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Chapter Text

MONDAY

Whispers of the latest party news died down as students in the hallways noticed the infamous crimson tyrant passing them by.

One of the students abruptly stopped chatting and jumped out of their skin as soon as Riddle spared them a glance. He was aware of their fear, and he understood it, but sometimes it felt like they were doing too much. 

A Scarabia party hardly sounded like anything to quiet down about. In fact, he already knew about it since during their latest housewarden meeting, Kalim hadn't exactly been discreet about asking Crowley for permission to host it. And knowing the headmage’s weakness to money the Al-Asims, it was a no brainer the party planning was already in motion.

Riddle ignored the cautious stares and silence the rest of his way to class.

—

“I’m so sorry, Headmage! I completely forgot!” At the mention of permit slips he was meant to print out, Kalim lowered his head in apology in the middle of the headmage’s office. “I’ll get them to you tomorrow!”

“Dear me… Well, I suppose with the amount of times Scarabia has thrown a banquet, a party shouldn’t be much of a difference.” Crowley held his head in thought, “I could make an exception!”

“Wahh really?!” Kalim sighed in relief, and fixed his posture, “Thank you, Headmage!”

“Oho, it’s no problem.” Crowley laughed proudly to himself as he wrote Kalim a letter of approval. “But yes, I am so kind.”

Kalim walked out of the office with his letter of approval and trademarked joy. As soon as he made it into the hallway, he wasted no time in telling his classmates all about his Spring at Scarabia! Party. He passed by Ace and Deuce on his way to his classroom and excitedly invited them.

There wasn’t much conversation amongst the three, Ace was quick to accept and began asking for details.

“Next Tuesday…” Ace held his chin but it was obvious no thought actually went through his head. “Weird to be in the middle of the week but sure!” 

“Wait—” Deuce held onto Ace’s shoulder as if to prevent him from getting too eager, “— That’s our week for flamingo duty.”

The truth dawned on him as Ace’s grin shifted into a frown of realization. Knowing it was a party meant that it would probably be lasting until late at night. No way in Tartarus would Riddle allow any of his card soldiers to so much as pull an all nighter out of the dorms, especially if they have designated chores the next day. And for a party? That might just be actual decapitation.

Kalim watched the two and their frustrated expression, “Why don’t you just ask him? I’m sure Riddle could consider, I mean Jamil and I will be supervising!”

Deuce found no comfort in that statement, in fact he suspected Riddle would criticize more if he heard Kalim was the one supervising.

“Thanks Kalim.. But I don’t think we can finalize our attendance yet.” Ever so formal, Deuce bowed his head.

“It’s no problem, I’m sure everything will work out!” Kalim tried to sound upbeat and patted Ace and Deuce in reassurance.

—

Ace and Deuce sat together at the library. 

The ginger propped his feet up on the chair to his left as he leaned on Deuce to his right. He held paper but rather than writing notes, he created a lazy paper-fortune teller. Deuce on the other hand struggled to study as he hunched forward yet still felt Ace’s hair on his neck.

“Do you have to occupy 3 chairs?” Deuce complained, tightening the grip on his pen.

Ace ignored him and started on a paper plane. “Man, I was with Epel during alchemy and he told me even he was going to the party.”

“Woah, really?” Deuce placed down his pen and rested his head on his hand, “I woulda thought Vil would be against the idea of a party, seeing it could probably affect Epel’s sleep. You know he’s really precise about that? He caught us gaming once, it was scary.”

“I thought the same! But apparently it’s good for ‘social status’, and that matters more? I wonder if there’s a queen rule about partying.” Ace slumped and his head fell between Deuce’s back and the chair’s backrest, “Ouch–”

“Maybe if you got up…”

“Im in mourning! My brother went to parties all the time with his gang.”

Deuce stiffened, “Your brother was in a gang? Maybe you look familiar…”

“What? No, I meant his friends.” Ace gave him a weird look. “He’d tell me all about it and teach me party tricks.”

“Is that where you got all your magic tricks from?”

“Partially, I actually found them interesting after learning a few and taught myself the rest.”

“Ooo, what’s happening here?” From the entrance of the library, the card-duo were met with Kalim and Jamil, looking like they were there to study as well.

“Don’t bother them, Kalim—” Before Jamil could finish reprimanding him, Kalim had already made his way to the other two.

“Are you guys studying? Me and Jamil were about to as well!” The second-year leaned on their table and easily chatted them up.

“Jamil! Kalim! Good afternoon!” Deuce shoo-ed Ace away from his seat and sat properly, “Well I was trying to study.”

Ace stuck his tongue out in reply and fixed himself on his chair. “I’m still pretty bummed about the party, okay! Literally everyone else is going.” 

“Have you guys actually asked Riddle yet?” Jamil interjected, pulling up a chair for both him and Kalim.

Ace crossed his arms and shook his head, “Riddle would drink iced tea before letting us stay up partying during duty week.”

“Wow, no benefit of the doubt there, huh.”

“It’s not like we expect so little of our housewarden!” Deuce stuttered out, “We just don’t assume he’d um.. Let us do something possibly irresponsible?”

“If you put it that way,” Jamil pointed, “Your made-up delusion Riddle has a point. You’re digging your own grave with that logic.”

“Nah. straight up, I just wish Riddle would chillax once in a while. I mean it’s that rigidness that—” 

Ace let the remainder of the sentence die on his tongue as he glanced at Jamil.

He clicked his tongue and waited for someone else to talk.

“What if we could help him?” Kalim suggested, “Maybe do something that can guarantee he’ll let you go?” 

Deuce raised his brows “What do you mean?”

“Kalim, that’s terribly vague.” Jamil said,

“Think about it!” The housewarden urged, “Maybe someone or something that um.. inspires? him to go or be more outgoing! I mean if he were to go, he’d definitely let you guys too!”

“Great sevens.” Ace’s eyes lit up, “Are you saying we should get him a boyfriend?”

“What!” Deuce’s face flushed and he hit Ace’s arm, “When did he at all imply that?!”

“I mean, him getting a date would surely make him at least a bit laid back, no? What’s up deucey-chan? Flustered at the idea of Riddle kissing someone?” In honesty, Ace would also be speechless at the sight, but teasing Deuce was a priority.

“What– no— I mean, yes?” 

Ace laughed at Deuce’s spluttering and scooched away from the blue-haired student’s biceps.

“Riddle dating someone is an interesting idea…” Jamil said, thinking about the pros and cons.

“Huh?” Deuce’s attention snapped away from Ace, “Jamil, you’re enabling this?!”

“Of course not. I don’t think you should be meddling with someone else’s affairs, much less literal affairs.” He side-eyed Kalim, noting that he’s probably already contemplating the idea. “Although, getting Riddle in a relationship sounds like it’d give mutual benefits.”

Deuce, although still visibly uncertain with the idea, seemed to have been considering it. 

