Carlos Madrigal, the love of your life. He was everything to you and you were both happy. You thought nothing could ever change that. But one day, you woke up to find him gone without a trace. No explanation, no reason, no warning. No goodbye. It tore you apart. Even after years, you couldn't bring yourself to move on and it drove you crazy. Everywhere you went, all you could think about was him. His face, his laugh, his smile, his embrace. And it pained you, what happened with him.

It was days like this, when you missed him most, you'd go to drink the memories of him away, at bars and cafés. You'd go, drink, reminisce, then come home, feeling worse than you started, thinking of him even more. It was a rather pathetic cycle, but one you couldn't seem to break out of.

Today, you were at the Battleship. You went up to the counter, and ordered your regular. The bartender went to make your drink, and while you waited, your thoughts, again, drifted to Carlos. While you were lost in your mind, a guy came up next to you to order a drink. It was nothing out of the ordinary, he just came up for a drink was all, and yet you couldn't keep your eyes off him. He looked all too familiar. It couldn't be. The bartender returned with your drink and proceeded to get the guy's order. But you couldn't touch your drink. You stayed spaced out facing your drink, and questioning how Carlos Madrigal could possibly have ended up right next to you.

However, you were proven wrong when the bartender handed him his drink. He had thanked them, and turned to face you for a second, and smiled. You knew Carlos's voice better than any sound in the world and that wasn't it. His smile was one of the greatest things you'd ever witnessed, this guy's wasn't it. It wasn't him, more like a ghost of Carlos.

"Hello. You seem lonely. " "I am", you responded.

You introduced yourselves, and it seemed to be going pretty well.

"You seem distracted. It's there something wrong?" he questioned.

"Well, not really. It's just you remind so much of someone. It's nothing, really," you answered.

"I remind you of someone?", he started at you in confusion.

"Hmm. If you wouldn't mind, can I call you his name?" You looked at him in anticipation.

He let out a laugh of disbelief. "Thank you for the lovely chat and for your company, but I'll be leaving now."

He got up and left. Leaving you to wallow in regret.

Two months ago, you started seeing his face in almost every guy you talked to. It was as if the lines between reality and imagination were starting to blend together, and while the thought absolutely terrified you, you can't help admit a part of you wants to succumb to the illusions. Pretend like he was still there with you.

Today, you found yourself in the Rusty Hook. You opened the door and entered the busy room. You headed to the back where the seating was. You went up to the bar and ordered your usual. While you waited, you looked around for an open space for you to sit. You saw a person get up, and you went and took their empty spot. As you settled into your seat, you noticed something from the corner of your eye. In the corner, cuddled up in a large wicker chair, you noticed a guy who seemed to be everywhere you went.

Your order was called, and you went to get it. Looking from the counter, you decided to shoot your shot. You got closer, and took a better look at his face. It wasn't him. Close, but not him. It was missing the mole right below his eye by his ear. His eyes were the wrong shade of brown. His voice wasn't the same. Still, you decided to give him a chance anyway. You approached him and smiled.

"Is this seat taken?"

You will admit, the conversation certainly moved fast. The two of you even exchanged a kiss, and while you knew that this was moving too fast, you couldn't help but pretend he was Carlos, and that you two were just talking like you always did.

He seemed pleased with you. You had hope, this might actually be something. He held you very tightly and you decided it was now or never. You loosened yourself from his grasp slightly and turned to face him.

"If you wouldn't mind, can I call you his name?" You asked awfully politely.

You were promptly left to yourself. You mentally cursed yourself for being so desperate to replace the love you lost. This was starting to become a habit and it terrified you. You spent many days like this. You were worried you would soon completely lose your sense of distinction between reality and imagination. You gathered your stuff and went about your way.

You'd fallen into a cycle now. Every day, you go to some place to drink away your problems. Only to find a boy who eerily reminds you of someone you once knew, and then everything fails miserably. Like clockwork, today found you in the Parrot's Beak.

You entered the doors, walked up to the counter, put in your order, and started exploring. Your exploration led to a small corner where you found exactly what you were expecting, messing with the smoke alarm, which was about to reveal him at any minute. The music was blasting and you could barely hear him.

"Hi." "Hi." "You look like you could use some company." "Well, alright."

He stuck his hand out for you to shake, and that's when you noticed his broken arm. You shook his hand, and went to an empty table. Throughout the conversation, you noticed he spoke his mind, and when you were certain the conversation was at a good enough point, you asked him. His response couldn't have been clearer written in Letraset.

"No, you can't call me his name."

Just as you expected.

You got in the car, and told the driver to take you the long way round, and kept all your shortcuts to yourself. You couldn't help but remember all the times you and him would drive around, like you are now, wandering with no real purpose of going anywhere. You could smell his scent on the seatbelt, wrapping around you, keeping you in a warm embrace.

You thought about how everywhere you went, his memory plagued you. In all your interactions at all these places, his face seemed to merge with all the others, to the point where you worried you would forget it. The more and more time went by, the more you thought you might've been imagining him all this time. You shut your eyes, and let your hands come up to cover your face, as you completely crumpled in the backseat of the cab, sobbing into your hands.

You were starting to give up hope. And you were almost ready to admit he never existed. You made your way into the Cornerstone coffee shop, and placed an order. Then, from the corner of your eye, you spotted him. You did a double take, and realized it was him. You noticed he was on the phone and you waited for him to finish. Grabbing your meal, you made your way to his table.

No, it wasn't him, but he was close. Well, you couldn't get much closer than a twin brother. Neither introduced themselves; you didn't need to. You knew each other very well. The two of you had been very close. Carlos loved his family, almost as much as he loved you, so you were close with all of them. However, you didn't stay in touch as much after he died.

You knew he was on his own, and so were you. You thought if anyone would understand, it was him. You knew it wasn't the best idea, but you still clung onto hope. You asked your question one last time. This time the answer was:

"I'm really not supposed to, but yes." He looked you in the eyes, nothing but sincerity shining through.

