the sunshine after the storm

series

under (bob r. x reader)

One / Two / Three

todd’s guide to (todd x reader)

One / Two / Three

bluest of blue (cameron x reader)

One / Two / Three / Four (coming soon!!)

standalones

My Dearest, Rhett (Rhett x reader)

Can We Go Home Now? (Rhett x reader)

40 days, 40 nights (Bob R. x reader)

The Turtle & The Rabbit (Rocco x reader)

Golden Sun, Silver Moon (Bob R. x reader)

Betting on You! (Todd x Reader)

Fate of the Heat Haze (Surfboat x reader; Calvin x Reader x Harrison)

The Ski Trip Incident (Bob R. x reader)

Take Me Home (Where I Belong) (Rhett x reader)

When Your Reality Drowns (Surfboat x reader; Calvin x Reader x Harrison)

At last, I See the Sunlight (Bob R. x reader)

extra (non x reader)

the el royale series

One / Two / Intermission

standalones

my savior, my guardian angel (Crossbearers/Royale’s Lot; Miles x Ben)

save the date (Sunshines; Bob R. x Todd)

be someone you like (Sunshines; Bob R. x Todd)

as my ghost gently cries (Sunshines; Bob R. x Todd)

focuses on shipping and pairing up certain Lewis Pullman characters! you don’t have to read them if you don’t want to ^^

^ if you are into that though, refer to here for ship/duo names that i may use whether i write for them or ramble about them in my solar speaks in the void tag :)

typically the lewis pairs i’ll write for is: crossbearers (miles miller/ben mears), sunshines (bob reynolds/todd stevens), major cowboy (rhett abbott/major major), ocean sky (thomas keefer/bob floyd) & surfboat (harrison knott/calvin evans). sometimes the last one will be with x reader ^^ the rest might one day too we’ll see :)

extra (headcanon posts)

You were different compared to the people in Sowell Bay. You’ve grown to get used to it. However, you wondered if Cameron was a being like you. After all, a mermaid’s voice was what they were known for in fiction. It was a sound as beautiful as the sea. 

Was that why you were entranced by Cameron’s voice? Did he come from the same origin as you? 

No, you were tired of trying to invent reasons on why you felt the way you did. Perhaps, it was better to just say it outright. 

You were in love with Cameron Cassmore. You are in love with him now.

You didn’t know what to do with this information. On the one hand, you were happy at the feeling. Thinking about Cameron never failed to make your heart flutter. However, on the other hand, you couldn’t help but feel a sense of confusion.

Maybe it was because of your origins. Mermaids were never supposed to fall in love with humans. They loved and cherished them as creatures brighter than they were rather than in a romantic sense. So now that you fell in love with one, surely there had to be some form of consequence, right? 

You place a hand on your chin, lost in thought as the last of the guests left the store. Come to think of it. I don’t know anything about how mermaids are. All I had was anecdotes from Marcellus but… it’s not like I can ask him for more, can I?

You start typing anything about mermaids in your phone. You didn’t end up getting an answer. It was a common belief that these were works of fiction and understandably so. 

Still a bummer, you think to yourself as you scroll through 

You feel a tap on your shoulder. You turn around to find Cameron Cassmore with a nervous smile on his face. “Hey, you uh… you didn’t answer my texts.” 

You flinch. Fuck. It must’ve slipped your mind. “Sorry, just been busy with stuff.” You shrug your shoulders. 

He doesn’t stop staring at you with a look of concern. “I heard from Tova you weren’t feeling well last night. Something the matter?”

“No!” You cough into your fist and shake your head. “No. It just must’ve been the alcohol I drank…!”

“You left before we started drinking,” he points out, crossing his arms. Oh, right…

“Look, no matter what it was, I was just feeling under the weather.” You gave him an apologetic smile. You wanted to be truthful. You really did. But how were you supposed to explain this crisis to him? “Sorry I couldn’t be there with you and Tova. Your voice was great.” Like a Siren’s.

He laughs. The skepticism on his face faded away and instead, it had a bright grin. “A siren’s?” Your face heats up. Did you actually say that out loud? “Well, glad I didn’t disappoint.” He nudges you with his arm. You squint at him. Is he turning red? 

You shake your head. That wasn’t important right now. “Your singing captivated me! Maybe we can sing a duet together one day.” 

He rubs the back of his neck. “Sure. Maybe then I’ll teach you how to play the guitar.” He chuckles at your confused expression. “Remember when we first met? I promised to teach you one day.” 

“You still remembered that?” Your voice was soft, vulnerable. 

“Of course. Why wouldn’t I?” His was equally as soft. You both stared into each other’s eyes in a short silence, then he was quick to look away and his eyes landed on your phone. “Mermaids? Was that why you mentioned sirens? Didn’t know you were into folklore like that.”

“Huh? Oh, yeah!” You try to play it off while internally scolding yourself for leaving it up. “A kid was talking about it when they came up to me so I guess it got me thinking.”

“Why?” He tilts his head. “It’s not like they’re real.”

You try your best not to laugh. Nothing about this situation was humorous at all. “Yeah, but it got me thinking about a story I read when I was younger.”

“Is that why you’re more distracted today?” 

“I am?”

“Pretty sure I saw at least two kids shoplift a couple of keychains.” He laughs at your dumbfounded expression, putting up his hands in defense. “Hey, hey, I was more worried about what was up with you.” 

“Ugh, I need to get my act together.” You pinch the bridge of your nose. “I’ve been more lost in thought lately. Dizzy, nauseous, something’s definitely wrong.” And it definitely isn’t the new feeling.

This might be a side effect of something.

“You sure you’re fine on your own?” He frowns. “I can stay with you if you’re not feeling well.”

“I’ll be fine! It isn’t so bad that it’s messing with my work. Aside from that shoplifting incident…” He takes out something from his pocket and places it in your palm. You stare at it. Keychains…? “What-?”

“Did you seriously have little faith in me that I let those kids get away? I didn’t want them giving you a hard time.” He chuckles to himself, already walking off. “I work here too now.” He waves at you. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

You set the keychains back to where they were supposed to be, humming a cheerful tune. It was nice to see Cameron’s growth from when he first started this job. At first, he seemed apathetic to the role and would constantly butt heads with Tova. Now? He was taking pride at his job at the aquarium. One might even say he was enjoying it now. Not to mention he was growing closer with Tova which you found to be sweet.

It almost made you believe he was here to stay. 

But he wasn’t, once he found Simon Brinks, he’ll be gone. Back to his old life with his band. 