“But—” Jamil continued, “Everyone knows Riddle prioritizes his academics and rules more than anything. I, for one, respect his consistency, but others wouldn't. No one would get with someone if they’re not sure they can put them first.”

Ace, once again, deflated into his seat. “Damnit.. I forgot he had that kinda rep. I don't think any of my classmates would date him.”

Ever-so-optimistic Kalim proposed that he could ask around the second years. “I’m sure there’s someone!” 

Ace beamed, “No way, you’d actually do that for us!?” 

“Hold on, first, it’s not set in stone yet. We’re not sure if we can find someone.” Jamil reminded, “And you realize we’d have to set someone up and get Riddle to like them all in under a week.”

Deuce nodded with Jamil’s reasoning, “This doesn’t seem like the strongest plan.”

“But it’s possible!” Kalim pushed, “We aren’t aiming to get them official, just something that would welcome Riddle to the idea of, maybe, a serious relationship. Riddle in love! Can you imagine? He deserves it!”

“Yeah!” Ace cheered, “Don’t you wanna see our housewarden in love?”

“Not forced love..” Deuce commented, “Is it really smart or moral to be playing matchmaker?”

“I agree with Deuce. Even if we manage to get someone Riddle likes, he wouldn't just compromise his values. The ending results are too blurry for this to be a solid plan.” The vice-housewarden states.

“That’s good enough for us! As long as there's hope!” Ace brought himself closer to Jamil's ear and brought his hand around his mouth, hiding his words, “What if I start like ultra glazing you in front of coach? I know you’ve been thinking about making captain.”

“Quite desperate there, Trappola.” Jamil whispered back, “You do play your cards right.”

Ace grinned in satisfaction, leaning away. “All is fair in Night Raven.”

 Jamil placed a hand on his hip and directed himself to Deuce, “Well, it’s not as if we’ll be forcing someone to get with Riddle. Neither will we push the plan if it fails. Kalim and I will discuss the boundaries of the mission,” 

“Pleasure doin’ business with ya, teammate!” Ace shook his hand which Jamil halfheartedly reciprocated.

“And.” Jamil tightened his grip, “Not a word of the details to anyone else.”

“Of course not.”

The Scarabia duo excused themselves to another table to get on with their studying, leaving Ace and Deuce back alone.

“Ace, I’m still not so sure about this.”

“C’mon Deuce. It’s not like getting lai…err.. It’s not like getting a boyfriend would hurt!”

Deuce frowned, “Yeah, but the way we’re only doing this to get into a party… It feels kinda shallow. Maybe Jamil is right, we should give him the benefit of the doubt.”

“Jamil can’t call us shallow, and they already agreed.” Ace reasoned, “Like they said if it doesn’t work out, they’ll stop. Housewarden wont get hurt, we’ll live with the satisfaction that we tried. So there’s nothing to lose!”

“Fine..”

Just as Deuce was about to continue his notes, he jolted upright and stared at Ace in horror. Ace flinched as well at the sudden movement and looked back at the man in confusion and slight-annoyance.

“Dude, what gives?”

“Is Housewarden even gay?!”

Well.

Que sera sera?

Chapter Text

WEDNESDAY

Kalim and Jamil sat down tiredly on their seats, preparing for their history lesson.

They had spent yesterday asking around their classes, and even dormmates, about courting Riddle, but were met with no results.

–

“No way.” One said flatly.

“You have to be kidding.” Said another, even laughing as if it was genuinely funny. His smile faded as soon as he realized the duo weren’t kidding, “Not a chance.”

One screamed and ran.

And the last one looked Kalim up and down and asked, “How much will you pay me?”

That’s when they signed off for the day.

–

As he put the last of the books on their desk, Jamil sighed and relaxed on his seat. “Maybe we should call off this entire arrangement. I can tell Ace during practice.”

“No!” Kalim protested, “We can’t give up yet! We’ve got to find a guy. Riddle’s guy!”

“Kalim, we're looking for someone who, at the very least, isn't afraid of Riddle.” Jamil said, “That’s not an easy feat, to find a guy like that on an insane time limit.”

“But—”

Ruckus from the side of the classroom interrupted Kalim as he spoke. They both looked towards the root of the noise, seeing two of their classmates currently in a feud.

Namely, Riddle and Floyd. Which was weird. Because Floyd wasn’t their classmate.

Riddle, fuming red, attempted on his tippy-toes to retrieve what seemed to be a piece of paper while yelling as Floyd held it up and over his head.

“Nyahahehehahe, c’mon goldfishie, just a little higher, you can do it!” Floyd taunted, which only enraged Riddle more.

The redhead tried to collar him out of nature, naturally only for Floyd to reflect the spell to their unfortunate classmate. And so, in a fit of rage, Riddle stomps on the taller’s foot which successfully caused him to bend down, giving Riddle the opportunity to snatch the paper. However, his hands slipped and failed. Allowing Floyd to once again regain the upperhand. 

Breaking their gaze from the fight, Kalim gasped and shook Jamil’s arms.

“Do not even.”

Kalim’s smile widens, “He’s our guy. He’s Riddle's guy!”

“Keep it down!” Jamil chided, “And no. No way.”

“But why? This is perfect!” Kalim said enthusiastically, “He’s clearly not scared of him, and they already have a relationship!”

“Yeah, a hateful one!” Jamil reminded,

“Trust me, Jamil! I can see this working out!” Kalim held the other’s hands tightly in a fist, looking him in the eyes hoping to convince him.

“You see everything working out.” Jamil closed his eyes in defeat. It definitely wasn’t smart, but they had already fallen so deep into the endeavor— truly, what could they lose? In the end, even without magic, Kalim and his pure motives prevail. “Fine.”

The housewarden cheered loudly, loud enough to attract some of the attention of those around him.

“We’ll see how it goes,” he added, pinching the bridge of his nose. “But he’s our last try. If Floyd doesn’t take up the offer, then we end this.”

In the background, while Floyd is sent away to his respective class by Professor Trein, Riddle is sent to the headmage for a behavioral slip. Heartbroken and reluctantly, Riddle exits the classroom whilst uttering what one can only assume were less than pleasant words.

—

After school, the Scarabia duo made their way into the Monstro Lounge. They took in the cool-toned atmosphere, quite the contrast to their own dorm. The lounge, just as always, was busy and ever-so beautifully organized. Jamil could smell the money that practically waltzed into Azul’s pockets.

“Jamil!” A familiar cunning voice pierced the ears, “I was pleasantly surprised to hear you would be visiting, may I ask how I may be of help?”

Jamil rolled his eyes and let the kind words fly over his head as he stared Azul down. The other smiled his same old rehearsed smile— one that clearly did not reach his eyes that narrowed as if he were analyzing at every given moment.

“We aren’t here for you.” Jamil clarified, “We’re here for Floyd.”

“Ah, so mea—” Azul’s mouth went shut and he threw away the act, “What could you want with Floyd? I’ve made it clear that your basketball talk will not be tolerated as an interruption of work.”

