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Cole raises his glass of wine, and clinks it to Jay's.
"Happy first official date."
Jay smiles at him warmly, taking a sip of his drink. "Happy date day to you too."
Cole watches Jay, allowing himself to soften.
It's taken way too long to get here. So many stupid arguments, disagreeing over trivial matters, a convoluted love triangle...
A big, winding road, but they're here now.
Jay's with him. He chose Cole.
That makes him the luckiest guy in the universe.
"What? Do I have something on my face? Why're you looking at me like that?"
Cole sets his glass down, and gently tugs Jay's away too. Then he slowly entwines their fingers - Jay has such fancy fingers, they move so quickly, it's like they dance, he's incredible - and touches their foreheads together.
"I just think you're pretty."
Jay snorts, as if it's a joke, but his cheeks redden a bit. "Yeah?"
"Mhm." And he only hesitates slightly before planting a light kiss to Jay's lips.
There's a little spark of electricity that makes his skin tingle, and Jay blushes harder and pulls away.
"Sorry. I didn't mean to - I got, uh, I... Sorry. I'll keep it in check. Can you - please? Again?"
Cole edges away slightly.
"Sorry! Was that not okay? I just thought - We don't have to if you don't want to. I - Sorry, should've asked."
"No, no, no, I liked it!"
Cole tilts his head, and Jay rubs a gentle thumb along his hand.
"I did. I just... keep getting surprised."
"I get you." Cole sighs, and flops down onto the bed. "It's... still taking some getting used to."
Jay nods. "Yeah. But that's not a bad thing. I really like kissing you. I wish we could do it more."
Cole puts one of his hands up in the air, reaching out as though he could grab the ceiling. He stares at his own fingers.
His hands look better when they're in Jay's.
"I feel like we're not very good at this."
Jay slumps down next to him, and joins him in the arm raising. "Maybe. But that's why we're here. Just us in a hotel room, figuring things out."
Cole loops his hand around so it's touching Jay's, who grabs it and pulls it to his chest.
They lay like that in silence for a few minutes, until Jay let's go and rolls over until he's leaning over Cole.
"Can we kiss again?"
"Don't gotta ask." Cole arches up slightly, fulfilling Jay's request.
There's another shoot of sparks, but Jay doesn't pull away this time. Instead, he gets closer, until his legs are straddling Cole's waist.
Cole sits up, and his hands slowly move to Jay's hips, electricity making their touches feel fuzzy.
It's a great feeling. Evidence of Jay's enjoyment darting around in miniature low jolts, dancing up and down Cole's arms as their kiss deepens.
Cole's breathless when they part again.
Jay's eyes are sparkling.
"You're so gorgeous."
"Huh?"
"You. Cole. So gorgeous."
"O-oh." His cheeks heat up, and Jay beams.
"I'm so lucky you're my boyfriend."
Cole fights the urge to look away in embarrassment.
"You, uh, are a good kisser. With very nice eyes."
Said eyes crinkle as Jay smiles wider.
It's a smile Cole wouldn't trade for the world.
Cole confessed his feelings for Jay three months ago, who'd squeezed him tight and asked, through nervous giggles, for a kiss.
They'd decided that until they fully had the whole situation figured out, gotten used to the changes, they would keep their budding romance on the downlow, private from their friends.
Of course, that only made trying to do couple-y things more hard - mock dates often turning into a group hangout, gentle touches quickly pulled away, and whenever they did have some private downtime, it was often interrupted by a brand new villain that took a while to defeat.
So it took three months for a proper first date.
Peace in Ninjago (that was sure to be interrupted sooner or later), and Cole says he's gonna see his dad, Jay claims he's visiting his parents, meaning that for the first time, they finally have a night to themselves.
It's in the morning, when Cole wakes up with Jay in his arms for the first time, that he realises he doesn't want another day to go by without this.
Cole's never felt so close to someone before.
Sure, he's been intimate with people, and it's been fine, nothing too special, but with Jay?