Once he did, you doubt it’d make your feelings change. In fact, the idea of him leaving you and Sowell Bat behind made you feel even more nauseous. 

You pack up your stuff and leave. You normally don’t stay this late but you’ve been so caught up in your own thoughts you didn’t even notice the time. You walk out of the aquarium but not before hearing a faint voice.

Your eyes widened. You realize it wasn’t Cameron.

Could it be him? There’s no way. I can’t talk to him anymore. 

Or did something change?

———

Something definitely did change because you heard noises when you were trying to sleep. You chalked it up to you just imagining things at first but now, you were wide awake.

You stare at the goldfish on your nightstand. “Marcy?” 

A voice said your name. No one was awake this late. You lived alone too. Maybe it was the universe playing a cruel trick on you. “I’m Marcy… That’s what you call me, right?” 

“Holy shit!” You laugh to yourself. Your ability to talk to sea creatures was back. You can finally talk to Marcellus again. You could know more about your origins. 

Then that hope started to dwindle when you realize that while Marcellus had seen some in his lifetime, he had never interacted with them. He doesn’t know the full story. If he did, he would have told you when you first met.

Back to square one. You continue to stare at Marcy. “You don’t seem all that surprised to find out that I can talk to you.”

“Of course not. I believed in you from the start! I knew there was something about you that was different from the other humans.” Marcy swam happily in her bowl. “But I didn’t think I’d see an actual mermaid before!”

Marcy sounded younger and more naive than Marcellus did. In a way, it was kind of endearing to see how much hope was in her compared to that octopus who saw humanity in a more bleak light.

“You know much about mermaids?” You might as well try to fish for more information.  

“No but before you came for me, I did see a human reading about the tale of a mermaid’s brother. It claimed to be a real anecdote that only that human believed in while his friend claimed it was a work of fiction.” 

“Wait… what?”

“Then the human’s companion said that if he wanted to find a real life mermaid, he should hear about… your tale! A lot of humans already know of your identity as a mermaid. You are quite popular. I’ve heard your name mentioned.”

I wasn’t exactly called a mermaid because they thought I was one… You kept that to yourself. “Thanks for your insight, Marcy.” You lie back down on your bed. You needed to get your hands on that book or any informative book your way that could help your case.

What better way to do that? The library. 

You hurriedly check your contacts until you land on one name. Tommy Houston who just so happened to be working at the only library in Sowell Bay.

A plan began to form in your brain.

“You won’t become a mermaid again, right?” Marcy asks. “I was always interested in them but… I don’t want you to leave.” 

You didn’t respond to the question. You decided to go to bed instead.

———

Of all days you wanted to skip work, this was definitely one of them. It had been weeks, trying to act normal, trying to ignore the symptoms that could land in a hospital. Vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, even Marcy, one who wasn’t familiar with how humans act, could tell that you aren’t fine.

One positive thing is that you got confirmation that Tommy does in fact, work at the library which you already knew but he seemed to be their most trusted worker which you couldn’t help but scoff at.

Yes, you and him were on good terms now but you found it odd how the guy who used to put gum in your hair had a secret affection towards the library. 

You’ve been casting aside Cameron too even if your feelings hadn’t faded. They actually continued to grow. He always checked in on you after your shift but you’ve been growing more distant.

When you woke up this morning, it was no different than how the past few days have been treating you. The first thing you did was realize that you had a fever. In all your years of being on this land as a human, you have never felt this way before. Many of your peers thought it was odd that you never got sick but now, you were finally feeling the discomfort that they did.

If you didn’t know any better, it was like your body was trying to kill you. 

It was a usual shift where you were looking more down than usual and as of lately, your cheerful had definitely taken a dip. Even your regulars looked concerned. Strangers who didn’t even know you could tell.

So if strangers could see your change, he could too. And he did.

“Hey, are you okay?” Cameron approaches you after your shift. You gave him a strained smile and nod your head, making your way out already.

You had to get out of here quickly. This was the only day Tommy was able to get you in the library after hours. Every time you drive to the library, it was closed just as you get there. 

He grabbed your wrist. “Hey, just talk to me.” He looked at you, eyes confused and concerned. “I don’t- You’ve been getting distant with me and- and Tova’s been acting weird lately too.” You suddenly felt extremely guilty. “Talk to me. Please.”

“I- I’m sorry, Cameron. I’ve been dizzy lately and just sick honestly. I’m- I’m trying to figure out what’s wrong with me.”

“Then I’ll take you to the doctor-“

“No! My physical health is fine!” In all honesty, it wasn’t. She never felt weaker in her life. “But I just need to go to the library for something.”

“What? Why? You should be resting-“

“It’s important. I swear. I- I’ll do this one thing and I’ll rest.” He finally lets go of your wrist but not before his grip tightens on it as some form of reassurance. 

“Isn’t it closed this time?” 

“No. I got Tommy to bend the rules a bit.” 

His expression darkened a bit then he let out a sigh. “Alright, you can go. But I’m coming with you. It was a slow day today anyway from the looks of it. I won’t take long, alright?” 

You gulped, thinking over your options but you knew he wouldn’t let this go until you agreed, until he was sure you were fine.

“Okay. I’ll wait.”

———

The drive to the library was filled with an awkward silence. Cameron suggested that he’d drive you. You agreed since you didn’t bring your car to work that day. In order to break the awkward silence, you asked him a question. “How’s things with Avery? You haven’t talked about her in a while.”

Cameron chuckled bitterly. “You’d know if you opened my messages.” 

“Not true,” you argued weakly. “Even before I started acting like this, you weren’t talking about her.” 

“So you admit you’re acting weird?” You say nothing to that. “Something happened in our first date that made me realize stuff. I messed it up at the end. Majorly fucked it up.”

“Just apologize to her. Anyone would be a fool to not give you a second chance.” You meant it and he knew you did.

“It isn’t that simple. It never is.”

You couldn’t argue with that. He was right after all.

———

“Make sure you lock up before you leave,” Tommy says, tossing the key to you which you catch. You look around at Sowell Bay’s Library. Despite growing up here, you never visited this place, preferring the libraries in your school better and more accessible.

You couldn’t help but find it grand and fascinating yet overwhelming. All these rows and columns of books. How could you find what you were looking for? 

“You sure we won’t get in trouble for this?” Cameron glares at him, looking unamused. Tommy waved him off.

“Nah, you’re fine. I’m a star employee.” He pinches your cheek. “And I’d risk it all for this one over here as an apology for what I’ve put her too.”

