#awkward date

Having you on his arm was amazing. If only he hadn't ruined it all. You hadn't even reached your destination when it happened. A punk ran into him. Breaking his hold on your warm soft arm.

Sneering, he throws an elbow at the man. He stumbles and almost falls. It would have been a fitting punishment for the drunk. At least that's what the stench of liquor on his breath told the blonde.

He would have left it at that. If the cretin would have kept his eyes off of you. He could just tell the man was undressing you with his gaze. Instead he launched himself at the low life.

You had frozen in place, until blows began to be traded. Grabbing Speedwagon's arm, you attempted to break up the one sided fight.

Not knowing who was intervening. He pushed back the interruption. Only to pause as you shriek.

Turning from the throttled man, he notices you on the ground. Your outfit was torn and muddied. You were red with anger as you glowered at him.

With all of the dignity you could manage. You hefted yourself from the ground. Giving him a haughty look, you say. “When you've matured enough for a courtship. I might give you another chance.” Turning, you make your way back home.

Grumbling all the way about how you knew it was too good to be true. That someone in this town might know how to treat someone properly.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The next day he was prompt to look for you. Hoping that the time apart had allowed you to cool down. Perhaps your attitude had changed towards the situation. The delinquent had deserved a proper thrashing. Which was rich coming from the biggest ruffian on Ogre Street.

Coming upon your home, he pauses, noticing motion in the back. Peeking over the fence, he was met with a lovely sight. You were hanging laundry on the line. Hefting a thick woolen blanket, one he knew you had made for your elderly neighbor. You clip it up and wipe the sweat from your brow.

Plush arms stretch above your head. He watches with rapt attention. Eyes trailing over your soft curves. It was a wonder that someone hadn't already snatched you up. Your beauty and generosity knew no bounds. He could only dream that you would accept his proposal some day.

He would have kept his head in the clouds. If not for you throwing a pin at him. And it seemed your aim was as amazing as everything else. It bounced off his cheek with stinging force.

He was left stumbling over himself. That didn't stop you from laying into him. “What are you doing here? And peeping no less. Have you no shame?”

Your harsh words and volume cause an embarrassed flush to stain his face. Even while facing your glare, he managed to stammer out an answer. “Wwwell, I thought I would visit you today. See how you were doing ….after you know.”

He had been all bravado on the way over. But as he stands down wind of your ire. He regrets his actions, if only a bit.

As he skirts around the issue, you sigh. Shoulders slumping, your face dims in disappointment. “I thought you might be different. Hoped that there might be someone decent in this place. But I was wrong.” Another dejected sound left your soft lips.

Without waiting for an answer, you go inside. Leaving him with his broken pride and jaw on the ground. Not sure how to mend your opinion of him. He shuffles away with his head hung low. Wishing that he knew some way to make things right with you.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

He isn't reminded of this moment until years later. When he spots you in the market. It causes all of the forgotten feelings to hit him like a tidal wave. Crashing into him and sweeping him away.

You had somehow managed to become even more radiant. The time apart had aged you like a fine wine. Curves filled out and voluptuous beyond belief. Your smile beaming as you help an older woman cross the road.

His heart hammers in his chest at the sight of you. It was as if the flame he held for you had reignited. Burning even brighter than before. His feet began carrying him towards you. He became blind to everything but your beauty. Like a moth to a brilliant flame.

Turning away from the woman you had helped. You started to cross the street once again. Only to stop as you spot him. Eyes going wide and then narrowing, you step away from the road.

Trotting away as fast as you can. You try to get plenty of distance between yourself and the bad memory behind you. Not willing to let the past ruin your day.

He starts sprinting, but skids to a stop as a horse almost barrels into him. Allowing the beast to go by, his eyes scan the crowd. Desperate to spy you out of the throngs of people. You were nowhere to be found.

A heavy weight settles in his chest. He knew that things hadn't ended on the best terms. Though he had hoped to meet you again someday. If only to apologize for his younger self's immaturity.

Though as he gazed out once more. It seemed as if even that was a lost cause.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Johnathan smiled apologetically at his friend. He knew all too well what it was like to be in love. But to have that feeling not returned. That was a tragedy.

Patting the blonde on his back, he says. “Well, I am more than willing to help you win her over. Surely she would have to acknowledge how you've grown after a proper conversation.” And the gentleman meant that. He had seen the way Speedwagon had changed. Giving up his street thug ways. Helping his family in their time of need. Becoming a true gent himself.

Though it seemed the other man didn't agree with this sentiment. His shoulders slumped as he shook his head. “No you didn't see the way she looked at me. It would be too much to bear again. I wouldn't want to intrude on her life either.”

He had always regretted the way he left things. His pride had been more important than an apology. If only his ego could have stepped aside that evening. Who knows what could have been.

The longing look on the man's face made up his mind. Johnathan would do his best to give the blonde another chance with you. If only to make amends, but possibly more.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You looked skeptically between the invitation in your hand and the manor. The place was large and immaculate. The grounds are well maintained, bursting with lovely flowers.