“It’s—”

“It’s about Riddle!” Kalim exclaimed.

‘None of your business’ is what Jamil was meant to say, but it was only a matter of time until Kalim spilled some of the truth anyway. And while it still remained as none of the octavinelle housewarden’s business, no one could miss how his eyes perked up and his smile twitched. Meaning, his or not, Azul would now find a way to keep himself updated on said business.

“I see.” Azul cleared his throat nonchalantly, “Follow me to my office, you can consult with him there.”

-

“Anything you tell Floyd, you will just have to tell us.” Azul said smugly after Jamil’s complaint of the presence of both him and Jade.

“This is neither of your concerns.” Jamil spat through gritted teeth,

“Why,” Jade placed his hand on his chest with a mischievous smile, “I’m his beloved twin, I don’t how matters with my brother isn’t my concern!” 

“Heeey can we get this goin’? Whaddya want?” From the floor, Floyd sat complaining, already looking mildly frustrated.

“Yes yes! Jamil, we’re running out of time!” Kalim urged, “I don’t think Azul nor Jade would get in the way. In fact I think they’d help!”

“We will not be asking for help from Azul.” Jamil said, voice sharp and rapid. “..Ugh.”

He pulled Kalim to the corner, away from the mermen. In a hushed tone, he whispered, “Do you remember what this is for?”

The white haired heir looked at him confused, “Yeah? Didn’t we agree that finding someone for Riddle would be awesome?”

He supposes that wasn’t completely a lie, he wasn’t sure how Kalim even missed that much. Just forget that it all stems from the desire of some freshmen to attend a party. Jamil sucked in his breath. Yeah, let’s go with that. 

The two turn around to address Floyd, and finally, they laid out their proposal.

“Are you interested in going out with Riddle?” Jamil asked, scanning the other’s face for any clue of intrigue. From bored and blank, Floyd’s eyes widened the slightest bit, his lips lightly parted and the brunette could swear there was a faint glisten in his eyes.

Kalim watched excitedly, “So so??? Go out with Riddle!” 

“Hold!” Azul interrupted, “What are the details of this deal? What do you gain?”

Jamil gave him the stink eye and corrected him. “This isn’t a deal, Azul. It’s an idea. You must mistake us as the type to bet on affairs?”

“Oh, I meant no such thing.” Jamil and Azul, though smiling at each other, held each other's stare for a thousand yards. As if in the moment they had a telepathic battle of distrust.

“But if you must know—” Jamil hid his smirk, “You’re free to ask Kalim.”

Azul’s smile quickly deflated before snapping back to a much more strained expression. “I..see. So, Kalim, my fellow housewarden, what exactly does a date with Riddle entail?” 

“Uh.. entail? Oh, it entails his happiness! We were talking about it with his freshman,” Azul almost grunts at the answer, knowing Jamil must have had one vastly different. Though he notes that if Kalim was able to be roped into the situation as seemingly someone important— an instigator— perhaps there’s truth in the statement.

Jamil could feel Azul slowly connecting the dots. He met Kalim’s eyes with a warning before he continued. “We were all thinking about how he could use someone to lighten up. It’d make him happier!”

While Azul could have been better off without the information of the Ace and Deuce’s involvement, Jamil was relieved that’s all he slipped out. Clearly, Azul didn’t feel the same. His body language, the slight twitch in his veiled smile, the stimming of his fingers, even his knitted brows held the suspicion that there was an underlying truth.

But like all businessmen do, they deal with the compromise, they invest in their given wisdom. “What do we gain?”

Jamil had expected that question. “We are consulting Floyd as a person. Not an employee nor a student under octavinelle. As far as we are concerned, Floyd’s incentives are to be negotiated with him.”

“Well we don’t have to gain anything, it’s not like we’re doing it for ourselves.” Kalim said, but was brushed off.

Azul sighed, “Well played, Viper.”

“My my. From that, I assume ‘going out’ means long term. This is quite the ask. Isn’t that interesting, Floyd?” Jade nudged his brother who was unusually quiet. Obviously, Jade was quick to clock that. Now his statement held more truth. With the proposition and Floyd’s uncharacteristic response— Jade smiled at the implications.

“Goin’ out with Goldfishie? Hey, that just might be a lot of fun!” Floyd giggled, swaying back and forth.

Jamil skeptically raised his brows. Fun was temporary, they needed commitment. An unreasonable ask, but an essential one nonetheless. “You wouldn’t get bored of it, would you?” 

“Nah.” Floyd’s smile didn’t waver, it grew. His response came quickly and confidently. “Goldfishie’s always interesting, imagine how cool it would be to go on a date!”

“This is awesome!” Kalim cheered, wrapping his arms around Jamil, “We did it!”

Jamil glared and slowly released himself from Kalim’s grip. He looked over at Azul’s frowning face, his eyes never changed. Calculating, suspicious, and investigative.

“Well, that was all the business we had.” Jamil walked back to the door and opened it for Kalim, signaling him to go first.

“Thanks, Jamil!” Kalim skipped towards the exit and once he stepped one foot out of the door, he perked up and looked at the octotrio. “I forgot! You guys should totally come to our party on Tuesday!”

Jamil stiffened and subtly pushed Kalim out of the door to make his way out as well. 

“Thank you for having us.” He lowered his head to avoid any more eye contact with the three but from the corner of his eyes, he noticed Azul’s face contort to that of a face that realized it may have gotten some kind of key information.

-

Kalim and Jamil walked out of the dorm vastly different— a white haired student happily bouncing at their endeavors, feeling noble and proud. Whilst a brunette walked with a slight slouch and the feel that he had done something shallow. Jamil shook his head as if to shake his conscience, trying to rationalize the plan he and Kalim decided to execute. Floyd’s acceptance was one thing, and if everything worked out, there shouldn’t be any problem. Floyd and Riddle are happy, everyone gets what they want. Though one could speculate, Floyd didn’t show much signs of actually harboring any feelings for Riddle. Fun was all they had. And he just hoped to the sevens that was enough.

-

Going back to the trio, Azul kept his wits about the situation. 

‘To lighten him up?’ Azul found the phrasing quite suspicious. Factoring in the inclusion of the freshmen, some of which are notorious for being rebellious, and the party— needless to say Azul already had his conclusions.

“Floyd, tell me, truly, why are you doing this?” He asked, skeptical about Floyd’s willingness to agree.

Floyd’s face remained unbothered. “Like I said, it sounds fun.”

Azul wasn’t satisfied. “Do you know how serious this is? Dating Riddle, it’ll either result in the forging of a great ally or a formidable opponent. It’s not an easy task.”

“Why doubt our skills, Azul?” Jade chuckled, “If Riddle doesn’t reciprocate Floyd’s advances, then it’ll be just like how it always is. If he does.. well that’s ideal. Let Floyd play with his toys.”

“Goldfishie as a toy,” Floyd repeated. His eyes squinted at the wording. Jade carefully examined Floyd’s reaction. “Whatever.”

