MiserableMuffin

Peter Parker in Gotham

You’re Gonna Go Far

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Spideytorch

WHERE IS MY HUSBAND!

C’mon, c’mon, c’mon cause I like what I like

Will you come to my cottage this summer?

Peter Parker and the Spider Period

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

The Poppy War (Jiang and Rin father-daughter relationship)

Demons posted all around me, I can’t beat them all alone

Crack Baby

Chapter 1

Jason x Roy

I Think I Love You

Lo’ak and Jake

Would Look Just Like You

Fantastic Four

Gay is Ok!!

X-Men

Scott Summers and the Burdens of Parenting

Byler

Second Brings an Awful Thirst (Chapter 1 + 2)

WillMark

Temptation of the Teeth Part One

Temptation of the Teeth Part Two

Five Nights at Freddie’s (Gregory and Michael Au)

Notes: Hope ye enjoy!!

Also 4,00O hits?? Crazy, THANK YOU :D!!!!!

Forks squeaked against the porcelain plates, while Johnny tried not to suffocate on the air that had just a tang of awkwardness to it.

Sue sat at the head of the table, Reed and Ben to her left, Johnny and Peter to her right. Franklin was currently lying in his cot down the hall, letting sleep lull him under before he could witness this shit show. What Johnny would give to be him in that moment.

Not a word had passed between any of them since Johnny introduced them. Sue had eyed Peter up and down and then promptly made herself at home at the dinner table. They had no choice but to follow suit.

It was times like these where Johnny wished he could see behind Peter’s mask. Was he nervous? Was he putting on a facade? If he was, would Johnny even know? Reality was, that if Peter ripped of that pathetic bag and Johnny was graced with his face, he wouldn’t be able to tell if Peter was wearing his poker face or not.

It made the whole sham of going through marriage with bug brain a whole lot less appealing.

“These peas are really nice.” Peter said out loud neutrally.

The peas weren’t nice. Ben had made sure that everything was just borderline edible. Johnny could blame it on his boulders for hands but Ben was a great cook. This was about sending a message.

His family could be more than a lot.

With her silence being interrupted, Sue’s eyes cut through the air and sharply landed on Peter.

“Really? Well you seem to like a lot of my nice things. Hm? Let’s see, my peas and oh what else…oh yeah, MY BABY BROTHER.” Sue slapped her hand down sharply on the table. Johnny was surprised it didn’t crack.

Johnny shoved his chair back, abruptly standing up. “That’s not fair Sue.”

Sue launched up in her chair, arms locking into their familiar cross. “Not fair?! My baby brother is getting engaged to a stranger in a-a paper bag!”

The bag crinkled as Peter made a face. “This is not my usual get up.”

“Yeah kid, cause the spandex is way better.” Ben let out gruffly as Johnny implored at him that he was in no ways helping matters.

“Johnny what are you thinking. He’s dangerous.”

“Spidey wouldn’t hurt a fly.”

“Actually by his namesake, he most likely would Johnny.” Was Reed’s helpful input to the conversation.

“I just, I don’t understand.” Sue whispered out, bringing her hand to her forehead, two fingers ceasing out the creases at her eyebrows. As she pulled it away tears threatened her eyes.

“I just thought we told each other things. Important things and I just….”

A cry could be heard from the nursery, causing Sue to stride right over to it. Johnny was hot on her heels, before shooting a look right over his shoulder back at Peter that translated into: Don’t kill Ben, don’t let Ben kills you.

When Johnny walked in, Sue was cradling Franklin in her arms, gently rocking him back and forth with whispered promises to soothe whatever worry his head had conjured.

Johnny closed the door behind with a gentle yet deafening click. Where to even begin?

“I’m sorry Sue. It just sort of…happened? We knew you didn’t want to tell the world about Franklin with those weird bots on the loose and then Spidey panicked and poof! It sorta just came out….”

Sue said nothing. Just continued to sway Franklin till gentle snores occupied the room.

“I’m not happy with this Johnny.”

Johnny winced. “I got that impression.”

Sue threw a scowl at him from over her shoulder. “Do you really want this?”

“Yes.” The answer was more confident than he felt, but they had decided they were going to make a change. So who cares if they pretend for awhile and then broke it off, no big deal.

Sue pursed her lips. “I…was it all the dates I put you up on. Is that why you didn’t tell me?”

Johnny shook his head. “I told you Sue, we didn’t plan the engagemen—“

“No, not that. You liking men. Is that why you couldn’t tell me.”

Molases tickled down his throat as he tried to force an answer out. That was the first time someone had said it out loud. The secret that he liked men.

All he could do was shrug at her. It was a mixture of everything and anything in between.

“Well I’m sorry. I’m sorry that you felt like you couldn’t tell me. Franklin may be my baby Johnny, but you were my baby first and I hate the thought of anything happening to you, or you feeling like you can’t tell me something. Because I love you Johnny and gosh, I don’t know what you see in him, but I just want him to treat you right. I certainly don’t care that he’s a he, more so that he wears a mask.”

Tears were trembling slowly down Sue’s face now. Johnny reached out to her and wrapped her up. Tears of his own made their own path down his cheeks.

“I love you Sue.”

“I love you too Johnny.”

They stayed like that for a while, and Johnny was content until the sound of splintering wood cracked through the peace.

🕸️🕷️🕸️🕷️

Talk about making a good first impression. Peter would say out of all the family dinners he had, this would be in the top three for most memorable.

Peter looked to his left where Mr Fantastic was cracking his jaw at an unnatural angle. Peter would make conversation about his new theory of unstable molecules but Grim eyed him up big time any time Peter even thought about opening his mouth about the thesis.

It was like he could read minds, or had his own freaky spider sense.

“So, come here often.”

Ben’s eye gave a twitch.

“I will squash you like a bug.”

“My, oh, my Mr Grim. Don’t threaten me with a good time. At least take me to dinner first, oh wait.”

Peter wore a grin and a half underneath the shitty brown bag. As Ben pushed up from the table, Peter was ready to risk it all, take off him mask and stick his tongue out at Ben.

“Listen ere pal. You may think you’re all that just cause you’re new on the block and matchstick took a shine to ya, but you ain’t. So I think it best if you shoo out of ere while you still can.” He had lumbered his way over to Peter and punctuated every sentence with his finger tapping on Peter’s chest.

Peter, already risen from his seat along with Reed, who narrowed his eyes down at Ben.

“Is that so?”

His rocky brows set on his rectangular face. “Mhm.”

The face off lasted all of ten seconds before Peter promptly sat back down and leaned his elbow against the table. He wiggled his fingers tantalizingly at Ben.

“Come on. You’re not afraid of a friendly arm wrestle.”

Ben smirked at him before taking his previous position. He locked his crater sized hand with Peter’s as Reed laid an overly stretched hand on their fingers.

“I don’t like this.” Reed said out loud.

“Yeah stretcho but it’s too late to back out now.”

“One, two, three!”

Peter flexed his muscles at the lumbering weight that fell upon him. He was glad he had a mask on, so Ben couldn’t see the struggle he was actually put under. He gritted his teeth and dragged his eyes up to Ben. His brows scrunched together as he strained against the pressure Peter was putting him under.

People underestimated Peter a lot. He’s proven them time and time again wrong. As he watches a bead of sweat trickle down Ben’s brow he has a feeling he’s right again.

His sense begin to spark in danger before a loud crack echoes the room and their joint hands scramble away from each other. They had broken the table.

Peter stares gobsmacked at the remains of the splintered wood. That table probably cost more than his apartment. Reed had one hand on his head, scratching away at record speed while the other lay uselessly at his hip.

Ben could only manage, “Well would you look at that,” before falling into silence.

Two seconds later three blonde heads enter the room, each with varying degrees of dismay. He’s pretty sure the only reason Sue didn’t use a force field to shove him out the tower was because she was holding her most fragile family member.

🕸️🕷️🕸️🕷️

Sue and him were placed side by side for unraveling the gifts. A not so subtle hint from Johnny to at least try and make one good impression before he swung it.

“I’m sorry about your table.”

Sue sniffed at him. “It’s fine I suppose. Ben is worse for letting it happen.”

Peter was more than willing to let Big Ol Ben take the blame. He searched around the room for something to say. A wreath sat a top the mantle piece. He started to smile before he even realised his face was pulling upwards.

Sue, following his eyes, glanced suspiciously at the wreath. “Not up to scratch?” She asked sarcastically.

Peter shook his head. “No, it’s just my Aunt used to have a wreath just like it. Until my Uncle and I broke it. We spent the whole day picking up stuff from the park and tried to make a new one. So yeah, the wreath is just about up to scratch.”

Sue eyed him up as if she’s viewing him in another light. As if she actually just realised he’s human underneath it all.

“Well. Try not to arm wrestle over my lovely wreath and we won’t have a repeat of the past.”

Peter grinned at her. “Lovely wreath, lovely peas. I’m starting to sense a pattern here.”

Sue hummed at him idly. “Can’t forget my lovely brother.”

Peter didn’t mean to, but his eyes automatically drifted towards Johnny. He couldn’t help it. Johnny was a bright light compared to everything else in the room.

“It would be very hard to forget your brother.” When Peter said it, he didn’t imagine the clog of emotion bottled up in his throat.

Sue placed a hand on his should before pulling back. “Treat him well Pete.”

She then clapped her hands together and pulled herself from her seat, before she makes her way over to Reed and Franklin.

Ben is preoccupied at the moment with the telephone, Peter faintly hears the name Alicia being mentioned once or twice, so that leaves Johnny to come toss himself next to Peter.

He throws a clumsily wrapped present in his direction that is accompanied with a dazzling smile. “Merry Christmas Pete.”

He eyed it warily. “I didn’t get you anything.”

Johnny shrugged. “You coming here was enough.”

Peter, instead of opening his mouth and saying something sappy, unravels the paper in two seconds flat.

“Johnny.”

“Peter.”

“Why am I holding a Spider-Man themed collar?”

Johnny let out a cackle, his eyes wide with mirth as he drank in the several expressions flickering on Peter’s face.

“What? You’re the one who bit me, be lucky you didn’t unwrap a muzzle.”

He knew his image produced a line of merch, but he never believed a dog collar would be on the list of items subjected to his emblem.

“I’m not putting this on.” He had some dignity left.

“Would never ask you to, it’s not like you’d be into that stuff. You’re more for webbing me up…hmm. I think that’s a specific kink, something called B—“

Peter had no dignity left as he dragged a plush pillow from his side and attempted to strangle Johnny. Johnny just let out a choked laugh, when the pillow whacked his face, before hitting Peter right back. This went on for a few moments before a pointed cough sounded in the air.

They both let go of the deflated pillow, twin grins shining at each other. Peter looked at Johnny, who was flushed and happy, and couldn’t help but imagine spending every Christmas with him.

Where the fuck had at that come from?

Before he could delve deeper into his little malfunction, Johnny was up and gone abruptly. Leaving the rest of them to ponder before he came back with monopoly in his arms.

🕸️🕷️🕸️🕷️

A broken monopoly board and a week later, Johnny and Peter stand side by side in front of dozens of cameras.

A statement to the public has to be made, so here they are, a unit, ready to face the world.

“You look constipated.” Johnny whispers, ever so lovingly, in his ear.

“You can’t even see my face.” Peter hisses.

“It’s all in your posture, fix it quick.”

Peter elbows him lightly, but does make an effort. They don’t have to speak until a few minutes, everyone’s just taking this as a liberty to get as many shots as possible before their mouths move rapidly and disrupt the picture.

“Did you read the script?” Johnny questions.

“Oooo. Yeah, ehhhhh…about that.” Peter trails off, letting out an awkward chuckle.

Johnny gawks at him. “You have read it, have you not.”

“I was planning on it and then I may, key word may…have dropped it in the Hudson. Oh my god is that Mole Man!”

Johnny smacked him on the arm. “I can’t believe you. There was a whole speech and we both had sections and we were supposed to bounce off each other and now we’re going to look uncoordinated and unprofessional.”

“I’ve never been professional a day in my life. It’s ok. We’ll just wing it.”

Johnny let out several insults before it was their time to shine. Johnny took the lead and rattled off the rope learnt speech made by Sue. At the end, Johnny gave his picture perfect smile to the crowd while also slightly being out of breath. “Now, any questions?”

Several hands shot up. Peter scanned the crowd for his best bet of a safe question. “You,” he pointed at a middle aged woman with lipstick so bright, Daredevil wouldn’t miss it. The woman seemed like she’d have a mild question at best.

“Do you believe you’ll rot in hell for your actions?”

Ok, so maybe her question wasn’t exactly mild.

“Maybe slightly roasted for my questionable life choices, but that’s about it.” His eyes scanned over the crowd. “Man in the bright blue suit.”

