delight in how shamelessly excited her grin was. He squeezed his hand underneath him, ever so slowly rubbing at her folds. They were warm, wet, practically begging for him to do more than what he was already doing.

"I'm good at reading you, usually. I'm familiar with your tells, the hints your body gives me. But please, if I misstep anywhere, for any moment in time, stop me. Your pleasure is mine."

He tried not to absolutely melt as she reached down to lightly scrunch her fingers in his hair.

"I'll keep that in mind. Sweet of you, but I trust you. You know me."

"God, yes I do. I know every inch. I know you really, really like this,"

He kissed her stomach. He kissed her bush, before finally, finally, burying his face right into her. Love potions were a fictional concept, he thought, right up until now. As he sat there, fingers gripping into her thighs like they were keeping him from death, he was in love. In love with every lick, in love with every suck to every fold, in love with every bit that coated his tongue and slid down his throat. She was a gift, ever giving, endless, delicious, all for him. This was something to be earned, and given how quickly she was breathing, how her eyes only rested on him, he knew he was earning his keep. Earning his right and privilege to all of this.

"God, if this is how I end, please, please do not rescue me."

His sentence was gasped out, his stupid body not letting him go without air for too long. He helped himself again as soon as he stopped feeling dizzy, practically smothering his nose into her in doing so. He felt so undignified here, her love dripping down his face and chin, just like his air used to envelop her. He felt pride in a way, hearing her mutter his name over and over, like a broken record. The pull to his hair gave him a bit of a start, but he didn't care. He knew what it meant when she tossed her head back like that. Knew he was doing something truly, and utterly perfect.

She came only a moment after, and he gripped onto her, wanting her to not waste a single bit on the sheets. No, no, it was all for him, the greedy man that he was. He would've kept going, he really, really wanted to, but he saw her frame, shaking way too hard for his comfort, her breathing a little quicker than he wanted. He pulled away from her, breaking the string of fluid connecting them as he wiped his mouth with the back of his hand.

"Darling? You okay?"

She swallowed, finally letting go of the sheets to wipe sweat from her brow.

"Y-yeah. I'm. Sorry. You're…really, really good at that. God."

He chuckled to himself as he gently took her hand, and kissed the back of it.

"It's an honor to have done right by you. Are we done, then? I-"

She reached to grab his belt buckle, and pulled him right to her. Her eyes were dazed, but definitely determined.

"No. If you wanna quit that one's thing. But I need it. It's been over a year Hector. That's a long, long time to wait for you."

"To…wait for me?"

"Yeah. Waiting for you. Waiting for all of you."

He was going to argue, especially since she looked exhausted, but god. The way she cupped his cheek in her hand. The way she gave him such pleading eyes. He couldn't say no to those eyes. He sighed, holding a hand over the one on his cheek.

"Alright. Whatever you desire. I live for you. Just let me look for something in your drawer, safety as always."

"What if…I don't want that?"

He blinked. She didn't want protection. He had considered that in his fantasies, but here, with her bare, soaked pussy and his boner trying to escape his pants, it was so much more real and jarring. He took a deep inhale.

"If you want that. I should…disclose something."

"Yes?"

"I…tried to do this with others, while we were apart."

"Really?"

"Tried. Men, women. I've never…finished it let's put it that way, but I've tried. I never really liked it. It's just…to be with you in the way you're hinting at. It's demanding of my honesty."

He thought she'd be mad, explode at him even. But instead, she looked meek, embarrassed, slowly shutting her legs.

"I've…been with a bunch of people from the house. Is that something that you're not interested in? Should I have said that before any of this? Are you uncomfortable?"

Oh. Oh how awful of him. He scrambled, grabbing her hands and putting them to his chest, tightly, like she wanted to help her reach into his chest to read the poetry that was in his heart.

"No! No no no, I was fully aware. It did not bother me, you have so much love in your heart, to give it to others is to be expected! I'm just saying this because holding this information would eat me alive if I kept it inside."

"You promise? Because I understand if that is an issue."

"No. No no no. I'll take you as you are, experiences and all. You do not judge me for my liaisons, I shall not judge you for yours."

"You're not just saying that?"

He gave a gentle shake of his head, taking a second to kiss her knuckles.

"To lie to you would hurt you. To hurt you would be the end of me. That's why I told you this. I do not mind you if you do not mind me. Honestly. I would not lie, especially not when it involves something as sacred as your body."

He yet again, wished he could somehow take it back, while still getting the message across. She seemed uncertain for a second, before slowly opening her legs again.