"You can call me anything you want."

a/n pt. 2 | yessssss!!! after over a month, i finally did it. this is the longest fic I've written, almost 1, 400 words, so yay me! anyways, i hope y'all enjoyed this!! also, sorry, our boy is dead. and the ending, it's up to you whether cami and reader are platonic or not. also part night i had cube up with an idea for a part two of this based off, you guessed it, another am song, but i don't even remember which one rn so

No matter how thick your clothing was, it never seemed to protect you from the shiver you felt during this weather. Today seemed colder than ever. You trudged to your kitchen to fix a warm drink before grabbing your phone and settling down. While scrolling down social media, a phone call interrupts you. With a raised brow, you answered the call.

"[Name]!!!"

"Hey, [Friend's Name]. What's up?"

"I was wondering if you're free tonight?"

Your friend on the other line asked, you hummed for a moment, thinking. Your schedule for later wasn't hectic, but you wonder why your friend wants to know.

"I think so, why?"

"Do you wanna tag along at this party?"

"It depends..."

"Come on! It's going to be fun! I'll guarantee it"

"Fine, but you owe me"

"Sure, sure, whatever. Catch you later byeeeee!"

You chuckled as your friend hangs up. It's silly how you can't say no to your friend. Parties may not be your strongest suit but it's not always that bad, it's not like you hate parties, most of them are great if the people there aren't problematic. You shrug to yourself, one little party wouldn't hurt, right?

You decided to finish all of your chores before preparing your outfit for tonight's party. Nothing too flashy or bland, just something you're comfortable with. Eventually, you texted your friend and as the evening arrives, they went to pick you up and take you to the party.

Upon arriving, you notice a large number of people present. Luckily, it wasn't too overwhelming as you went inside the place where the party was being held at. There were drinks, food, and music played by a band. It was like every typical party you've been to. You followed your friend around and talked for a while until the rest of your other friends showed up. You had fun with your friend group, convinced that this was going to be a good night.

All of a sudden, you whip your head around to see a familiar set of hazel eyes. You nearly dropped the drink in your hand when you realized whose eyes were that. You blinked several times, wishing it to be only your imagination. But to your dismay, it was real. Curly brown hair, sunkissed skin, and a laugh that used to bring butterflies to your stomach. There was no mistaking it.

"Holy shit...is that Camilo?"

One of your friends pointed out. Your throat goes dry at the sound of his name. Quickly, your mood changes, and you no longer wanted to stay here. You frowned at your friend.

"You didn't tell me that he's going to be here?!"

"We didn't know, [Name]!"

Your friends explained. You glared at them and at Camilo, who was across the room, laughing with a bunch of people. You groaned.

"I'm leaving"

"Oh come on! We know whatever happened between you two was nasty but you moved on, right? He shouldn't be having any effect on you, [Name]"

"Ugh, you don't know what it feels like to be in the same room with your ex"

You told them before walking away, your friends called for you but you ignored them. You stopped at the corner of the room, trying to calm yourself down but Camilo decides to stroll by and accidentally meet your eyes. He looked horrified that he recognized who you are, you freeze on your spot. How did it get this way?

"I don't feel like this is working at all, [Name]"

A younger version of Camilo told you. With furrowed brows, you walked over to him and grabbed his arms.

"What do you mean, Camilo?"

"Lo siento, but I think we should end this"

You gasped, and tears immediately began welling up in your eyes. After so many years of being together, all the laughing, crying, hugging, and kissing. Now, it's coming to an end. You can no longer see the sparks in his eyes when he first met you.

"No, you wouldn't do this!"

"I can't be like this with you anymore, [Name]"

"What? You're unhappy being with me?"

"No, I do feel happy when I'm with you but I'm afraid it won't last long and I don't want to see where that goes"

"When you got jealous while I was with other people, did I get angry?"

You bring it up and it causes Camilo to frown at you. He denies it but you point a finger at him, telling him all his flaws. It makes him mad as he does the same until it turns into a nasty fight, with him storming out of the door and you not realizing the tears rolling down your cheeks.

"You know what, I'm glad we're finally ending this, Camilo!"

"The feeling's mutual, I finally don't get to deal with your shitty attitude"

"Same here asshole!"

"¡Adiós para siempre!"

He slams the door in front of you and it goes quiet. It takes a minute for you to fully break down on your knees, crying and hiccuping. You replay the fight over and over in your head, sending needles to prick your heart knowing the love of your life is no longer there to hold you in his arms. It was over, and it was the truth you had to carry with you through the rest of the years.

You gulped. You recalled the fight you had with him after many years of burying it at the back of your mind, you sniffed and broke eye contact with him. You find another place to stay away from him, you feel your pride swell in you as you decided to not acknowledge him at all.

Camilo was baffled to see you at the party, he too remembers the dispute you two shared before officially falling apart. A nasty feeling forms at the back of his throat as he walks away, ignoring you from the corner of his eye. The two of you fought a silent battle, to ignore each other, to act not to care.

As much as you looked coldly on the exterior, on the inside, it's killing you. You send a glare to Camilo, who's doing good at acting like you don't exist. You feel alone standing in a crowded room. Truthfully, you wanted to tell him how you missed him, but you didn't know how. You weren't mad anymore, just sad. You fidged at your clothes, secretly glancing at Camilo, hoping he'd look your way again but he doesn't.

It fucking sucked feeling this way, you felt so hopeless. When you thought you had to suffer longer, your eyes caught the band on stage, an idea lights up in your mind as you make your way to it. With a little courage, you managed to persuade the band to play a tune for you to sing along to. So, you walked on stage, hands shaking as you grabbed the microphone at the stand.

Drums kicked in followed by electric guitars, it was loud enough to catch everyone's attention at the party. They all gathered to listen closely to the lively music on stage. You inhaled.