Cole smiles as his boyfriend stirs slightly, before snuggling further into Cole's bare chest.
"Morning." Jay's mumble is slurred, and muffled by the way his face is buried against dark skin.
"Hey." Cole threads his fingers through messy auburn hair.
"You're really warm." Jay's hands curl around Cole's broad shoulders. "Don't ever wanna get up again. Let's just-" He yawns. "Let's just lie like this forever."
"Sounds like a plan to me."
Jay hums sleepily, and Cole holds him tighter.
Being with Jay is natural. Like he's holding home incarnate.
They still have a few more hours before they have to get back to the monastery.
Cole walks in a few minutes after Jay, just to sell the story that they definitely were not together.
He's standing casually, arms slightly folded, laughing at something Zane's said.
Jay glances at him and waves with a smile.
"Hey man! How's your dad?"
Cole's breath catches for a moment, because fuck, Jay's shirt is untucked, and Cole did that, Cole ravished him only half an hour ago, and he wants more, always more. Now that he's been with Jay, it's all he wants. Just Jay, in his arms, against the wall, or in bed, or the shower, or - or wherever Jay wants him. That's all he needs. Ever.
"Cole?" Jay raises his brow at him, and it's enough to kick Cole into gear.
"He's fine. Same as ever. Might see him more often though. Reckon once a month; startin to want a better relationship with him I guess."
"Depending on availability, don't know if that's possible. We're busy people Cole." But Jay shoots him a discreet wink.
"I didn't realise you and your dad were on speaking terms again. After the... Spring Solstice Debacle you seemed pretty sure you didn't want to talk to him."
"Well, uh-" Cole glances at Zane. "I changed my mind. Yknow, good to communicate. And things."
Zane gives him a thumbs up. "How you've grown over the years. Brings a tear to my metallic eye."
Cole shoves his shoulder. "Shut up, I'm older than you."
"My apologies old man."
Cole whacks him again.
Cole wouldn't describe himself as a jealous guy.
He's actually pretty chill, and he's never had a reason to feel envious about anything; everyone deserves good things and all that.
But seeing Nya squeeze Jay into a hug, whispering something to him.
Fuck that.
His scowl must've been obvious, because Kai pulls him aside.
"Dude. I thought you were over her."
Cole doesn't let his eyes leave Jay, who's gesturing wildly as Nya laughs. "I am."
Kai stands in front of him, blocking his eyeline. "You've fought about it enough. Nya's made her choice, okay? Don't be a dick about it."
"I don't know what you're talking about." Cole angles himself so he can peer over Kai's shoulder. Nya's hand is brushing against Jay's.
The fire ninja pokes him in the chest. "Leave them alone. Okay?"
Jay's cheeks are slightly flushed.
Cole's muscles tense up.
Jay's been leading him on this whole time, and it's all been a joke to him, and of course he wants Nya, she's pretty and good at words, and they work, they make sense, Jay's always wanted Nya, he was just-
Jay makes eye contact with him. Scans his face. And steps away from Nya ever so slightly, his hand moving away from hers to scratch his neck.
"Cole! Need you to tell me you won't go and mess them up again."
His body relaxes.
"Yeah. That's fine. Don't worry."
Kai pats him on the back with a smile. "Good man."
Their first moment alone post-hotel is when Jay is lounging on the couch, tongue slightly out as he tries to get past a Mario level. Cole can't quite recognise which one.
The second he enters, Jay hits pause and sits up, a shit-eating grin on his face.
"I never would've guessed you're a jealous man."
Cole tuts, and rolls his eyes, taking a seat next to Jay, placing a hand on his thigh. "'M not."
Jay snorts, and leans against him. "Sure. Sure. I'm sorry though. I didn't really think about - me 'n Nya have always done the flirty banter thing, I should've... I won't do it again."