"Only of you promise you're okay, and not just saying that because you want to fuck me."

"Never, never. If you told me to stop all of this, right now, to convince you, I'd stop."

She seemed like she tempted it for a minute, before she gave such a pout.

"It wouldn't be as much fun though, would it?"

"No. No it wouldn't."

He couldn't help but chuckle as he leaned in to kiss her, right on her forehead. He loved getting this. Loved getting to have these conversations and these embraces and-

"Can I pull you out?"

He froze a bit as she asked that, suddenly very aware of what state he was in, like Adam and Eve finding shame upon their own nude form.

"You…want to do that?"

"Very much, yes."

It's what she wanted. What she asked for. So he scooted closer to her, practically looming over her in a way that would've been imposing, had she clearly not absolutely loved it.

"Then. Do it."

No hesitation, this woman. He held a steadfast disposition as she reached for his belt, then undoing it. He reminded himself not to cum yet upon feeling the warmth of her palm, but feeling her gently stroke his length, even for just a second, god it overwhelmed him. It felt like a moment of admiration, a moment of her saying he was special to her. She held onto him as he gently pushed him against her. He wasn't inside, but one little movement could get him there. She took his hand, making him hold it instead, while her hands were eagerly gripping onto the sheets.

"Whenever you're ready. No rush, I'm ready."

So patient with him, despite the fact that she was clearly chomping at the bit. He sighed almost woefully, gently rubbing his head against her folds. He wanted inside, so terribly badly, but not yet. So close, but not yet. Yearning makes the heart grow fonder, and his own heart was full of nothing but delicious, decadent devotion.

"God, I love you. I'm going to give you all of me because it's what you deserve. You are patience and kindness and love and beauty and…god, I need you. I can't hold it anymore."

He loved yearning, but the way she clung to his every word, the way there was no pressure for him to do something, the way she'd let him lament and monolog. He gently pushed into her, swearing under his breath as he held onto the headboard above her. He didn't hesitate to push in fully, feeling his balls press right up against her. He thought he was almost barbaric in his approach, but then she reached up, gently panting as she seemed to almost admire the view.

"Don't hold back, okay? I know you treat me like a flower, but…I don't want filtered love. I want it all."

She shouldn't have said that. She shouldn't have. Her own heart was worth more than all the gold in the world, he couldn't help himself. So…he did as she wanted. And fucked her. It was different from love making. He did love her, obviously, but making love was delicate, making love was tenderly, almost vanilla. Here, he was fucking her. Here, he was bucking his hips into her in a way that felt like was moving the entire bed, here he was staring at her sweaty face, here he made a realization.

He was fucking love right into her.

"I shall give you every bit of me. I know I keep saying it, but every time I say it, I feel like I find more to give you. God, loving you is never-ending, loving you is an experience, loving you is…god loving you makes me whole."

She tried to laugh, but it was a little strained, what with the whines bubbling in her throat. She reached up further up his frame, before clearly gesturing to his face.

"Gimme."

What a simple expression. He let go of the bed post, wrapping his arms around her back, practically squishing her as he kissed her. Kissed her and wouldn't stop fucking her hot, welcoming body. He wanted to cum, wanted to cum the second he entered her, but he wanted to wait. He held it back, for her kisses, for her own moans, for her tongue gracing his own. His hands roamed up her back, before they buried themselves into her hair, and gripped. He couldn't see, but he knew her toes were curling, knew her whines blended with giggles meant he was getting her there.

"H…how should I…do this, when I'm ready?"

"Inside."

He almost came right then, just at the mere mention of it. Last time they did this he was protected, it was fairly clean. It was a clean, romantic affair. But this. This was loving and lustful. He stopped kissing her for a moment, resting his forehead against hers, but didn't once stop fucking her. He'd sooner die than stop fucking the woman whom he loved.

"Are you sure? B-because I want to, I want to just as much as you do, but is that- fuck don't tense up like that- I don't want you to have any regrets."

She cupped his cheeks in her hands, as if she was holding something true and precious.

"You're never a regret. I'll say it if you want."

"G-god, I don't know if I…if I can…"

She was relentless, she ghosted her lips over his, threatening a kiss, and said his name like it was the sweetest ambrosia.

"Hector~"

"I can't hold it back if you say it-"

"I need you to do something for me~"

"Think about what you're doing to m-me, please-!"