“Thanks..” you grit your teeth. Despite your annoyance towards the man, you will admit that you were very appreciative of him. 

“Alright, we got this from here.” Cameron wraps his arm around your shoulders, leading you away from him. 

“Wait!” You look back at Tommy. “Do you know where books for mermaids are?”

“That’s what you needed to look for?!” Cameron exclaims. He groans. “That’s it. We’re getting you to bed. This isn’t enough to risk your health.” 

“No. Cameron. I need to find this book then I’ll go home.” You turn your attention to him. He looked so worried for you, you felt even worse than usual. “Please.”

He softens up. “Okay. But one book then we’re leaving. We’re not staying all night.”

Tommy stays silent, thinking to himself for a bit with a hand on his hip. “Anything more specific?”

You think back to what Marcy told you. “Uh, something about a mermaid’s brother?” 

“I think someone just returned it. Should be in the drop off box.” He points to the box near the front counter with his thumb. You make your way to the counter and search through the books that were in the bin until you found what you were looking for. He leaned against the counter. “Don’t know why you want it. I read it before. The guy sounds crazy.”

My Brother and I used to be Merman: Elliot Green’s Account of His Brother.

This was it. 

“Can I check this out?” You asked him. He looked a bit irritated that he was working off his shift but he nodded and got behind the counter.

This could give me the answers I was looking for.

———

Cameron recommended that he stayed with you for the night. He was under the belief that you were too stubborn to take care of yourself. You weren’t much in the position to argue as you started to fall over yourself as you exited his van.

He placed a cold compress on your forehead while he made you soup. His cooking was pretty good even if you did burn your tongue due to the heat. “Be careful. I don’t want you getting worse.” He scolded as you lay back down. He sits next to you on your bed, he looked sleepy like he hadn’t gotten sleep in days. 

“You should rest too, Cameron. You’ll get sick too.”

“I’ll be fine,” he replies, staring at Marcy who was happily swimming in her bowl. She knew better than to speak when you could understand what she was saying. “Didn’t know you had a pet fish. What’d you name it?”

“Marcy.”

“Like Marcellus?” 

“Yeah, he’s been a part of my childhood. When I felt alone, the aquarium was my only solace.” You smile to yourself. You always found yourself missing Marcellus. “He was part of that.”

Cameron intertwines your fingers together. “Wish we met when we were younger. Maybe we’d have felt less alone.”

Your smile grew more sorrowful. “Yeah, maybe.”

“I wish I knew more about you.”

You don’t respond to that statement. Your heart hurt enough. “If I’m sick, why don’t you distance yourself from me? You’ll get sick too.”

“It’s because I care… I care for you more than anything.” It was the last thing he said before he fell asleep. He looked peaceful while he was sleeping. Almost like an angel. 

It took everything in your power to get up and let go of his hand.

Sometimes you can’t believe how Cameron was human. He almost felt perfect. But it’s his flaws that make him who he is and you still couldn’t help but love that.

You get on your chair and start reading.

———

You were running as much as you could. Your body felt so weak that even exerting yourself in that way was dangerous but you had to get to the aquarium as fast as you can. 

You read through the chapters, each of them containing the tale of two brothers, dating back to before you were born.

“My brother and I were born when Atlantis sunk. We were never told why the kingdom had crumbled the way it had but regardless, our parents were worried about the future of our kind. Extinction was the only solution. We thrived in a society but now that it had fallen before our eyes, we didn’t know what to do. We were different from other sea creatures. We breathed underwater just like them and yet, we functioned as humans do. Perhaps that was why our parents wanted to send us to the shore.”

You flip many pages and the story continues.

“Mermaids have immaculate voices. Even now, in our human form, we still possess that impressive feat. The tales that you hear spread appear to be true. Our parents lured children into the depths so that we may swap places with them. Our human parents knew. I infer they always have known. From the little memory I have, our parents were the first to achieve this discovery. Stories of older generations making deals with sea witches were supposed to be a laughable tale but turns out, they were true. I doubt any sea witches were involved but it was always referred to as a last resort when Atlantis falls. And it has.”

The story continues eerily similar to yours. They were isolated from their families, their peers, their new home. And they still took it all in because it was their home. Mermaids loved humans but humans saw them as creatures who they didn’t understand even as they wore their flesh.

You wondered why the author never wrote about his brother in the present tense. You finally figured out why.

“My brother fell in love with a human woman. She was beautiful. Her eyes blue as the ocean. It’s not hard to see why he would have fell for her. As he finally realized his feelings, however, he grew more ill. He would always be sick even if his health would consistently be alright. Doctors would find him at perfect condition.”

You looked over the symptoms the brother was facing. “Dizziness, nausea, fatigue, his body was so weak, he’d been in pain just by walking.” 

You flip through more of the story to see where the story goes, what happened to the brother.

“My brother only gotten worse. My theory at the time was that it was a side effect of the ability that made us become human. Now, I retract that theory. I believe it is because mermaids were never meant to be in love with humans. We were supposed to save them from shipwrecks, help them when they needed to catch underwater creatures, cherish them as if they were beings that need our help. The line of romantic love was ever meant to be crossed as it’d be favoring one human over the rest. That goes against our duty, what we were supposed to be.”

“My brother was never able to confess his love. A love that was seemingly unrequited. He turned into sea foam many weeks later. Sometimes, I think I catch a glimpse of him in the water when I visit the ocean. I hope he’s happy back at home. I know I would sure be.”

You researched more about the author. Many people wrote articles and gave coverage to this book. Some claimed it was real while others claimed  it was made by a man who couldn’t separate fantasy from reality. Other people claimed it was a way for the author to cope with the real life loss of his brother. The author took his own life shortly after writing that book and eventually, the story faded after the debate died down.

But the contents of the book and especially about what happened to the brother stuck with you because they were all symptoms you checked off.

You felt numb, crawling back into bed with Cameron who wrapped his arms around you once he felt your warmth.

You couldn’t cry.

It hasn’t sunk in yet that you were going to die.

———

It was the first sick day you had ever. You’re so glad Terry gave you some time off and someone was able to sub in for you. You had to talk to Marcellus. He had more insight on things. Maybe this book could help jog his memory. 

On your way to his tank, Cameron storms past you. Not even acknowledging your presence. You remember him leaving a note as you woke up. He said he finally found Simon and was going to tell me everything when he came back. 

Did it not go well?

Tova was running after him and you couldn’t help but follow them.