You squinted down at the piece of paper. Surely this wasn't meant for you. Someone who was born and raised on Orge Street. Though as you check if it was in fact addressed to you for the umpteen time. You once again confirm that your name is written there in fancy script.

You consider heading back home. Half crumpling the paper in your fidgeting hands. If it wasn't for the forced encouragement of your elderly neighbor. You would have ignored the summons. Once she caught sight of the letter however. There was no way you were getting out of the dinner.

Asking you when you had caught the attention of such a wealthy family. Scheming up ways for you to become the lady of the house. It didn't matter how many times you denied even knowing the Joestar name. Let alone crossing paths with such a well off group. She just tutted at you and continued her planning.

Gathering up your courage, you make your way to the front gate. There was no way you would let that woman drive you crazy for not going. Especially since your curiosity was a bit piqued at the odd invite.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

He adjusted his hat nervously. How could he let Johnathan talk him into this? Would you react poorly to his presence? What if he makes a fool of himself? All of this and more flitted through his mind.

He would have let his turmoil drag his mood down. If not for the delicate hand that landed on his arm. Smiling up at him was the lady of the house. Erina Joestar was a similarly kind and beautiful woman. As her husband welcomed you inside. She stayed by his side, ever the Saint.

“All will be well Speedwagon. You have grown from your former self. You only need to be yourself. She will see the man you've become.” Her reassurance was appreciated. It still didn't stop his mind from whirling.

Though all thoughts beyond you disappeared as you entered the dining room. You were radiant. Obviously dressed up for the occasion. Plush body filling out your clothes in a rather ravishing manner. He was at a loss for words. It brought him back to your first date. Noticing how age has refined your features.

As you spotted him a look of disdain flashed across your features. It was gone in a moment, replaced with a graceful smile. Though it had been quick, he had caught it. Causing rocks to settle into the pit of his gut.

Introductions were made all around. As you offered your hand to him, your smile became strained once again. “Oh, we've met before.” He took your hand gently, which made your eyes widen.

Johnathan was oblivious to the underlying interaction. “Yes, we actually requested your company here based on Speedwagon's recommendations. He couldn't stop raving about you. We knew we had to have you over.”

The both of you stared at him in shock. One was surprised at the very notion. While the other felt betrayed by having his admiration laid out.

He gave his wife a knowing look. Grinning, she takes your arm and guides you to your seat. One that was conveniently across from the blonde. They were determined to help your reconciliation. Sooner rather than later.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dinner had gone well enough. The food was delicious, but there was a lingering tension in the air. Every opportunity the couple tried to make for conversation with the two of you was thwarted. Between your outright avoidance and the blonde man's awkwardness. It was nigh impossible to get more than a few words out.

It wasn't until after the meal that any progress was made. Unfortunately it was when you were both with your same gendered counterparts.

Seated in the parlor, the gentleman watches his friend pace. The situation was more dire than he had assumed. Speedwagon was head over heels for you. While you seemed to not be able to stand being in the same room as him. Clearing his throat, he catches the attention of the other man. “That could have gone better.”

The look that the man gave him was unammused. Throwing his hands exasperatedly in the air, he says. “A fight with a crocodile would have gone better. I told you, it's hopeless. I need to accept the facts. I ruined any chance of her returning my feelings.”

He slumped at the admission. There would always be a part of him that would be fond of you. But his past mistakes had caused your affection to dry up.

Shaking his head, he goes to the door. “I've made my bed, now I only need to lay in it. If you'll excuse me.” He leaves the room swiftly. Not wanting to give the man a chance to answer.

As he passes in front of the drawing room. A familiar voice causes him to pause. He had stumbled upon you and lady Elisabeth. Telling himself that it was wrong to listen in. Yet he couldn't convince his feet to move. This could be the last time he could enjoy your melodic voice again. So he stayed put.

“Again, thank you for the lovely dinner. Also the invitation. Your home really is lovely.” You spoke more freely around the other woman. It made his chest throb. You hadn't spoken with him in that way in a long time.

“We're just grateful that you accepted. I'm sure it was odd to hear from total strangers. Though after Speedwagon couldn't stop going on about how wonderful you are. Well our curiosity overcame us.” He blushed fiercely. Did she really need to reveal his affections for you like that?

You were quick to scoff at the statement. Your tone slipped into a bit of a harsher countenance. “It has become more obvious why you extended your hospitality towards me. To think that that man would stoop so low to use your name.”

He was torn between leaving to save the last shred of his pride. Or staying and risking finding out how much disdain you had for him. As much as it pained him. His heart wouldn't allow him to miss out on hearing your true feelings.

Erina's voice became so quiet, he had to lean against the door to make out her response. “If you don't mind my asking. Why do you hold such animosity for him?”

Your answer took longer than he would have expected. If it was to gather your thoughts or perhaps still your anger. He wasn't sure.