"I need you to cum in me~"

She had no idea what she unleashed. He felt a growl bubble in his throat, in a place so primal and almost nasty, and he just. Gave it to her. He continued to fuck her with reckless abandon, practically squishing her frame as she came and he still fucked her through it, and finally, finally, came. He filled her with all the love. Love that had been waiting for her all this time. Love that he made sure wasn't wasted, love that he didn't dare deprive her of. He finally stopped his ruthless rutting, and he swore he heard a mumble of a thank you from her.

He laid there, on top of her, open, drooling mouth hovering over hers, cock throbbing inside of her. He was a mess, he was sloppy.

—--------------------------------------

"Sorry, for that. That felt very brazen, and a little…aggressive. I just heard you wanted out of there, and…you're giving me a look. I'd say embarrassed, but you don't look embarrassed."

"N-no. I was just…surprised that you grabbed me like that. I mean, it's sweet why you did it, but uhm. I d-dunno."

She hated his eyes. Eyes that twinkled in mischief when he found something that made her weak. She was going to argue with him, fight with him about this, when he wrapped his arm around the small of her back, pulling her to him with a bit of a forceful pull.

"You like this, don't you, my love?"

"Oh my god, no, shut up!"

They were at the side of the building. Not too close to the entrance to be very noticeable, but not hidden enough to where someone wouldn't be able to catch them. Especially not with how he leaned into the nape of her neck, planting just one sweet kiss, with his stupid lips and the way his stupid nose smooshed against her skin with his stupid breath that tickled her skin. It weakened her, enough to where she gripped onto his shoulders like they were a lifeline. And. He. Liked. It.

"You're practically shaking, you poor thing. All because I held you? Made it clear you were all mine? That you're going home with me?"

"God fucking-"

She pulled herself back a bit in anger, grabbed his stupid face with his fat and his facial hair and his melted eyes and plump little lips. And kissed him. It was the type of sloppy kiss that you'd expect at the side of a place that reeked of booze and sex. She had her tongue practically caressing his, before she pulled away. His face had the audacity of looking like that. Dazed, like he had not a clue what was going on.

"Mi…vida?"

"I'm taking you home. I'm taking you home because you wanna act like this. Then when I get home, you are sitting on my couch, and you're getting your dick sucked. Do you want that?"

His face was so dark and almost steaming, she couldn't resist it. He slumped a bit, not looking so big and bad like he was a second ago.

"I…I do."

"Say it."

"I…want to go home and h-have you suck my…dick. I'm sorry, that word felt so ugly for the pretty lips that I want."

"God, Hector."

Is all she could say as she grabbed his hand, and walked him to the car. They got buckled in, and the car ride was silent. Not uncomfortably, but in a 'if he said anything she'd pull over and just fuck him wherever they ended up' type of way. She only finally looked at him once they hit a red light. He was staring at the glove box on his side, gripping onto the seat underneath him. He was trying to cover it, given how he tried to adjust how he was sitting, but there was no mistaking it. He had a hell of a boner right now. One that strained against his pants in a way that had to be uncomfortable for him.

"Hector."

"Y-yes?"

"Pay attention to the light for me."

She reached over, and pushed her hand past his pants. Through his underwear, she started to stroke him. She liked touching him, every single part of his body was reactive to her slightest touches. He looked around frantically, as if they'd get caught.

"W-wait, you can't do this in here!"

"Do you want me to stop?"

He was biting his bottom lip now, watching as her hand stroked his girth and gently pinched at his tip. He shook his head, making his little curls bounce as he did so.

"N-no."

"That's what I thought. Focus on the light."

He obeyed, and she watched him squirm in his seat, hips occasionally bucking into her palm, hoping and craving for more. His face was barely focused ahead of him, biting into his lip so hard she was worried it was going to bleed. He only had some relief when he spoke, breath ragged and whimpery, like this was a punishment he couldn't handle.

"I-i don't think I can…make it the drive."

"You don't have to. I'm going to keep getting my fill of you. If that means I have to drain these balls, so fucking be it-"

"GREEN LIGHT."

The urgency in it gave her a bit of a start, but she did pull her hand away, and continue to drive. She watched him occasionally, seeing him grip onto his seat belt till his knuckles turned white, all while he seemed to refuse to face her at all. She finally pulled into the driveway, and despite how shaken he seemed, he made it inside the house. The second she closed the door behind them, she took a hold of his face, to get his full attention.

"Go lay down on the couch for me, won't you?"

"Yes. That is. A thing I will go do-"

He scrambled to do as she commanded, damn near tripping over the coffee table as he made his way to the couch. He looked so nervous, as if this was his first time ever. She walked over to him, standing in front of him, before grabbing that stupid, weak chin she loved so much, and making their eyes meet.