“Please don’t leave! You have so much people who care about you!” She pleaded with him as he made his way to his van. Cameron glanced at you before averting his eyes with a scoff.

Leave. Cameron was leaving.

“Is that why you’re leaving?” He shoots back at her.

Tova. Tova, the kind woman who has always showed up for you more than your own parents have. The one person you bonded with the most as a child.

She was leaving too.

“And what about Marcellus? He doesn’t have much time. He needs you.”

“That’s not my problem.” He responded coldly. So different from the Cameron you knew. The Cameron who took care of you yesterday. He seemed more detached like when you first met him. But worse.

“Cameron, you’re better than this!” 

“I’m not.” His voice shakes. He looks at you then Tova. Two of the people he cared about in Sowell Bay. “I’m really not.”

He gets in his van. Tova looked distraught and powerless but your weak body moves on its own. You step in front of the vehicle so that he doesn’t drive away. 

“Move out of the way.” 

“Don’t leave,” you mumble, tears in your eyes. “I don’t want my best friend to leave. Please, Cameron. Don’t leave us.”

Don’t leave me.

“Some friend you are,” he bitterly says. “You’ve been acting weird for weeks! You act so off around me. You’re hiding something! And-“ he lets out a deep breath. “I’ve tried to be there for you. God knows I have! But you- you don’t let me in! Ever since that stupid day at the bar. Last night, I could tell you’re hiding something. You’re keeping something from me. I barely know anything about you!”

He slams his hands on the stirring wheel before looking back at you. “Tell me something. Anything. Get me to stay without any half assed promises. Without changing the subject.” His eyes well up too. “Say something.”

You’re speechless. Your lips pressed together as if they were glued shut. That’s all he needs.

“If you can run away, don’t blame me for wanting to do it either.” He moves his van so he can drive past you. 

You sink to the concrete. 

How did the saying go again? You only realize how good you had it until it’s completely gone?

Your friend is gone. Your light is gone. Your anchor is gone. 

Your home is gone.

Your love is gone.

You feel Tova hugging you tight. But all you were doing is staring at the open door that led right back into the aquarium.

Marcellus. He should know what to do. He always did.

You had to tell him everything you found out. 

You’d be dammed if you died before you could bring your home back, before you could bring him back.

You’ll do whatever it takes to live. 

Because even with your origins, you’re still a human. 

Mermaids have always adored humans, that’s what Marcellus told you when you were young. At that time, you felt like you had simultaneously unlocked the answers you’ve been searching for and gotten nothing out of it. Nothing truly changed in your life. 

That was until you met him. Cameron Cassmore. 

You wanted to help him at first. He was new to Sowell Bay, looking for someone while you were searching for a purpose of your own. You thought you were supposed to help him because then, maybe you wouldn’t feel as though you were stuck on this world for no reason.

That desire to help him later blossomed into a friendship rather quickly. You didn’t chase after him to fill your heart with meaning but instead you chased after him because he was the first friend you’ve had. 

So naturally, you wanted to help him with whatever was bothering him. Not because it was what you thought your purpose was but because he was someone you cherished. With all your heart.

There was just one problem. 

You weren’t well versed in romance. 

As people slowly start to roll out of the aquarium’s gift shop, you were watching a romantic movie in your spare time before you had to close up. You didn’t understand why people were so interested in stories such as these. In fact, it grows frustrating when the leads wouldn’t properly convey the emotions they felt for each other. 

Honestly, it just made your eyes roll and grip on your  phone to tighten. Your fingertips tap the counter as if the noise would make the time go by quicker. 

How were people interested in this crap? Have our tastes really devolved? You laugh to yourself. Great, now I’m starting to sound like a less intelligent Marcellus. 

Speaking of him, You never got back that ability to speak to him. You bought a goldfish from a pet store to see if you could channel that ability once more. You couldn’t. You didn’t know why you expected otherwise. Regardless, you still took care of the fish even going as far as naming it Marcy. 

You feel like one day you had to let Marcy go back to the ocean. But it was so big, full of sea creatures that could see it as prey. 

Maybe that’s how I saw Cameron- You freeze as the thought rudely makes its way into your mind. The idea of letting go of him felt impossible to you. But you knew that once he was done with his business in Sowell Bay. He’d leave and never return. 

You had to let him go. It was inevitable. Why didn’t you want to though? 

Were you just selfish? 

No, it was because you cared about him too much. More than you thought you would. And it scares you. 

Perhaps that in of itself is selfish. 

Your eyes drift back to the romantic film. It was nowhere near the part you were waiting for but you did take notes on how to set two people up. If you wanted to help Cameron with this mysterious Avery, then you had to do some research with your limited knowledge.

Didn’t expect it to be so boring-

You feel a fabric pressing against your cheek. When you move your head, you spot Cameron with an octopus stuffed toy in his hand, looking at you with a raised eyebrow. “Y’know, I was wondering when you’d finally notice I was here.”

Your face heats up. “Sorry… I was preoccupied with other things.”

Cameron tugs on the string of your headphones. “Yeah, I can tell. What’s got you so worked up anyway?” He leans forward, peeking at your screen from behind your shoulder. His confused frown turns into an amused grin as he notices what you’re watching. “That dumb movie? Heard from my band that it’s absolute shit.”

“Yeah, it is. I’m barely halfway through,” you grumble. 

“Didn’t expect you to be into films like that.” 

“I’m normally not. Just using it for…” You stop yourself for a second. There’s no way he’ll believe I’m actually watching these for fun. “Research.”

“Research?” His brows furrowed as if he was thinking about something deeply. “Why’d you need that?” He sets down the stuffed animal in his hands. You were taken aback by how bothered he looked. “You could just talk to me.”

I can’t because I’m setting you up with someone, you idiot.

“It’s embarrassing to talk about out loud.” You shrug your shoulders. 

“You never talked about romantic stuff.” He paused as if it finally dawned on him. Your body stiffens. Shit, did he figure me out already? “Is there a guy you like or something?” He leans against the wall, crossing his arms. A sign you normally notice when something’s wrong but right now? You were just thankful that he was dense. 

It was ridiculous to think about it in that way. For God’s sake, you were doing it for him. You weren’t doing it for some stranger that you had a silly crush on. It was more important than that. 

You decide to change the conversation. “Hey, have you heard from Tova? You guys got into a pretty big disagreement last time I checked so I was wondering if you’re both alright.”

That seemed to sweeten up his sour mood. “Oh yeah, we had one. It’s all fine now. She actually helped me find Simon Brinks. Or… tried to. It was a dead end.” He shivers. “I’d rather not think about that experience.”