“Thank you. It is rather bold what you are doing, but brave nonetheless. Do you belive the general public will be accepting?”

“We hope they are.” Peter said genuinely, for this was the whole reason they were doing this. “And if they’re not, oh well. We’ve got bigger fish to fry.”

“Yes, those robotic alien creatures. Any more news on them?”

Johnny cut it on that one. “The fantastic four are doing all they can to neutralize the threat, when we have more information we will share it to the public, so we can face this problem together.”

An appreciative hum makes its way through the crowd. Unity, Peter was learning, was very prominent in this universe. If the threat of Galactus ever arose at his home, the world leaders would tear each other to shreds before Galactus ever got a look in.

A big burly man in the front raises his hand, Johnny points to him next.

“How do you, you know?” He trailed off, while making several hand gestures to make himself clear.

Johnny was positively scarclet and Peter himself was turning a bit red round the collar.

“I don’t see how that’s important—“

“Doggy style. Woman with the pink blouse.”

The woman started her question while Johnny gaped at him. He could only snicker back. His fault for getting him that dog collar when he should’ve got the muzzle.

The back and forth between the pair and the crowd carries on for an hour before someone, who Peter could kiss, decides to call it quits.

They’re herded back stage, when Johnny tugs him into a closet when no one’s looking. All too preoccupied with setting up the stage for the next big thing.

“How do you think that went?”

“Overall pretty positive. You.”

“Better than expected.”

“Good. Now why are we in the closet? I thought the whole point of this was to come out of the closet, not head back in?”

Johnny rolled his eyes. “Har, har. It’s about the creatures that came here.”

Peter stilled, Johnny had an edge to his tone. “What about them?”

“They’ve been spotted on another planet. Reed wants to check it out and see can he gain an insight?”

“Does Reed know what those things are?”

“No, but he has an inkling of who made them. He won’t tell me, cause he’s no fun.”

“Huh. When do you leave?” A funny feeling beats in his chest at the thought of Johnny leaving. He knows Johnny can handle himself, but the bubbling feeling doesn’t sway.

“Next week, and I was wondering ifmaybeyouwouldliketocomewith?”

Even Peter’s advanced hearing couldn’t make out the tumble of words Johnny had just spewed. Johnny let out a sigh and enunciated his sentence more clearly at his dazed expression.

“Would you like to come with us?”

“Would that be safe, me and The Pebble on the same space ship?”

“If he didn’t kill you after that game of monopoly, he never will. So is that a yes?”

Peter bit his lip. “What about New York? How will it stay safe.”

“Reed has this protocol put in place, any threat will be dealt with. Trust me Peter, if we don’t go we could be dealing with a bigger issue than petty crime.”

“Hmmm. I don’t know.”

“Ok.” Peter realised Johnny knew his answer before he even asked. His heart squeezed at the realisation for many reasons he didn’t want to delve into. “Just bear in mind, you’re missing out.”

“Mhm. Now what about that dinner you promised me?”

Johnny tugged him out the cupboard with only minimal complaining about his tremendous appetite and lack of table manners for the ‘nice’ places he wants to take him.

A week later and many, many overthinking sessions, Peter was back in space, yet again.

“I can’t believe you said yes.” Johnny muttered, for the hundredth time that evening.

“Yeah, me and you too Flame Brain. I still don’t know why I said yes.”

“Because you love adventure.”

“Hm. Maybe I just love your money, and want a free holiday."

“A free holiday would be unwise to spend on you. You wouldn’t stop worrying, I bet you wouldn’t even relax for a second.”

Peter can’t argue with that, so he just marches on ahead. The driving factor of his decision was Johnny. Johnny was the closest thing to family he had here, and he couldn’t lose anyone else, not to some ill twisted fate, not if he could help it.

He couldn’t help Johnny from Earth, but he could help Earth by going with Johnny. If this threat is really something to be worried about, best to bring the fight to it, instead of having it on their home turf.

That didn’t mean he wasn’t worried about New York. He had vigorously done more swings about the place, trying to catch as many crooks as possible before he went M.I.A. He had scoured Reed’s safety protocols, and he has to say they were pretty solid.

That didn’t mean he didn’t worry, he was just a little less restless.

As this was a last minute decision, the guest room was currently preoccupied with being used as a storage unit, that meant he was rooming with Johnny. No big deal.

Well it wasn’t, until he saw the size of the room. Rectangular shaped, with a tiny bed pushed against one wall, with a small storage unit for their clothes. Walking space was at a premium and he knew him and Johnny would be bumping into each other by the time this trip was over.

Johnny peered over his shoulder from the doorway. “Huh. Could’ve sworn it was bigger.”

Peter had no retort, except to fling himself down onto it. He expected at least a small bounce, even a gentle sway, instead he felt like he just belly flopped on solid stone.

“What the fuck!?” Peter cried out.

Johnny laid a hand on the mattress before grimacing. “Forgot about that.”

“Is it too late to turn back?”

“Hm. Depends on whether you want to face Sue’s wrath.

Guess he was stuck with the slab of a bed.

🕷️🕸️🕷️🕸️

Johnny watched Peter fondly as he spoke animatedly with Reed. Johnny still can’t believe he came, shock still radiates through him when he glances and sees Peter there, half convinced he is back on earth, swinging the night away.

He stretches himself out before he makes the decision to head to bed. Sue and Ben are playing a game of cards, which means there will be several rounds before a winner is so much as thought about. Since Reed and Peter are deeply conversing, Johnny is more than happy to let them at it.

The rooming situation could be worse, but it also could be better. Him and Peter have shared a bed once, but that was under duress and heat induced neediness. This is different.

A nervous thrum strums through him at the thoughts of sleeping with Peter, but he doesn’t dig further. It’s no use, Peter will never see him like that, so it’s best to nip the foolish fantasy in the bud.

He climbs in, and is mindful to wear the appropriate clothing. Usually he’d sleep in boxers or nothing else, thank God he had the foresight to pack a pair of pajama pants. Peter did not, as for a few minutes later Peter arrives, and strips off both top and shirt, and rather than replace them, he leaves himself bare.

Johnny is flushed head to toe and the knowledge, never mind with the image of Peter bare. Johnny faces the wall and is mindful to leave enough space between them. So a good one inch is all that lies between the pair.

Johnny tires to sleep, but it refuses to find him. Peter seems to be in the same search of it, with no more luck than he has had.

A thought strikes him suddenly, Peter had worn his Spidey suit, so if he discarded his top and bottom, surely he must have taken off the mask as well. Knowing Peter however, he knows he hasn’t.

He’ll suffocate to death for fucks sake. Well, he probably wouldn’t, but the mask isn’t the most comfortable option.

He gets up with as much grace as he can muster, and scoots himself off the end of the bed. He rummages through his stuff before he finds what he’s looking for.

“Peter.”

Peter rolls over, not even pretending to be asleep. Curiosity is evident in his gaze.

“What are you doing?”

“On a quest in the name of a noble cause: getting you some beauty sleep. Here, tie this around my eyes.”

“Why?” He asks, even though he does as he’s told.

Once the fabric is tightly secured around his head, he feels his way back into the bed. Peter takes pity on him, and all but tugs him so that he topples onto him.

“Ouch. Watch it Storm.”

“Who just tugged who into the bed?” Johnny cried out indignantly. Peter blew out a raspberry at him.

“Again, why did you ask me to tie a scarf around your head?”

“Because now you can take off your mask and actually breathe.”

He can hear Peter gearing up for stubborn refusal, so Johnny’s quick to cut him off. “And don’t even give me that secret identity bullshit. If you trust me enough to leave earth and head to space, you should trust me enough not to peak.”

Peter says nothing, but then rustling fills the air and a light piece of fabric hits the floor. Peter let out a groan as he shuffled closer into the blankets.

“I hate it when you’re right. I’m glad it doesn’t happen often.”

Johnny let out a grumble, too tired to reply.

“Night Johnny,” then, as an afterthought, “You’re not a blanket hogger, are you?”

If he had a pillow to spare, he would’ve shoved it at Peter. Instead, he aimed a kick at his shin before they fell into the silent slumber of night.

Turns out Peter didn’t have to worry, as Johnny wasn’t a blanket hogger, Peter himself however, was a cuddler.

Johnny awoke with bleary eyes and far more limbs that he was used to. Peter was plastered to his back, or at least he hoped it was him, he still had the blindfold over his face.

Peter’s leg was lodged between his two and his arms clung onto him desperately round Johnny’s middle section. He was sleep talking, or more so mumbling, and his breath blew against his neck chillingly.

That’s how Johnny woke up for the next week and a half. Peter only shrugged at him in lieu of an apology. Not that Johnny was complaining, he had to out of principle of course but no, Johnny only worried his poor heart would collapse with the amount of beating it has been doing recently. Seriously, cardiac arrest was becoming a real possibility with the way Peter would hold him.

Other than that, the journey was fine. Peter chatted excitedly with Reed about stuff Johnny couldn’t care to know. He does listen to Peter rant about it to him after, because he’s amazing like that. On the down side of that, he now knows far too much on the multiverse now.

Sue and Peter get along in a way which is surprising to everyone, and when Ben taps out of playing cards, Peter gladly takes a seat.

Ben and Peter talk in a way in which cavemen once did. That’s the only way he can describe that relationship. Johnny catches the conversation here and there but it’s rather confusing, and he doesn’t know whether they’re getting on or not half the time. He’s not brave enough to ask either party.

Him and Peter, of course, are just their usual selves, which makes this journey ten times better, because he loves his family, he really does. Yet, at the same time, they treat him like a kid, which gets on his nerves more often than not.

Peter treats him like an equal, which is a more welcomed change in his life.

It’s weird not having Franklin round on the ship, Reed and Sue were both scarred from last time, along with the rest of the Fantastic Four, so the executive decision was made to leave Franklin in the Baxter Building with H.E.R.B.I.E. and Alicia.

Johnny hadn’t met Alicia yet, but Reed had and she had gained the stamp of approval. Apparently when they got back to earth they were all going on a family dinner to be formally introduced. He wondered if Peter had to go too. The answer came to him straight away when he remembered Peter was now his Fiancée, and was morally obliged to not let Johnny suffer alone at the inevitably stuffy and clammy restaurant.

They had three days left until they reached the planet Damhán Alla, and Peter had begun to act a bit twitchy.

Nothing too out of the ordinary, compared to his other behavior Johnny had been a witness to. Just a tad more hand holding, getting Johnny’s food for him and all but purring when Johnny said thank you.

The behavior was chalked up to being cooped up in a confined space for too long. Johnny didn’t question it, it wasn’t harming anyone, so why bring it up.

He regretted it one evening when he walked into their shared room and got a face full of webs.

He coughed and swatted away the remnants of the fallen web that now festered in his lungs.

What the fuck.

He stood frozen in the door way, watching the match stick box bedroom be transformed into a Halloween decoration. Peter sat on the bed, with a confuddled expression. When his eyes landed on Johnny, his pupils dilated before sizing back down to their normal status.

“Um, what exactly is this.”

“I’m going to be honest. I have no idea when or how I did this.”

“Okkkkk.” Johnny drawled out, eyes taking in the intricate webbing. It certainly took a lot of time, the last time he saw Peter was…three hours ago? Four? He was too busy with Sue, he had just assumed Peter would busy himself and boy did he live up to that.

“Do you like it?” Peter asked out of the blue. His eyes once again were blown to a huge proportion, before shrinking rapidly.

The question hung awkwardly in the room. He could sense it was important to Peter, not human Peter, but the spider part of him.

He was about to ask for him to take it down, but that doesn’t seem like an option now that the question has been unleashed.

“I do like it. It’s a bit unusual, but not in a bad way.”

Peter liked that answer, as a purring sound filled the room and he reached out for Johnny. He guided him through the little tunnel from the door to the bed before he laid both of them down on the hard surface.

He didn’t know how much Peter was aware of his actions, as seemed to be in a lucid state of Web Head.

“I knew you’d like this. See, they’re all flames.” Peter pointed out.

Johnny followed his finger above the canopy and low behold, they were flames swirled into the web pattern. The details were astonishing when he began to actually take it in.

The web thickness varied, along with the style of flame that adorned the webs. Johnny couldn’t help himself but allow for a genuine smile to make its way onto his face.

“You’ve outdone yourself Pete.”

Peter hummed appreciatively as he swirled a strand of Johnny’s hair around and around his finger.

“Just out of curiosity, is there any special reason or why you’ve done this…or….” is this your weird spider heat behavior is left unsaid.

“It’s a gift to celebrate our union.”