Chapter Text

THURSDAY

Bored as ever, Floyd decided to escape to the library after school in an attempt to avoid doing his job while he waited for basketball practice to start. (That pays minimum wage, by the way!).

He had no interest in actually reading or studying any material, the route to the library just felt familiar. It was like his subconscious had made it second nature for his human legs to lead him to the library. And they didn’t disappoint. Because everytime, he would always see him, he always saw his lil’ Goldfish.

Floyd was drawn to the guy. At first it was fascination— his temper towards law that matched Floyd’s lawless mood swings, and not to mention the bright red hair. The hair, no doubt, was what initially brought him Floyd’s attention. The sea didn’t have enough light for red, and for Floyd, Riddle was basically what you would call a flashbang. Literally.

He thought back to their first day, orientation day, when Floyd fell into the temptation of touching the redhead’s hair and Riddle reacting explosively— flinging him across the room with magic. Floyd didn’t even think someone so small could hold that much power, much less need two teachers to hold him back! It was that day Floyd decided becoming human might have not been the most boring idea after all. The fishies in their homeland were all weak and no fun, but up here? Floyd found thousands of other people that could beat him at his own game. Sue him for having a favorite!

Finally, he made it to the library doors. He peaked inside and confirmed his hopes.

There, diligently as always, was his Goldfish studying something that was probably 2 grades advanced. He was always up to learning about the weirdest things. Floyd’s mind drifted to the ‘proposition’ he and Jamil talked about the day before. A perfect opportunity!

The eel crouched and discreetly went in to make his entrance.

“BOO!” 

Riddle jumped in his seat and his pen drew across his notebook. Without looking, he already had an idea as to who would even dare to think of disrupting his studies.

“Floyd.” Needless to say, Riddle felt his anger ready to burst and his face already flushing with rage. 

“Heya Goldfishie!” Floyd wrapped his arms around Riddle, snuggling against his hair.

“Let go of me, heathen!” Riddle screamed.

His attempts to push Floyd away remained fruitless. He grabbed his magic pen and summoned a bit of fire— not too much to actually burn anything, but just enough to hopefully zap the little housewarden to freedom.

“Yeowch!” Floyd held the side of his stomach, “Hey, how’d ya do that?”

“Maybe,” Riddle began to create space between them two, “You should consider buttoning your shirt properly, instead of leaving them half open like an animal!”

“Goldfishie’s playin’ dirty…” Floyd giggled, making his way closer to Riddle, sitting beside him and ruining the attempts of personal space. “Hey, hey, I got somethin’ to ask.”

“The answer is no, Floyd.” Riddle replied with his last nerve hanging by a thread. “Would you let me be?!”

Every attempt of civility never worked with Floyd. But Riddle noticed, and will give credit, that he was unusually tame. That was a sad truth, seeing how the other man had just screamed behind him and momentarily trapped him in his arms.

“You don’t even know if it’s a yes or no question!” Riddle’s eyes focused on his textbooks, trying to drown out the nuisance.

“But it is—” Riddle rolled his eyes, it was no use to keep up with Floyd’s antics, not when he had better things to do. In fact, he wishes he could find enough merit to feel entitled to be as carefree as Floyd, but Riddle was a man of his goals. Riddle was a man built to be what he was expected to be. Riddle was—

“Anyways would you go out with me?”

Riddle was choking. 

The embarrassing sound he let out of confusion and surprise made him a spluttering mess. He must have misheard. Right? Riddle stood and spun around to face Floyd.

“What sick joke are you playing?” He demanded, as much as he attempted to control his voice volume, the eel’s relaxed and ‘Huhh i did no wrong!’ face started to enrage him.

Floyd tapped his fingers on the table, “Heeh? I’m not joking, Goldfishie.” 

“Well then the answer is no!” Riddle declared, angrily picking up his materials. “Are you trying to play with my emotions? Such a stupid way—”

“What, nooo!” Floyd sat upright and held Riddle’s hand as if to stop him from packing up, “No, Goldfishie—”

“Asking me out with that stupid nickname, as well! You have to be joking!” He pulled his hand away from the other

“Nah bro, listen.” Riddle was not convinced.

“I’m interested in ya, Goldfishie.” He was supposed to pull away, but for a second, Riddle’s eyes felt vulnerable as he stared into the sincerity of the captivating olive and gold.

“I..” Riddle hesitated, “You can’t just ask me out.”

Well that was bad news to tell Sea Snake. “Why not?”

Riddle groaned, “Don't you understand? I don't believe you. And your manner of which you even approached me doesn't sway me any further.”

“Then let me convince you.” Floyd challenged.

“What?”

Floyd stood, looking Riddle dead in the eye, “Let me court you.”

“Is this.. some kinda puzzle to you?” The Housewarden didn't rip eye contact, in fact, he scowled even harder. “I refused, so now you have to push harder?”

In face of retaliation, Floyd could only frown back as a natural response, “Why can't you just believe me? I really am interested in you.”

“And when you stop?” The tension felt thicker as Riddle argued, “When I stop becoming interesting, what was it for, then? Why involve another emotion? What if nothing comes of it, what was the point?”

“Does that matter?” Floyd barked, fanning the flames, “Why are you acting like there are rules to this type of thing?”

“Because there are! You can't just jump into a situation, there are precautions, and your carefree attitude is a giveaway to how you are apathetic to these possibilities.”

Floyd could have, he should have, backed down. But he didn't, and he never was one to anyway. Always fighting any fight he wanted, losing or not. But genuine frustration built up and he didn't understand why. Maybe it was Riddle's belief that he wasn't capable of loving him. Floyd knew he didn't like that. Just the general idea the other had felt disgustingly wrong. It felt like a refusal of feelings that weren't actually there, yet feelings nonetheless.

“But this ain't just another situation. No amount of possibilities would be stronger than me wanting to court you, and if one thing outweighs the other, I mean you gotta take it off the scale!”

Riddle exhaled sharply, “Desire is strong, but have you ever thought of its worth? How—”

“That really how you think? That relationships ain't worth the shot?” Floyd scoffed, “Why can't you take the chance, huh? So many risks to compare against something you don't even bother to look at. You never actually do it. What if this, what if that. People fear over this tiny housewarden, but a coward is all he is. Call me carefree all ya want because at least I can actually tell I care enough to try. You don't, and all ya do is excuses excuses to stay close minded. That's all ya know, and that's all you'll be.”

The silence that filled seconds later was far too loud to be allowed in a library.

“..And you ask me why I don't accept your request?” Riddle stared at him in disbelief. His anger died. He couldn't even muster the strength to rebuke. It had been a long day of nonstop piling of work that Crowley insists are for character building, he'd rather not add another problem on his plate. 

Floyd can feel he pushed maybe a little too far. He's upset. But Floyd can't be sure if he's talking about Riddle or himself. The visual of his Goldfish so defeated was unnatural, it almost made him shiver. The lack of reaction wasn't boring, though. It was just concerning, Floyd didn't want to just let it be. There were too many things happening to Floyd's conscience and emotions for him to act rational.