"Don't be silly. I shouldn't have gotten so heated over something so small, that's - that's wrong of me. I dunno, I've never felt that way before, ever, all angry and possessive and stuff. A bit of flirting ain't that bad." Cole rubs the bridge of his nose as he sits back. "I'm sorry."
"No idiot, you can't apologise when I'm trying to apologise!" Jay discards his controller to the table. "I don't wanna fuck this up Cole. If seeing me flirt with someone else is a problem then-"
"But it was just a casual, friendly thing! I got unreasonably worked up, and-" Cole's brow furrows. "It WAS just casual and friendly, right?"
"Obviously." Jay entwines their hands. "I've got the hots for you right now. No one else."
"Okay. Okay." Cole leans a little closer to Jay, noses nearly touching. "We're cool? I don't wanna be overly... controlling or -"
"We're cool." Jay pecks his lip lightly. "Not controlling. Or possessive. Just jealous, which by the way, looks adorable on you. Your pouty face when Nya touched my hand! Never gonna forget that image. The best thing I've ever seen. Cole Hence, getting the green envy monster because of me? It's too good!"
"Like you wouldn't be the same!" Cole butts his head to Jay's affectionately.
"I think I'd handle that situation with grace and elegance."
"Bold statement."
"What're you gonna do? Make me jealous?"
"Never on purpose. That'd be mean."
Jay chuckles, and raises his hand to Cole's cheek, cupping him just beneath the chin. "You're so good to me."
Cole tilts his face, kissing Jay's thumb. "Ain't seen nothing yet."
It turns out that Jay's jealousy levels get tested two weeks after that conversation.
Cole hadn't done anything on purpose. He hadn't done anything at all to combat the situation, actually.
That's probably why Jay's mad at him.
After another heroic day of world saving, Cole had caught a random citizen lady from falling to her death moments after the Big Bad had been defeated.
Getting her safely to the ground was part of the job and everything.
And yes, okay, she did have very pretty red hair and dazzling green eyes that he looked into for a bit too long - just to make sure she wasn't concussed or anything.
She'd looped her arms around his neck, with a soft "my hero" falling from her lips, as Cole tried to stand her upright.
He kind of accidentally dipped her instead, and to correct his mistake, his hands had gone to her hips, and hers were at his arms, squeezing his muscles.
"You're so strong." She'd whispered.
And like the dumbass he is, he'd replied with "you could come watch me work out some time" because he's a fucking idiot and it's his automatic response when Jay compliments his body.
Citizen Lady had giggled lightly, and slowly let go of him to tuck her hair behind her ear. Cole noticed some dust on her shoulder so he brushed it off, and only afterwards does he realise that that was a bad call.
And he kind of hasn't even looked at Jay this whole time, to make sure he's unharmed, or at least not badly injured.
The moment he registers that, he starts looking around, except his head moves at the same time as Citizen Lady's and their foreheads touch, and shit, shit he is fucking up spectacularly.
She puckers her lips.
Cole is many things, but a cheater isn't one of them. So he brings his hand over her mouth and for some stupid reason goes "not right now".
Not right now??? WHAT IS WRONG WITH HIM?
She giggles, and Cole gets overly aware of the fact there are several cameras pointed at him, and honestly even if Jay wasn't here he'd probably find out and it'd be just as difficult to explain, and shit, he really needs to get out of here.
Cole steps away in what he hopes is a hasty, yet still polite manner, and finally spots the ninja huddling in the corner of the crowd.
Jay's glaring at him.
When Cole meets his eye, he looks away.
"Did you get her number?" It's the first thing Lloyd says once their back home, and Cole really, really wishes he hadn't.
"No I didn't." Cole dumps his mask in the laundry basket. "Uh, I need to-"
"What? Why??" Kai jumps in. "It's perfect. The most romantic introduction I can think of. And you were so smooth!"
Cole winces as Jay completely brushes past him into the common area.
"Jay, can't you track her down or something?" Lloyd pauses. "You and Zane are capable of that kind of stuff, right?"
Cole notices Jay's shoulders tense up. He doesn't turn around.