“Oh ok.” Is all he can conjure up, as now Peter is looming above him, holding his jaw with his hand. He hovers his lips over Johnny’s with a questioning tilt and click of his tongue.

In response Johnny turns his head to the side, so Peter drops that reproach and instead his eyes hone in on his neck.

“Can I bite you instead?”

Johnny wants to die, genuinely, someone strike him down because he can’t take it anymore. He’s been cuddled within an inch of his life, he’s been essentially giving an engagement gift, and now he’s been asked to be bitten, again.

He’s not unhappy with those things, he just wished the circumstances were better.

Johnny bit his lip, the last bite was harmless, what's one more. “Ok, you have permission to bite me, but then we’ve got to go to bed.”

Peter nods eagerly before latching onto his neck. A burst of pleasure sparks the mark of where Peter tore into his flesh. This bite is in the exact same spot of his previous, just on opposing sides.

Johnny stays still throughout the whole ordeal, careful not to break the moment when he feels himself begin to succumb to sleep.

Extra Notes: Soooo…what do we think?

Writers block sucks but I’m coming out of it, thank god :D. I’m like, it hasn’t been that long since I’ve updated and it’s been half a year…yikes!!

Anywho, they’re out in space and they’re happy. I did a tumblr pole and majority voted for the world to be allies, so they’re won’t be much negative conflict in that area, and I will delve into some nice scenes of them with the public when they’re back on earth.

Also, the dog collar bit was a call back from chapter two, cause I completely forgot what Johnny bought so I just rolled with that. I knows it’s some spider themed merchandise but what exactly is another question…????

Way more Peter acting like a Spider next chapter, cause you can never have enough of that. Also the planets name is the word for spider in Irish, so HINT HINT, on what that might entail.

Love the fantastic four and they’re the sole reason I’m watching doomsday. My god is that line up cooked, where tf is the big three lurking (Storm, Jean and Wanda?) like what are we doing here. Also why are we bringing back Steve Rogers, BUDDY MOVE ON!!!!! Like fuck me, let Sam shine Marvel

And on a side note, BRAND NEW DAY IS OUT THIS WEEK AND I CAN’T WAIT

Anyways, kudos and comments are always welcome, tell me if you’d like to see anything and I hope ye all have a lovely week :)

Notes: Hellllllllo,

Love these two and I absolutely adore fics with them together. That being said, there’s many fics where they survive the Pizzaplex together or some other Fazbear entertainment, so I decided to go off the rails with this one because:

They’re peak and I ain’t ever gonna top em and also because I can’t physically, mentally or spiritually make another WIP

So yeah, this is the foundation of this new series so I hope ye enjoy :D.

Gregory was constantly under the enormous pressure that everybody at this party knew he was a fraud, and that he didn’t belong here, and should just go.

Perhaps it was his gaunt, pale complexion or more so the fact that he looked one missed meal away from a charity case. The kids in here ranged from mild to wild, yet all remained the appearance that when they went home that night, they would be under a roof.

Gregory looked like he might live on the roof.

His unruly hair swished back and forth as the wind battled against it to graze his forehead and remind him of where his home truly was. He waited outside the gigantic entry way of the Pizzaplex with only one thought in mind, food.

Fazbear entertainment brought in large gaggles of pre pubescent children with the joys of singing animatronics and full family fun. For Gregory, it brought the opportunity of free food, if he was careful enough.

A bus pulled up in the designated area, and children streamed steadily onto the pavement while two frantic adults began again and again to count heads. So while the mustache man began his third count, the kids ran out of patience with the rigorous, herd counting, and in protest began to ever so sneakily veer off to the entrance.

Bingo.

Gregory followed the last few stragglers and kept his head down in fear of being caught. Nobody paid him any heed as both adults had strode ahead to take lead of the unsupervised charge at the front.

The group stopped at the front desk, where Gregory snuck off into the distance towards the smell of food loaded with stuff that would send any dentist into a frenzy. The occupied receptionist didn’t even spot him.

The first time Gregory had snuck into this place, he was like a rabbit on the run. Scared shitless of any noise that even hinted at the word danger.

Now, he strolls into the place as if he belongs, because he does in a way. He comes here once a week on Saturday, where business buzzs from every nook and cranny of this joint. He doesn’t go unnoticed, as he gets lingering stares from parents and children alike.

He knows coming here rinse and repeat is bound to get him caught, but, majority of the staff are robotic. They have millions of safety protocols instilled into them but have the lack of care for spotting children who seem vulnerable.

Gregory skips under their noses each Saturday with the knowledge that the robots are not programmed to target the homeless.

The place is packed with people for such an early hour but then again, it’s normally never not busy round the food court.

He scouts his options and zeros in on a table of boys around his age. They’re currently in the midst of a food fight, so Gregory strolls pass and saves the slice of pizza that would inevitably end up as shoe food.

He mingles for a while and manages to secure three slices of pizza and even a drink. He knows it’s not the most nutritional meal but sue him, it’s a Saturday.

Paranoia creeps up on him and he knows his overstayed visit is over. A wave of disappointment washes over him but he knows it’s time to go.

He makes his trek back towards the Atrium, moving past the animatronics show rooms when something catches his eye.

Freddy’s door was wide open and yet, nobody seemed to notice. Gregory couldn’t care less about the robotic sing squad but Gregory was curious at heart. Some say nosey but he preferred the term inquisitive. Well, at least that’s what the old woman at library had told him.

He swivels his head back and forth, the improbable thought that this was a bad idea being played with in his mind before his feet made their move.

Upon further inspection, there was a flimsy rope held up across the entry way with the firm message, NO ENTRY, printed across it.

Gregory ducked underneath after taking a peak in and seeing that no one occupied the space. His jaw was left loose as he took in the scene.

Orange, blue and red, the notorious colours for Freddy Fazbear were strewn across the room in harmonious and chaotic fashion. Gregory stood still in the threshold before carefully making his way inside.

Coming up closer to the dresser, he spotted that pictures from various fans were hung up. He viewed himself in the mirror and nearly took a step back. He knew he looked rough but damn, no wonder he was getting more stares than usual.

His reflection was a stark reminder of how coming here would only inveitably end him up at the cops or a foster home. As of this, his stomach did one fell swoop and he no longer felt the need to have a good snoop.

He turns on his foot when the door slides shut abruptly. His heart leaps into his mouth as he runs towards it. It’s a sliding door, so the only thing to tug is the indents of the lightning bolts blazing down the sides.

He’s not going to bang on the door, as that would draw far too much attention and he can’t exactly sweep open the blinds and shout for help. Nobody would come for him except the authorities.

He quickly scans the room and sees another door just a few paces away from the vanity. He makes his way over and slams the button, only to reveal the one and only Freddy Fazbear looming over him.

Gregory wouldn’t admit it, but he may have screamed a little.

The animatronic lifts his hands, or more so claws, into the air with only minor tweaking sounds.

“It is alright. I did not mean to startle you.”

“Asshole.” Gregory spit out, heart beating out of his chest. Then he remembered his bearings and the deep pile of shit he had currently dove head first into.

The bear frowned, if that was even possible.

“That is not appropriate language to be using.”

“I know.”

Silence settled over them, Gregory eyeing up Freddy intensely as Freddy tried to make up his mind on what to do.

“This area is off limits to children, how did you manage to come in here?”

Gregory averted his eyes as he scuffed his foot against the carpeted floor.

“The door was open, so I took a peek inside. I was just going to take a quick peek but then BAM, they closed.”

“My door was open?”

Gregory nodded vigorously.

“That is strange.” He said in a contemplative matter before shifting more so in the direction of Gregory.

His eyes beam out this low, level light that travels up the length of Gregory. He doesn’t even get the chance to complain before Freddy interrupts

“It appears you are broken. I must take you the Med Bay Area immediately.”

Gregory shrinks back and shakes his head viciously. “No fucking, I mean frickin way. I’m not broken and I’m not going anywhere with you.”

“Well then I must alert a member of staff to help with this incident.”

Gregory suddenly leapt up and grasped onto Freddy. “You can’t do that!”

“What not?” Freddy asked, genuine concern oozing from his mechanical tone.

“Uh, listen, my dad brought me here and he is super strict so let’s just avoid the whole security and parental thing.”

“That is not part of my protocols.”

“Well what isn’t part of your protocols.” Gregory snapped before realizing he had to win this beast over. “What if I just go with you to med bay now and then we can go meet with my dad.”

If Freddy could, he would be pursing his lips right now.

“I-I suppose that aligns with our safety procedures. Alright Super Star, let us go.”

Gregory was all okie dokie with this until Freddy manoeuvred his way over to the door Gregory came through.

“Woah, woah. We can’t go through there. We’ll be spotted straight away!”

“The back of the building is not designed for guest.”

Gregory thinks before a lightbulb practically plonks itself above his head.

“I’ll hide—“

“Then how will you get to the med b—“

“—inside you.”

Safe to say that idea was not well received but after a few minutes of back and forth, with some amount of pleading on Gregory’s side, Freddy’s stomach hatch rolled open.

He heaved himself inside and squeezed every limb into a semi comfortable position. The hatch closed and they were on the move.

Freddy couldn’t exactly talk as he traversed across the Pizzaplex. He was constantly stopped by over eager children and parents who claimed the right for a photo.

Gregory didn’t mind, it gave him time to think. The only possible break Freddy could feel would be his ribs, but Gregory has assumed them to be more so bruised than cracked.

Afterwards, when he got checked out, he’d have to dupe Freddy, which would be easy enough. He was far too trusting. He’d have to lose him in Roxy Race Way or Gator Golf, a place easy enough to slip through.

After a good half hour, Freddy came to a halt and his stomach hatch opened. Gregory scooted his arse halfway out when Freddy straightened up and a torch was shone directly into his face.

A man, who wore a shocked expression, stared back at him. By God, and here Gregory was thinking he looked rough. His skin had an uncanny look of a purple hue underneath, his eyes glowed and yet they were dark pools of black. His hair was shaggy and had seen better days, that goes for the rest of his attire too.

Gregory then kicked back into gear. He scrambled back into Freddy while screeching, “ CLOSE YOUR HATCH.”

Freddy did just that before the man barked out, “DON’T YOU DARE.”

Conflicted, Freddy kept it partially open. A hand reached into wretch it all the way down while Gregory kicked wildly at the man.

He manages to drop Gregory on his ass which, ouch. Gregory leaps back up with a second wind, distancing himself from Michael and Freddy.

The man rakes a hand down his face. “What—“

“He needs medical assistance.” Freddy answers straight away. The response only makes the man’s face fall further.

“Why would he need medical assistance?” The guy asked, voice cold.

“Maybe because someone dropped me on my ass.”

The guy narrowed his eyes at him. “I didn’t mean to drop you on your arse, but you were inside a place no child should be in.”

Gregory shouldn’t, but a snort lets its way out of his mouth none the less. This guy is British. Not that there’s anything wrong with that but like, who says arse?

“What? You find this funny.” The guys barks out accusingly.

“Arse.” Gregory gives him as a reply before laughing again and barely covering it up.

The barest of smiles graced the guy's face before his typical scowl replaced it.

“Seriously kid, what are you doing in there. And no Freddy I don’t want an answer from you.”

Freddy clicks his mouth shut while Gregory rolls his eyes.

“Like Freddy said. I needed medical assistance.”

The guy looks him up and down, searching for external wounds but coming up short. Gregory’s not going to take pity on him and tell him that it’s because of his ribs that he’s here. He’s going to let this guy battle it out.

“Can we just hurry up and leave? My dads going to get worried.” At the mention of the supposed parental figure, tension breaks free from the guy's frame.

“Yeah, yeah ok. Hop up here but first of all, why did you go inside Freddy?”

Gregory scooched himself up onto the examination table as Freddy began a more in depth scan.

“It’s a long story and you’re a stranger.”

“I’m not a stranger.” The guy let out indignantly.

“Well what’s your name then.”

“Michael Schmidt."

“Why do you sound English?”

“Because I’m from there.”

“Huh. How long have you been in the states.”

“Long enough.” He huffed out in a sense that read; far too long.

“It seems Gregory is more than ok.” Freddy said while clapping his hands together.

“Your name is Gregory?” Mike asked in disbelief.

He stuck his tongue at him. “Does this mean I can go Freddy?”

“Once I go locate your designated guardian then yes. Way to go superstar. You were very brave.”

Gregory flushed under the attention, quickly darting his eyes to Michael, defences already rising.

Michael said nothing about the praise, only rolled his shoulders and let out a sigh. “Ok kid let’s find your dad.”

In the end, all three of them walk back to the main hall. Gregory doesn’t let them linger long, darting out into the crowd with vigor.

“DAD!” He shouted in a blind direction and ran. He heard no follow up behnind him. He reached towards an adult that could pass for his father and tugged at his shirt, asking him directions for the toilet.

