Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

For the longest time, Boris Habit was constantly plagued by anguish. By his heightened depression. Growing up, the people in his life were cruel, and his family was the most cruel of all. His adolescent years were unforgiving, despite how much he wanted to believe the people around him could be redeemed. He formed this ideal that he could still be the bigger person and just forget about them. Easier said than done, because you're supposed to be able to trust a good family. Even he knew his abusive parents would never be able to change. He was glad to finally move out, but it was hollow. Now living alone, there was no possible way the trauma would just pack its bags. As his awful parents forced him to go to med school.

But there was a light at the end of the tunnel. Not just his ideals to create a brighter future for people, even if he couldn't spread happiness with growing flowers, like he'd pined for. No...he met someone who turned his life around, only from the first few days from working at the clinic.

By chance, he met the short, bright-eyed, somewhat levelheaded man known as Kamal Bora. He was assigned to Boris as his assistant by the higher ups at the clinic.

They went to the same medical school for years, and weren't even aware of it until they first started working together that day.

His suspicious first impression of Kamal was…

He might be a bit of a suck-up….he's acting flighty. Ha...Then again, it's probably due to my ridiculous height and sullen scowl making me look like death himself…

Though Boris judged him all wrong.

Kamal was the first person who was ever really kind, and patient to him. You'd think it was just professional respect, but no…

Kamal is a rare one among the rest. A genuinely approachable, benevolent soul. A gentle soul amidst the extreme awkwardness. Someone he was curious to know a lot more about...W...Wait. Oh no. 

Was he really falling for the ONE person who was actually nice to him?!

It was only natural Boris began to fall head over heels for him. Maybe a dental clinic was the worst possible place for him to end up...but the only thing that kept him there was a true friend. He knew that he couldn't possibly try to ask him out though, given this not only being the horribly heteronormative 80's...and this being a strange office romance.

But as they connected more, it was a surprise to him that he was also gay...this happened when they were alone, before opening hours.

Kamal was insecure, being this close to him as his friend in the clinic, and wanted to weasel out of being his friend before he got too emotionally attached to him. So on a panicked whim to just end everything, he came out. Perhaps that wasn't the best choice for his own safety; But to his pleasant surprise, not only with Boris insistent on being his friend, he had told him indirectly, he was as well.

Ha: Kamal, really! It's all fine. Because….well...I, er... play sportsball for the other side? As well? ^^; 

K: Uhh..S...Seriously?? Really? You know..I guess I'm not too surprised. I had that feeling.

Ha: Y..Yes. My family's not very...kind either.

K: Oh wow...you 'n me both got homophobic folks, huh.

Ha: Ahahaha….you have that right...

Habit didn't want to tell his own employee how horrible they really were, but homophobic? Yes.

Ha:..If you need to talk to me about uncomfortable things, Kamal..just tell me, okay? You scratch you, I'll scratch me, you know? ;-]

Habit winked...He immediately worried if that could be misinterpreted as more than reassuring, though.

Ha: Uh, heehee...that's not how the sayin' goes, does it..sorr-y..

Uhh?? 

Kamal had mixed feelings about that overall...now that he knew, was that...a flirt or something? No, no..

K: Sure, heh. No prob, doc.

He shooed that thought out and just let himself be closer to his empathetic boss.

Kamal didn't have many friends himself, a lot of people walked out on him before. They were honestly just freeloaders. 

He never had this kind of understanding with anyone else before. To think it'd be his own boss, of all people…

Kamal was the kind of person who didn't admit a lot of things to himself. He was extremely unsure and confused with himself, combatting what society wanted him to think "a man" should be. His somewhat conservative parents kept nagging him to cut his hair...but what were they gonna do? He was living on his own. Though, Boris...Kamal got that same vibe from him. Someone who's been taken advantage of a lot as well.

And Boris said his hair was perfect the way it was. 

He'd never heard that about it before. But whatever that was, it was kind.

Maybe he should've gotten that impression before, Boris had much prettier and longer hair than him...uh. Ahem. 

What a nice guy.

---
Present day, Late September, 1994. Boris is in a better place, now. He didn't go through with his ludicrous plan on an "un-smiling" unforgivable world...he couldn't. 

2 months before, he performed dentist malpractice on an innocent child. He lost control of himself when he saw his plans falling apart at the seams. Honestly the damage had been done. He couldn't forgive himself again. Whatever that kid wanted to do in retaliation, he didn't care.

Maybe it was for the best. 

He believed he deserved it. But instead...they still believed he could redeem himself. The kid who he called "Flower Brat" through the fog of his broken emotions...they grew a flower only he knew how to grow. A Tooth Lily. He helped the little one; undoing the damage he'd done, putting back in the teeth that were fully grown, and airing out his office of any nitrous oxide to help get it out of their system. In the moment, he wished there was more he could do to make it up to the little one.

He helped them pack up and get home.

Eventually, when he moved out, to start a new life in the countryside, he transplanted that same lily, to his first flower bed. He paid the fines for dentist malpractice immediately, he couldn't live with himself, being "on the run". It was the least he could do, having the inheritance fund. 

So he decided the best thing to do was distance himself and lay low in the countryside. Lay low for now. Away from the city, far from his old house that wasn't a home, that caused him so much pain.

Things were already looking up. His new neighbors are kind. And nobody seemed to recognize him..so that's good. He unpacked days ago, now can make a new start. Here in this cozy, soothing cottage by a river stream. He was alone, but not truly. Along with the flower bed for the kid's lily, he had already sown more tooth lilies around that one so they wouldn't be lonely. And on his desk, with his PC on it, there was a little pot from Esmé(Flower Kid)'s lily he reused. A little Noonbloom that waved at him with their leaves each morning. Noonblooms are their favorite, so he grew one with them in mind. Noonblooms are a bit different, you don't need to blow a kiss at them to get them to grow. They prefer a soft little pat on the head, along with a lot of sunlight, of course. So his desk was right by the window.