“See! I told you!” You pat his back. “She grows on you.” You smile to yourself, thinking back to all the things she’s done for you. You’ve never been more grateful for a person in your life aside from Cameron. She was a figure in your life that you so desperately needed growing up even if you only saw her occasionally. You were glad that she helped him find a lead to Simon even if it didn’t give him the answers he wanted. A part of you was bummed you couldn’t help at all but you had already lost hope on that venture, now you had a new goal.

“I can see that,” he chuckles, shaking his head. “You sure have a good judgement of character.” His eyes flicker to his phone. You raise your eyebrow. He realizes you’re staring and puts the phone away. 

“Something the matter?” 

“Yeah, yeah, everything’s fine. It’s just Tova… well, she did… something,” he says carefully. You stare at him expecting him to continue his story. He takes a deep breath. “There’s this girl I like. Her name’s Avery. I like her a lot and Tova- God, I don’t even know what she was thinking… but she thought it’d be fine to ask Avery to hangout and now, she wants to talk to me. I just… don’t know when.”

“Avery?” That’s all you could say. You already know who she was but he didn’t know that. You cross your arms, trying your best to look stern. “And you didn’t tell me?” 

“Sorry, it just-“

“I mean, I already knew but I wish you told me sooner.” It was strange feigning ignorance about Avery. Yet you thought it was better to be truthful as well. You didn’t want to be a hypocrite. “I overheard you talking to Marcellus. I left something so I went back,” you explain with a guilty smile, giggling when you saw his dumbfounded expression. “Guess we’re both even?” 

His face changes despite the red in his cheeks. A cute look, you think. Before he could respond, his phone starts ringing. He looked distraught. “Wait.. I can’t pick this up-“

“What?!” Now it was your turn to look dumbfounded. “Why not? Don’t you want to date her?”

“Of course I do! But I don’t know what to say! Tova set it up not me-“ You snatch the phone from him. “Oh my god! You two are the same-!”

“Hello! Is this Avery?” You hear her voice, your smile starts to slip. You don’t want to think about why. She asks what you were doing on his phone. “Oh, no! I’m not his girlfriend or anything like that. Just his close friend. He’s…” You turn to look at him, standing there, mortified. Your grin comes back. “He’s a bit embarrassed right now.” You hear a laugh. 

“Tell him he doesn’t need to be embarrassed around me.” It’s sickening how you don’t want to. Instead, you toss the phone to Cameron, giving him a thumbs up. 

“I got a close up. You got this. She seems like a nice girl and she definitely likes you.” He gives you a grateful smile before he leaves you be.

Tears fall from your eyes just as he leaves. You wipe them hastily as you close the gift shop. 

What’s wrong with me?

———

According to all the terrible romantic movies you saw, it was frowned upon to go third wheel on a date. Normally, you’d think that this was a logical answer. It just made everyone uncomfortable and awkward. You didn’t third wheel Cameron’s date with Avery. 

But you were staying nearby, just by pure coincidence. It was all to make sure things went according to plan. Besides, you could go for a quick swim anyway. 

You kept a respectable distance to make sure they wouldn’t spot you and just stared out in the water. You recall this place from your childhood. It’s when you tried to go back to your true home, the sea, naively believing that you could gain a tail and see your real parents again. 

That didn’t happen. You were still stuck here. For better or for worse. You watch Avery and Cameron get on their paddle boards and laugh together, exchanging stories like what you used to do with him. 

You shake that feeling away. That feeling you can’t name nor can you properly describe. 

There’s no way I can feel worse. A familiar voice calls out your name. A noise coming from someone you used to share a classroom with. You turn around and see an older version of the boy who used to put gum in your hair. 

“Tommy. Hey.”

“Shit! I didn’t realize you were back in town too! How’s it been?!” You couldn’t help but glare. How could he smile like that? Knowing how many times you had to cut your hair on your own to get rid of the trash he put in it. Knowing how alone he made you feel all throughout your childhood. He isn’t as obtuse as he once was. He could tell your distaste towards him. “I’m sorry. I know it’s an apology too little too late but I mean it. I was such an asshole to you. I didn’t mean it. You were like the sweetest person I know and an easy target-“

“Like that makes it any better?” 

“It doesn’t! But that’s just how I was when I was a kid.” He sits down on the ground next to you. “I used to have a crush on you. Did anyone ever tell you that?”

“So your only solution to those feelings was to pick on me?” You asked unamused. Tommy sighs to himself.

“I didn’t know how to deal with it at the time. You were the weird girl of Sowell Bay. Everyone picked on you. I thought if they knew I liked you, they’d pick on me too.” 

“You made me feel the opposite of love.” You threw a rock into the water, trying to keep everything from spilling out. “You made me feel like I was hated. Alone. You helped make people hate me more than they already did.” 

Tommy hums. “I bet you’d know a lot about love now.” 

You straighten your posture, your glare becoming more hostile. “What’s that supposed to mean?” He raises his hands in defense.

“Sorry! That came out wrong. I just noticed you looking at that guy on the sea.” He pointed directly at Cameron. Your face heats up in embarrassment. “Is he an ex? A guy you like? Your boyfriend?”

“Why do you want to know?” 

“Just curious. I never got to know who you were. I’d like to know now.” 

“Well, just to be clear, Cameron is none of that! He’s my best friend.” You answer defensively. Maybe you were being too harsh on Tommy but with the way, he treated you back then, you think you’re justified. It was hard to let go of the past. 

Mermaids loved humans yet how did they never get angry when their efforts were never acknowledged.

“Really?” He looked surprised. “That was kind of the way I looked at you when no one was looking.” 

“What?” Your eyes widen. He was just messing with you again. You were sure of it. Maybe he never changed at all and he was making you second guess yourself. You look at his expression but he looks comically shocked. That wasn’t something you could fake especially an actor as terrible as Tommy. 

“I’m not one to tell you what to feel. But your face turns red when you look at him and you fidget with your hands.” He points out. “When you look at him, it’s like he’s the only thing you could pay attention to.”

“I was just zoning out,” you defend yourself. 

He lets out a loud laugh. You were almost scared Cameron could have heard. “I’ve known you since we were kids. I can tell when you’re zoning out and your cheeks don’t get like that when you do.” He pokes your cheek and you swat his hand away. 

“I- I was just making sure nothing bad happens. He’s my best friend. I don’t want him to drown.”