The man was kind enough to point towards the very clear sign that showed them exactly where they were.

Gregory showed gratitude with a quick nod before heading off towards the exit. He didn’t look back once. When he made it outside the Pizzalex, he ran towards the familiar alley before collapsing against the wall.

How could he be so stupid? God Gregory, you’ve really done it this time. He can’t, under any circumstances, go back there.

It saddens him but it’s only choice he has.

Gregory knew that he swore he would never do this again. He knows he shouldn’t be here, yet, a week without food has left him no other choice.

It was as if the universe was laughing at him, leaving him no other choice but to go back here. His dumpster diving had turned out to be fruitless, and no kind stranger, even though they were far and few, had showed up.

Because of this, here Gregroy was. He had infiltrated the Pizzaplex once more, only this time, he was more cautious than ever.

He kept his head down, while actively blending into the shadows. Gregroy strained himself for even the slightest mechanical movement.

Although his luck had been shit this week, it seems to have turned around. A group of kids wander away from their table, as a mother cajoles them towards the exit. In their sloppy wake, they don’t clean up after themselves.

Gregory has hit the jackpot. He snags two slices of pizza, shoves the half empty packets of onion rings into his pockets and yanks the drink. He’s about to turn away until his eyes leech onto the scattered tokens half hazardly strewn across the table.

He shoves them into his pockets before he slinks off to eat his goods. Once he’s finished, he takes out the tokens and examines them, he has ten to spend.

Ten precious tokens that will expire the very next day. It’s the Fazbear policy that all tokens must be used up within the day or else they go bad and can’t be used again. It’s supposed to be a marketing strategy or something. He’s a little hazy on the details. All he does know is that he has to use them now.

Gregory knows his way to the SuperStar Arcade, but is it worth the risk? He weighs up the pros and cons and decides, fuck it. When will an opportunity like this every present itself to him again? The answer is never, so he’s already making his way towards the arcade room.

His eyes grow about twice their size when he steps foot into the arcade. It’s massive, colourful and everything Gregory could ever wish for in life. Machines line the halls, gaggles of children swarming each of them, swatting at each other in the hopes of having a turn.

He knows the deal, a token per machine, but what does he pick first? He scans the area and his eyes land on an unoccupied spot. He snatches it before anyone else can spot it.

The game is called Princess Quest. Gregory has never heard of it before but turns outs he’s a natural at it. He’s always been good at video games, well, the few he’s had access too.

He’s about to finish the final level when two boys beside him start to snicker and point.

At first Gregory thinks it’s about him, but then he sees that they’re not even looking in his direction.

“Look at that freak.”

“I know. He shouldn’t be in charge of security. He looks like he takes kids.”

“Would’nt be surprised with this places reputation.”

Both boys chuckle to themselves as Gregory leans over to the side to take a good look at who they’re gossiping about. He freezes in his tracks as he sees the security guard from last time.

He leans against the wall, keeping his head low. Both boys continue to gush and giggle over Michael and little by little it gets to Gregory.

He doesn’t even know Michael, so he’s doesn’t know why he cares what they’re saying about him. Yet, a feeling of protection washes over him. That security guard was half decent and hadn’t handed his ass to the authorities. Who gives a fuck what he looks like, he doesn’t look half bad. He just has no confidence.

Gregory couldn’t stand the nastiness a minute longer, so he braces himself before he quietly walks over to Michael. He leans against the wall beside him in the shadows, leaving a wide berth of space.

“Hi.”

Michael gives a bit of a jump, eyebrows jumping up when he sees his face.

“Oh, it's you.”

“Well don’t sound so overjoyed.” Scowled Gregory.

A smirk lit up on Michael’s face. “I thought you weren’t going to come back here.”

“Why not.”

“You’ve got a list of crimes attached to your name, kid.”

“A list?” He cries out indignantly.

“Mhm,” Mike hums, holding out his hand as he begins to count, “Trespassing, violating safety standards yadda, yadda. I could go on.”

“Well aren’t you supposed to ‘take care’ of people like me?”

“Yup.” Mike says, popping the ‘P’ but making no move to do such thing.

Gregory eyed him up, ready to dash at any given moment. When he realised Michael was just going to stay still, he relaxed once more.

“You’re a shit security guard.”

“Eh.” Mike shrugged, his fingers itching around themselves. “I still have the job. Just about.”

“That doesn’t inspire confidence.”

“I wasn’t going for that tone.”

“Can you at least try.”

Mike angled his head towards him, throwing him a dazzling smile before proudly saying, “Nope!”

Gregory rolled his eyes while trying to down play the smile tugging at his lips.

They stay like that for a while, before Michael shifts his gaze towards him.

“Why did you even come here?”

Gregory looked at him like he was stupid. “Because I have tokens.”

Mike let out a sigh. “No, I mean like why come over here.”

Gregory, who had previously been looking at Michael, whipped his head away from him, avoiding immediate eye contact.

He snubbed the top of his shoe against the worn carpet floor while deciding what to say.

“Some kids were poking fun, and I don’t know….” Gregory trails off.

Why did he come here in the first place? It was a stupid decision that Gregory sorely regrets. He’s about to relay as much when Michael shifts a bit.

“Oh. Well I can’t blame them.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Gregory snaps.

“Well, look at me.” Michael gestures up and down at himself. “I’m not exactly easy on the eyes.”

“What are you, sixty? Nobody says easy on the eyes anymore. Also, that’s not true.”

“Mhm. Sure.”

“Ok well if your fishing for a compliment, you don’t look ugly, just a little funny looking.”

Michael burst out laughing and Gregory could feel his cheeks going red.

“What? It’s a fucking compliment!”

“Sorry, sorry, it’s just—“ Michael let out another wheeze. “I’ve gotten a lot of things said about my looks but no one’s ever said I look funny.”

“I take it back. You’re fugly.”

Michael let out a mock gasp. “Does that mean I’m funny ugly or fucking ugly?”

Gregory flipped him off as he stomped away to make use of his tokens. That guy was a douche, so why was Gregory grinning all the way to his next machine. He didn’t dwell on it for too long, simply slotted in his next token and lost himself in the fun.

An hour or more had passed when Gregory had used up all his tokens. He had tickets overflowing from his pockets, which he was quick to stuff down.

He made his way up to the prize counter, when his mood soured. They were all Fazbear themed. Of course they were going to be, he didn’t know why he thought any different. Still, he was determined to pick at least something he may like.

He scanned his options, a plush teddy on the streets was not a good idea. A fucking hippo magnet? Gregory would rather keep the tickets. Through much thought and consideration he decided he would take the Freddy Fazbear hoodie.

He handed over his tickets and was given his prize within a bag before promptly being told to shoo. He had held up the line enough.

He makes his way out of the arcade, full intention of going back to his alley way when he sees someone waving at him.

Freddy Fazbear is standing in the middle of the corridor, just coming out of one his shows.

Gregory, caught like a deer in headlights carefully makes his way over to the side lines, content to ignore the very obvious animatronic. Freddy obviously has different ideas as he comes trotting over.

That’s it, Gregory bolts back into the arcade. Shit, what if Freddy decides he needs to bring Gregory to the authorities. He did sneak into his room and chest cavity.

He ducks behind one of the machines, wearily peaking above the top of one before he hears a cough behind him.

Michael stands behind him with an amused expression. “Whatcha doing?”

“Playing hide and seek.”

“Gregory?” Freddy calls out from far too close by.

Gregory yanks Michael down beside him.

“What are you hiding from Freddy?” Mike asked, all amusement gone from his tone.

“I need to sneak out and he’s too obvious.” Gregory hissed out before a slapping a hand across his mouth.

Michael only smiled at him. “Kid I don’t care if you sneak in here. Is that the only reason you’re hiding from Freddy?” He pressed.

Gregory nodded his head fervently. Michael nods before making a move to stand up.

“I’ll distract him and you run past. Got it.”

Gregory was starting to like this guy more and more.

“Yeah.”

Michael marches his way over to Freddy before he barks out, “FREDDY, you’re supposed to be back stage.”

Freddy looked a taken back. “Officer Michael I didn’t mean to harm I simply….”

Gregory didn’t need to hear the rest as he sneakily snuck away from the arcade before legging it to the exit. He’s heavily panting before he’s made it back to home sweet home.

What he did today was irresponsible and totally should not be repeated.

Next Saturday morning Gregory sneaks in yet again.

It became a little routine of Gregory’s. Well, he already had a routine, now it just kind of expanded.

He makes his way in, grabs food and then heads to the arcade to bother Michael.

Every Saturday morning, Michael is there and slumming it against one of the machines, fingers always itching for something. A cigarette is Gregory’s best bet. That or weed. It would kind of explain Mikes…demeanour, and overall attitude sometimes.

He likes Mike. He thinks he’s cool but he’d rather cut off his own tongue than admit that. He doesn’t ask questions and he doesn’t snitch. That’s more than most adults do, but can he really count Michael as an adult? He's like a pre-adult.

Gregory spends the guts of an hour chatting with Mike before going on his merry way. This has been happening for two months now. Gregory would even consider him a friend.

“Why do you look like that?” Gregory gets up the courage to ask one day.

Mike looked over at him from the corner of his eye.

“Don’t ever drink and drive Gregory.”

“That’s such bullshit.”

“Believe what you wanna believe kid. That’s the story I’m sticking with.”

“Why’d you choose this job?” Gregory asks. He wants to know more about Mike, sus him out a bit.

“I’ve got experience that others lack.”

“Such as….”

“I can kick animatronic ass.” Mikes grinning as he says it, which leads Gregory to smile back at him.

“Hey I’ve got a question for you, would you rather drink that Monty lime shit they sell for the rest of your life or…eat the chica powder dusted doughnuts.” Michael finishes off with a flourish.

Gregory looks at him disgusted. “I swear they get the monty stuff from the sewers.”

“Probably do.”

“I’d have to go with Chica.”

“Brave choice considering those things are bordering on edible.”

“Don’t tell me you’d go Monty?”

“Look at me, acidic sewer shit wouldn’t make me any worse. That Chica stuff would probably block an artery.”

“I don’t know what’s worse, the fact you chose Chica or that you actually think you have a heart.”

Mike snickers while Gregory throws him a shit eating grin. He likes this.

This Saturday is going to be different, Gregory doesn’t know that until he breaches his and Michael’s spot and lays his eyes on a different guy.

He is of a tan complexion with a blonde bleached, mullet. He has a slit down his eyebrow and whistles an obnoxious tune. As Gregory got closer he spotted a nasty looking scar, almost like a bite, that perturbed down from his head to his forehead.

“Who are you?” Gregory demands, as he stalks closer.

The guard is quick on the alert at the accusing tone aimed in his direction. He startles as if he isn’t used to being addressed.

“Pardon?”

“Who. Are. You.”

“I’m Jermery, I’m the day time guard.”

“No you’re not. Mike is.”

“You know Mike?” He asked, surprise evident in his tone.

Gregory frowned at him. “Yeah, I do.”

He began to look at Gregory in a new light. “Huh, he never mentioned you.”

Uh, ouch.

Jeremy, catching his face falling slightly began to back track. “He never really opens up. He’s a bit weird like that.”

“Mike's not weird.”

“Wow you’re like his little guard dog. So what, you think Mike's cool?” He asked incredulously.

Gregory grew warm and looked down. “I didn’t say that and don’t you say that to him either Jeremy."

“Yeesh. You’re definitely an Afton alright.”

“A what?”

“Eh nothing. Hey, Mike is sick so he won’t be in for a while. You want me to give him a message?”

“Uh. Will you be here tomorrow?” Gregory asked cautiously.

“Yup. Kinda stuck here until he gets better.”

“Ok. Meet me here tomorrow.”

“Perfect.”

They both stood still. Right this isn’t Mike. He shouldn’t hang about.

“I’ll be seeing you then.” Gregory shrugs before slowly shuffling off to the side.

“See ya Gregory.”

The next day, Gregory arrives at the same time, except now he has a gift in tow. The strange man is standing in the same position, except this time more alert.

Once he spots Gregory, he gives him a short wave.

“Sup Greg.”

“Don’t call me that.”

“Rory?”

“Worse again.”

“C’mon I’m a nickname guy and you’re name is long and boring. G-man?” He asks hopefully.

Gregory can’t help the snort that lets itself out. He’s quick to snuff it out but he sees the Cheshire cat grin that lingers on Jeremy's face afterwards.

This meant that Mark now had the bright idea to bring him into his Vampire circle.

“Are you sure this is a good idea?” William asked for the upteenth time this hour.

“Yes!” Mark stressed out. “My dad won’t even know you’re there. He’ll only think the human smell is mom! If he can even smell!"