He sat down, writing apology letters to everyone he could.

Currently, he was putting them through spell check, finally getting around to emailing the Posiepockets, the Flower Kid's family. Maybe it would be a while before he could give the Noonbloom he grew for the little Flower Kid. Boris knew he would have distance himself from the family for a while. If he had any alarmed phone calls from their mothers, he was prepared for that.

He was extremely grateful Kamal was the first to forgive him. He would've understood if Kamal couldn't, but he did...so suddenly. It still stumped him, how much Kamal still believed in him. But he...he wouldn't have it any other way. If Kamal still wanted to be his friend, that's all that mattered…

But. He can't hide his feelings forever. The truth's got to come out at some point. And if that distanced him from Kamal more, then...he understood. That was only fair. It would hurt, but...he could live with that. He has to be honest with him...He...

...

Riiiing…..Riiiing….

Boris was startled by the phone…he wasn't expecting a call. Who got this number? He hyperventilated as it kept ringing. Was it an angry responder already? 

Oh, dear. No, no, maybe it's fine. Maybe it's a telemarketer. Yes! That's the logical conclusion...

Naively, he picked up the phone to steer a possible telemarketer away.

Ha: He-llo! I am afraid you habb the wrong num-ber! ^^;

K:....

K:..Boris, it's me.

Habit's tired eyes light up, hearing Kamal's voice. Whatever concerns he had before vanished instantly.

Ha: Oh?! Kamal! I-I, er...sorry! Eheh~ I wasn't expecting a call from you, my friend.

[Usually, he would call Boris on the weekends when Kamal wasn't at his part time job.]

K: Hehe. Well...Uh...wait. Boris, you know that you shouldn't respond to numbers you don't know, right? Especially..since you're supposed to be in hiding?? And…..wait, do you have an analog telephone or something??

Ha: Ah, yes...heh. Everything in my house is old. Sorr-y, I'll be more careful. What is up, Kamal? :-]

K:....The sky. :J

Ha: Oh--- Ohohoho!! You're'n so silly!~

K: Heheh...

[Kamal loved hearing his laugh, so full of warmth. He almost forgot the literal reason why he wanted to call.]

K: Uh, hey..Boris?

Ha: Yeeesssss, what is it?? :->

K: I uh, don't have any plans this weekend..would it be cool if I checked out the progress on your garden? At your house…? You hype it up a lot, I really wanna see it, heh!

Ha: R-Really??? Are you sure?! It's, uh, not much right now...I only have tooth lilies, and one litt-ol noonbloom, since I can't get deliveries from Posiepocket's shop out here…

K: I mean, hey, I was already impressed with the pretty climbing roses by my old spot in the Habitat, ehehe.

Ha: O-Oh...right, heh...///

[Kamal knew Boris planted them, but he wasn't aware that Boris had put those climbing roses around the terrace bars with him in mind. Now that he wasn't in the Habitat anymore, he put sprinklers there, to water them each day.]

Ha: Sure! I'll have to clean up a bit, then! You've haven't seen my new home yet, habb you? I live in a spacey, but home-y cottage now!~ 

K: Wow, really?! That's where ya moved in? Guess I should've asked, hehe! That sounds delightful! Eheheh! How far are you?

Ha: Hmm...from the city? I'd say about 30 minutes away?? Your suburbs are a bit farther though, right?

K: Hmm, yeah, that'd make it about 35 minutes.

[Kamal had almost completely distracted himself from his own woes, by wanting to see Boris' work so far...c'mon, don't forget why you really want to see him…]

K: Y-Yeah, Boris, we'll catch up on things. I'll be glad to see you. What time and day should I come over?

Ha: Whatever works for you, I never really have plans, hee.

K: Wait, seriously? You've just been starting your garden since you moved in?

Ha: And talking to the Posiepocket Family over the phone! :-D
And therapy sessions close by every other day..and some silly cartoons on the TV! And talking to you! Heehee..I've come to appreciate the solitude, now.

K: You do? That..sounds a little lonesome, Boris.

Ha: Oh! No, no! I've made friends with some farmers here! They're kind. I've never had such kind neighbors before.

K: Really? Oh, that's good! Okay, How about Saturday, then? I'll leave at noon.

Ha: Ah, that's the day after tomorrow. Sure. I'll be happy to talk with you, Kamal. ,:-]

K: Y..Yeah, you too. It'll be nice to see you again.

[Now THAT was a total understatement.]

Ha: Heh-heh! It's a dat--calender day, then? 

[Boris blushed a little when he almost said 'date', even though the context of this wasn't even that...it was just a visit from Kamal...nothing more. No, not at all. He completely ignored his brief daydreaming.]

Anyhoozits, you want to hear what I've been up to, since you're here? :-D

K: Sure, dude. Lemme hear it. ☆

Habit boisterously begins to ramble.

Ha: O-K, SO---! 

[From there they talked for the next few hours, with lots of laughs between each countryside story of Boris'.]

Chapter Text

Lounging in the comfy chair at her desk, Tiff was sorting out and filling the blanks to record deal papers and upcoming gigs. It was actually her day off, but she decided to get a head start on it. It wouldn't hurt, right? Then...she heard the rotary phone near her mug of rooibos tea ringing. She quietly hoped it wasn't ANOTHER gig, picking it up....

T: Hello? You've reached Tiff Webber.

K:....heyyyyy friend…!

Oh? Surprsingly, it was Kamal! She wondered and worried for a second if he was calling to ask about the progress on her and the rest of the band's progress on the song they were dedicating to Flower Kid.