He scoffs. “Sure, keep telling yourself that.” He gets in the water. You raise your eyebrow as he grins at you. “Well, don’t you want a distraction? It must be boring ogling at him all day.”

“I’m not ogling-“

“Whatever. Come on, let’s catch up! It’s not like Cameron’s going anywhere.” He cuts you off, splashing you with the cold water, getting your outfit wet and making you shiver a bit.

You were about to say something in retaliation but you hear a splash. You instinctively turn to the sound and see Cameron in the water. You get up. “Cameron!” You yell, about to jump in the water to follow him. 

Then you hear the sound of laughter. His laughter. Avery’s laughter.

It’s a dagger to your heart. You physically wince at the sound. Tommy looks up at you concerned. 

“Alright, I’ll swim with you.” 

“Hey, you don’t have to—“

“I will.” 

You needed to take your mind off of things. Off of him.

It didn’t work. He was all you thought about as you were with Tommy. Even as he takes you back home. 

Something was seriously wrong with you.

———

Your shift the next day went by faster than you thought. Your mind was occupied with Cameron. That’s all you were thinking about at the moment. The only time you weren’t thinking about him was because of Tommy who heard you worked at the aquarium and wanted to stop by.

As much as you were hesitant to forgive him, your walls were slowly starting to crumble around him. He grew up to be a nice guy and you let your problems slipped.

It seems that he was firm in his belief that you were in love with Cameron which you found to be ridiculous. You failed to see his reasoning. You were likely just sick or something. You weren’t meant to fall in love with humans. 

Marcellus may have said that you were slowly adjusting to becoming a human but you still weren’t like them. You were different than everyone else was. It’s the truth that you could never get rid of. You may look like a human, feel like they do but you will never be one.

And Cameron deserved better than that. Maybe one day, you’d be fated to be in the sea again and he’d be left alone. You couldn’t do that. 

If only Marcellus was here. If only I could still talk to him. However, Tommy was a passable alternative.

You lost track of time talking to him. But a certain someone was quick to remind you. 

“Who’s he?” Cameron entered the gift shop as the kids and their parents were making their way out as usual.

“Tommy Houston.” Tommy extended a hand for the other to take. Despite his hesitance, Cameron shakes it. “You must be the Cameron Cassmore she keeps on talking about.”

“Yeah. I am.” He lets go and turns to you. “Can I talk to you? Alone? This place should be closed anyway.”

Tommy smirks. “Shouldn’t you leave too then?”

“I work here.” 

You didn’t understand the change in his demeanor. He wouldn’t usually act this guarded. Did you mentioned Tommy before? That could be the reason.

“It’s alright! I’m already heading out.” Tommy gives you a wink before leaving. You could see Cameron’s fists clench. 

“You okay?” You asked, putting a hand on his shoulder. He turns to you. The storm in his eyes softening and turning calmer. 

“Yeah, didn’t you mention a Tommy before? Didn’t he used to pick on you? Why’re you giving that asshole a chance?” 

“I know. And I don’t fully trust him. But I don’t want to hate him all my life. Even if I’m still upset.”

Cameron gives you a soft smile. Your heart skips a beat. He runs his hand through his hair. “Uh, by the way, Tova and I are going to a bar downtown and I was going to try to sing so I was wondering if you wanted to join-“

“Yes!” Your eyes light up. “I’d love to hear you sing.” Music was always tethered you to your past. To hear him sing, it would probably be akin to an angel. Maybe one day you could sing a duet.

“Keep your expectations low, alright? I’m not the best at it.” He rubs the back of his neck. 

“I’ll be there!” 

You’d prove that whatever was wrong with you had nothing to do with him. You were going to prove Tommy wrong. You did not have a crush on him. 

You were not in love with Cameron Cassmore.

———

Entering the bar made you wonder if you truly left the aquarium, with so many people crowded in one area, it was liver than any school field trip you’ve seen.

You never went to a bar before and you weren’t a big drinker either. You felt completely out of your element. You weren’t here for that though. You were here for him.

Tova was trying to encourage Cameron who was getting cold feet from the thought of singing in front of strangers. “Listen, I’m not even a singer.. so let’s- let’s get a beer.”

“Now’s the time for music. Not a beer.” She reasons. She gently grabs your arm and pushes you towards Cameron whose hands went on your hips to steady. “Convince him!”

You pat his shoulder. “It’s going to be okay. I used to sing in front of people all the time growing up! It was the one thing people liked me for.”

He bitterly chuckles. “Maybe it should be you there instead of me.” 

“No, it should be you. You signed up remember? Just…” you pause. No one was there to tell you had to calm your nerves. You didn’t know how to help. What would I want someone to say to me? 

“Just look at me when you’re feeling nervous. That way you could pretend you’re only singing to me.” You offered. 

“Okay.” He turns to Tova. “Okay, I’ll do it.”

When he leaves, you and Tova get a table. She stares at you for a bit. You knew she knew there was something wrong with you. She was giving you a sympathetic smile. You wanted to ask her what she thought until he stepped towards the mic.

He started singing a song you were unfamiliar with. The room was a bit noisy but you didn’t care. Once he sang the first note, it got you in a trance. He was staring at you like it was his goal. If anything, it seemed almost as if he was the mermaid rather than you were.

You listened to every lyric he sung, you hung on every note he let slip, every time he strung his guitar. 

You remember Tommy’s words. “When you look at him, it’s like he’s the only thing you could pay attention to.”

He was right. You were hooked on Cameron. You watched every action he did, you watched the way he grew more confident. It made you think back to your past interactions. Had you always felt this way around him? Your heart starts to swell as you let out a shaky breath. 

What makes it even better is how he was always glancing back at you even if he was slowly gaining confidence as if you were his anchor. Not anyone else. 

When he finished, he gave you a smile. A smile brighter than the sun, brighter than any treasure at the bottom of the sea. And it was all directed to you. 

Tova, after clapping for him, turned to look at you. “Oh, dear.” Everything was too much. Everything was too loud.

“I- I need to go. I’m sorry, Tova.” You leave before she could answer back. You leave before Cameron could approach the two of you. 

You leave the bar to quiet your thoughts. 

You stand on the sidewalk, your palm on a nearby brick wall as you try to steady yourself. 

Oh. Oh no. This can’t be right. 

I’m a horrible friend. I can’t- I’m not in love with my only friend. I can’t be. We’re different. We- We’re never- This was never supposed to happen. 

You look down at the concrete as it starts to pour above you. You can’t help but wonder once more if the true solution was to go back to the sea. That way you could escape your feelings, that way you could make everything better, that way you wouldn’t be confused.