"I used to think one day we'd tell the story of us. How we met, and the sparks flew instantly"

"People would say they're the lucky ones"

You began to sing. Your friends see you on the stage and cheered. As confidence filled you, it wavered when you noticed Camilo looking at you from the crowd.

"I used to know my place was a spot next to you. Now I'm searching the room for an empty seat"

"'Cause lately I don't even know what page you're on"

Camilo was surprised to hear you singing, but he doesn't complain about it. Instead, he sticks around to listen to you more.

"Oh, a simple complication. Miscommunications lead to fall out"

"So many things that I wish you knew. So many walls up, I can't break through"

You pushed yourself to sing louder, wishing you delivered the line right for your ex in the crowd to understand.

"Now I'm standing alone in a crowded room. And we're not speaking"

"And I'm dying to know. Is it killing you like it's killing me? Yeah"

The people around him danced along to you singing the chorus, having a great time. Camilo was conflicted if he should too but he's thinking about what you're singing about.

"I don't know what to say. Since a twist of fate, when it all broke down"

"And the story of us looks a lot like a tragedy now"

"Next Chapter"

You find yourself loosening up and dancing along with the music, slightly distracting you from Camilo's intense gaze on you.

"How'd we end up this way? See me nervously pulling at my clothes and trying to look busy"

"And you're doing your best to avoid me"

He listens to you sing the second verse, his face was impassive but internally, he's affected by you and what you just said that's clearly about him.

"I'm starting to think, one day, I'll tell the story of us. How I was losing my mind when I saw you here"

"But you held your pride like you should've held me"

Your voice was filled with sincere emotion as your eyes landed on Camilo's, hurting and hoping at the same time.

"Oh, I'm scared to see the ending. Why are we pretending this is nothing?"

"I'd tell you I miss you, but I don't know how. I never heard silence quite this loud"

The people were quick to dismiss what the song meant but it hits him in the face in so many ways. It hurt more than a slap, Camilo thought if this was your way of getting revenge on him for hurting you long ago.

"Now I'm standing alone in a crowded room. And we're not speaking"

"And I'm dying to know. Is it killing you like it's killing me? Yeah"

You confidently sing the chorus, smiling a little at the sight of the audience cheering and dancing along to the beat. But your eyes were fixated on your ex who was pursing his lips, you prayed he won't leave midway through the song.

"I don't know what to say. Since a twist of fate, when it all broke down"

"And the story of us looks a lot like a tragedy now"

The guitar solo kicks in, it slowly reaches the bridge of the song and still, Camilo doesn't know what to say. He's distracted by the shimmer in your eyes, the tiny smile on your lips, and how he wanted to hold you again.

"This is looking like a contest. Of who can act like they care less"

"But I liked it better when you were on my side"

Your voice comes out softly, the melody was gentle as you try to convey what you truly feel through your singing. There was no stopping what you started.

"The battle's in your hands now. But I would lay my armor down"

"If you say you'd rather love than fight"

Camilo can feel himself bursting with emotion. He does want to choose to love than fight, he's tired of pretending he doesn't care when he does. Yet something is still holding him back.

"So many things that you wish I knew. But the story of us might be ending soon"

You feel your chest tighten for a moment, you didn't want tonight to end. You don't want to leave and never see Camilo again. You reach the chorus again.

"Now I'm standing alone in a crowded room. And we're not speaking"

"And I'm dying to know. Is it killing you like it's killing me? Yeah"

He feels you pour your heart out at the song, and he smiles. Camilo missed seeing you like this but he's afraid that he'll ruin everything and hurt you again. He holds back his tears, feeling his emotions kill him.

"I don't know what to say. Since a twist of fate, when it all broke down"

"And the story of us looks a lot like a tragedy now, now, now"

You hit a high note and you hear everybody cheer and clap for you. But you didn't focus on getting all the glory, you only confused the boy with hazel eyes who you're still in love with.

"And we're not speaking"

"And I'm dying to know. Is it killing you like it's killing me? Yeah"

"I don't know what to say. Since a twist of fate, 'cause we're down"

"And the story of us looks a lot like a tragedy now"

It takes Camilo the entire song to realize he still loves you and that he wants you back. He doesn't want the story of you and him to end. But you bring your lips close to the mic.

"The end"

You said as the song ends. Shouting and clapping fill the room as you exit the stage. Your heart was beating fast as you caught your breath. It was amazing that you just did that. You wiped the sweat off your forehead when you hear footsteps approach backstage. Your heart leaps out of your chest when you see it was Camilo.

"[Name]..."

He says breathlessly and it merely brings you to your knees, how you missed hearing him say your name. Camilo takes the risk to come closer, you were just as beautiful as the day he met you. Your eyes couldn't believe it when you saw the same sparks you saw when you first saw him.

"Camilo..."

"[Name] I...I'm sorry. For being such a dick and leaving you that day. I'm sorry for also ignoring you here"

You were speechless at his sudden apology, and it tugs on your heartstrings. Swiftly, you pounce at him with an embrace. Camilo quickly reciprocates and holds unto you for dear life. He buries his face in the crook of your neck.

"I've missed you, Camilo"

"Me too, mi amor"

Your eyes go wet when he called you that, he hasn't called you that in years and hearing it again felt like coming back home. You pull away and Camilo grabs the sides of your face, softly.

"Can we start over again? Can this story not end yet?"

"Camilo, the story of us is...over"

He frowns, and disappointment spreads on his features until you smiled and went to rub your thumb on his cheek. Camilo looks at you, he couldn't be happier seeing the love in your eyes.

"But that doesn't mean it doesn't deserve a sequel"

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Humming under the bright sun, you skip your way through the streets of Encanto. The weather was incredible today and every person you've encountered so far was in a good mood. You gingerly made your journey up the little hill and towards the most colorful house in the entire town. You stopped by the doorstep and politely knocked on the door.

A girl with short hair and bright green rounded glasses answers the door as she greets you with a friendly smile. You grinned as she went to hug you.