She was still workshopping it, after all. But judging by the awkward greeting, it seemed like that wasn't the case. (And she was right.)

T: Oh, well hiya, Kamal! Somethin' up? You don't sound too great, bud.

K:....yeah. I'm not. I feel like...ACID...rain.

T: *snicker* What's been botherin' you?

K: Well, there's a specific reason I called you...if it's okay to vent..

T: Sure, what is it?

K:....Uhm. I...need relationship advice.

T: Oh, wow, really?

K: Yeeeah, I understand if you don't wanna talk about that kinda stuff. I know you and Ronbo are friends again, but…

T: Aw no, it's totally okay! I'm more confused that you didn't go to Ronbo first, haha!

K: Oh it is? That's good to hear. Yeah, I rang you up cuz...Ronbo isn't too good with moral support. You guys take me seriously, but like...y'know…"C'est la vie" i-isn't exactly reassuring. ;

T: N'aww, I understand. Hehe, so who is he? I think I already know who.

K: W-Wait, hey, I didn't say I was dating him!!

T: Oh, sorry...you said you wanted relationship advice, so I assumed...Sooo, Habit doesn't know yet?

K: wh--H-HOW DID YOU KNOW IT WAS BORIS!!!

T: Ah, I'm sorry, I'm not trying to upset you…

K:...uuggghhh, it's okay….yeah. i'm hopelessly in love with that big goofball. I've been in denial for years.
[Tiff was surprised to hear this, she thought they were dating already…]

T: Huh. Is it okay if I say my thoughts?

K: sure.

T: I actually assumed you two were already dating in secret...then you guys had taken a break from each other. That's what mixed me up a bit. Sorry 'bout the confusion.

K: w--w-WE ALREADY LOOKED LIKE A COUPLE?? I...OH MY GODDDDD...

[Kamal has tears in his voice now, overwhelmed from thinking about how everyone saw him and Boris talking and spending so much time together in the Habitat on their breaks. Before their big argument, that's all they would do together...everyone must've thought that they were….]

T: Oh...Aw, hey…You crying, friend? Hey, hey, It's okay..!

K: *snf*...Tiff, is it bad that I loved him so much even then? When me and him weren't talking? Not too long ago, when he tried to hurt us? For the longest time, I didn't know why I worried about HIM so much. Besides what he'd been plotting. About how he felt all alone in there, his hiding place. I didn't even know I loved him so deeply until Flower Kid got through to him...I was there, behind the door. I didn't tell either of them.

T: I...Oh dear...you weren't aware of how you felt…?

K: Mmhm. I've always been worried sick about him when he was in the watchtower back at the Habitat. He's a clumsy klutz...and the windows in the tower were thin…and...yeah.

T:..Oh, goodness gracious...Kamal, I'm so sorry… I didn't know that part of the story...You have every right to be concerned for that poor man's safety. If my loved one isolated themself in such a dangerous tower, I'd be terrified out of my mind.

K:..Yeaaah. Sorry I didn't mention it before...

T: I completely understand. Awful experiences like that take courage to say aloud. I figure Habit's indebted to you, huh? ,B)

K: Heh. Something like that, it seems.

T: Go on, tell me more.

K: Hoo, okay. My weird feelings didn't let me stop worrying about him..And he's safe now, and I forgave him, and he's doing a lot better, and, and...I know he wouldn't belittle me like that ever again, but like...what if he just breaks my heart because he doesn't want that life with me? Before Boris, I've never let myself get so completely and utterly sentimental before. I've fallen right on my face, friend-o...

T: Kamal, hey...I can tell how much he cares about you. I might've not known the bigger picture to your relationship; as I was only the performer back at the Habitat..but I can see how much you two really trust each other.

[Kamal's face is on his desk, listening to his optimistic friend's reassurance. Tiff knew there was good in Habit then, that he'd do the right thing in the end, too.]

K: hm.

T:...And your feelings aren't weird. We can't predict who we fall in love with, but lucky for you, I believe you've found someone truly kind. And I might not know the guy personally, but I don't think he's got it in him to break your heart. :>

You two are so mellow around each other, now. Remember when he tagged along for band practice? That was fun. I'd never seen him so, like, peaceful! Haha...It's got to be your doing!

K: Maybe you're right...I...I've loved Boris for a long time, Tiff. When we made up..that must've been when my feelings resurfaced. And I'm scared to death everything's just gonna blow up in my face.

T: Aw, it'll all work out in the end…

K: I, I mean it's easy for you to say..you have experience with this sort of thing...All of this is new to me. It's embarrassingly pathetic…

T: Ah, well, yes, I do..and hey, stop talking yourself down like that…

K: But I'm already so fragile...I don't know what I'd do if I made him feel uncomfortable...

T: Well, hey, Kamal…it might feel like it, but it wouldn't be the end of the world if he didn't reciprocate…He gave you your space...you would do the same for him, right?

(Kamal is scared stiff by that possibility.)

K: aaaugh, I-I MEAN YEAH I TOTALLY WOULD-- but don't make me think that, please..! *siiigh* ...everything like this feels like the end of the world regardless.

T: Aw, Kamal, sorry...I know, I know...I wouldn't worry about that, though. I'd say there's a good chance he likes you back. Even in the Habitat, you two were pretty much inseparable.

K: I..I'd say he might like me back too...but...that's the thing. What if he loves me, but isn't ready for that kind of thing, what if he just wants to be alone…? 'Cause I convinced myself I didn't like him that way for a while. And, because...I thought I was okay with living alone again too, but...God. I miss him so much. E-Even a little while back when we weren't on talking terms, he's always been on my mind....uGGGHHH this feels so stupid to say out loud.

[Tiff could already tell how much Kamal loved Boris from the moment he asked for relationship advice.]