This wouldn’t have happened if you hadn’t been a human at all. You wouldn’t have to feel the pain of an unrequited love. You thought those films were exaggerating how much the pain hurt.

But as it turns out, you never understand what you don’t know. Now that you know what it feels like, you understand how deep it cuts.

You and Bob were never supposed to meet at the crossroads. Not to say that you were never meant to be friends but rather your futures just never aligned. You remember back during high-school when you first met him. It was some dumb exercise  about what you wanted to be when you grew up. You awkwardly smiled and mumbled about how you’re not sue what you wanted to be. However, Bob on the other hand looked at you with starry eyes and said he wanted to be a co-pilot. You just responded with a simple: “at least you know what you want!” even if you thought his dream was a strange one.

You never understood why people liked being on planes so much. Sure, you enjoyed to travel but you never liked getting on those death traps. You heard in many shows and movies that it was the safest way to travel and you believed that. But there was feeling you got every time the plane shook or when it dropped once turbulence occurred that made you feel like you were frozen in your seat. 

It was why, despite your desire to see the world, you wouldn’t dare risk reliving that horrible moment ever again. You never liked admitting it to people. You thought it sounded embarrassing. Only your parents knew about your fear. No one else knew.

Not even Bob Floyd when you both finally became friends.

You were like two peas in a pod. Both of you were never seen without the other. Anyone with eyes could tell that you were inseparable. 

And yet, you knew that would never last. Your futures were too different. Perhaps you were just cynical deep down, buried under your faux optimism. 

Bob thrived in the sky. You both knew it. He was ready to spread his wings and fly. When you both graduated, he had plans on joining the U.S. Navy similar to his grandfather. 

You, however, were a flightless bird who didn’t want to use its wings even if you longed to join him up on the air. If you even feel your body drop slightly, you’d completely lose your composure. 

It just wasn’t meant to work out. You loved Bob. You wanted to follow him everywhere. 

This just happened to be the one exception.

You knew you would keep in contact with him. You didn’t want to let him go nor did you want him to forget about you. Even if you were going on different paths, you’d still talk. That remained true after graduation. 

Then your talks got shorter, less frequent like you knew they would. He was always in the air and you were on the ground, just meant to watch him. 

Though, you suppose that you shouldn’t beat yourself up for it. Fear of flight or not, you’d never want to be a pilot. Much less work for the military.

As you later find out, fate has a funny way of making things work out. You needed a roommate since you couldn’t afford a place and you had to get a new job after your last one didn’t work out. Bob quickly offered a job at a bar called the Hard Deck since its owner wanted more help. Not only that, but he said he had room at his place that you could stay at. You agreed since you didn’t have a choice and it was better to live with a good friend than a stranger’s.

You got along with the owner, Penny Benjamin and you enjoyed your time meeting new people such as Bob’s friends he met at TOPGUN. They were all people you enjoyed the company of with only the exception of Jake or Hangman but you found him to be entertaining at the very least.

Even Penny noticed your attitude around him. She nudged you with her shoulder as you were cleaning up the counter. “So you’re here because of him, huh? I’m starting to think you would follow him anywhere.” 

You shake your head, laughing. You catch a glimpse of him with his friends, smiling brighter than the sun. Maybe that’s why he was always in the sky. “Not everywhere. There are exceptions.”

“Really? Like what?”

“Flying, I guess. It always scares me to be on a plane.”

Penny smiles, patting your back. “You must be glad you’ve lived in California all your life.“ 

“You have no idea.” You hand Jake a beer, already getting a feeling that he was sneaking up on you. “Here you go, Bagman.”

“Thank you, sweetheart.” You rolled your eyes in response, hitting him with a hand towel.

You still found it strange being in Bob’s world but it’s fortunate that bird who loved to fly had time to spend with his flightless friend. 

The days with Bob blur together. You got so used to each other that you both practically started to share a bed. You didn’t mind in the slightest. You liked being close to him. 

One day, the two of you were just on his bed. Bob had been a bit awkward, not saying much the entire night. You knew something was wrong and as his best friend, you took it upon yourself to find out the cause of his new mood. 

You quickly stole his glasses as he was trying to read. He closes the book and tries to get them back. “What are you doing?”

You put them on. He suddenly became blurrier than before. Damn his vision. “I always stole your glasses in high-school!”

“Yeah, but that was in high-school.” Bob pointed out, squinting his eyes. “My vision got worse over the years and I can’t see without them!”

“Excuses, Excuses!” They slide down your nose. “And I just took them because I needed your attention.”

He chuckles. “That’s it? I mean, you could have just asked for it, you know.”

Your face grows warm. “No! I mean… you’ve been acting weird tonight. I know you’re not the most talkative but you’re sweating, avoiding eye contact and fidgeting more than usual.” You lay down on the mattress. “So what’s wrong?”

Bob turns bright red. You raise an eyebrow at that. You never see that man get so flustered in his life. “Well,” he scratches the back of his neck. “It isn’t that important-“

“Bullshit,” you shot at him. “Yes, it is. It’s clearly bothering you!” 

He gives you an unamused look. “-but if you really wanted to know, it’s my mom’s birthday soon.”

“Yeah?” You remember his mom. She was at graduation with his grandfather, cheering the loudest at Bob came up on stage. That memory never fails to put a smile on your face. He was so embarrassed. “What’s wrong about that?”

“Well, she’s wants to fly to italy and she’s asking if I can bring someone… maybe someone I like,” he nervously laughs, trying his best not to look you in the eyes. “So I was wondering if you wanted to come?”

“Oh, uh, I don’t think I can make it! I mean Penny will probably be busy at The Hard Deck without me and I don’t want her to overwork herself, you know?” Now, it was your turn to act awkward. Bob could tell the way your expression changed. If he couldn’t notice it then, he definitely did when you hand him back his glasses. Your palms were sweaty and you pull your hand back almost instantly after it brushes his. 

“Did I do something wrong?” Bob asks, his heart breaking in his chest. 

“No! No. It’s not you. It’s me.” You turn your back on him. “I’ll just head to sleep. It’s been a long day after all!”

He doesn’t say anything in response. He only turns off the light coming from his lamp at his side. 

The night went on in an uncomfortable silence until you eventually fell into a deep slumber.

He had a harder time doing that.

———

The Hard Deck wasn’t busy during this time of day. You were going around the bar, trying your best to keep track of the people who came in and out by handing out their drinks. 

You didn’t notice the weapon systems officer staring at you. 