"¡Buenos dias, mi amiga!"

"It's good to see you too, Mirabel"

You said. She giggles and lets you into the house. Suddenly, you yelped when the tiles under your feet began to move as they spun you around. You emitted a loud laugh as you steadied yourself.

"It's good to see you too Casita"

You chuckled at the house, and the objects around you began to move on their own in response. Mirabel smiles at the interaction.

"Mi primo is in the kitchen by the way"

"Thank you, Mira"

You walked in the direction of the kitchen. You had an excited smile on your lips as you peeked quietly inside the kitchen. And there he was, el amor de tu vida. In a form of curly auburn hair, tan skin, and a maroon ruana. You sighed lovingly as you gazed at your lover having a casual conversation with his brother. The mere sight of him filled your heart with love and joy, truly convincing you to be the happiest girl on earth.

"Has anybody told you of how much of a dumbass you are, hermano?"

"Ay, shut up Carlos!"

You gazed at him, Carlos, bursting out laughing, you can feel your heart fluttering inside your chest. You met Carlos years ago where things seemed difficult at first, he could be hard to get along with at some times. He was stubborn, but so was you. After a little while, annoying him by staying by his side, Carlos learned how to appreciate and tolerate your presence. Eventually, you and Carlos gained a genuine friendship until your feelings seeped through and were reciprocated.

You and Carlos have been in love with each other for what felt like ages, all became marvelous when you two announced an official relationship. It felt like a full-blown fiesta when his family, the Madrigals knew about it. He was irritated and shy about it at first but he was proud to be with you. Carlos as a lover was like magic. He knew you better than you do, always considerate, although grumpy at moments, but you know that he adores you.

"So, how are you and [Name] holding up?"

The sound of your name snaps you back to reality, you waited for your boyfriend's answer. Carlos only shrugged.

"It's been good, but..."

"But?"

"I don't know, Camilo..."

"Hey, you can tell me anything, hermano"

"How can I be so sure that you won't blackmail me?"

Carlos crossed his arms and raised a brow at his twin brother, Camilo. His brother raised his right hand.

"Lo prometo, Carlos. I won't tell anyone"

"You're just dying to hear chisme from my relationship"

"No, I do not!"

"This is why you're still single, hermano"

Camilo frowns at his brother as he goes to punch him in the arm, Carlos lets out a swear and punches him back harder, causing the other to stumble back while shapeshifting into multiple people. Camilo groans.

"Come on! Just tell me already!"

"Ugh fine. I feel like [Name] is being too clingy"

Carlos admitted with a rub on the nape of his neck. Camilo hummed. Your eyes go wide at what you heard, sheerly bewildered.

"What do you mean?"

"She's being...too touchy, you know. She won't leave me alone when I'm doing something"

"I assumed that's what lovers always do"

"Not all the time, she's getting excessive, Camilo"

You hold back a gasp as you looked at Carlos in shock. Was it true? Were you being too clingy to him? For so long, you're aware how Carlos doesn't prefer physical affection but you didn't know you were taking it too far. You believed he always loved how you would cling to him all the time.

"Okay, excessive like how?"

"She's always hugging me from behind, demanding cuddles from me when I'm busy, and bothering me all the time"

Carlos described and the look on his face was full of annoyance. It brought a spike through your heart. Before you knew it, your eyes begin to water. You wanted to believe he was only joking but the tone of his voice as he pointed out how clingy you were felt genuine. You don't realize how it hurt you. Unable to keep your emotions at bay, you silently stormed off, leaving the casita and going back home with tears rolling down your eyes, wondering if Carlos is getting tired of you.

The following morning, Carlos visits you at your house. You didn't know what to feel after hearing what he said about you yesterday. But you don't want to show him how affected you are by it so you pretended to be fine. You've done some thinking and decided to be less touchy with Carlos, you thought it would be something that he wanted and besides, you don't want him to leave you.

From the get-go, Carlos realized something was off about you. He takes note of how distant you are. Firstly, when he leans in to give you a hug, you avoided him with an awkward smile and excuse. He shrugs it off until you started sitting a few feet away from him, whenever he would go close you would go further away. He'd ask you what was wrong but you tell him.

"Oh, I'm just not feeling well"

Carlos would secretly roll his eyes and think it was utter bullshit, he has loved you for so long to the point he knows when something was bothering you. Ultimately, he leaves you be, not wanting to be too pushy. Afternoon arrives and he doesn't receive a visit from you as he would usually have. You'd always come by and pounce at him with a hug and a kiss on the cheek, you'd cling to him for hours.

As he did his chores, Carlos realizes how awfully quiet it was without you talking his ear off. He groaned, what was going on? Why are you avoiding him? Did he do something wrong? The Madrigal racked his brain for any fault he did but he found none. He was becoming worried and annoyed.

The next day, you behaved the same. You shut down his advances to hold you with an excuse that you were busy. Carlos doesn't give up and tries to touch you in subtle ways, but you continue to push him away. What is seriously going on with you?

For days, you were acting unlike yourself. You were no longer demanding his attention or cuddles, you stopped bothering him during his chores, and it was driving him crazy. He wasn't liking this side of you at all and he thinks it's time for him to confront you about it.

"What the fuck is up with you?"

He asks. You turn to him, your eyes go wide for a second but you give him a confused expression. You decided to deny him.

"I don't know what you're talking about, Carlos"

"You know exactly what I'm talking about"

"Seriously, I don't"

Carlos sighed and walks over to you, almost towering over you and you gulp. His face was stern and it makes you nervous.

"Bullshit, [Name]. Why aren't you being so distant? Don't think I didn't notice how much you're avoiding me"

"Carlos it's not that..."

"Then what?! Explain it to me [Name]! Why are you being like this? Is it because..."

He pauses, his eyes were locked on yours and you suddenly feel so small. Seeing Carlos get frustrated was terrifying.

"Is it because there's someone else, [Name]?"