T, reassuring tone: Awww. I know you're afraid, bud. But, considering how much he's changed, how much, like, genuinely happier he's been because you were there with him...I'd say it's a good'a sign as any. You gotta talk to him.

K, voice wavering: I-I don't think I can call him…ngh, I'm not strong enough…..

T: Oh, no, no, you shouldn't say your feelings over the phone….Kamal, you've gotta see 'im in person.

[Kamal's voice over the phone now sounds even more overwhelmed.]

K: wHAT. I don't even know if I can dooo thaaat…eugghh…everything's gonna go wrongggg……

T: *sigh*..C'mon Kamal...You're gonna drive your self up the wall anticipating what you'd think he'd say...You gotta communicate. He's just as intuitive as you, he might think he did something to hurt you...

K: T-That does sound like him.

T:...Take your chance. You know him way more than me, heh. I'd say you got nothing to worry about. You two really click, you know? Heehee.

K: Yeah, I'll try to do that...Thank you, Tiff….bugh, *sniffle*.. you're such a great friend…! ...what did we even do to deserve you...

T: Aw, haha, I try...Let me know how it goes, okay?

K: Okaaay…thank you for talking me through it.

T: Hehe! Don't overthink it. You gotta say what you really mean. Wishing the best for both of you. ^^

[Kamal breathes in and out, grateful for the support.]

K:..Yeah! Thanks so much, for letting me ramble, too. I'll see ya at practice, Tiff. Bye bye.

T: Peace out!

<Call Ended> appears on his wall phone's screen. She's right. I'm gonna drive myself nuts if I keep my feelings from him hidden. I'm already keeping the guy in hiding, I might as well, right? I gotta see him in person….I gotta call him up.

Don't panic...let's just visit him at his house.
--

Kamal parked the car in Boris' humbly paved driveway. He looked on the map twice to make sure it was the right stop, and at the address Boris instructed to write down. Yep, this was it all right. And Boris understated the DEVIL out of this cottage. It was the biggest on this block of the countryside.

It looked like it was built in the late 40's...at least a decade before either of them were born. But it was in great shape. Large, ivy covered, but still looking well cared for, made of refurbished brick. There was even a wild morning glory trellis growing on a lightning rod attached to the cottage. Who wouldn't want to live in a cottage like this, given the chance? It looked quite sturdy, and was in a spot out of range for any bad weather conditions.

Kamal closed his car door, and anxiously, but eagerly speedwalked to Boris' door, with his lunch in hand. (A falafel lunchwrap with cucumber sauce and kale, seasoned with paprika, wrapped in naan he made himself.)

He rang the door bell. ....No answer. He couldn't even hear footsteps. Wha..? Then he heard Boris' voice call from farther away, outside!

Ha: Ohh! Kamal, is that you at the door?!

Kamal jumps a bit, not expecting to hear him.

K: WHA--Uh, hehe, yeah! Didn't know you were outside!

Habit chuckles at his reaction, annoying Kamal slightly.

Ha: Hahaha~! So sorry...I'm in the garden already! Come to the backyard, please!

K: Ahah...You got it.
---

Kamal is astounded, impressed by Boris' little garden he's started already. Kamal compliments it uproariously.

K: WHOA!!! It's a tiny little sprouting garden, but it's GORGEOUS, Boris! Those lillies you love so much sure grow fast, hehe!

Ha: Really...? You think so?

K: I think I know so, dude.~ It looks great! ^^

[Habit shyly thinks to himself that a certain someone was just as tiny (in comparison) and gorgeous as the budding garden...even more so.]

Ha: Aha, thank you...yes, they're quite fickle….surprising how they can grow and bloom within days, depending on the person. :-]

K: Well, lil' Esmé certainly did, haha!

[Habit serenely looked in the distance, amongst the fleeting summer breeze, fondly remembering the tooth lily Flower Kid gave him, their stubborn act of kindness turning his life around for the better. It was the very first one transplanted, to the first and only flower bed he made here.]

Ha, beaming: Yes, that purehearted little green thumb, Flower Child.

K: Heheh! C'mon, come on Boris!! Gimme the grand tour!! :D

[Kamal's laugh was contagious. Boris got a little giddy.]

Ha: A-Alright, ahaha…! There's not much right now though, just the lilies by the bench.

[Kamal was excited to go and see the lilies by the bench, but he wasn't going there until Boris was finished showing him around. All the structures for the garden fences were very intricate, articulated and beautiful. No plants in them yet, but somehow, Kamal already could imagine how Boris would plan where they grow. Good to know his money was going toward something he loves, Kamal pondered. Habit started walking, Kamal a few steps behind.]

Ha: It's all a work in progress!! I've been...uh, well I tried to grow tomatoes, and other crop seeds that Flower's mothers had gifted to me; to expand my horizons, but, uh….I think I should stick to flowers, haha…

[Boris walks over to where his failed tomato attempt was in a pot...the sprout was wilted, you could tell it was overwatered.]

K: Oh nooo….! Eheh, well...maybe Koncordia and Chountelle can getcha new ones, too?

Ha: I sure hope so…

…

From there, Boris blathered passionately to Kamal about which flower would grow where.

"In that bed there, I'll eventually plant some shrub flowers! I've always wanted to try growing Peonies, they have a very fruity scent..though next summer would be better. They can't withstand any kind of cold, it's in June where they flourish! I'll have to find the right perennials. I've always loved the kinds of flowers with the fruity smells…Roses especially. They do best midspring. Just imagine that, a lovely little table right there, where you could have lunch, or a picnic among roses of multiple warm colors…."

He always loved this ambition of his. His mind began to drift, listening to his soft, low voice.