“Ok, but if I get eaten by your dad, I’ll be haunting your ass with I told you so.”

“Yeah, yeah. Now come on.” Mark whined while tugging at his sleeve.

Mark seemed so sure that William had no choice but to be dragged around trees and the muddy grass.

“Ok, here comes the fun part.” Mark said while he brushed back a branch.

From the looks of it, it looked like another part of the forest they needed to get through. Yet, as they stepped through, it gave way to the back of a white washed house.

William looked around at his surroundings. They were at the back of the house. A swing set lay to the right, and on the left were three flowerbeds. A tall brown fence covered the lawn, giving complete privacy to home owners.

“Mark. You didn’t tell me you were rich!”

“Well, my mom is a real estate agent and dad, uh, he’s got generational wealth I suppose.”

“And here I was, buying you coffee and comics.”

Mark blushed. “It made me feel like a human. Whatever, let’s go inside.”

They climb up the back door steps before William enters the Grayson abode for the first time. The house is gorgeous. The kitchen is well furnished and surprisingly modern. The sitting room is more old fashioned, but then he’s informed that this is the drawing room.

“Don’t laugh, William.” Mark says while wagging his finger, but still keeping that happy smile in place.

“I feel like I’m in Bridgerton. Well then, where’s your actual sitting room, Scrooge McDuck.”

The sitting room faced the front of the house and matched the vibe of the kitchen. On one of the walls there were many dashes with scribbles of writing put beside them.

It was Mark’s height.

“Adorable.” William said with a grin. Mark only rolled his eyes fondly.

William looked more closely. Another name laid in wake beside Mark’s.

“Oliver?”

“My brother.” Mark supplies.

“You didn’t tell me you had a brother.” William gasped affronted. “When can I meet him?”

“Uh, never.”

“Why not.”

“He’d ask you too many questions. Scare you off. Let’s go upstairs now.”

William shrugged and followed him up.

“Where’s your family again?”

“At a friend's house. They won’t be back till late.”

“Hm. How will you occupy yourself until they come back.” William said with faux curiosity.

Mark turned around and lifted him up, carrying him the rest of the way up the stairs.

“I think I’ll manage.”

They make their way up to his room, William keeping a steady hand in Mark’s hair. He’s soon deposited on the bed while Mark scrambles on top of him.

They look at each other until William swoops forwards and meshes their lips together. Mark improves with every kiss William gives him. It makes something inside him purr with delight each and every time.

Mark tilts his head, pushing William back into the pillow. Things are nice, things are just amazing, except William actually needs air to survive. They break apart, with William’s panting making a lovely back track.

“I didn’t even get to look around.” William complains as Mark bites his lip.

“I think you’ve got a nicer sight in front of you.”

“It would be nicer if you took off your top.”

In a flash the top was ripped off and shortly after William’s joined it on the floor.

A laugh tumbled out of him until Mark returned to the bite mark. Mark had assured him that it would fade, but a week later and it still was going strong.

“Mark.” William breathes out, while Mark hums a reassurance back.

Then, in the back of his mind, he swears he hears the front door creak. His suspicions are confirmed when Mark throws his head towards his bedroom door.

The door opens and a blur of purple comes through rushing into Mark’s room. A boy, around ten years old, stands at the doorway. William didn’t even hear him hit the floorboards. With a jolt, he saw that the boy was floating, that’s why he was so quick.

“Mark the Cullens weren’t there, that means we can watch Seance Dog now!” The boy announces proudly, before taking in the scene.

His mouth forms an ‘O’ shape. He stares quizzically at William and the position he’s currently in before opening his mouth and,“Are you gonna mate now?”, comes tumbling out, before he bolts down the stairs upon seeing his older brother’s expression.

“Oh my God.” William exclaims, covering his eyes with his hands. Holy shit, he could be eaten right about now. Also, he’s just scarred this little boy for life. Or maybe the little boy has scarred him because, what on earth, was that question.

Mark makes a Looney Tunes run after his brother, without his shirt on. Great, just great.

William quickly hops off the bed and yanks on his shirt in quick succession. He hears ruckus downstairs but stays put. Fuck, he knew this was a bad idea but noooo. He still went. God, he’d be the first to die in a horror film for sure.

Pounding suddenly fills the hall and yup, this is it. He’s definitely getting chomped.

“Seriously Dad!” Mark exclaims. “It’s not a big deal!”

“A human Mark? Really.”

“Mom’s a human!”

“Your mother is far more superior than whoever you have in that room.”

Mark appears at the door, looking vaguely sick. A tall, muscular man with a menacing growl greets the doorway alongside him. God, if Mark grew up to look like him….

William gives a meek wave to the door. Footsteps, light and meaningful, make their way up to the group party.

A woman stood by the door and took in the scene. Mark resembled more so his mother than father, not that William was complaining. He was never the biggest fan of mustaches.

“Oh my God. Hi! You must be the boy Mark has been meeting.” Debbie exclaims before meandering through the bedroom and extending her hand.

“Mom you knew!” Mark squeaked, looking absolutely mortified.

“Debbie.” Mark’s dad growled.

“Oh hush Nolan. Yes, of course I know Mark. I’m your mother, and you’ve…changed.” She said while waving her hand around him.

“Nice to meet you.” William says apprehensively hile sticking his hand out to meet her.

“Lovely to meet you honey, now get changed. We need to talk.”

That’s how himself and the Graysons sat around the dining room table, with two mugs of tea and a packet of biscuits.

Nolan had a downturned smile, Oliver was happily munching, Mark looked traumatised and Debbie looked pleased.

“I’m so happy Mark has made a friend. Oh it’s so nice that you’re a human too.”

“Debbie, Mark broke a rule, remember.”

“Yes, you and your rules. Tell me Nolan, are other vampires Mark’s age leaving?”

Nolan looked stumped. “Well, yes—“

“So why shouldn’t Mark? Times have changed. Would you want Mark to be alone, no? That’s what I thought.” Debbie turned towards him with a sweet smile. “Don’t take any heed of him, he’s just a little overprotective.”

Nolan rolled his eyes and Mark slunk lower into his seat.

“You know William, Mark has been a lot more happy lately. I guess I have you to thank for that. Although, seeing the two of you shirtless—“

“MOM!” Mark cried out. Debbie shrugged and sipped on her teeth.

“William.” Nolan said slowly. “You can’t tell anyone about us.” He warped the teaspoon in his hands, a threatening maneuver if he ever did see one.

“Dad!” Mark hissed, furious.

William cleared his throat. “Message received Mr Grayson,”

All he got was a ‘hmph’ in return.

“Sooo….” Mark drew out. “Does this mean I’m allowed out now.”

His parents shared a meaningful look.

“I don’t see why not.” Was the calculated response Mark received.

“Can I come?” Oliver shot out with such hope William couldn’t help but agree instantly.

“What? William. We’re supposed to be a team. This is not very team-like.” Mark bit out, his small victory turning sour.

“Maybe if you didn’t suck the living daylights out of my neck, I’d have a better camaraderiey-attitude.” Maybe he was a tad bitter about wearing turtle necks.

“YOU DID WHAT?” Is what leapt out of both his parents' mouths, making William instantly regret his blunder.

As Mark was being berated and Oliver grinning from glee at the argument, William slowly moved his leg towards Mark.

In the act of forgiveness, he trapped William’s foot within his own. William took it as a win. In all honesty, Mark’s family were actually nice. He didn’t even see his dad’s pearly fangs. Oh god. Does this mean he has to introduce Mark to his dad now?

William dispels that thought as he watches Mark and wonders how he got in this mess, and why he doesn’t seem to mind. Yet, something pierces through the veil of bliss.

What about Rick?

He dispels the thought and instead watches as Oliver pleads with Mark to take him to the skate park so he can practice his new trick.

Rick can come later, that is prime material for him to worry about when he’s supposed to be sleeping. He’ll tell Mark soon, and hopefully he’ll be understanding. Hopefully.

William knew he’d have to tell Mark about Rick eventually. It was only right, yet whenever he tried to formulate the words, a whole messy jumble would tumble out instead.

The Graysons were kind and welcoming, always making room for William at their dinner table. Oliver grew attached to him and loved when he spent more time with him than Mark. Mark wasn’t one to get jealous but when Oliver hogged him for too long, he’d fling him off. Oliver always landed on his feet, sticking out his tongue at his older brother.

Debbie and Nolan surprisingly worked well together. You wouldn’t think it but they did. They balanced each other out which was lovely to see. Also, it was very clear who had the final say in that household. William never thought he’d see a six foot five vampire cower before a five foot eight human. He can’t blame Nolan, Debbie can be terrifying in a way Nolan can’t.

Everything was going great, except, well….

“William!” Rick cried out.

William was with Mark, walking down the street when he appeared. A week early. He was fucking a week early. William couldn’t breathe. He was supposed to be back next Friday, and William was going to tell Mark today. Why was he here?

“Rick.” He called out, voice cracking.

Mark looked between the two of them before settling on an apprehensive expression.

“What are you doing back!” William hoped the panic wasn’t evident in his tone. From the look Mark was giving him, it was.

“The whole family was a little homesick. Who’s this?”

“I’m Mark. William’s boyfriend.”

Rick’s eyes widened. “Oh.” He breathed out, looking between the two. His face contorted into an array of emotions before settling on hurt.

“Rick, it’s a lot to explain.” William rushed out, trying to placate.

“No I just, damn. Guy leaves for a month or two and fuck.” He looked at him in disbelief. “Did you even write to me.”

“Of course I did, and I placed them in your tree.”

“So why go through all that trouble and go for him?” Rick asked, flabbergasted.

William shook his head as everything began to click. “Was that a loyalty test, to see what I’d do for you? You made me walk through a fucking forest at night.”

“Well it obviously didn’t work did it?” Rick sneered back, gesturing up and down to Mark.

“You have got to be kidding me. We weren’t even anything Rick!”

Mark stayed quiet through the whole affair. Watching them back and forth like a tennis match.

“Whatever William, guess I’ll see you around.”

With that, he’s off. William feels bad, he does. He’ll go back again later and apologise. Even if Rick sent him on an Alice in Wonderland Adventure to see if he’d stay true, which is unbelievable. They weren’t even anything.

William would’ve stayed loyal like a dog, waiting, yet, fate had sprung Mark into his hand. Speaking of Mark….

William finally looked him in the eye. “We need to talk.”

“Yeah, no shit William. I mean, what the hell was that.”

“Just, Eugh, just come here.” Will snapped, guilt consuming him a minute later. “Sorry.” Then he was pulling Mark down towards the well worn root of the forest path.

Once they reached their spot, William turned to him. “I’m sorry, ok. I meant to explain everything and then shit hit the fan and then boom. Ok, I need to tell you a lot.”

Mark nodded and he took that as a mean to go on.

“Well when I first came here originally….” Like that, everything spilled from him. The whole truth was laid out in front of Mark by the time he stopped talking.

Mark paced around the clearing and he looked so much like his father it took William’s breath away.

“I can’t believe this.”

“I’m sorry.”

“I just, fuck.”

“Sorry.”

“Please, I beg, stop saying sorry.”

“Sorry.”

Mark whistled a breath through his teeth.

“I’m not mad, just, why?”

“Why what?” William asked apprehensively.

“Why did you stay? If you had Rick, why go with me?”

“I never had Rick, we weren’t a thing, we were a fling at best. I suppose I could’ve pursued him but that idea kind of went out the window when I met you….”

“Oh.”

“Yeah.”

They both regard each other for a few moments before Mark lets out a sigh.

“Were you ever gonna tell me?”

“That was the news I was going to talk to you about today.”

He nods slowly. “So.”

“Um…?”

“Eugh I hate this, come here.” He tugs William into himself.

“From now on, no one else. Things, flings and everything in between.”

William lets out a snort. “Deal.”

“Ok, also, you’re on a flying ban for your sneakiness that you promise to never do again.”

William let out a gasp. “You’re far too mean.” He said, while giving him a light pat to his chest.

“Mhm.” Mark hummed as he began to drag William down the path.

“Mark?”

“Yeah?”

“We both know that the ban isn’t going to hold.”

“Yeah, but let’s pretend for a while, love.”

So a little while later William sits at the park with Mark, who’s enthusiastically feeding the ducks while recounting the newest movie he’d seen with Oliver, and William can’t help but be grateful those letters never made it to Rick.

Notes: Hiya, if you’re thinking you’ve seen this before, you probably have. I did this as a 5+1 and wrote it in five chapters, but it didn’t feel right. So, I’ve made it into a one shot and added a tad more structure :)

This was inspired by @ditch--lilies Tongues and Teeth fanfic which has a link down below which ye should super duper check out!!!!