"No! God, no! Carlos, I only love you"

"But why are you acting like this? Fucking tell me"

Your lip begins to quiver as tears formed in your eyes. Carlos notices it and his face immediately goes soft. He tries to comfort you by placing a hand on your cheek, but you pull away. It brought an ache to his chest.

"Por favor, mi amor. Tell me what's wrong"

"Do you hate it when I'm being too clingy?"

"What? No, you know I love your hugs"

"That's not what I heard the other day"

You frowned, unable to stop the tears rolling down your cheeks. Carlos stops for a moment and remembers the conversation he had with Camilo. He looks at you in a panic.

"[Name], it's not what it sounded like..."

"Oh please, I heard you loud and clear, Carlos. You said how excessive I was and how I'm always hugging you from behind, demanding cuddles from you when you're busy, and bothering you all the time"

Carlos gulped at what you said. Without a warning, he pulls you into a tight embrace, he breathes in the scent of your hair, and not too long you return the hug. You couldn't resist his touch.

"I didn't mean to hurt you, mi querida. I never said your clinginess was a bad thing"

"But you said..."

"Shhh, I know what I said sounded shitty but trust me I adore your clinginess, [Name]"

You sobbed in his arms. Carlos picks you up and takes you to your bed, he lays beside you, still holding close enough to hear your heartbeat. He gently caressed your hair, you look at him as he wiped the remaining tears off your face.

"...You like it when I'm clingy?"

"Sí, [Name]. I told my brother that, ask him and he'll tell you how much I love how you hold me"

A smile finally spreads across your face and relief floods into Carlos. He returns the smile as he goes to give you a quick kiss on the lips, you giggle as you pulled him close until he decides to lie on top of you. He lets you pet his hair as he relaxes on top of you.

"I love you, Carlos"

"Shut up and cuddle with me, [Name]"

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The sky appears so clear making way for the sunlight to seep from above, showering down on such beauty that graced on land. Every gaze was directed, attentions were stolen, and people all fixated on the prettiest girl known in town.

"Ah, there she goes"

They sighed full of adoration. Her eyes were glimmering, he skin glowed under the sunlight as her hair swept along the soft breeze. When she goes to wave politely at the townsfolk, they all clutched their chests. After all, having noticed such beauty felt like an honor in Encanto. One can agree so much thanks to being exposed to her beloved presence.

Camilo Madrigal can admit he's relatively popular in town. Having the gift of shapeshifting and a personality as bright as the sun can prove it so. But Camilo barely stood a chance at the town's beauty because he too was enamored by her. Being her best friend caused it.

"Hi, Camilo!"

You greet him with a beaming smile, and immediately, Camilo's knees grow weak. He sends you a toothy grin and tried not to faint by your beauty. 

"What's up, [Name]?"

Camilo replied. You happily chuckled and went to gently grab him by the arm, you pulled him close to you, in a friendly way. He merely flinches at the sudden contact and the eyes landing on him. The locals of Encanto began talking in hushed voices while pointing at you and Camilo. However, you were oblivious to it.

"I was thinking about trying this new stall in town. I heard they sell fantastic pies and I wanna try it with you"

"Oh, sure!"

A delighted smile graces your lips as you hurriedly lead Camilo with you. The shapeshifter could barely let out a protest, when it came to you, he couldn't bother to complain. Your friendship began with the Madrigal when your parents set you up as playmates, since then, you two were inseparable. You grew alongside each other, even if things became difficult, Camilo and you stayed together.

As friends, only

Camilo thought to himself and looked away to frown. It wasn't like he was displeased with his friendship with you, if anything, he treasured it so much. The only problem he had with being friends with you is that he wanted more.

Camilo was in love with you, the prettiest girl in Encanto.

Some might say he's lucky enough to be your best friend, but to be your lover? It sounds like a dream out of grasp. Camilo may be clever, charming, and talented, but he found it hard to stand against your hundreds of admirers. Though he can understand why everyone is so attracted by you. Not only you were beautiful, but you were also kindhearted. You were an angel incarnate on earth.

"Camilo? Are you okay, amigo?"

You tilted your head at him. The shapeshifter puts on a big smile and nodded his head, he goes to ruffle your hair and earn a laugh from you.

"¡Por supuesto, mi amiga! Now, what do you wanna do next?"

Your eyes light up as you start blabbering about the things you wanted to do with him today. Camilo was contented with seeing you happy with him even if it's only meant to be friendly, but it doesn't stop him from making some moves.

Camilo reaches to tuck a strand of hair behind your ear when you talk, you brushed it off with a smile. He goes to wipe the crumbs on the corner of your lips when you're eating, you only thanked him. The shapeshifter subtly grabs your hand and intertwined it with his, you let out a tiny laugh. The Madrigal gives you a bundle of fresh flowers and desserts, you give him the most beautiful expression known to man and took his gifts.

"Awww, thanks, mi amigo"

Mi amigo. My friend

You called him that several times now and he just had to pretend it didn't deliver a sting to his chest. Camilo had to fake that your heedlessness to his advances doesn't affect him at all. The shapeshifter was stuck on the sidelines as he watched several people make an attempt to woo you, so far, nobody has succeeded, to his relief. But he feared that one day, somebody's going to sweep you off your feet and take you away, that's why he's so eager to make you fall in love with him.

The Madrigal trudged home after a day of hanging out with you, a pout was visible on his lips as he entered the casita. His family was aware of his crush on you, sometimes they offered him advice but mostly teased him. Mirabel Madrigal greeted her cousin who was slouching in his room.

"No luck today, primo?"

"Nada, prima. It's just the same"

"Well, have you tried..."

"Mira, I've tried everything at this point! I tried giving her gifts, taking her out to places, and she doesn't even realize it"

Camilo exclaimed, he threw his hands in the air and buried them in his hair, he lets out a groan and stumbled onto his bed. Mirabel sighed.