"Are you excited?"

He was scared a moment ago, but something changed when he met her eyes. His shoulders relaxed, he sighed like a contented dog, and practically melted into her hold.

"With you, I only know excitement. You could tell me we were just going to hold hands, and I'd be so terribly excited."

She sighed, every angry, embarrassed part of her leaving with the breath. She knelt down a bit to give him a bunny kiss, much to his delight.

"Wanna hold hands after, cute guy?"

"Yes please. Pretty please."

"God, Hector,"

She got down on her knees in front of him, hands on his knees as she parted those thighs of his. She met his eyes as he just sat there, hiding most of his face behind a hand, while the other hand gripped onto the couch like it had personally wronged him.

"You're so, so lucky you're so beautiful. I can't stand it. I can't get enough of you-ah ah ah, look at me. You want this, you gotta watch me. And you love watching me, don't you?"

He tried to look away earlier in shame, but now his eyes were locked onto hers, and he ever so slightly nodded.

"I…do. I love watching everything you do. But in this case I…hesitate."

"Hmm? Why?"

"I mean, I know this is something you don't like doing-"

She raised a hand a bit to halt him, confusion on her face as she rested her cheek against his thigh.

"Who said that?"

"Well no one said it! I just. I mean you're doing something for me, how beneficial or pleasurable can it be for you?"

"...wait you thought I was going to suck your dick…to be nice?"

"...well when you say it like that, it sounds unreasonable."

"I'm just trying to like. Be on the same page. Do you not think sucking dick makes someone horny?"

"I know it can! I just. Didn't think it'd arouse you. That me not doing something in return would arouse you."

She looked at him, he looked at her, and she scoffed. She stood up, wiggled herself out of her pants, despite his protests of confusion. She did the same for her underwear, and gestured between her legs. Fluids dripped down her inner thighs, and despite the fact that this was a little embarrassing, she kept going, purely because of the idea that he thought such things? Drove her crazy.

"This is literally because I wanted to suck you off. Let me break this down for you,"

She walked over to him, each step being watched by him as if he was in danger of some kind, before she loomed over him, one hand on the couch, the other reaching between her legs, and very obviously playing with herself. He wanted to look away, possibly to 'save her the shame', but she forced her forehead against his. His, that felt hot and sweaty to the touch.

"I like you. I'm attracted to you. I'm very attracted to you, physically even. Emotionally, spiritually. When I look at you, when I think about you. You are making this happen right now. You don't have to sit there and do anything to me. In fact, don't. I don't want you to lift a finger right now, alright?"

"I…o-okay. I won't…lift a…finger."

"Good. You're good at that, you know? Taking things that are given to you."

"Only if they're from you. Only things from you, do I accept graciously. Anything given from you, to me, is a blessing."

She always liked it when he spoke. Not just how it sounded, how it looked. He always had plump lips, soft ones, ones that stuck together ever so slightly as he spoke.

"Anything, given?"

"Anything."

"Hector, open your mouth for me."

He seemed confused, but he obeyed regardless. He opened his lips just a little at first, as if worried he was doing this wrong. Then, she raised her hand, dripping with herself, and pushed it against his lips. Past his lips, right against his tongue. It was awkward for only a second, probably because he was still in shock, but she pressed on. Pressed on, sticking both of her wet fingers back and forth against that wet, hot tongue. He looked at her with such adoration, such affection. She didn't gag him, like she was momentarily tempted to, instead, slowly pulling out the soaked fingers, and squished his face.

"You like how I taste, right?"

"More…than anything."

He spat a bit after he said that, mumbling something under his breath, that he didn't mean to do that, but she found it just precious.

"Good. The next time you don't think I'm attracted to you, I want you to remember how I taste. Remember my taste on your tongue,"

She got back on her knees, like she was before, and pulled him out of his pants, letting his cock free from its clothed confines. She remembered when she first saw it, how she almost found herself staring at it. It wasn't huge like Freddy, but it was more than enough; a damn good thickness, hair messy and untrimmed, paired with balls that she knew were just absolutely aching.

"And I'll remember your taste on mine~"

She didn't wait for him to talk himself out of it before she planted a firm kiss at the base. His breath hitched in clear surprise, and she loved it. Loved him finally sitting there, and letting him have something. Have another kiss, another, as sweetly as she could, from his tip, the base, to his balls. She was shameless, making every kiss loud and dramatic, like it was a game. A game she was absolutely winning, feeling it throb with every one of her touches. Then, he spoke.