He cleared his throat, and asked again. “You are interesting, Goldfishie. But it's more than that. All these other fishies are as borin' as alchemy. In a school, the first fish I would look for to mess with is you. Im. I'm sorry for sayin' all that stuff. I get that I guess you're not all that used to bein’ asked like that, so you bein' all worried makes sense. I just needja to know that I really do want to take a chance with you. To..uh.. hold your hand, know you, maybe chase you somewhere different than a library. It might not… end up happy or whatever, but to experience what could be, I think that's good enough.”

“So, can I please court you?” 

With a different tone, a different look in his eyes, even Floyd could feel it in himself the sincerity he's allowing himself to convey, and he hopes Riddle can feel it too. It's strange to feel so strongly about a ‘proposition, especially one he claimed to do for fun. Usually his course of action was doing things half way— this was not a regular track he had to run on. He yearned for resolution.

Awkwardly, the two were silently looking at each other. Floyd saw how Riddle's face twitched, almost as if analyzing Floyd's expression, looking for any hint at a jest. Nothing he would find.

Finally, he speaks.

“That. Was oddly poetic.” Riddle states, which brought Floyd a glimmer of hope. “And, I'll have you know that that apology is terrible.”

The glimmer of hope started to whisk away, until Riddle continued slowly. “But it's you. And it's in my own interest to admit that you aren't completely wrong. For that, I apologize too. It was wrong for me to disregard your emotions like that. I can be close minded, and that is something I'm working on to change."

"Thus, I ought to remind you that..” Riddle paused. He wiped his face in exasperation, “Ugh. That there are certain courting rituals of which I expect you to at least adhere to some."

Holy sevens? he thought. He sucks in a breath of air in excitement. Floyd's serious and genuine-romantic air easily dissipated as he placed his arms on Riddle's shoulders and jumped. “You’ll let me!? Oh you love me, Goldfishie!” 

“Don’t get it twisted! Not at all do I see you in a romantic light!” Riddle scolded.

“Ow”

“But. I feel the sincerity. And I suppose it's not fair for me to deny you something wherein I truthfully lose nothing. I respect your attempt; although I prefer you ask with more effort.” Riddle said, “That would show me how serious you actually take me for.”

Floyd smiled, Floyd grinned. It’s never linear— it’s never just black and white, yes or no. Goldfishie’s giving him a challenge, a test to his credibility.

“You can start—” Floyd cocked his head to the side. Damn, already starting? 

“—By giving me back my letter.” 

Letter? What letter? 

Oh! Floyd remembered how he had ambushed Riddle during class, the same day of the ‘proposition’. Floyd usually returned Riddle’s items after having his fun, but that particular letter, Floyd wanted to keep forever. Not for sentimental value, not to piss Riddle off, but because it bittered his thoughts to think of his Goldfish holding something so cruel.

The note read ‘From: Mother’— which could be seen as a sweet gift, although anyone who knew Riddle knew that his mom wasn’t anywhere as sweet as the Heartslabyul tarts. In respect for the other’s privacy, (Floyd isn’t a full monster), he had kept it closed during the entire kerfuffle. But Floyd did manage to sneak a glance. In angry wording, Riddle’s mother had scolded him about his ‘current behavior’, or in other words, the way he’d been trying to take things easier since his overblot. Essentially, his mother was disapproving her own son’s healing, claiming it was ‘slacking off’. (There was a GREAT chance she didn’t even know the full story.) 

Floyd wouldn't claim to know Riddle on such a level, but even he knows that Riddle would dwell on what his mother says. A parent's word sticks to their child, no matter how close they are. Floyd doesn't necessarily understand, but he knows after everything, Riddle still greatly respects his mother and values her opinions. No matter how cruel and unforgiving they could be.

So Floyd took it. Floyd took the words that his Goldfish didn’t deserve. He doesn't care if he's already read it, there's a good chance he has, but Floyd refused the idea of him having a tangible reminder of all he is thought to be by the one person who needs to tell him it's okay. One day, maybe he’d give it back, but the invalidation that this so-called mother is good for is not what Riddle needed.

“Nah, I’ll keep it.” Floyd said.

Naturally, this infuriated Riddle. Floyd liked that, and now that they were at their original pace, it gave him more room for his mischief.

“But instead of focusing on that..” Floyd swiped Riddle’s notebook from his hands, “You can focus on catchin’ me now!! Nyahaha!!”

“Grk! You—” Riddle tried to recover from the whiplash of the mood change, he wasted no time in placing the rest of his books down to prepare for his daily chase.

He should have known that Floyd was bound to pull another stunt. It happened so often, Floyd’s chase began to follow a specific path each time. A path that Riddle noticed just so happened to lower the chances of getting caught by the librarian.

From their usual spot, Floyd would take off straight until the history books, and then he’d take a left to anatomy. Once he’d reach the beastmen, he’d take another left to linguistics. Like clockwork, as soon as Riddle read ‘Comparison of beastmen anatomy’ on the cover of a book, he paced himself to turn to the nearest left. Sometimes Riddle would ask himself why he even let the shenanigans drag on. Sometimes Riddle sighed in disappointment as he wheezed after every pursuit. But it was every time Riddle held back a small smile as he chased after Floyd’s back.

Sue him. It was his study break, anyway.

—

Ace waited for a water break to call off the plan with Jamil. Deuce had made an excellent point, neither of them really knew Riddle’s sexuality, and it didn’t feel right to just assume.

He walked towards Jamil who was chatting with Floyd by the bleachers. 

“I’m offering you my help.” Jamil said, placing a towel on his shoulder after wiping his forehead, “We don’t want anything to go wrong.”

Oh? Intrigued, Ace hid behind the basket of basketballs, listening in.

“You sayin’ I’d mess up?” Floyd replied, “I’d say Goldfishie’s definitely into me!”

Gold— Housewarden?!

“Also, you aren’t slick, Crabby.” Floyd added.

“Woaah, you got me, haha!” Ace awkwardly emerged from the basket and stood beside Jamil. “So. What’s this about?”

“Just get ready to see me more in your little parties!” Floyd cackled and tossed his towel on the ground, “Don’t sweat the details, Sea snake. I gotchu.”

Floyd ran back to the center of the court, leaving Jamil to debrief Ace on what happened.

“Hold. Wait." Ace stopped Jamil from starting a sentence. “Hold awwn. You actually got someone?!”

“I’m a man of competency.” Jamil remarked.

“I’ll really make sure coach knows that.” Ace drank a sip of water and breathed out in relief, “And here I was about to call it off.”

Jamil peeped a sound of confusion, “Why?”

“Oh..well” Ace held his nape, “Lols, I actually didn’t know if Riddle was gay.”

“.What.”