Something told Kamal that Boris had locked away this passionate side of himself for a very long time. At the Habitat, before the whole mess that had led to their previous falling out, Habit would babble on like this to him, too. All they would do before was vent about dentist issues.

'This patient's mother blamed me for their crying….they're sore because they forgot to floss...'

'The kids run and scream at the sight of me, not even my tools..'

'The other guys won't shut up about us...they keep gossiping.'

'Can you believe that man jumped outta the window??'

And most of this was after they stopped working at their clinic in the city, too. Side by side they walked together, asking the habiticians their problems…Though, for reasons we've come to know now, it was only Kamal who was concerned with their problems. Though it wasn't only because of the "Big Event". Kamal couldn't see that deep-rooted trauma, at the core of his motives Boris was experiencing.

He ignored their problems not only because he didn't care...evidently, he never knew how to solve his own. Kamal hadn't noticed then, because even then, Boris' radiance got him a bit...starstruck. Yeah... He knew how much Boris hated being a dentist. He'd been friends with him for 6 years now, at least. Boris' more eloquent side only came out to him, someone he trusted.

One time in the late 80's, he even found him having an emotional breakdown under his desk before opening hours in the clinic. Writing feverishly in his diary.

He didn't tell the whole story to Kamal then, but he pieced together how much Boris wanted to quit then and there. Somehow, with his own panic attack diminishing maneuvers, he had soothed Boris. Around that time is when they really started to form a deep trust in one another.
He knew every fake smile he made, every tone of repressed pain in his voice in the PSAs.

When they weren't talking, Kamal was bitter, but his love for him, his overall concern for his well being, wouldn't let him lose faith in Habit. In the end, he felt like he didn't do enough to try to help him. Though, there wasn't much he could do then. But that kid, Esmé Posiepocket did.

He felt terrible, putting the weight on his shoulders on that kid. In the end, they assured him Habit made it right..he helped them put back in their fully grown teeth, after his instant remorse. Still, that was so much to put on someone so young. Everything that had happened between the three was better now, but... He still wished he could've faced his own fears...but, Kamal knew he couldn't get through to him...because not only was he scared stiff...he didn't have that fickle little flower...or something extremely specific like that, to help his ol' suffering friend come to his senses. He still was haunted by the thought of Boris, high up on that tower.
If Flower Kid was actually some kind of miracle relationship worker, then he'd believe it...

Ha: Kamal? Are you, erm...holding space in your hands?

K: wh- UH, SORRY, what???

Ha: You were, er...spacing out. Appears I've been talking too long, haha! Do you need a place to sit down?

Shoot. I really did just dissociate again.

K: Nah, nah, doc…. B-Boris, I'm not bored!!

..It was true, he does love hearing Boris' voice….

K: I-I, um, I really like hearing ya talk about your gardening passions. Maybe I'm not used to being outta the house at noon, heh. T-The countryside is great.

Boris felt all warm and fuzzy, hearing that. Goodness, Kamal was just too much.

Ha: Aha...I'm glad to hear it. I, um, love it here. I'm happier than I've been in years. Nature is so soothing, and lovely...you know?

K:...!

Happier than he'd been in years, huh...he looked right at that genuine, soft smile of his. Guess this kind of solitude really was healing for him. Kamal could feel himself ease up a bit when he heard that.

K: I'm glad to hear that from you, too. You seem a lot calmer.

Ha: I'd, heh...say I am. I still have my days, but...I owe it all to you and Esmé. Really. Thank you for everything…

Kamal lost himself in Boris' deep vermillion eyes…he smiles warmly.

There was still so much he wanted to say, but...he drowned out those thoughts by just giving the big guy a hug...it'd been much too long. He knew Habit would get all shy.

Ha: O-Oh, umm..!

This had happened many times before. They'd have a serene, gratitude filled moment...and suddenly Kamal would hug him. Despite being a nervous wreck….Kamal was a bit of the friendly type.

Many months before, if Kamal had done this, Boris would've politely pulled away from the hug. Not only because he wasn't used to normal, platonic affection, but…he felt like he didn't deserve Kamal's kindness. Though he didn't back away this time. Kamal made a cordial but smug remark.

K: Not askin' me to back off, eh? Heehee. Must've really missed me. ~

Boris' face instantly burned red. They stared right at each other.

K: uHM….HEH.

[Kamal pulled away quickly, realizing how ridiculous that felt to say.

...It's the end of summer in September, how could it still be so humid, huh?!]

Suddenly, Kamal felt a sharp pain in his ankle. He must've pulled away too fast, yowch…was he really that old already? Boris giggled from their shared dorky mannerisms.

K: Heyyy, don't laugh at my expense. >:P

Ha: Oh no, no no, I'm not!~ You should really sit down, though, my dear…

Kamal stared at him again, even rosier than before. Boris winced from saying that aloud.

Ha: Erm…

..why not sit at the bench? ^^;

He points to the center of his small, budding garden. There is a glossy, stone bench among the lilies he saw there that he hadn't focused on before now.

K: Don't gotta tell me twice, eheh.

Boris tilted his head at him, a bit confused by the phrase.

K:...I..I'm going over there. Bet it smells pretty.

Ha: Ahaha! Yes, I'm quite proud of that spot. Go rest, Kamal. :->

Kamal went over there and reclined. There were more than a dozen of joyful little tooth lilies, some bobbing their heads in the wind around him. They seemed really lively. Alive even...they seemed to be grinning AT Kamal. Was that...normal?

He was put off by it, but not really in a bad way. They had cute sparkly little smiles. Social anxiety only prodded him a little bit. While he was sitting on the bench, he watched Boris tend to his flower beds. He pondered what those would grow into. Hopefully not another overwatered tomato plant, he grinned to himself.

....

Boris...he seemed so much happier now. Would three dangerous words from his own heart...ruin it for him?

