I was talking with @minimoonwhispers on Twitter about FloDeu and just...the Relationship Angst and Vulnerability Potential drove me crazy.
Floyd and Deuce's relationship at the beginning would be nice at first. Floyd likes and needs to be entertained and Deuce is perfect to fill in that role (see: Floyd's Labcoat SR). Deuce's naivete and slow understanding of academics are good to keep Floyd interested since poking fun at people is fun to him. Deuce is mostly in this relationship because when Floyd asked him out, Deuce couldn't say no out of fear and shock.
The angst comes in some weeks or so later into the relationship. Floyd is serious about this relationship, all things considered. Meanwhile, Deuce (rightfully) thinks it's just a fling. So, you know, Deuce isn't putting his 100% into this relationship and Floyd notices because Deuce is constantly withholding his own wants and thoughts.
Floyd was initially happy that Deuce was following along with what he wanted and thought Deuce was just being shy. But Deuce kept holding back from doing things he wanted (ex. reaching out for Floyd's hand only to abort) and that made Floyd ticked. It doesn't help when Floyd figures out why Deuce is holding back. He's being serious, Mackerel! Can't you see that?!
Needless to say, it's a really rocky relationship. Deuce is thinking he's a temp boyfriend but trying not to act like it, Floyd is trying to convey to Deuce he thinks they're a serious couple, and it's just,,,the yearning is so Different and Off the Charts.
And then they're forced to communicate at some point like YES...VULNERABILITY...I think Floyd really hates trying to be serious when it's heartfelt stuff because it's...he's not used to it. He hates feeling vulnerable because that's being weak and being weak can get you hurt. But Deuce isn't going to understand him if Floyd doesn't get serious and honest with Deuce so it's just!!! orz