Chapter Text

FRIDAY

After another half hour of Professor Crewel calling them puppies every 5 minutes, Deuce was excited to get to track and field. His brain had just done a thousand reps, it was about time he got some other muscle training.

On his way to the school’s field, a menacing voice calls his name. Not his name, exactly, but a voice that called out “Mackerel”.

He turned around to Floyd lazily trudging towards him with his hands in his pockets.

“Where’s Goldfish?” He asked. Succinct, concise, straight to the point. Floyd didn’t seem like he was joking.

“That’s um.” Deuce tried to jog his memory on Floyd’s various nicknames, but so far he’d only memorized his, Ace’s and the rest of the first years. 

“That’s… Housewarden Riddle?” He guessed, 

“Duh”

lucky guess!

“Oh! He must be on his way to the Heartslabyul gardens for the flamingos.” Deuce said. “If you’re planning to visit him then you should wear—”

“Nice. Don't care ‘bout the rest. Thanks Mackerel!” Floyd gave him his usual ‘lol im probs up to no good’ smile and left.

Succinct, concise, and straight to the point. In retrospect, Deuce wasn’t sure if it was alright to dox his Housewarden like that, but he’s confident that Riddle could take on Floyd if he were to try anything.

— 

Riddle donned a simple salmon-pink cardigan on top of knee-length pink jorts. It wasn’t his favorite combination, but he’d bought those clothes specifically for tending to the flamingos, so he argues style isn't the priority. 

He began gathering up the flamingos, counting them by 4s to make sure not one was missing or would miss out on feeding time. After all the animals were accounted for, Riddle grabbed a trowel to scoop the mixture of foods and lay them out on the feeding plot in front of the flamingos. Whilst supervising, he noticed that one had been getting blocked by the others, unable to get to the food. Riddle sighed, when would these little guys learn to not be so greedy?

He left the area for a while to enter a small shed filled with supplies for the garden, from hedgehog food to leaf trimmers, to grab gloves for the occasional flamingo hand-feeding.

As he got back, Riddle scooped food in his hands to prepare. Although on his way, he stood stunned. For in front of the flamingo he was to feed was, who else would dare, but Floyd Leech, in his unsanitary, improper manner, hand-feeding with no gloves nor proper equipment. 

“What do you think you’re doing here?” Riddle yelled, rushing to the man, pushing him away from the flamingo. 

“Hey!” Floyd complained, “I’m helping! That’s what octavinelle is all about! Generosity and how good we are ‘n stuff.”

“Oh to be as benevolent as you all claim to be.” Riddle scolded passive aggressively, “While I would appreciate it— you’re not even dressed for the job, besides the point, you aren’t even meant to be on Heartslabyul grounds! You’re trespassing and being ignorant is what you’re doing!”

Riddle began tending to the flamingo the same way Floyd had been.

As Floyd’s mood began to sour, he then registered Riddle’s outfit

That offly-coordinated outfit that got progressively saturated from the bottom up including his hair. Sometimes Floyd wondered if Riddle purposefully made himself so fun and easy to tease.

“Goldfish is looking like an axolotl..” He joked.

“What!?” Riddle angrily whipped his head to Floyd’s impertinent grin, hand still under the flamingo’s beak

“Don’t worry, you’ll still be Goldfish!” Floyd reassured him by giving him a pat on his head, one that he knew Riddle couldn’t fight against since the latter was busy feeding the flamingo. “Hehe Goldfish can’t run away from me right now, huh?”

“Stop referring to me by those childish names!” Riddle cursed, “I’d love to have some card soldiers chase you.”

“They would never keep me away from you!”

“What are you even doing here?” Riddle demanded, opening up the flamingo food to get some more. “Why must you put in so much effort to be such a nuisance?”

Floyd tilted his head, “Didn’t we talk about this? I'm courting you.”

“Wh– How exactly is this a part of the courting?” Riddle rebuked.

Floyd thought back to his romance movies, it just felt right to have decided on visiting Riddle, but he was personally unfamiliar with the practice. All he remembered from merfolk culture was gift-giving, and he wasn’t too sure if that translated as well into land-folk.

“Don’t you guys count hanging out together as something?”

Riddle paused in the middle of unlocking the container and turned away with a faint blush. “I suppose it is a factor in..dating..”

“Oh right! Dating!” Floyd beamed, “This is our date!”

Riddle scoffed, “A date? Here, and you didn’t even bother to tell me beforehand? How disorganized.”

“Goldfishie’s so pickyyy!”

Riddle huffed and ignored Floyd after that.

As always, the eel had none of it. “So what’s the difference between that and what I did?”

Riddle stayed silent for a while longer but grunted as he took off his right glove, hesitantly offering it to Floyd. 

“Flamingos can accidentally peck or scratch at you while eating,” Riddle explained. “Gloves are a safety protocol. Should you have to hand-feed one, you must wear gloves for safety measures. That's not a queen's rule, just common sense, I fear.”

“Aweee, so Goldfish was worried for me?” Floyd’s eyes glinted as he put on the glove and grabbed a handful of the food, which Riddle promptly lessened with his left hand.

Doing so, Riddle’s face flushed the slightest bit more, “Don’t flatter yourself. It’s the rules, your safety is simply… collateral damage.”

Floyd giggled happily and took a seat beside the flamingo to adjust his gloved hand’s distance to its beak, inviting it to take a bite with Riddle overseeing. As it did, Floyd looked at Riddle who was staring at him back with a soft smile. The redhead’s smile quickly hid and his attention shifted towards the flamingo as soon as they made eye contact. 

Floyd obviously noticed this, but decided to bask in the moment rather than tease the other, “So, how am I doing?”

“You aren’t messing up.” Riddle said. “I’d say you suffice.”

“These little guys are so cute!” Floyd hovered his free hand over its body. Petting it when Riddle showed no sign of disapproval. “Why do you get these little guys?”

The redhead bit a little of his inner-lip. “We use them for croquet.” 

“Huh?” Floyd stopped petting to raise his brows. “Do they..watch?”

“They’re the mallets.” Riddle elaborated, “And the hedgehogs are the balls.”

Riddle frowned at Floyd’s silent and still expression,

“They don’t get hurt!” He reassured, “It may be Heartslabyul tradition but to go so far to abuse? Well that’s simply immoral and rule breaking so of course, the Queen of hearts, she made sure that—”

He stopped his rambling when Floyd started shaking and covering his face.

“Floyd?”

Suddenly, the taller man burst into broken laughter, struggling to keep his posture, not even attempting to hide his loss of composure, and almost slamming his hand to the flamingo’s beak in the process, (that, Riddle scolded him for.)

“You. You rules schmules, goody-two shoes, law-ridden folks—” Floyd tried to catch his breath, “— Are the same ones usin’ animals as sport equipment?!”

It was at this point he went feral and Riddle was unsure how to defend himself. Honestly, even he couldn’t be ignorant to the slight nonsensicality of the tradition.