Chapter Text

Boris, he seemed so at ease now. This was a whole different side he saw of Habit in person...before, this soft side of him would only come out when they'd chatter during closing up at the clinic.

[It had been quite a while when he had seen him. They had been talking over the phone, being 35 minutes away from each other. The last time he saw him in the flesh was a month ago. Kamal had forgiven him in a seemingly sudden manner, Habit unaware that Kamal wasn't unnerved by him anymore.

Boris had cried at his doorstep while apologizing, sobbing even more from the shock of being forgiven so easily...but now; even with living alone, he seemed much happier. With the faux charismatic persona in the past he made for himself not too long ago, that sounded a little surprising.]

[Though, he was always like that, a true introvert; reclusive, hiding in his tower by the Habitat for a number of reasons including that introversion. He didn't really have a choice but to be, what with him being outright resented in his adolescence, and growing up in an abusive household.]

[Kamal did relate to the introverted part, he lived on his own too. He had a constant struggle of his reclusive nature and his loneliness, as well. Most times he didn't want to visit his folks, because the only person he'd mutually come out to was Habit. And Tiff and the band..And…well, it seemed little Esmé knew, too. Flower Kid had two mothers, after all.]

[On that note...Kamal was beating around the bush about the super important thing he wanted to ask Boris. So he was stalling his own words..he would ask him that later. He started fretting to himself.]

Start with one...normal level of concern question, Kamal. We don’t gotta unpack all of his troubles again, just ask him how he is….

K: Boris....hey, got a minute?

[Boris looks up, intrigued by the question, considering Kamal was his guest.]

Ha: Heheh..Well, of course I am, you did ask to come over, sill-y! 

[Kamal eyes him, baffled. Habit was thrown off by his expression as well.]

Ha: *ahem* Y...Yes, I do have a minute.

What is it?

[Kamal made a quick motion with his head as a summons.]

[Habit, now a bit concerned, walks over....did he do something wrong?] 

K: Be real with me here, 'doc'. You're happier now, right...? At least, doing better than before?

[Habit pauses for a second, now pondering the fact.] 

Ha: Doing better than I was before? Yes, I'd say I am...now. Before, I'd been forced into a field I wanted nothing to do with, before...As you know.

Oh, H-Honestly, eheh...I didn't know why you liked being a "den-test", but that's...because you actually had a choice. It was your choice. 

[Habit tends to flower beds near Kamal to look for weeds, as to stay stimulated and keep the flow of the conversation. Kamal pondered what to say in this moment. ]

...

K: Heh, long before...I wondered why you always seemed like you hated your job. Sometimes, Boris, I wish I had you talk about your problems more..even if it was during clinic hours. 

Ha, dryly: Well, hah. More often than not, you'd find me crying in a corner, even when "punching a clock." You just wanted to do your job, honestly I was slowing you down. I was bad, as your superior.

K: I know, Boris..and...I wish I'd spoken up. Maybe if I talked you through it more. To make it better for you at work, somehow.

Maybe like...suggest you'd taken more breaks, suggested you'd find something nicer, even if that meant your doctorate woulda been all for, forfeit.

I know it was because your family is, like, the worst..but, like...

Ha: Kamal, my friend. It's alright...At that point, I was already at my lowest. I'm not sure if anything would've helped...I know you care, but...by then I was far in the deep end.

[Kamal was pretty alarmed by that response, fist covering his mouth, vicarious, shocked by how unphased Boris was by his own words. Habit picked up on this, peering back at him, trying to find the words to reassure him. Usually he would only be having this kind of conversation with his therapist. He stopped himself from that kind of talk, Kamal shouldn't also be his therapist..that wouldn't be fair to him.]

Ha: Sorry, uh! Kamal, I...I didn't think you would want me to confide to you again. I don't want to worry you. My issues should only be heard by my therapist...someone who was trained in that field to help me. Putting that on my old colleague, after everything...that wouldn't have been fair for you. It isn't fair to you.

My assistant...no, my f-friend...shouldn't be responsible for carrying my burdens, my issues.

 Even by confiding minimally, I only ended up making you feel bad for me through tidbits...not helping either one of us...and, I still managed to blame my issues on you.

B...Back then, especially, it would've been terrible of me to have you carry my burdens. I wasn't all there. I really wanted to quit my position, then. Maybe I delayed the inevitable, but now, I have quit...and I'm getting better, I think. 

[Kamal was worried. He knew what Boris meant by wanting to protect him from being the therapy friend, from his destructive tendencies. But Boris was all there now, he had a good therapist...Didn't he realize now, Kamal really wanted to be there to support him now... and be with him?]

K: Boris...I get how it is, but...you can still talk to me about what you're comfortable with. I don't want you to be dishonest of your feelings…

Ha: Hm.

….

K: Dude, you realize I would've still been your friend if you quit then, right? Eheh.

....sorry, did you want to stop talking about this?

Ha: Are you uncomfortable? I-I can stop.

[Kamal was bewildered again...what was Boris suggesting?]

K:  I, uh...was asking you that same question??? Heh, eheh. D-Did you want to change the subject.

[Boris was used to talking about his trauma in a healthier way now, so he wasn't too overwhelmed...but he didn't think that Kamal actually wanted to listen to his problems again. He wanted to think of some way around it as to not make Kamal worry more. His therapist would suggest, after circling his thoughts, to name things he'd done that had made him feel escapism. 

He could use that.]

Ha:...Uh, hm...well...I have found tranquility in living my dreams now. Caring for this little garden, without any spite. Truly, I'm happier than I've been in years. It helps me reflect on my worst memories, without alcohol or anything, thankfully. 

[Kamal, upon hearing that, relaxed a little. But at the same time...he really wished he could say or do something to make Habit feel less lonely...and Kamal himself, felt lonely.] 