"I guess you should try being more straightforward"

"Was me gawking at her whenever she comes around and solely giving her all my attention every day straightforward enough?"

"Primo, it's time you need to confess"

The shapeshifter sprung up from his bed. Confess? But how? Camilo doesn't even know where to start. He's petrified imagining you rejecting his confession if possible, a confession might ruin his friendship with you. He bites his nails.

"I...I can't"

"Ay dios mio. You've been in love with [Name] for ages! Plus, it's tiring to see you keep failing on your advances"

"You don't get it, prima! What if...what if she rejects me and it ends up breaking our friendship?"

Camilo's voice wavered, Mirabel exhaled and goes to give him a soft pat on the back. The thought of losing you scared every fiber of his being, he couldn't stand it, it would break him. But then again, he's so sick of "being the best friend of the pretty person".

"You'll never know, Camilo. What if she's hiding feelings from you too"

Mirabel told him. He looked her in the eye, finally making up his mind. Camilo lets out a sharp inhale. It was now or never.

"I...I'll do it"

"Don't worry, if she ends up rejecting you, I won't tell Isa and the others"

"I highly doubt it"

The two shared a laugh. Camilo was going to do it, he's going to confess his feelings to you. All he needs is to muster enough courage and a hundred prayers and maybe things will be alright.

Things weren't going according to what Camilo has anticipated. It seemed like the world was against him because when he was prepared to confess, he didn't expect the literal line of your admirers confessing their love to you. Camilo felt underprepared after seeing their professions. They gave you gifts, recited you poems and some even sang a serenade for you. The shapeshifter felt hopeless because you were smiling the entire time.

There was no way he'd get a chance with you when there are others who seemed more worthy than him to be your lover. Camilo felt like shit, and with that, he decided to ditch. You were too busy being adored by others to notice him anyway. The Madrigal distanced himself from everyone during the day, his family can tell things weren't well.

Camilo sat at the edge of a river, the moon in the sky was as bright as ever. He frowned and threw pebbles towards the water, watching it skip until it sunk down. He accepts that he'd be hopelessly in love with you and forever remain in the friend zone. He'd rather have that than lose everything. Why does love have to be complicated?

"Boo!"

The shapeshifter screamed at the sudden voice, he turns to see you giggling at his reaction. Emotions fill him, joy, downcast, frustration. Your beauty distracts him again in a trance that you had to snap your fingers in front of his face.

"What are you doing here, mi amigo?"

"...Nothing"

"I haven't seen you all day, I'm starting to believe you're avoiding me"

You said. Camilo can sense the worry in your tone, he grabs the nearest pebble and threw it across the water.

"Hey [Name], remember that book we used to read when we were kids?"

"Oh, you mean the story about a firefly being in love with a star?"

"Heh, yeah"

Camilo softly chuckled at the small memory he had with you as children. Somewhat now he can relate to a firefly falling in love with a star. He's like a firefly longing to be with the brightest star in the night sky.

"It was adorable, I remember you seeing that little song from the story?"

"You mean "ma belle Evangeline"?"

"Look how she lights up the sky. Ma Belle Evangeline. So far above me yet I know her heart belongs to only me"

You sang softly to him. Camilo was surprised you still remember the song, he smiles at this. He looks at you sitting next to him under the moonlight, suddenly, hope fills him.

"Je t'adore, Je t'aime..."

"Wow, Camilo! Since when do you know how to speak french?"

"Since when I began falling for you"

He replied. Quickly, you go silent, it was unusual for you to have nothing to say. Camilo grew nervous the longer you stayed quiet. Your breath wavered.

"You...you have feelings for me, Camilo?"

"Yeah, for a very long time now. I've been obvious with it yet you act so oblivious"

Camilo's voice goes high-pitched but quiet, you can tell he's tense. You pursed your lips, not knowing what to say. The shapeshifter finally meets you in the eye.

"[Name], you're the brightest star I've ever met, you're...you're ma belle Evangeline. And I understand if you don't feel the same but I can't take it being only your friend"

"Camilo, I..."

"I know I don't stand a chance against your fantastic admirers. I tried everything I could for you but it seemed like I wasn't meant for you"

"Camilo, look at me"

You said. Camilo stops rambling and faced you, your soft hand cupped his cheek and you grant him a large smile with glistering orbs.

"Do you even know why I haven't said yes to any of those admirers?"

"No..."

"Ay, Camilito. It's because I'm only interested in you, tonto"

The Madrigal froze by your words, shock was evident in his face. It felt too good to be real, his jaw drops to the floor and you laughed at the sight.

"Wait...are you for real?"

"Oh my god, yes! I may not notice your advances but I do have feelings for you too, Camilo"

All of a sudden, you were swept off of your feet. You chuckled when Camilo spins you around in his arms, his shapeshifting goes berserk, changing from various people. You lovingly brought your hand to his cheek and he returns back to himself. Camilo was smiling like an idiot now knowing his feelings were reciprocated.

"I love you, my star"

"Awww, I love you too, mi amor"

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There was nothing wrong with dreaming or wishing for an experience. Everyone has tried to seek out a satisfaction they've never had. But in Carlos' case, he thinks he'll never find the experience of satisfaction again.

It began when he saw those photographs of you, a smile was gracing your features, it felt like home. Carlos heard stories of you, stories filled with joy before you met him. He had a nagging feeling that he can't provide you the same or better happiness as before. As he continues to admire you, he slowly slips and falls into a pit filled with curiosity about you. Carlos wanted you, clearly. He wanted to hold your hand and steal your warmth. He wanted to know what it's like to trap you in his arms and kisses.

He takes it one day at a time and eventually, you were his. You hadn't expected Carlos to sweep you off your feet out of all people. He had a specific charm to him. It was probably the way he'd smirk your way when he played the guitar, but you were smitten.

Carlos as a lover was tender and passionate. He aimed day by day to get physical with you. He wooed you with the gentle brush of his fingertips on your skin and stolen kisses. You realized how deeply in love Carlos was with you and the thought brought butterflies to your stomach.