"Sure. I can get on that for you Cole. Wouldn't wanna ruin your perfect romance."
The back of Cole's throat is dry, and he opens his mouth to reply, but Jay's already gone.
"You need to find her! Obviously the whole revealing your identity thing has gotta come up, but I'm sure she'll be fine with that." Nya pokes his arm gently. "Don't wuss out. When was the last time you even went on a date?"
"That's - I'm not... I think- I'm gonna go tell Jay what I can remember about her. To help find her. Um..." Cole jerks his thumb to the doorway, and hastens to join Jay, Zane patting him on the back as he passes.
"Jay, listen-"
"Don't you worry. I'm all set to find your perfect woman." Jay's voice is cold. "Can't wait to attend your wedding. I'll give a speech for you. That's what buddies do."
"No, no, Jay, babe, it was all really messy, I didn't mean to - My mind just blanked, and I was on autopilot, and I swear, I was thinking of you the whole time, and-"
"Good to know your autopilot likes to flirt with pretty women." He's still not looking at him. "I'll keep that in mind."
"Jay, no, c'mon, I'd never - Was she even that pretty? I don't think so, you're way prettier, and - and I was trying to get her to stand by herself and I messed up, and swooped her, and then I tried to look for you but we bumped heads and - I wouldn't - Jay, you gotta believe me."
"I just think it's funny that you get pissed over friendly flirting, but I'm unreasonable for being upset that my boyfriend gives someone a dumb pickup line, dips them like some fucking romcom, fucking caresses their shoulder, and tells them 'not right now' when they go in for a kiss." Jay gives him a humourless laugh. "The hypocrisy is insane."
"I blanked, I didn't know what to do, I didn't want - I didn't caress her shoulder, I was brushing some dust off of her, but that's... Jay. I'm sorry, I'm really sorry, I -"
"I wonder what you would've done if I hadn't been there."
And Jay's words are a knife to Cole's heart.
"Babe. Don't be - That's - Nothing, I wouldn't have done anything differently, I wouldn't have kissed her."
There's no reply. Cole swallows dryly.
"Jay. It was all a bunch of accidents. I didn't mean - I was just doing my job and-"
Another cold chuckle. "I didn't know our jobs entailed that kind of thing. My mistake."
"I didn't mean... You're twisting the situation!"
And Jay flares, finally turning around, jabbing him in the chest.
Only now does Cole realise his eyes are teary.
"You're such an asshole. You're an asshole, and gods fucking forbid I be upset with you for... I don't care if it was a mistake, or a bunch of coincidences, or... or whatever excuse you wanna tell me. You're an inconsiderate, hypocritical bastard, who only cares about covering his back, and the moment you slip up you're desperate to worm out of owning up to your mistakes, and you- you just - you... y-" Jay trails off, and turns back around, arm moving to cover his eyes.
He sniffles.
"I - I know. I fucked up. And I am sorry, really really sorry. You're right. I'm trying to make excuses and that's not right, and I... I understand if it takes you some time to forgive me, but I do need you to know that I've never... I've never even thought about anyone else. It's been you, and it has been for a long time. I've hurt you, and shit, I haven't even asked if you actually are injured, we haven't had a post fight catch up... Are you physically okay? No cuts, broken bones, really painful bruises?"
Jay sniffs again. "I'm fine. Are you?"
"Uh, my ribs hurt a bit but-"
"I'm not even that mad about the - the lady." Jay doesn't turn to him. "Well, I'm a bit mad. But it's more - you... you jumped off a building. I know it was to catch her, and that's our job, and you're okay, but Cole." His voice wobbles. "I got really scared. You'd already taken a beating and- and it's... Then I got distracted with the woman, and you seemed fine but- Cole, I was scared. You're not usually a reckless guy, but when you are, it's big, and bad, and fuck, Cole, I don't know what I'd- And then you started flirting and it was just all muddled, and you've never dipped me like that, and-"
Cole moves to Jay swiftly, taking him in his arms and dipping him with all the grace he can muster. Jay barks out a short teary laugh.