Hope ye enjoy :)

The cold cracked his bones as William made his way deeper into the forest. Over the summer, he had walked this path so many times, he could’ve done it blind.

The wind whispered dangerously in his ears but he paid it no heed. The reason he was in this predicament was because his friend/something more had gone to his family across the country for the summer.

Amish, so no phone.

This meant conversing was going to be an issue. William had resigned himself to no contact until Rick had taken him to the woods.

His family weren’t exactly accepting of homosexuality, which meant they weren’t exactly a fan of him. William didn’t mind, he didn’t care what those farts thought about him. Who gives a fuck when there’s more pressing matters like war, starvation, poverty. In his books, him liking dick does not make the cut.

Since any letters from William to Rick would be immediately thrown in the trash, William wrote to a ‘Mark’ instead. Rick’s family’s next door neighbour.

William didn’t think it was going to work, he especially didn’t when Rick wanted him to put his letters in an old oak tree, instead of posting them through a mail box. Something about it being magic and grating your wishes.

It was a load of bullshit, yet Rick had been insistent, even drew him a map and all as to where to find this wonderful tree.

It was utter nonsense, but, it fucking worked.

The first time William had made this walk he had cursed Rick, himself and the Amish. He was half scared to death when he had deposited the letter. He waited for a few seconds before speed walking out of the forest.

The next day, William had come back and reached inside the hole of the old oak tree, expecting to find it empty.

It was.

Typical. Why did he believe for a second that this tree was special and somehow would send his letter to Rick, who was a million miles away, he did not know. Yet the disappointment clung to him hours after, and once it settled, only a small flicker of hope remained.

A couple days later William checked again, just to make sure he wasn't talking to someone who was potentially off his rocker. Maybe it did work and William wasn’t being…he doesn’t know, faithful enough? He just had to try one more time. If not for Rick, then for his own sanity.

If Amber knew what he was doing, she’d drag him back by his ear. She’d tell him he was an idiot and needs to get better taste. He knew it was a bad idea but he just had to make sure, so he reached his hand in and viola. There was a letter.

William fell to his knees. It actually freaking worked.

The letters were a continuous stream throughout the summer, but something was a little off. It didn’t sound like Rick.

The expressions, the language, all of it. It wasn’t him, but William couldn’t confirm that, so he kept writing.

He stepped on a particularly loud twig, something that jostled him from his thoughts. Eugh, it had rained yesterday and now he has a soggy sock.

Why does he do this to himself?

He's nearly there now, just one more right and— he stills in his tracks.

A man is there, leaning against his tree.

The moon is out in full swing tonight, providing all the light William needs to do a sweep down of the stranger.

He’s tall with black hair. His eyes look dark but they could be blue for all he knows, he would need to get closer to have a proper look.

He seems nervous. Tapping his foot religiously against his tree. William can’t help but be peeved at the sight of him.

He’s on his tree. William’s always been jealous. Being an only child in his case meant he was a tad spoiled. He learned that sharing is caring and all that jazz now that he’s older, but the tendency is still there.

If this dude didn’t look suspicious, William would shout at him. But they’re alone in the dark, and William hasn’t run in ages.

He moves ever so slowly, causing the leaves to rustle against the branch his head so helpfully was leaving against.

At an inhuman speed, the man’s eyes snap to him.

William freezes.

He doesn’t know who looks more scared, him or the other guy.

The guy gets clumsily off the bark before settling himself again. He seems unsure of what to do and William just can't move, his limbs lock and he’s just left to stand there.

Maybe the guy can’t see him. It’s plausible. It’s dark. He could’ve dropped his glasses. Yeah, this guy is blind as a bat.

His heart is pulsing so hard against his chest that he wouldn’t be surprised if it leapt out.

“Um, hi. Are you William.”

Fuck, fuck, fuck, shit, fucking shit, shit, shit.

The guy knows his name.

William doesn’t say anything, just takes a silent step back. A silent step that somehow the man saw.

Double, triple, quadruple fuck.

“Wait please don’t go!” The man called out, holding up both his hands.

William’s breathing goes erratic while the man rambles on, not coming any closer as to where William is hiding.

How can he see him?

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you. See, it’s my first time talking to one of you guys. Well, besides my mom. I’ve never talked to anyone who wasn’t a vampire before. I couldn’t believe when I got your letters. I mean, how did you even know about me?”

William’s mind narrows down to two words. Vampire and letters.

Can vampires read minds, or is that just in Twilight? Oh god, is this guy just a vampire, or a crackhead or a really weird combination of both?

Then William hones in on the other thing, the letters. This guy was the one who was reading his letters. Fuck Rick and his Amish family for getting him killed.

William knows that Vampires most likely have advanced senses, so he takes a deep breath and tries to steady himself.

He can do this, he can get out of this alive. He just needs to trick the vampire. If he even is one.

He takes one last, suffering breath, before making his way out of the clearing.

The vampire, who was previously prattling on in his anxious state, stopped short upon seeing him.

“Oh wow.” The guy says, looking absolutely floored.

William digs his nails into his palm. He wasn’t bad looking, he knew that, but maybe by inter-dimensional beings he looked like lunch, and he doesn’t mean in the hot way.

“You got my letters?” He asked cautiously, praying he doesn’t give himself away.

The vampire nods at him enthusiastically.

“Yeah, uh, how did you know about me?”

“A little birdie told me about you.”

The vampire looks flummoxed but doesn’t contradict him. Maybe that’s not a common saying amongst the supernatural. William prays he doesn’t dig deeper.

“I can’t believe I’m actually seeing you.” He confesses, looking bashful at William.

He then realises what type of letters he wrote, love letters, to be exact. Letters that were vague enough so if Rick’s family ever got a whiff, it wouldn’t be so suspicious.

How did this vampire go to this tree out of the hundreds in this forest? Also, why did he think the letters were for him, when he had addressed them to a Mark. Unless….

“It’s nice meeting you Mark, but it’s getting late and I’ve got class in the morning.” Total lie, it was summer. But hey, he could have zumba classes for all this vampire knows.

The vampire doesn’t protest at the name so William was right. This vampire was called Mark. What are the fucking chances. Of course William gets himself into conundrums like these. Life isn’t fair.

Mark's eyes widen at his name, but his shoulders slump at the notice of this meeting cutting short.

“Oh, ok. Well, we should meet again next time, for a rate.”

“A what?” William asks confusedly.

Mark looks mortified. “Did I say that wromg. Please tell me I didn’t say something embarrassing. Bate, gate, fate, hate? Is that it?”

Ok, so this guy was a crackhead. William needs to get out of here.

Wait, he doesn’t mean—

“Date? Is that the word you’re looking for.”

“Yes! Yes that’s the one.” After his exciting yes, he coughed and deepened the sentence, trying to tamper his emotions.

Huh, maybe he wasn’t that bad. He also wasn’t very broody for a vampire.

Mark keeps looking at him and William still hasn’t given him an answer.

Was he about to go on a date with a mythical creature, no, but he had a feeling if he said that it wouldn’t be well received.

Yet, the vampire seemed so nice. Maybe if he did say no, he would give him to the count of three before he would munch on his neck.

“Yes.” William says quickly, a little too quickly. “But, you can’t come empty handed.”

“Empty handed?” Mark questions.

“You gotta bring me something, like a plant or flowers or anything really.”

He’d kill for some chocolate, but from the sounds of what Mark was implying, he doesn’t seem the type to just pop into town. So earthy stuff it would have to be.

His logic behind this is that it would buy him enough time to freak out, flee the country and get a new ID.

“Ok, got it. Plant and flowers.” Mark says out loud. William can almost see the checklist being scribbled inside his mind.

William gave him two encouraging thumbs up before turning on his heel.

“See you tomorrow!” Marks calls after him, hope coating every word.

William squeezed his eyes closed.

“Bye!” He shouted back.

When he deemed himself far away he legged it back to his house.

What has he gotten himself into? God, he really needs to tell Amber but he can’t. What if the vampire comes to eat him and since Amber knows, she’ll be sucked dry too. He couldn’t do that to her.

William doesn’t even know if this guy is a vampire, he may just be really weird. What’s worse, a vampire or crackhead showing up at your door to potentially kill you? Does that sound like a very poor knock, knock joke to you? Because for William, it’s a thing that fuels his ever worrying head for the next five hours as he tosses and turns in bed.

Mark stood there for what felt like decades. If he could blush, he would.

He’s gorgeous and nice and funny and he likes Mark.

William likes him.

A funny feeling settles in his stomach at the thought of that.

Mark had first got that feeling when he received the first letter.

His dad had instructed him to get the mail and he begrudgingly did. He slipped out of their house and made his way past the protective barrier and into the woods.

He didn’t know why he couldn’t leave the woods, it wasn’t like he was going to do anything dangerous. He just wanted to see what it would be like.

Sure he’s spoken with other vampires but they’re allowed outside the barrier, so why isn’t he?

It’s not fair. He knows that. His dad says when he’s fully trained up and ready he'll be allowed to go out but he is trained. He’s one of the best vampires of his clan. He’s completed his rite, and as a reward, he should be allowed outside the barrier. The key word there is should.

Once you kill someone, it’s an automatic assumption that you are able to defend yourself against others. His dad, however, has different views. He point blank refuses to even consider the notion that Mark should be allowed out and about.

His mum said he’s worried about Mark, but he isn’t a kid anymore. He’s eighteen. He’s proven himself time and time again. He’s just being an overprotective, overbearing ass.

He stuck his hand inside the oak tree, the one three paces to the left. If he stuck his hand in the one three paces to the right, he would’ve shoved it in the ‘magical tree’.

Supposed to make all your wishes come true. It was some make believe that the town folk had scrounged up.

It wasn’t true, at least Mark didn’t think so.

Others used it as a loyalty test, to see if the person was truly the one for them. A bit extreme in his opinion.

His hand got the messages from other vampires throughout the place, all contacting his dad to let him know things were well.

Then he had caught on a letter that had a red envelope. Intrigued, he turned it around. It was addressed to him. Mark felt his heart swoop as he took in the envelope. Who could be writing to him?

He looked over his shoulder. It could be one of his dad’s tests, or it could be something else.

He ripped into the letter and let the words delve into his mind.

Dear Mark,

I cant believe I’m writing this, I shouldn’t, but I am.

I hope you’re doing well, not much has happened around here. Dad got a new job. It’s as boring as the last one.

Amber got a new dress and I’m really jealous of the colour. I wish yellow looked good on me but everyone knows it doesn’t. Thank God nearly every other colour does, wouldn’t it be an atrocity if I looked shitty in red? That’s like the hottest colour there is.

Anyway, I wish I could see you. I know your family is strict but sheesh, putting letters in a tree is a new low.

Until next time, if there is one and this stupid tree even works.

From William.

Mark stood there, gobsmacked.

He then raced home and hid the letter.

He didn’t know what to think, should he even write back? Who was William, how did he know who he was?

He mulled it over for a few hours. What if this was his dad’s doing? He wouldn’t put it past him to pull a stunt like this. Yet, what if it wasn’t? This could be a secret admirer. The ones that would feature in his mums favourite human films. He didn’t really grasp the concept, it felt a bit silly to him, but he appreciated it all the same.

Out of sheer curiosity he wrote back, then a couple of days later, William replied.

He gathered a few things about William over the course of their letters. He was undoubtedly human, he wished Mark and him could meet and he knew Mark was a vampire.

Hinting at a strict family constantly, saying how much he wishes he could meet Mark in the flesh but knowing they can’t, much more stuff that all added up to the fact that he knew..

The letters were vague, but they were always titled to Mark.

Mark was curious about William. Why he wrote Mark letters, what William looked like, how did he know he was a vampire.

So one day, he decided he would get his answers. He was leaning against their tree for a solid four hours and was about to call it quits, when a branch snapped in the distance.

Immediately his eyes snapped up towards the sound. If he was focusing, he would’ve heard the rapid heartbeat, but he had been distracted with the thoughts of William.

His dad would berate him to no end if he knew he had slipped up.

Panic seized him with both claws, so he started to ramble in the hopes it would bring him out of the shadows. William’s heart slowed down over his spiel, and he plucked up the courage to come into Mark’s line of sight.

Mark nearly fell to his knees.

Holy Moly.

William is nothing like he imagined. He’s more…everything, in real life.

They talk and Mark gets some answers.

He still doesn’t know how William knew he was a vampire. William had told him that a ‘little birdie told me.’ It was a human saying that his mom would relay onto him when she didn’t want him to know something just yet.

So Mark wouldn’t push, but he would eventually. For now, he was just content to be.

It was refreshing to talk to someone new. Talking was much more better than writing letters and waiting for a response.