However, when there's a rise, there comes a fall to everything.

It was unsure how and when it happened but Carlos started being demanding. Before you knew it, Carlos began suffocating you with requests. Requests to remain by your side, demanding your attention. You assumed he was only clingy and it was adorable at first, but things escalated terribly. He started invading your personal space, he turned snarkier and raised his voice when he didn't get what he wanted from you.

"No, Carlos"

You would say every time you were uncomfortable with what he demanded from you. Whatever was up with Carlos, you weren't liking it. Eventually, his jealous side saw the light of day and ruined everything. He became necessarily possessive of you. He pushed you into things you weren't familiar with and it made you doubt if Carlos held any care for you at all.

"Why are you like this?!"

Here it was again, the screaming and quarreling. You and he started having nasty fights after the peak of your relationship. Carlos shoots you a scowl when you shouted at him. He places his hand on his chest.

"I'm just trying to protect you!"

"Punching that guy was unnecessary, Carlos!"

"You should've been thankful I was looking out for you! Have you seen the way his eyes trailed on you?!"

"You could've at least settled this in a gentler way!"

You waved your hands around in pure anger. Carlos snarled at you, unable to hide his distaste. He shoved you by the shoulder.

"You better watch that pretty mouth of yours, [Name]"

"Carlos, what the fuck?"

"You should feel grateful that I'm still looking out for you despite your shitty attitude"

All of a sudden, a flash of regret was seen in Carlos' eyes as his face drops briefly. Your face went blank as your lips quivered, and tears began building up. You stuttered, incapable of finding the words to say.

"[Name] I..."

"I can't fucking believe you have the nerve to shit talk me as if you're not shitty yourself"

You managed to blurt out to him with wet eyes. Carlos pursed his lips, and a tinge of insult was written all over his face as he opens his mouth to defend himself.

"I'm doing everything for you! I've done anything I can to please you! I should have at least some credit for being a decent lover"

He said. Your furrowed your eyebrows, baffled by what he said, it was enough to push you to your limit. You bitterly laughed.

"We're done, Carlos"

This causes Carlos' throat to go dry, out of all the things he was expecting you to say, that was not one of them. He opens his mouth and closes it, he processes the serious look on your face as it slaps him in the face.

"I can't fucking do this with you anymore"

You hurriedly went to grab your shoes and slipped them on, not bothering to tie the laces. You exited the door and Carlos goes rushing toward you in a panic. You turn to face him and the tears were already streaming down your face. The look hurts Carlos enough that he starts to cry as well.

"Por favor no hagas esto, [Name]..."

"Goodbye, Carlos"

You say and turned your heel but he stops you with a grab on your arm, you spotted the look of desperation in his eyes. Carlos wanted you to stay longer even if you weren't his anymore.

"Do...do you need some help?"

He was referring to the things you left at his place, you scoffed at him and rolled your teary eyes.

"Do me a favor and stop flattering yourself"

You pull your arm away from him and called a taxi. You walk away with your shoes untied and eyes all red. Carlos watched and waited until you got inside the vehicle, for one last time, he saw you forcing a smile and waving goodbye to him.

Carlos wanted to tell you "fuck off" but then he reconsidered, it might've sounded too kind after all the things he said. Instead, he trudges to his car and collapsed on the steering wheel, full-on sobbing. He managed to fall asleep in his car. The morning was complete and his tears on the steering wheel were dripping on the seat. Carlos starts the engine and drove away, disappearing up the hill.

The roaring of the audience brought a grin to his face. Carlos marched on stage with his band and grabbed his guitar, slinging it over his head. He adjusts the mic stand and draws his lips closer to the microphone.

"Are you fucking ready?"

He greets and the crowd goes wild. Suddenly, the music comes blaring through the speakers as Carlos starts to play his guitar. It's been years and Carlos has found himself a career as a musician, it's been doing him good. But every now and then his mind the trail back to you and the nasty breakup. He still couldn't recover from the heartbreak. People may not see it because of his confidence in playing on stage and singing, but he's still tearing apart inside.

Carlos decided that he can't keep these miserable emotions within any longer. So, for the final song at his gig, he chooses to let it all out. The music began with the rhythm of the drums, the bass goes next as the series of singular strums of the guitar enters. Carlos blankly walked closer to the microphone.

"Well, the morning was complete. Where there was tears on the steering wheel, dripping on the seat"

"Several hours or several weeks. I'd have the cheek to say they're equally as bleak"

He starts to sing. At the same time, Carlos recalled the moments of his weeping at his car, he remembered the bitter moments he last shared with you. He strums his guitar louder, expressionless.

"It's the beginning of the end. The car went up the hill and disappeared around the bend

"Ask anyone, they'll tell you. That it's these times that it tends"

"To start to break in half, to start to fall apart. Hold on to your heart"

Carlos holds back his emotions at bay for a little longer as the song approaches the chorus, his pride won't let him cry just yet.

"Do me a favor and break my nose. Do me a favor and tell me to go away"

"Or do me a favor and stop asking questions"

He sings out softly but with enough emotion, that he can feel the strumming on his guitar go harder. As the second verse enters, the drums and bass pause. Carlos shakily inhales.

"Well, she walked away while her shoes were untied. And the eyes were all red"

"You could see that we'd cried. And I watched, and I waited 'til she was inside"

"Forcing a smile and waving goodbye"

Carlos delicately plays his guitar as his voice rings out through the speakers, filled with melancholy. The drums return as his eyes monetarily looked at the sea of people in front of him.

"Curiosity becomes a heavy load. Too heavy to hold, too heavy to hold"

His eyes scanned for everyone's faces near the front row as he sang. Carlos' stomach drops to the floor as he misses a chord when his eyes land on a too familiar sight. An unexpected sight of you gazing at him as he played with his band. His breath hitches and the dam merely breaks but he picks himself up before he falls, though his eyes were fixed on you.