“It can’t be that funny.” Riddle muttered, now and again holding Floyd’s wrist to make sure the food doesn’t slam straight into the flamingo.

“Are you kidding bro? It is!” Floyd wiped his tears with his left hand and let his lungs rest from laughter. “Dis shi gold, huzz”

Riddle stared at him in disgust, “Did you just call me a slur?”

Floyd’s fit of laughter grew and his body gravitated to the ground, “Goldfishie! Ya kill me!”

“One day, hopefully.” Riddle rolled his eyes, but they couldn’t help but soften as he watched Floyd try to properly feed the flamingo while battling demons.

Riddle felt his stomach tingle. Something he hadn’t told the other was that the flamingo was his. His choice of flamingo for every game, but even so, without that information, like second nature, did Floyd seem to treat it with such care, contrasting his usual brash attitude. The entire view felt rather domestic and Riddle felt his face turn red. Which was weird, because Floyd was no longer annoying him.

Chapter Text

NEXT WEEK, TUESDAY - DAY OF PARTY

It had been 5 days since Floyd started his ‘courtship’ nonsense. In all honesty, Riddle thought it would end as fast and sudden as it began, but not only had he been getting more surprise visits from the eel, he’d been spammed non stop over the weekend. It gave him the idea that perhaps Floyd was serious about the ordeal. And though that should’ve been obvious from the start, Riddle came to learn that Floyd would never act in a way that’s expected. Riddle guessed that, in a sense, the principle also fit in the situation

It was lunch, but instead of eating, Riddle had taken the extra time to study plants in the botanical garden. Unfortunately, he found himself reflecting about a certain student while trying to study a teal-aquamarine rose hybrid. His thoughts circulated around his own feelings. While he was complimented and appreciated Floyd’s interest, he admits, he had his own personal baggage that he wasn’t sure was alright to bring or counted him ready to get into a relationship.

Then that gave him the thought, without the baggage, would he give Floyd the chance? He supposed he already did, giving him the opportunity of courtship and all. But that was more of an impulse that Riddle didn’t think through, given as far as he got.

He can’t deny, Floyd’s advances had moved him and even got him considering and questioning both his moral compass and sexuality. And one thing for sure, it gave him some inkling of inspiration to put half as much effort into self-improvement as Floyd puts into fitting Riddle into his schedule. It was flattering to think that Floyd found him that much worth it, and Riddle confesses he didn’t entirely hate it when Floyd would show up either.

As annoying as it was, it was nice to see a smile he enjoyed seeing every once in a while, especially with how a lot of the students still walk on eggshells around him.(Not that he can completely blame them, that's the worst part.) And as tiring as it was when Floyd instigated a chase almost every meet, Riddle always found himself relaxed and a little mentally lighter afterwards.

They were both busy men. With Riddle and his duties and extracurriculars, Floyd has his own club and job. Though it was that Floyd allowed himself more leeway in his routine. Something, since the start of the school year, Riddle could acknowledge he should allow himself of as well. 

Perhaps there was a hint of admiration, and Riddle would keep it a secret to say that Floyd deserved that admiration. While he was still in the clouds regarding the more romantic aspect of his relationships, he realized that maybe he wouldn’t hate going on another date or two with Floyd. 

From his trance, Riddle jolted at an abrupt entrance of the botanical garden doors, and as he slightly expected, Floyd Leech—

Woah, maybe not Floyd.

“Trey? What are you doing here?” 

“Oh? Riddle?” The third year brought his attention to the housewarden, “I’m here to pick up a plant I’d like to show someone. And you?”

“I was supposed to study but…” Riddle hesitated. He was a little flustered to open up about it, but he knew he could trust his friend. “Trey, how does one label their feelings?”

The question surprised Trey. He’d never imagined Riddle in that kind of scenario. In fact, now that he was, his mind ran through all possible realities. Broken hearts, various suitors. But who in the entire school could dumbfound Riddle that bad—

“Trey?” Riddle called out, clearly feeling a bit awkward about his question. “Nevermind. So what plants are those?”

Trey snapped back into reality, ‘ah, right’.

“These are Strongylodon macrobotrys.” He said, “They aren’t native to sage island, so they’re quite the special vine.”

He smiled softly at Riddle’s nods of fascination. Quiet, simple moments that brought him back to days before everything. 

“Riddle, I’m really glad you’re finally opening yourself to growing-up cliches.” Trey reminisced giving Riddle his first taste of sugar, his first game of soccer. “I don’t think you should overthink this whole feelings thing. Don’t try labeling yourself so soon, that’ll just give you something to expect. Live through it, and when the time comes, make the decision that's in tune with the present, current emotions. No pre-planning, no notes.”

Riddle frowned a bit, “Quite frankly, I’m a mess, Trey.”

Trey laughed at that, “That’s what love is. You can’t study it. You can’t expect your experience to go smoothly and you can’t expect your significant other to always do what you expect either.”

He carefully picked out a flower from the roses that Riddle had been inspecting moments before and handed it to the other.

“Whatever happens, navigate it with an open-mind. Whatever you’re feeling, don’t try rationalizing it right away. Love isn’t logical like that.” He concluded.

Riddle gently squeezed the rose, “Thank you, Trey. You always know what to say.”

“Just offering you my 50 cents.” Trey cleared his throat, “So.. who is this mystery guy?”

Riddle crossed his arms, “How are you so sure he’s a guy?”

Just then, he heard himself. Riddle blushed, “Ah. well. I suppose you know now.”

It’s not that he was embarrassed to be taking interest in Floyd, but verbalizing it felt awkward and unnatural. He’s heard that teenagers often talk about their crushes and things alike and he was flustered at even the image of the Heartslabyul Housewarden and Vice giggling and chatting about their boycrushes in a darkened room.

“It’s… Floyd.”

Trey did a double take and stared at him wide-eyed, “Floyd?! Floyd Leech?!”

“I don’t suppose there’s another Floyd in school, is there?”

The green haired mage set down his plant, he composed himself and pushed his glasses up.

Riddle felt doubt from the reaction. Did it being Floyd change everything? “Do you not think it’s worth pursuing anymore?”

Trey stammered, “Not at all! Floyd or not, I still definitely think you should welcome these kinds of experiences. It’s just.. Floyd?”

Riddle huffed, “What is that meant to mean?”

“I don’t know, I didn’t expect it. Plus, he kind of freaks me out.”

“He scares you? He’s a nuisance at most.” Riddle said, “The Leech to be afraid of is Jade. You just never know what he could be thinking.”

“Really?” Trey folded his arms, “Jade is nice company.”

Riddle looked him up and down, “Of course you would say that.”

“Now what is that supposed to mean?” Trey’s tone almost made Riddle chuckle.

“I just don’t think Floyd is anywhere near as terrifying as Jade.” He hummed, “Floyd can be surprisingly… tame and orderly.”