Mark craved the feel of it again, which gave the rise to his proposal. Thinking about it now makes him want to hit his head.

A rate. How did he get rate and date mixed up. Stupid English.

Well it all worked out in the end, that was the main thing.

They were going on a date tomorrow. A date!

Then the anxiety lodged in. He doesn’t have experience with this sort of stuff. He doesn’t even know if he wants William to kiss him.

He pictures William leaning in, sliding his hands into William’s hair, laying William down, sinking his teeth into his neck…ok so maybe he does want to kiss William.

He had some practice with Eve, but that was it. He’s got limited experience, he prays William is in the same boat, or maybe it would be better if William had experience. Then he could guide him.

Do humans even bite each other? Will William care about his fangs? The uncertainty float about in his head until he reaches home.

His mom is in the kitchen, humming some old tune, while Oliver is in the sitting room, busy with making a mess, which means he can’t tease him too heavily about the questions he’s about to ask.

“Hey mom.”

“Yes sweetie?”

“Did you care that dad was a vampire?”

She stops her stirring. “At first yes, but I got over it. I saw him for who he was. You wouldn’t believe it, but your father was so clueless when he was younger. You know on our first date he brought me a whole tree instead of flowers! He thought it was the same thing but better.”

Debbie let’s out laugh before shaking her head fondly.

Mark perks up at that. William had mentioned wanting some sort of plant. So maybe not a tree, but a bush, that might do it. Better than some frilly flowers that would fade.

He walked over to her and kissed her on the cheek.

“Thanks mom.”

She gives him a funny look, questions about to erupt from her when Oliver skips in, brandishing his picture that was made with a hot glue, glitter, and love.

Mark tries to make it up the stairs as casually as he can. His mother can’t hear his heartbeat as she’s human, but he swears that she has a sixth sense that makes up for it. She just knows stuff without him even giving voice to his thoughts. It’s scary.

So Mark plots, and when evening rolls around he’s waiting by the tree again, this time with a bush beside him.

Everybody likes bushes, who wouldn’t like bushes. He hopes William likes the bush. He’s said bush more today than he ever has before. It’s a weird word bush. Bushhhhh—

“What the fuck are you doing?”

Mark jumps three feet in the air. William is a few meters from him and eyes him warily. How does he always manage to sneak up on him? Mark should pay more attention, but the cautious smile William is giving him right now well makes up for the fright.

“Uh, nothing. I got you this!” Mark gestures to the bush with jazz hands, hoping William doesn’t dwell on his lack of awareness.

William approaches a few more steps to get a clearer view of the gift. His mouth drops open in shock. That’s a good sign, he hopes.

“You got me…a bush?” William asks.

Mark grows nervous. “You know what it was a stupid idea, I’m sorry, let me just—“

“No, no it’s ok.” William placates, coming closer and closer to the bush.

He can smell William more clearly now and he fights to keep the smile off his face.

Don’t be weird Mark.

“Where did you even get this?”

“Oh it was just lying next door. The owner didn’t look after it.”

It was lying on Rex’s plot, but he owed Mark so fair is fair.

“Cool.” William replies and suddenly they’re at a stand still.

What do you do on dates? What did William expect? His only experience was the media he could confiscate and his parents. He really didn’t want to think about his parents right now. Gut feeling would have to be the way to go.

“We should sit.” William suggests and Mark is all too willing to comply.

They both lean against the tree with a good amount of space between them.

“What do you even do?” Wiliam asks, breaking the wall of silence that had previously enveloped them.

“I read Seance dog comics and train, sometimes I bake.”

“You read Seance dog comics?”

“Yeah! They’re the greatest comic book series of all time.” Mark answered enthusiastically.

“Said no one ever.” William said deadpan.

Mark’s mouth dropped and he narrowed his eyes at him. “How dare you.”

“Sorry, not sorry.” William shrugged apologetically. “Bake? I thought you only drink blood.”

“We do, do that. We can eat food but it’s mostly bleh, I bake for my mom.”

William’s eyes grew. “Your moms still alive?”

“Yeah dude. She’s like forty.”

“First of all, don’t dude me when we’re on a date. Secondly, I thought you were all old .”

“Some of us are, my dad is but no, my mom’s a human.”

“How old is your dad?”

Mark pauses. “I’m not sure…maybe five hundred years old. Maybe more?”

“God. Is he still hot?”

Mark sat up outraged. “THAT’S MY DAD!”

William cackled. “Oh he so is.”

Mark slumped down and took the opportunity to scoot closer to William. Mark hopes William drops it.

“I bet he’s like Edward Cullen dad type of fine.”

That doesn’t sound like dropping it.

“Who’s Edward Cullen?”

William whipped his head towards him, eyes imploring.

“You don’t know Edward Cullen?”

“Should I know him?”

“Yeah. He’s the most famous vampire of all time?”

“Seeing other vampires behind my back?”

“I’m not even seeing you.”

“Will you?”

They’re very close now. William’s pulse quickens as he abruptly pulls away.

“I, I don’t know. You’re not what I expected you to be.”

“What did you expect?”

William studies him. “More teeth.”

“You wanna see them.”

William looks stumped before he nods.

He may have well asked William to kiss him. Vampires do let people see their teeth, but not like this. This was personal, intimate.

Willam brought his hands shakily to Mark’s face and placed his thumbs on his lips.

“You’re not going to bite me or anything like that.”

It’s hard to speak with William crowding his mouth but he manages to let, “No, promise,” slip from him.

William flips his lips and watches fascinated as the fangs slide down. It’s not the most flattering face he’s ever pulled but William seems ensnared with them.

He silently beams in pride.

Mark keeps his breathing collected as William runs his pointer against one.

“I shouldn’t be meeting you.” William whispers in the still air, disturbed only by their breath. “This is a bad situation waiting to happen.”

Mark doesn’t move. Their beings are charged with uncertainty and apprehension, and he doesn’t know which route to take.

“We could be friends.” Even as he says it, it leaves a bitter taste in his mouth. Rex is his friend, Eve is his friend. William…he’s still figuring him out.

The letters were secretive and filled with liking. It brought wonder into Mark’s routine-filled life. He wanted to thank William, he wanted to bite him. He wanted to see the world, and if William just so happened to be there by his side, well then happy days.

William nods at the idea but it’s half hearted. He’s as intrigued with Mark as he is with him, even if he’s loathe to admit to himself.

William slowly pulls away from him and lets his arms fold tightly against his chest.

“Thank you.” He says quietly.

Mark rubs a hand over his mouth, adrenaline pumping through him.

“You’re welcome.”

“Do you sparkle in the sun?” William asks, quick to change topics.

Mark let out a snort which caused William to laugh.

“No, but most vampires burn. I don’t, neither does my dad.”

“Do you have any siblings?”

“One brother, he’s the best, but he gets temperamental when you don’t do as he wishes. Spoilt brat.” Mark snorts fondly. He loves his brother, but he can be a little terror sometimes.

“I wish I had siblings.”

William leans against his shoulder and looks up at him.

“We need to plant that bush.”

“Why?”

“I can’t carry it back, my dad will have suspicions if I bring back a whole bush.”

“Is this your way of letting me know you’re going soon?”

“Sorry, but it's getting too cold and your icicle ass is not helping me warm up.”

“I can make us a fire!” Mark said, already up and ready to get the wood.

William placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Woah Cowboy. Regardless of your Boy Scouts history, I still have to get back,”

Mark pouted which resulted in William grinning. Mark couldn’t help but stare at him in awe.

“This was fun.”

“Yeah, it was.” Mark agreed easily. “Is this the part where we kiss?”

That caused William to take two, wide steps back.

“No can do, I may be easy but I’m not that easy.”

Mark had no idea what that meant but he had a feeling he wasn’t getting a kiss.

“Just one, please. I've never kissed a human before.”

“But you’ve kissed a vampire before?”

“Just Eve. It wasn’t even good, she said she could taste blood on my teeth.” Mark recounters honestly.

“Ouch, that’s rough.”

“Is this making you feel bad enough to give me a smooch?”

William looked at him cryptically before leaning in.

Mark zeroed in on William’s lips. He let out a shaky breath and followed suit. They were a hair’s breath away from each other when William placed two hands on his chest.

“Better luck next time Cowboy.” He lightly shoved Mark away before wandering down the path.

Mark stood there dumbfounded, gaping like a goldfish at the spot Willis previously took up.

Next time, there was going to be a next time.

Mark couldn’t help the dopey smile that etched onto his face as he all but flew back to his house.

William was so fucked. Why did he go back there to Mark? Because he has no self preservation…and he may have wanted to see if this guy was lying about being a vampire.

He shouldn’t have. He should have waited for Rick to come back and tell him his magic tree doesn’t work.

He should’ve called Amber, who would’ve knocked some sense into him.

He should’ve done anything but go back there.

But the vampire had seemed so hopeful and intrigued. He certainly wasn’t menacing. He was also going to bring William a gift.

He couldn’t let him down, damn his parents for instilling manners into him, so he went.

Big mistake.

Now he was royally fucked.

He liked Mark. He liked him more than to just look at him, he liked to hear him talk. He liked how flustered he got. He liked how eager he was to please.

The bottom line is, he’s just too fond of Mark.

So, he told him, ‘next time’, instead of a set date, because William wasn’t planning to go back.

His resolve lasted all of two weeks.

He was walking with Amber when they passed the comic book shop. He’s never paid any attention to it before, but the display in the window made him stop short.

“Wait, let me stop in here for a second.”

Amber looked at him funny.

“Since when do you like comics?”

“I don’t, Rick loves them though.”

She shrugs and they wander in.

They leave with a plastic bag hanging from his hand. It may have been as heavy as the world it weighed that much on him.

They part at the end of the day, with the promise of hanging out soon in the air. Amber’s building houses for the homeless as some bonding exercises, meaning she’ll be M.I.A. for a few weeks.

He was going to tell her about Mark but what could he say? He went out on a date with a vampire and sorta liked it. It was ridiculous, totally ridiculous. He kept his mouth firmly shut, he would not tell Amber because there wasn’t anything to tell.

When he got home, he sat on his bed and stared at the bag.

It tempted him, calling him to live a little instead of being cooped up in his room all day.

Mark probably forgot about him, maybe even moved on with another vampire. It was plausible. He had mentioned an Eve in his rambling.

He might even hate William now, since he ghosted him for two weeks. It was most likely insulting for both the action and the name. Maybe they didn’t like the species mingling. Perhaps Vampires had a long feud with Ghosts and being ghosted was like treason.

He looked at the bag. It pretty much winked back at him.

Fuck it.

William grabs the stupid thing and crept out of his creaky window, praying his parents were asleep.

The forest is a fifteen minute walk away, and the path inside of it only takes ten minutes tops. This gives him plenty of time to regret every life decision he’s ever made.

When he reaches his destination, Mark isn’t at the tree. He doesn’t know if he should do a victory dance at that or not.

He lets out a sigh before a force nearly knocks him over. Mark stands in front of him, out of breath and windswept.

“You’re here.” He breathes out.

“Not for long with the way you’re moving. How did you even know I was here?”

Mark rubs the back of his neck sheepishly.

“You’re sorta a heavy breather by vampire standards. It’s a dead give away.”

“Dead giveaway or not, I still scared you the first two times.”

“Potato, potatoe, why did you run away?” Mark pushes.

He wants to rebuke the claim, but Mark isn’t necessarily wrong. William did run away, just at a moderate pace.

“I got scared.” He admits honestly.

“I thought you said you didn’t find me scary.” Mark asks, standing with his arms crossed.

“I don’t. I find the idea of us scary. Which is stupid, because there’s no us.”

“But…there could be?” Mark whispers out hopefully.

“Maybe, I don’t know. This is all too complicated.”

“It doesn’t have to be.” Mark says, drifting closer to him. Literally. He was hovering over the ground. An idea strikes William.

“Are you mad at me?”

“I’m peeved off.”

“Hmph. How could I make it up to you.” William wonders aloud as he rustles the bag behind his back.

Mark’s eyes zoom to it like it’s a rabbit and William is holding it as prey.

“What’s that?”

“A present.”

Mark’s eyes lit up.

“For me?”

“No, for the werewolf I’m seeing. Yes for you, you idiot!”

Mark rips it out of his hands before he can blink. He tears off the wrapping paper and ogles the goods.

“So, whadda ya think?” William asks nervously.

“I love it!” Mark cries out, holding the t-shirt like it was made of gold.

“Knew you would.”

Mark tackles him into a hug and floats them into the air. William cackles when suddenly, he’s got a wish that must come through this second

“Take me flying.”

“What?”

“Take me flying! Come onnnnn.” William whined. “It’ll be so much fun.”