K: I'm glad to hear it, Boris....This beautiful garden that you've made here...

You deserve it. 

[Habit, hearing Kamal commending him again, he couldn't help but become a bit rosy.

Oh gracious, here I go again....It took him a few seconds to answer.]

Ha: Th..Thank you, Kamal. 

[Kamal picked up on that bashfulness of his. Not talking to him in person since the bouquet delivery, he had missed seeing the face he made whenever he had found his soft spot; rather than imagining it over the phone. He held back a little laugh when he nodded.]

K: Hm. ~

...

[A moment of awkward silence passed. Habit thought they were done with the serious talk and had started walking to look for his watering can, but...]

K: H...Hey, uh, Boris...!

[Habit, startled, turned right back around.]

Ha: OH! SORRY, KAMAL, MY MISTAKE, UM.

Wh-What, what is it?

K:....Don't make yourself sore, hehe…

Did you wanna take a break? Maybe...sit here and look at your garden with me?

[Kamal pats the empty spot next to him.]

[Habit tries to hide the mesmerized look on his face, staring into Kamal's eyes from over there.]

Ha: Ah, sure.

[Habit goes back over there and sits, carefully distancing himself as to not crowd Kamal, despite what his heart was irking him to think.]

...They enjoyed a quiet moment together, hearing nature around them. Chirps and bird calls, pleasant bug buzzing. City life had certainly taken a toll on their nostalgia. For Boris, his precious happy memories from childhood all resided here, in this new modest garden now. 

"It's such a beautiful day."

"Heh. You said it, Boris."

For Kamal, this reminded him of his old backyard at his parents' house. The one at his humble little one-story house's backyard was nothing compared to this. Neither was his childhood home, as this was a garden, with a wide area of fence around it. 

At least a good paycheck came out of the job he hated to create something he loves. Kamal had thought. This garden. This lovely, wonderous budding garden….

This was Boris' garden, he had realized again. All of it was his...He made this his home already.

 It must be awesome living here. I'm jealous. He thought.

Then, he remembered...Boris was right there...with him. Sitting there..right next to him. Kamal began to feel his nerves again.

Lately, he had felt much more in sync with him. But..Kamal's reasons for wanting to visit weren't only to spend time with him.  

As much as he wanted to keep having these nice moments with him as his friend...this burning question of his might put a speed bump in the friendship he had with him. He needed an answer.

Habit came out to him, vice versa, though Kamal wasn't sure if Boris even wanted love in his life, because he still wanted solitude, even while being in hiding; having no choice but to. 

Though Kamal...he so dearly wanted to be part of Boris' life, the new life he's creating for himself. 

For months, those feelings were truly coming to light when they opened up the 'Habitat' as a team; He fantasized of a life with him, time and time again.

Just the month before, he denied it. In the past, before Flower Kid, it was because he was upset with him. 

But now...Boris was being real with himself, and with him...he had finally let Kamal in, opened up his heart, thanks to Flower Kid. He promised Kamal he was going to get better. And he was finally feeling better, he was healing.

Did he really want to risk him feeling uncomfortable? No, no...he told Boris to be honest with how he felt. It's only fair he does too.

...Who knew when he'd get another chance to ask? But, he didn't want to come off as desperately as he was feeling...how was he gonna cut the silence?

...

K: Boris...hey.

Ha: Hm, yes? What is it, Kamal?

[Kamal tapped the soles of his sneakers together, looking at the ground.] 

K: I...want to ask you a serious question.

Ha: U..Uhm...sure...?

K:...

K: You ever think.....uh. Y..You, u-um. *ahem*

God, uh...Hang on.

"..."

K: Have you ever thought of u-us...as..more than friends...?

...

[It took a second for Habit to process what he just said.]

Ha: WH-WH....??

...

Ha:...HUH?? W-What now?! 

[Habit's heart really started racing, he was taken aback, jumping up in his seat.]

....(uh oh.)

[Kamal felt all cold. He assumed the worse. Well...that backfired. As expected. His face reddened from shame, and he started hugging his knees, away from Habit's direction.]

K: YEAH. Never mind! Never mind, that was a stupid question! Just a stupid thing I came up with just now, ahA SORRY! Y'KNOW, I bet could teach a college course on this stuff?! I-I'm just REALLY stupid today! HAHA!!

Fuggeddaboutit...!

[Habit was taken completely off guard. Why didn't he see this coming?! Kamal literally asked to sit with him! Why did he deny before that Kamal had driven all the way out here, just to talk to him...did he consider this garden a romantic spot? Even when not seeing his garden before? Did he already believe that this garden would be beautiful, even when he'd just started it?]

Ha: K-Kamal, wait!! Hold on!

K:....

[Fine, okay, I'm ready to hear it...Kamal crooned to himself.] 

Ha: Kamal....l-look over here, please...

[Kamal, overwhelmed from embarrassment peers over...he saw Habit was blushing, a sentimental expression on his face, hands on heart. Wait, HUH? He was sure that he was uncomfortable with him thinking that! What did it MEAN?!]

[Boris was so nervous, stammering too nervouse-ly out of his mind.]

Ha: I-I-If I answered yes...u-uhh....

h-howe...yuo react?! beEcuse,..

....yes...? 

Kamal's head was spinning...was he starting to tear up? A blue moon for sure. Among fickle lilies, something much more begins to bloom. 

What a wonderful cliché. They were in a garden….he really confessed to Boris in a garden. His garden. This was almost too much to take. 

He really...loves him?

[...What the hell. What is he doing to my heart.

 Oh my god.]

K: BORIS....oH MY GOD....I-I'd be really?? Happy?? I feel the same way?! Y-You love me, Boris? You do...?!