Though, even if you hadn’t, someone else did. 

“Well, look who it is!” That jolted him out of his train of thought. He turned his head to the sound and felt a sense of dread once he saw who it was. “Baby on board! Boy, Am I glad to see you!”

“Hangman? What are you doing here? And where’s everyone else?” There was no way the rest of the group was meeting at The Hard Deck, he would have known otherwise. He wasn’t even at their usual spot near the pool table. 

“Phoenix and Coyote are helping Mav with somethin’. Rooster’s with his mom and I’m pretty sure Payback and Fanboy are sleeping in right now.” Much to Bob’s dismay, he sits beside him. “As for me, well, I gotta get my daily work out in.” Jake’s eyes drift towards the beer bottle in his hand. “Thought you weren’t a drinker.”

“I’m not. You can have it after I’m done. I’m just..”

“Peeling the label off?” 

“Yeah, pretty much.” Bob pushes the bottle towards him who happily drinks it. “I needed to actually get a drink. I’ve been here for a while so it’d be weird if I hadn’t.”

“For a while? Jeez, Floyd. What were you-“ Jake pauses, his eyes moving towards you as you talk to Penny. He smirks. “Looks like you took my advice, huh? You’re welcome. Told you that you should have just asked her out. Bradshaw owes me now.”

Bob winces. If it weren’t for Jake, he wouldn’t have asked you to accompany him on his mom’s birthday trip. He thought it’d be the perfect opportunity to ask you out but judging by your reaction, it was anything but. 

“It didn’t work. I’m pretty sure your master plan made her hate me.” He’d prefer it if you just outright said it to his face rather than dance around him all morning. 

Jake almost spat out his drink. “What? No way! I’ve seen the way she looks at you. That isn’t platonic by any means.”

“Well, you clearly read it wrong,” Bob sighs. “It’s mostly my fault for getting my hopes up. I’m more upset about the fact I ruined our friendship over my feelings.”

Jake pauses for a moment. He looked like he was thinking carefully on his words. “How exactly did you phrase it?”

“Like a confession? I said it’s my mom’s birthday, she was planning a trip to Italy and told me to bring someone I like.” 

“How much did you emphasize the word like?”

“None at all?”

He pinches the bridge of his nose. “That’s not a confession, Bob. You’re just telling her you like her. That could mean anything! I like you but I don’t like you.”

“Oh…” Bob suddenly understood it now. His lack of experience with these things came back to bite him in the ass. He never loved anyone before you so he never practiced a confession before. Or confessed anything romantic in general. 

One thing bothered him though. “But still why did she react like that? Maybe she did read it as a confession and doesn’t like me in that way?”

“Nope. Definitely not.” Jake took another sip from his beer. It amazed Bob that he was halfway done. “Probably got to do with her fear of flying.”

“What?” 

He shrugs his shoulders. “Overheard a conversation between her and Penny. Said she’s afraid of flying. She never told you?”

“No… she hadn’t.” Bob searches for you around the Hard Deck. He spots you about to leave. “I got to go.”

He doesn’t let Jake respond. He’s already following after you. 

How could he not have known? Was it in front of his face this whole time? Why didn’t you want him to know?

He was going to get to the bottom of this. You both were going to confess to something now.

———

A long day at the Hard Deck was finally done and you were ready to head home. You were walking in the rain without an umbrella when all of a sudden, you feel someone put their jacket over you. You turn around and find Bob there, soaking wet. 

Despite the awkward tension this morning, you smiled. “Hey.”

He mirrors your expression. “Hey.” 

The two of you start to walk in the rain in silence. “You sure you’re okay with being in the rain like that?” 

“Yeah, don’t want you to get sick,” he hesitates a bit before continuing. “Can I talk to you when we head back?”

“We can talk now.” You drag him to a nearby bus stop, hiding under it and sitting on the bench. “What did you want to talk about?”

“Are you afraid of flying?” He jumps right into it. 

“Yeah. I’m sorry it took years for me to tell you.” You look forward, facing the street. “I don’t even know why I never told you. I just thought it was a stupid fear, i guess. I mean, everyone tells me it’s safe and I know that. Hell, your whole job proves that the act of flying is safe for the most part. But I don’t know… the turbulence scares me. The feeling I get knowing I’m up at the air and can fall at any time.. it’s terrifying.”

Bob wraps an arm around your shoulder. “Hey, it’s not stupid. Things like that can happen. Sure, it’s safer than a car technically but even I had my fair share of accidents. Nat and I had to deal with a bird strike and got sent to the hospital after we ejected from our plane.”

“How come I didn’t know about this?!” Holy fuck, that sounds horrifying. 

“I keep things from you too. Didn’t want you to worry.” He lets out a breath. “I don’t like talking about it much. We both don’t. It’s something we like to repress in the back of our minds. I still have nightmares about it though.”

“How do you do it?”

“I’m not sure.” He lets go. You miss his touch. “I guess it’s because I like doing it. I love flying. At that moment, I was more worried about if whatever happened to me would keep me grounded. If it’d keep me from flying again.”

“You’re so dedicated to your dream. Even if it’s fucking horrifying.”You chuckle woefully. “That’s why I like you so much.”

“I like you too.” He blurts out. “I really like you.” Your eyes widened. “That’s what I was trying to tell you yesterday. It was a poor attempt of asking you out.”

“Oh.” Oh. Someone he likes. “Shit, sorry, Bob, I didn’t think-!”

“Hey, it’s okay.” He cups your cheek, making sure you’re looking at him. “You don’t have to feel like you owe me or anything. You don’t have to come with me to a trip with my mom. I feel like I was being too forward anyway.”

“But- but I want to go out with you. I like you too.” 

He grins. It’s the same one that could rival the sun. “Like… like me? Hangman said you got to “emphasize the like”.”

“Shut up, Robert.” You shove him playfully. “Quit hanging out with Seresin. He’ll give you horrible advice.”

“But you’d still like to go on a date with me. Technically, he was kind of helpful.”

“A broken clock really is right once in a while.” You notice the rain stopped. The sun was peeking through the clouds. As silly as it was, you like to think that Bob’s smile caused it somehow. “I’d love to go on a date with you. I could do one right now actually.”

“Isn’t it late?” 

“It can be a movie date! We can watch horrible romcoms until we pass out.” You stand up and extend a hand for him to take, only to catch him by surprise and grab his glasses. You place them on your face. “You up for it?”

He may not be able to see how you look like but even then, he could tell you were breathtaking.

“Yeah, I am.”