He trails his hand from Mark's cheek to his shoulder.

“We’ll have so much fun.”

Mark gulped before launching them into the air. William let out a scream that would put any banshee to shame.

He was in the sky. He was in the fucking sky. The screech soon changed to a mad laugh as he tangled his hands in Mark’s hair.

Once they reached a height as to which they could watch the city, they floated lazily above the towering blocks of concrete.

“This is so fucking cool. If I was a vampire, I’d never walk.”

“You’d get tired.”

“Nah.”

They float about in lazy silence, the fluorescent lights shining below, taking up any room for conversation. It was magnificent. Seeing the world from this view.

“Tell me about your home.” William asks, resting his head on Mark’s shoulder.

Who knew bridal style could be so comfortable?

“What do you want to know?”

“Whatever you can tell me. Do you have a village?”

“Well, sort of. It’s more of a community. Lots of houses, vampires galore. It’s our own littlesanctuary. It’s surrounded by a barrier that repels humans. Once you go through one side, you could make your way over to the opposite direction and end up in Tokyo.”

“That. Is. So. Cool.”

“I know right, but once you’ve been cooped up your whole life, you start to get sick of it.”

William looks up at him, raising an eyebrow.

“They don’t let you leave.”

Mark looks a bit uncomfortable.

“Once you complete your rites you can leave.”

Ah.

“So you haven’t completed them yet?”

“What?” Mark spluttered. “No I have!”

Oops. Touched a nerve.

“But you’re not allowed out, wait, just you?” He questioned incredulously.

He now realised that Mark was looking uncomfortable because he was embarrassed. Oh this was a look William could get used to.

“My dad’s strict. Scared I’d get hunted.”

“By who?”

Mark shrugged. “These people called the RDA, I think he might be making it up.”

William hummed. “That sucks, but you could always go outside the forest, like just round the edge.”

Mark looks at him like he grew another head.

“My dad has a nose on him like a bloodhound, he’d smell it on me.”

“You could have a shower after?”

“With you?”

William whacked him before laughing.

“That’s bold for a blushing mess.”

“Vampires can’t blush.” Mark muttered.

“Yeah, but you do the equivalent of it.”

Mark blew a raspberry at him. William looked at him, really looked, which caused Mark to give a small, tepid nod back. With the confirmation he needed in place, he crushed their lips together.

Mark’s eyes go wide and suddenly they’re free falling. William screeches before tangling himself around Mark.

“MARK!”

The wind stops whistling in his ears and he cracks one eye open. They’re stable once more.

“You, you kissed me. Oh wow.”

“Which I will never be doing again, FYI.”

Mark opens his mouth to protest but William lifts his hand up to his mouth, silencing him.

“No, put me down.”

“Come on.”

“Nope, my stomach is currently feeling like it’s on the floor so I should probably join it.

Mark sighs before complying, slowly lowering them to the ground.

“I hate you for this.”

William rolled his eyes at the dramatics. Once they were safely on the ground, he turned around and gave him a peck on the cheek.

Mark stood there starstruck.

“See ya next time Mark.”

“OKAY!” Mark cried out, then looked mortified at his outburst.

William smiled like an idiot all the way home.

Mark met up with William every day after that.

He was ecstatic, if all else fails he could at least confidently say he made a human friend. Sometimes they talk, other times they play games. Regardless, they have fun.

“Is it cold?” William prompted one day.

Mark had been reading his comic and glanced down at him. He was leaning his head against Mark’s knees. It made him feel all sorts of fuzzy inside.

“Is what cold?”

“You know.” William prodded.

It took four seconds for him to dawn on what Willis was asking. It did help that when William wore that specific smile, trouble was right round the corner.

“WILLIAM.” Mark screeched scandalized. “That’s an invasion of privacy.”

“You’re the one who said we should take a shower together.”

“Yeah but I was only joking.”

Partially.

“Well whatever.” William waved his hand around lazily. “Still didn’t answer my question.”

“You’ll find out one day.”

Mark didn’t even realise the innuendo until it was out in the open.

William sat up and grinned like a shark. Mark slapped a hand to William’s mouth before any vulgar words could make an escape.

“Nope, don’t even.”

William sits back down dejected before turning his Cheshire grin back towards him once again.

“Soooooo. Let’s go out to the town.”

“What? No way! My dad would kill me.”

“Has he not been working you down to the bone all week?”

“Yeah but—“

“So what’s a few more hours of hard labour? Come onnnnn.” William said, tantalizing. “I know you want you.”

Mark bit the inside of his cheek. He really did want to go out there, but with the threat of his dad looming over him…fuck it.

“Let’s do it.”

“I didn’t think you’d actually say yes! Come on then.” William urged while dragging Mark to his feet. He could be real bossy when he wanted to.

That’s how they ended up on the crowded streets of the town.

People were constantly moving and Mark struggled to keep up. He nearly ran into an elderly lady. One, who, he might add, whacked her stick against him so hard it actually hurt. Maybe humans grew stronger as they progressed through life?

William laughed his ass off for a block and a half after.

“Oh my God. You weren’t lying when you said you were totally clueless.”

“Fuck off.” Mark snapped without any bite. The whole incident had one good outcome, which meant William was now holding his hand.

Shops adorned every inch of the place and lamps coated the side walks. Bustling buses zoomed past and William even said they should go on one.

They did, it was epic. He couldn’t stop grinning for the duration of the ride.

“Do you know why the seats are colourful?”

“No, why?”

“It’s to hide all the dust, this place is pretty much a germ fest. All public transport is.”

Germs didn’t do too much to vampires, except for the especially powerful ones. That meant Mark wasn’t put off with the underlying intent behind the multicolored seats.

“So why do you still go on it then?”

William raised an eyebrow at him. “Because I’m poor, and not that much of a germaphobe. The bus isn’t too bad, it’s the subway you need to watch out for.”

They went into a couple of shops. William had to physically pull him away from the comic book store. He only left in the end at the promise of coming back at a later date. He did manage to purchase around half the shop, so he can’t complain too much.

Mark was far too accustomed to a lackluster of people, that his senses were going into overdrive filtering in all the different sounds and smells. He loved his family, and his home was nice, but this, this was something else.

They ended the day off at a cafe. Mark was fascinated with the place, the smell of coffee penetrating his senses until he was high off the scent. William said that their coffee tasted like cheap shit and Mark needs to get better nostrils.

“Why do you get it then?” Mark asks petulantly. He thinks it smells nice.

“Because it’s cheap.” Was his simple answer.

The coffee did have a slight granite texture to it, and the muffins were missing chunks, but Mark wouldn’t have it any other way.

This place was so cool.

When he voiced his opinion to William, he rolled his eyes fondly.

“You dork, only you would think a town called Grimsville is cool. Wait till I take you to New York.”

Mark brushes his foot against William’s.

“Thanks.”

William raises his cup.

“Any time.”

They make it back in time for curfew, William leaving Mark behind with a stretched smile. He throws him a wink over his shoulder, before leaving Mark to his own accord.

He reaches the forest in record speed.

He’s so caught up in his own head he doesn’t register the footsteps behind him. A sterile smell fills the air and he locks up in place.

Next thing you know, he’s yanking his hand back and punting it across someone’s back.

They cry out in pain as they’re launched four feet up in the air. A slow clap fills the clearing and overshadows the whines protruding from the lump on the ground.

A man in his late sixties stands in front of him with a grim expression etched in place.

“You’re his.” He said.

Mark let his fangs show as he slowly backed away.

“What do you want?” Mark asked carefully. The air cloyed with his senses, making him see dots buzz around the place.

“I only wanted to see what you’re made of. I’m part of the SDL.”

“What even is that?”

“Supernatural Defence League. Please tell me your father clued you into what we are.”

Mark was real woozy now but he still managed to shake his head in a ‘no’ gesture.

The man let out a sigh. “We deal with all threats to the human race and work alongside species such as your own to pave a peaceful co-existent.”

“That sounds…nice.”

He scoffed. “Yeah, nice. Anyway, your father refuses to work for us. He doesn’t want mingling of any sort.”

“So you’ve come to me instead. And what’s with the air dude?”

The man holds a small metal pen, he clicks the top of it and suddenly he’s teleported to the man lying on the ground.

“A precaution. Don’t worry, you’ll feel better in an hour of two.” The man flicks his gaze towards Mark. “My name's Cecil Stedman and I have the feeling we’ll be meeting again.”

With that ominous retort, he grabs onto the unconscious lump and teleports out of there.

Mark can’t even comprehend what just happened, but he knows one thing, he can’t go home like this.

He could stay in the forest, but he'd be open to any attack. William’s, he could go to William's house.

With that in mind, he launched himself into the air. His head was off, his senses dilated. He was burning up and he was just really fucking thirsty. Mark really shouldn’t be flying, but it was either this or face his dad.

He tracked William through the vague directions he gave today on how far along his house is from the main town, and of course along with his scent, William pretty much painted him a map. Once he reached the house, he lowered himself down to the window.

He hesitated before he finally gave William’s window a solid knock.

A muffled noise could be heard before the curtains were drawn and suddenly William was looking at him like he'd seen a ghost.

Mark couldn’t blame him for that reaction, ghosts were fucking weird. They’d float right through you and wouldn’t even say sorry.

“Hi.” Mark said, voice cracking.

William looked really nice right now, like really nice. He should bite him.

Mark nearly falls as that thought pierces through the veil of all sense. It’s an amazing idea, truly, but, fuck. He shouldn’t, especially not in this state.

“Mark, get in.” William hissed and he was all too easy to comply.

“Woah, your room is awesome.” Mark awed as he made his way across the floor.

“Is this Amber, she’s pretty.” Mark says as he lifts up a photo of William and presumably Amber.

“Yes, that's Amber and yes, she’s gorgeous. Now, what are you doing here?”

“I got drugged. I think. I’m not really sure. Wait, who’s this?”

“You got drugged! Are you ok? Shouldn’t you be at your vampire doctor, wait is there even such a thing as that!?”

“Yes, but I don't need to see her. I’m just a little drowsy, and a lot thirsty. You didn’t answer my question.”

“That’s, um, Rick. He’s a friend of mine. Do you want to get me a drink of water?”

Mark had a feeling ‘um Rick’ was a little more than just a friend. William was hiding something from him, but if Mark pushed, he may be thrown out. He can’t risk it.

“I’m not thirsty for water.” Is what he settles on instead.

“Oh.” William lets out and suddenly they’re at a standstill.

“How thirsty are you?” William asks, breaking the silence.

“Eh, really?”

William nods before nodding over to his bed. “I’m tired, and I have work in the morning, so….” He trails off inviting.

Mark slowly makes his way over to William, who pulls back the cover and pats the place beside him. Mark is all too eager to follow, and clambers on top of the bed at an inhuman speed.

“God you’re so hot.” William says, before stopping abruptly. “Burning hot.” He clarifies.

Mark smiles at him lazily. “Being drugged will do that to a vampire apparently.

“Are you still thirsty?” He questions intently.

Mark looks at him and nods. William lets out a sigh, and with an embarrassed huff, pulls down the collar of his shirt.

“Go nuts.”

Mark leans up, looking down at him gobsmacked.

“Are you serious?”

“No, this was all for fun.” William whacks him on his chest. “Of course I’m serious! You idiot. Now this is your last chance.”

That’s all he needed to say.

Mark honed in on the junction between William’s shoulder and neck. He brought his lips to it and kissed the spot gently. Yet, there was no time for niceties.

Mark retracted his teeth and bit, tearing the delicate skin before sinking into, sweet, sweet blood.

His senses were immediately overwhelmed and a rush overcame him. Feverishly, he hooked himself over William, all in his conquest for more.

William wriggled underneath him, not because he was uncomfortable. No, he seemed to like this. He sucked for what felt like hours until William tried to push him off.

Mark clung for dear life but with a stern, “Mark.”, he all but fell off William in his haste and accidentally took a tumble to the floor.

He slowly clambered back onto the bed. He tried to leave a nice enough gap between them, but this bed was not built for two.

“That was….” Mark stared.

“Yeah.” William finished for him. “That was a lot.”

Concern rose steadily for William. “Are you ok?”

William laid his eyes on him before they fled away.

“I’m alright Mark.”

“Can I…can I stay the night.”

His only answer was slotting his leg between Marks. In return, Mark threw an arm over him. Within minutes he was conked out.

“Should I really even be here?” William questioned as he was oh so sneakily being moved through the clearing.

“Yes.” Mark replied back, nervously looking back and forth.

Mark had approached him with a plan earlier that day. A week had passed since the incident, and Mark had concluded that his dad can’t actually smell the outside on him, and he’s been lying all this time. As he had never brought it up to Mark over the week.