[Boris has misty eyes, sniffling before he responds.]

Ha: Ka...Kamaaal..! 

[Swiftly, Habit has him in a hug. Kamal felt like he was in another world.]

K: ...Boris...Oh my god....OHHH MY GOD! Ehehehee~!

...y-you're really warm, Boris…

...Heheh...hmm... 

Ha:...Kamal..T-There are no words to describe how much I miss you all the time, while calling you over the phone...I honestly didn't know why you'd rather be here in the middle of nowhere with me, than...absolutely anything else...

K: 'Cuz I miss you alla the time too, ya big lug..! You live alone, I live alone....! I worry about you all the time, Boris!

[Kamal could hear Habit's heart beating even faster...]

Ha: Y-You don't think it's silly? That, I-I fell in love with you because you're the first person who's ever really wanted to be around me before?? Who's ever cared so much about my health? 

[Boris is crying genuine, joyful tears…]

Ha: Ahah...and, you go so far, to extreme lengths to help me, to be with me, like driving out to the middle of nowhere to see me while still concealing my whereabouts?!

[Kamal answered with a coy tone, as if Boris' love was ever a silly thing.]

K: Pff, I mean, hey, you didn't fall in love with your old boss and deny it all those years. 

Ha:..Y-Years?! You've loved me ever since then..?

K: It started as like, a tiny crush....you kinda swept me off my feet a bit with your charisma, when I was first assigned to you. Then like...as I got to know you...and how sweet you were...hehe...I couldn't understand how you didn't have, like...y'know, heh...a secret boyfriend already...

Ha: Oh, Kamal...

[Habit puts a gentle hand on Kamal's hair, holding him tenderly.]

Ha: Maybe you were my secret love...this entire time. ~

 I…I love you, Kamal.

K: B-BORIS. HOLY CRAP...ehehehehe...! 

I-I love you too!!

…

K: Boris...uh...could you, u-um….kiss me? B-But!! ...Like...on the face...I-I um...I've never kissed anyone before...heh, eheh…

[Habit pulled away to make eye contact, a shy smile on his face.]

Ha:..Same here.

K:..Oh…?

[Habit bent down a little and kissed Kamal on the cheek. Kamal hoped dearly he wasn't asleep right now, he felt as if he was in a daze.]

K: Hah...h-haha...ummm….hehehe…~

Ha: W-What I meant by that was, uh...I've only ever given kisses to my tooth lilies...that's how you get them to bloom, along with a drink they like, haha. 

You're the first person I've kissed, as well.

K: Heh..Can't say that I'm not a little jealous of 'em...they get to see you every day.~

Ha: Did you want...to kiss me, Kamal?

K: L-Like, u-uh...for real, for real kiss you?! 

[Habit nods.]

K: uH--UM, UM!! THIS IS GOING SO FAST.

Ha: If it is, uh...y-you could just kiss me lightly on the lips, eheheh…

K: Y-Yeah, okay…!

…

Both of their hearts fluttering, they stared at each other for a moment. Kamal delicately placed his hand on Boris' face, feeling a little stubble, with Habit still wrapped around him, hands on his shoulders. Kamal puts his nose to Habit's, making them both more hesitant...quickly, Kamal kisses him for a few seconds, frantically pulling back.

K:..oH MY GOD. w-WOW...aH GEEZ, I--UH….man...hAHA.

Ha:..You're so adorable, Kamal…t-that was sweet.

[Kamal immediately has Habit in another hug, surprising him. Kamal starts raving feverishly.]

K: OH MY GOD BORIS, WE'RE SO OLD. WE'RE IN OUR 30'S…! I FEEL LIKE I'M FLIRTING TERRIBLY IN MED SCHOOL AGAIN. BUT THIS TIME I ACTUALLY KISSED SOMEONE.

Ha: H-Hey, that's o-kay…! We both have our own reasons for not being able to find partners before...

K: I...I know, just...I never thought that I'd find someone who'd actually love me back.

Ha: Heehee, I mean...look at who you kissed.

K: Y-Yeah...heh. Boris...I want to be here for you...even from far away, even if you're half an hour away...I want to be part of this life that you're creating for yourself. Could I..?

[Habit smiles sweetly at Kamal.]

Ha: I'd love that, my dear flower...

[Kamal giddly giggled at the sound of the pet name.]

K: H-Heh..Maybe along the way I could actually learn how to kiss you properly.

[Kamal inches close to Boris' nose again, delicately holding his face.]

Ha: Ahaha!! ...I'd love that even more, my love...

[Somehow, it felt like the erythronium tooth lilies around the bench were making silly faces at them...maybe it's because they actually were. 

They were already pretty sentient, as is.

The lilies are mute, but they can nod and shake, similar to Flower Kid.

 Boris and Kamal had blushed even more than they were already, and laughed a lot together; at the thought that they had a whole audience of little flowers who heard everything.]

After the thought, Boris quite literally swept Kamal off his feet once again. Both of them were giggling feverishly. He gently set Kamal down on the grass farther away from the flower bed so that he could lay next to him. 

Boris tried to be smug about laying there, but he was completely flushed in the face and still giddy. Kamal saw through that immediately, he knew there was no way Boris could hide that soft spot of his anymore.

So Kamal wrapped his arms around him, there on the lawn, nestling his head on his shoulder. Boris was even warmer than before, utterly mesmerized, and he could tell he was overjoyed because of happy squeaks he was making. He can't say he didn't expect Boris to snuggle him back. Or kiss his forehead…

Kamal was the luckiest guy in the whole world.

It was pretty embarrassing, knowing that the little blossoms had witnessed this as well, but it was okay. 

They couldn't possibly hide it from the confident confidant flowers...And they couldn't let go of the other.

Boris and Kamal never wanted to let go again.