"I'm…allowed to make requests, yes?"

She planted another fat kiss at his ever leaky tip as a reward, nodding.

"Course you can. What's on that pretty mind?"

"I know you said no finger lifting, but…I'd like to play with your hair."

"If you'd like to, you may. It was more of a figure of speech, Hector. If you want to do something, please, do it."

He reached over to push some of her hair out of her face, being as gingerly as possible as he tucked the strands behind her ear. She swore his dick twitched as he did it, but she didn't wanna embarrass him. Too much, anyway.

"Thank you. You may continue. If you'd like to."

"Course I would. But it was sweet of you to ask. You know you make me feel safe?"

He didn't respond initially, possibly because she had just trailed her tongue from his balls, all the way up his tip. It was slow, careful, just so he could see care was being put into it. Into him.

"I…live to make you feel safe. Your safety, your comfort, it is the only way my heart feels truly settled. Even though my heart is beating a million miles a minute."

"Do you want me to stop?"

"God, no, no. If you are willing, I am willing. As desperately as I can say this, please, don't stop."

"Atta boy~"

She reached up to give him a little pinch on his cheek, before she decided he had waited long enough. They both had. She had sucked dick before, obviously at around a hundred lovers you get practice, but this one. This gave her such a rush, it felt like this was her first time all over again. It felt so ridiculously special. She pushed the tip past her lips, giving a soft exhale through her nose as she did so. The familiar taste of salt hit her tongue, slight, but enough for her to enjoy it.

She looked up at him as she slowly took more, and he was forcing himself to look back at her, despite the fact that his free hand was biting into his hand, clearly nervous. She took in more, just a little, a little embarrassed that the fullness in her mouth made her moan into him. She used one of her hands to steady herself on the floor, while the other slowly, yet firmly, rubbed and massaged his balls. He was so sweet during this, constantly petting her, constantly letting out these loud, shuddery breaths. He tore his drooly teeth away from his reddened digits, instead balling his hand up into a fist and resting it under his chin.

"I'm…trying not to silence myself here. Even though I want to. You're…doing such a fantastic job. You're kind, you know, in everything you do. Looking at me, studying my reaction, using your t-tongue like that. You care about me. And it's hard for me to keep my composure. You…make it hard for me to keep my composure."

She was listening to him now, starting to move her head back and forth with a bit of a rhythm. She could go a lot harder, could gag on him even. But he was a lover before anything, he needed this connection, needed things to take a little bit of time. Though, she did notice his hips were starting to roll into her rhythm, trying to match her pace. She could feel his balls brush against her chin, could feel the precum lubing up his cock and coat her throat. She knew she was dripping down her own legs, but she couldn't help it.

He was getting there. He was getting there and he hated it, he could tell from the mumbles under his throat. Mumbles of him saying he could hold it and how he didn't want it to stop. So, she pulled away with a bit of a 'pop', and started to jerk him off with her hand. It was a loud, wet sound that she could listen to for hours.

"You can cum inside."

"N-no, that's so messy, I-"

"Please? I liked it when you came last time. I want you to cum."

He looked defeated, before he nodded, very determined.

"Alright. You like it, I will give you what you like. I'm…almost there. I need to finish. Please, please. Be good to me."

She put him back into his mouth, getting back into it a little faster this time, and Hector had gained a little confidence, holding onto the back of her head as he was putting in just the same amount of love. Not too much, he continued to let her keep the pace she was setting. His breathing was getting ragged now, his brow was sweaty.

"I'm going to…g-give you my love. I'm going to pour all my love down your throat. And I'm…I need to thank you before I d-do. I wanted to be more eloquent, b-but god, god, thank you."

He finally came. Not without much more coaxing or convincing. Just came, hand on her head to steady her so she could take it. His load was hot against her tongue and throat, thick, sweet to contrast the salty that coated his skin. She kept sucking, until he was fully done, until she heard those shuddery moans of overstimulation. She pulled away from him, wiping at her mouth so nothing would spill on the floor. He sat there, trying to steady his breathing, trying to form some words, something romantic or touching to say. She chuckled, reaching to hold his hands, and giving them a little squeeze.

"You're welcome. You're welcome, and I love you. Now, how about I get you a bath going? Would you like that?"

"I…I don't relax for my own, and you haven't had a turn-"

"What if I get in the bath with you? Would you be more willing then?"

"...I would. Yes. I would be more willing."
—------------------------------