Trey immediately caught the glint in Riddle’s eyes, the almost unnoticeable red in his cheeks, and the small smile that formed. The entire package, Riddle’s face painted with pure affection as he held the teal rose. It was at the moment Trey had a silent reflection once more— this was no longer the child locked in his bedroom. Not the tyrant pinned to the rules nor the kid crying and clinging to his mother's dress. This was Riddle.

“Well, speaking of Jade,” Trey retrieves the plants he set down, “I was actually supposed to bring these vines to him."

Riddle raised his brow. "I see..."

"See you, Riddle. Don’t forget what I said!”

Riddle smiled and waved as his friend left the area.

Trey was right. Especially if the one courting him was such a mess, he couldn’t expect love to be any different. And he wasn’t counting on it. Love is an experience he was about to enter and he was willing to try to let go of some of his attachments to pre-set plans and rules in order to navigate it. Riddle couldn’t exactly place his finger on the details, but he knew who brought upon the willingness. Willingness that began branching out of circumstances of love, making its way to his own values and lifestyle. Maybe it was something about his personality, or about his lifestyle, or maybe it was something awakened in Riddle himself. 

The thoughts lingered in his mind as he carefully placed the teal rose his school bag. He allowed himself some small indulgence, imagining a scenario of another date with Floyd. Maybe he could plan it this time, rather than letting Floyd make the first move of not planning at all. The self-indulgent dreaming ended quick as clarity sank in— he was imagining a relationship that wasn't actually official yet. But perhaps not as far-fetched as he initially thought.

Think Speak of the devil, he doth appear—

Finally, in his silly manner, Floyd Leech appeared to skip over to Riddle, wasting no time to loom over him and question his activities. He barged in with an uneaten hamburger in a plastic bag and plopped it down next to the pot of roses on the table. 

Floyd leaned on the table, resting one hand on his hips. Smiling lazily as he stared down at Riddle who was sat. As they held eye contact, Riddle could feel the heat in his cheeks.

“Heeeeeyyyyy” (More Ys = More interest fr)

“Is this a sad attempt at seduction?” Riddle almost blushed at his own joke, but kept his composure to save face.

Floyd smiled, “Is it working?”

“Not at all.”

With that, Riddle looked back towards the table and scrunched his nose at the pitiful burger.

“Would you separate your food from the roses.”  Riddle demanded.

“It’s not my food,” Floyd corrected, pushing it closer to the redhead, “It’s yours.”

Riddle glared at him. “I’m studying, Floyd.”

“It’s literally lunch, dude. When Sea Turtle passed me by and told me you were doin’ all this instead of eating, I bought you the first thing I saw, yaknow!!”

“Sea Turtle? Trey huh..” Oh. Oh Riddle sees. That meddling childhood friend. “Either way, it is neither of your guys’ business as to what my diet is.”

Floyd grumbled, and Riddle assumed that was the end of it. However, Riddle had forgotten that Floyd hated doing what was usually expected. So instead of dropping it there, he grabbed the hamburger and wiggled it in front of Riddle’s face.

“Here comes the airfishies…wooaaoo”

What.

Riddle furrowed his brows and pushed Floyd’s hands away, “Do you take me for some child–? What in the world did you think that would get you, you..vexatious oaf?!”

“Vexshus what.” Floyd lowers the hamburger, “Whatever. Just eat it! One bite! C’mon, say ‘aaaahh’.”

“It’s the ru—”

Riddle cut himself off as a train of thought ran through his head. He had just been thinking about letting loose, being a little bit more lenient to both himself and the ones around him, for his mindset has been the thing building the barriers between everyone he knew. Most of all, he had just been day dreaming about a date with Floyd. He wanted to welcome Floyd more into his life. And though he wasn’t certain that getting fed by Floyd was the best way to begin this process, he didn’t want to keep pushing off self development. He thought back to what Trey had told him, instead of living so stiffly, he should practice an open mind. Alas, this could be an opportunity to exercise that change and maybe even an opportunity to bond closer with Floyd, but that last part is one Riddle will leave unsaid.

He truthfully couldn’t believe he was actually going to do what he did, and neither did Floyd. So when Riddle held his hand to stabilize the wiggling, Floyd tilted his head. And when Riddle, still holding Floyd’s hand that held the hamburger, bit into it, Floyd widened his eyes in surprise.

“Damn! That’s one hell of a bite too!” Floyd remarked.

Riddle blushed and held his hand over his mouth as he finished chewing and swallowing, “Apologies, I ate it straight out of your hand.”

“Huh?!” Floyd quickly pulled up a chair to sit beside Riddle, “I wanted you to do that, I didn’t think you would actually do it, though!”

“It tasted quite good.” Riddle observed, “Other than the steak, there was this other meat. I don’t think I’ve tasted it before.”

Floyd slightly pulled the buns apart to take a peak, “It’s sliced in a circle.. And it looks kinda thick. Must be some kinda sausage.”

He then moved it closer once more to Riddle, “Here ya go, take another bite.”

This time, Riddle ate from his own hands. "This really is delicious."

"I have awesome taste." Floyd casted a lazy smile. He looked at the roses on the table. "Wowza, so what's Goldfishie studying this time?"

"Nothing much," Riddle took a sip of water, "I just saw these roses and... well they looked beautiful, I decided to research about them a little."

"The land's lotsa fun." Floyd said, "There aren't plants like these down there. Even if there was, It'd probably blend right in."

"They don't exactly naturally grow here either, they're hybrid!" The redhead said as matter-of-factly. Floyd's mouth twitched as he witnessed the other's unfiltered joy of knowledge. "So somewhat artificial. I wrote it down just here—"

Floyd watched, smiling at the sight of Riddle eating food with his left hand and flipping through notes with his right. “Goldfishie’s always surprising me.”

His voice was low— Riddle didn’t hear it.

But Floyd, Floyd felt it. He heard what he said in his heart. Because it was true. Riddle had a knack for keeping Floyd interested, but not because he tried to, but because Floyd always conjured up any reason to justify being with him, thinking of him. After all, Riddle was right, he had no reason to interrupt his studying with a hamburger. But Floyd didn’t care that he had no reason, he actively made it his problem. It’d be fun, he reasoned to himself. But he ignores that had it been any other fish studying lame plants, he would’ve walked away. A small part of him recognized that it was because it was him. His Goldfish was worth the effort.

Jade and Azul always joked that Floyd would always get bored of his collection of people to mess with, and that may be right. Because as the days went by, his Goldfish felt less like a target.

Some days, Floyd would rather stop the whole chase to instead sit there with him in silence to admire, to braid his perfectly styled hair while the world felt stagnant. Some days, the obvious flush in Floyd’s cheeks felt on par with Riddle’s when they made eye contact— even if the majority of the time it was with grey eyes looking like they were about to cause up a storm. Some days, instead of taking his things, Floyd wanted to try gifting him silly things that reminded him of the other and see how his Goldfish would react. Some days, Floyd wanted to play with the other’s face and study all that expressed those reactions.

Because to him, being with Riddle was that fun.