“I once cared deeply for him. We were young and I had hoped that he was the one. But he proved otherwise. Letting his pride tear us apart.” There was the sound of shuffling. Your voice was much more distinct as you say. “I'm not willing to put my heart on the line again. Especially for a man that may go back to his old ways. I apologize if this evening didn't go as expected.”

The door knob turns. His pulse is erratic as he darts into a nearby room. Peeking out the cracked door, he stares longingly at you. Even if it takes the rest of his life. He would prove to you that he had changed. Maybe then you could look at him without malice.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You felt as if you were going insane. It seemed that Speedwagon was around every corner. Though not in a way you had experienced before.

On a day not long after your awkward yet lovely outing to the Joestar residents. You see the blonde in the same market you had previously spotted him. Ducking behind a nearby stall, your eyes narrow at him. What could he possibly be doing here? Was he going to force his way into your life?

Then your eyes widen as you see his next actions. He buys a few groceries and makes his way to the local vagrant. The hunched man wasn't one to take things easily. But Speedwagon wouldn't take no for an answer. Pushing the food into the other man's arms.

Even as the man tries to give him anything for payment. The tall man refuses and leaves with a skip to his step.

You stare in disbelief. Had you been wrong? No, this had to be an isolated incident. There was no way such a selfish man could change. Surely you wouldn't see him again.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Oh how wrong you were. That was only the beginning of his good deeds. You couldn't turn a corner without seeing him proving you wrong.

Helping an injured child with a skinned knee. Assisting in a festival, it was useful to have such a tall person for the decoration. Guiding your own neighbor across a busy street. These were only a few of the incidents you had witnessed.

Every kind act you had to reprimand yourself. Forcing away the fluttering in your soft stomach at the sight of him. The sweet gestures added to the warmth that he caused in your chest.

Though your neighbor getting involved was the tipping point. “He really is such a nice gentleman. I always hated how things didn't work out between the two of you.”

You held your tongue and turned to hide the blush forming. It was one thing to involve bystanders. But to bring in the person who had practically raised you. This was a step too far.

Excusing yourself, you stomp away to find him. Trying, in vain, to convince yourself you were finding him to tell him off.

All the while the older woman smiled as you left. It was only a matter of time before you came to your senses. If she needed to give you a little push, then so be it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

After interrogating more people than you would have liked. You finally catch up to him outside the Joestar estate. Heart racing, for more reasons than you wanted to consider. You call out to him.

Your voice cuts through all thoughts going on im his mind. Turning towards you, he smiles brightly. Only to pause as he notices the frown on your face. Brow furrowed, he waits for you to catch up.

Red faced and panting, you shove a finger into his chest. “What are you up to?”

He stutters and stumbles over himself. He definitely hadn't expected that. “I have no idea.”

Before he could get another word out, you pushed forward. “Oh, you know very well what I'm talking about. Hanging out in a neighborhood you have stepped foot in, in years. Being kind to people that you don't know one thing about. What are you playing at!” Each accusation is punctuated by another jab to the chest.

He steps back from the abuse, until he's backed into a stone wall. It had honestly been his intention to be seen by you, while doing a good deed. Then talk to you after the gesture. But after seeing how it changed people's day. It was difficult to not continue his charitable acts. Though you were on his mind the entire time.

Now in front of you, it all seemed silly. He should have been doing those things. Not for your approval, but for the betterment of his fellow man. And he admitted as much. “You're right. I may have changed. Though that didn't make me a better man. You made me realize the error of my ways. And I thank you for that Lady (Y/N). I also hope that you can accept my apology for the way I've acted and treated you. It was impermissible and I hope that you can find it in your heart to forgive me.”

You took it all in. His sincerity, the actions you had seen recently, and his apology. It helped you come to a decision that had been eating away at you. Wrapping your arms around his neck. You pull him down into a heated kiss. Pouring in all your repressed feelings and frustrations into the action.

Eyes widening, he is quick to respond. Pulling your shapely body close to his own. He returns the kiss whole heartedly. Making up for the past as you press him further into the wall. Savoring your plush warmth in contrast to the cold stone pushing into his back.

Pulling back, you linger against him. Leaning on his tall muscled form. Allowing yourself to admire his handsome features.

He blushes under your heated gaze. Clearing his throat, he holds out his arm. “If you'll allow me. I would like the chance to court you once more.”

Glancing between his face and arm, you consider the offer. You were already sure of your answer. Though it wouldn't hurt to make him sweat a bit.

After longer than he would have liked, you take his arm. Tucking it comfortably against your soft curves. You smile demurely up at him. “I think those terms are acceptable.”

His heart thunders in his chest as he returns your smile. Leading you into the Joestar manner. He thanks his lucky stars that you would give him another opportunity. Knowing that he would do whatever he could to not ruin things this time around. Least all of this side of England knock some sense into him.

Part one of their date:  A mid-afternoon lunch with varying levels of awkwardness.

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