"Curiosity becomes a heavy load. Too heavy to hold, will force you to be cold"

Carlos' voice cracks as the rapid sound of the drums booms all over. He pulls away from the mic and begins to furiously strum his guitar. He shuts his eyes and simply played his guitar while shaking his head along with the music, he knew you were watching him crumble apart. It was a cruel fucking joke. Carlos gulped and ran back to the mic, his eyes immediately meets yours.

"Do me a favor, and ask, if you need some help. She said "Do me a favor, and stop flattering yourself"

"And to tear apart the ties that bind. Perhaps "fuck off" might be too kind"

Your jaw nearly drops to the floor when Carlos keeps his eyes on you as he sings his lungs out with teary eyes, you don't know what to make of it. Was it an apology? Or a scream of despair? You didn't like that he was strumming his guitar aggressively and lost himself in the heartbreak.

"Perhaps "fuck off" might be too kind"

Carlos sings for the last time as he peeled his eyes away. The song comes to an end and the people cheered for him, but his heart doesn't warm up, it falls apart because he saw you pushing himself through the crowd and leaving the show. He catches his breath and lets out a choked sob. Fortunately, the lights go off so that nobody will spot him crying.

It was pathetic. He didn't know why you had to show your face to his gig. Did you like seeing him suffer like that? Carlos knew to himself he was in the wrong when you two split up, it was only now that it happened. It was during this moment that he finally realized he was wrong. He won't attempt to try to patch everything up, Carlos can sense you don't want to return to him anymore.

As he puts away his guitar and left the venue, Carlos remembers your smile in those photographs. He always thought you were happier before you met him. He slowly wiped off his tears, he should do himself a favor and stop thinking about what's already gone.

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For the longest time, you had a hopeless crush on your classmate, Carlos Madrigal. So when you saw him walking your way in the hallway, you almost blacked out. He met you at your locker. "Hi, Y/n" He said with a smile. "Hey, Carlos, what's up?" You had managed to keep your cool and were curious to see why he approached you. You didn't really interact with him outside of class. He was pretty popular and you were not, so you didn't really talk to him or know him. In fact, you were surprised he knew your name.

"Um, my band's doing a show tonight and I was wondering if you could make it?" You agreed immediately, "Of course! I'd love to." "So I'll see you there?" "Definitely." You smiled at him. He smiled back. He waved at you and then turned and walked away. You couldn't hide the huge smile plastered on your face. 

You had waited for him to leave and then fell to your knees in front of your locker, squealing into your hands."Dude, I think you're overreacting." You looked up at your best friend and glared at them. They chuckled. "No, really. He was just asking. I'm pretty sure he doesn't like you back. Relax." You got up,  grabbed your stuff and walked away. "Whatever"

You stopped, and turned slightly, "See you in class?" They rolled their eyes and smiled, "Yeah, see you"The moment you were out of sight, they went after Carlos. They had a secret plan they were setting in motion. They've heard you obsess over Carlos for years and they've had enough. They were going to put an end to this once and for all. 

Unbeknownst to him, you'd been to all of Carlos's gigs. However, he actually knew you were there this time. Throughout the night, he kept looking at you in the audience and smiling. At one point, during a more suggestive song, you could've sworn he smirked at you. He kept singing in your direction while looking straight into your eyes.

You were enjoying yourself, really, but you were losing your mind over Carlos's attention on you. You knew it was probably just him trying to entertain the crowd or something, but still. You couldn't shake off the feeling that maybe he felt the same way as you. You were suddenly snapped out of your trance when Carlos announced they were on the last song. 

"This last one's dedicated to a special someone in the crowd tonight, Y/n." He said your name, what. the. fuck. You were going insane. You had to be. You soon realized that this was actually happening when he motioned you onto stage. You simply complied and joined him on the stage.

You whispered over to him, "Carlos, w-what?" You couldn't believe it. Your crush invited you onstage, to dedicate a song to you. Holy shit. He looked you in your eyes and gave you the most gentle smile you'd ever seen.  He interlocked your hands and pulled you close. It was like you two were the only people in the world. 

He started singing, no, serenading you to I Wanna Be Yours, by Arctic Monkeys. He held you close and slowly danced with you. Swaying to the slow, sweet melody. He had one arm around you, and the other caressing your face. You wrapped your arms around him as the song finished.

He held your face and brought your lips to his. He kissed you so gently and tenderly, and then he pulled away.  He rested his forehead against yours and smiled. Then, planting a kiss on your forehead and nose, he said his goodbyes to the crowd, while whispering to you,  "Meet me backstage." You nodded and made your way to his dressing room. You couldn't believe what was happening. It all felt so surreal, too good to be true. 

You heard Carlos open the door. He closed the door and walked up to you, grabbing your face and closing the gap once again, this time, more forceful, almost like a last goodbye. When you finally broke away from each other,  you both laughed. He chuckled, his voice awfully low all of a sudden.

"Oh, Y/n, you really are naive." He smirked at you.  "What?" You backed away from him.  "Did you really think I would ever like you back? A little nobody like you? That's adorable. I mean, I'll admit, you are beautiful. But, you're nothing." "Carlos-" He pressed a finger to your lips,  effectively shushing you, he brought his face to your ear, "Not a word, pet. Now, leave. And don't tell anyone about tonight either." 

He took you to the door and locked the door in your face. Your best friend had heard the whole thing and immediately ran to you and hugged you. "I am so sorry, sweetheart. This is all my fault. I was getting tired of hearing you lose your mind over Carlos, so I made a plan with him. I didn't know he was gonna do that though. I'm so, so sorry. " You know they didn't mean it, so you forgave them.  

A week had passed, and you were completely broken. You had been used and discarded, and you didn't deserve that. Carlos Madrigal was an asshole, and what broke you the most was that he was just fine. Like, that night never happened. And how you wish it didn't. It really was too good to be true.