"Would you like me to kiss you?"
"I'd like that a lot."
Cole nods, gently wiping Jay's eyes with his thumb, before leaning in, kissing him.
They don't part for a while, and Cole eases Jay back upright, arms staying firm around his waist.
Jay rests his head against Cole's shoulder, and slowly starts to sway. Cole moves with him, shifting his weight side to side in time with his partner.
And they do this little dance silently for a few minutes, Cole rubbing circles on Jay's back, Jay breathing shakily against his nape.
"I'll take you dancing properly one day." Cole mumbles in Jay's ear. "Soon. As an apology for..."
"Okay." Jay grips him a bit tighter. "Sorry for overreacting."
"No. No, no, I think I'd have been the same, if it was swapped around. Probably way angrier." Cole's fingers move to bury themselves in Jay's hair. "And I'm sorry for making you worry. But I promise I'm okay. I can't say I won't do it again. Kind of comes with the ninja territory. But I'll try and be more careful. As long as you promise to do the same. My heart fucking dropped when you charged that guy."
"Sounds like a deal." Jay strokes the back of Cole's neck. "Kiss me again?"
"Of course. As much as you want."
Their first proper dance together was... kind of romantic, depending on how you feel about these kinds of situations.
A spying mission gone wrong meant they had to hide in plain sight.
And when said mission takes place within a ballroom?
Cole had only hesitated slightly before taking Jay's hand, and leading him amongst other dancing couples.
The music was gentle, perfect for a slow waltz, so Cole draws on childhood lessons he never thought he'd use, and guides Jay's steps.
Jay stumbles a few times, but Cole never lets him fall, helping him recover quickly.
"Feel like I should invest in lessons." Jay mutters after a particularly wonky misfooting.
"I'll teach you. My price is one kiss an hour."
"Hmm. I think I can afford that."
Cole smiles, and presses his lips to Jay's temple. "Good. Looking forward to it young grasshopper."
Jay gets a bit closer to him. "This isn't how I thought our first dance would be."
"I know. I was planning something a bit more quiet. We're talking starlit sky, a picnic, and a trusty bluetooth speaker."
"Yeah? You have a song list?"
"I do. This wasn't on it."
Jay is quiet for a moment. "This is 'Can't Help Falling in Love', right?"
"Yeah. A cover of it."
"We should find out which cover." Jay tenses a bit, and looks away from Cole. "Yknow. In case we want it. At our wedding."
Cole takes a moment to register his words.
Jay doesn't say anything else, looking into the distance as he presumably waits for a response.
"I always thought our wedding's songs would be a bit faster paced, more upbeat. Seems like the kind of thing you would want. I didn't realise you preferred a slow beat."
"You've thought about it too then?"
"Mhm. One day. Boy, imma marry you."
Jay beams. "You mean it?"
"Absolutely." Cole pecks his forehead. "The song's right."
Jay hums the line from the final chorus.
'I can't help falling in love with you.'
Their dance is broken up after a loud crash from the second floor.
Kai never was very good at stealth.
Jay's the first one to say the big L word.
It happens after five months together, and Cole's been a teeny tiny bit wounded.
Yknow, just a massive stab to the chest, that's all.
It hurts to breathe, and he's struggling to sit up, but he's okay overall - he was treated pretty quickly, all things considered, and the stitching's only come undone twice.
Jay hasn't left his side, and he keeps fluffing Cole's pillows, and wrapping him in too many bandages, and offering cups of water.
It's a tad overbearing.
"You should really go home and sleep." Cole's voice is still a tad gutteral.
Jay shakes his head. "I'll sleep in that chair, like last night."
"And the night before that. You look exhausted. Go lay down."
"What if your stitches break again? Or you start bleeding more, or - or you need something."
"Hey. See that button there?" Cole points to the little device. "Alerts a doctor if I need them."
"I know that, I just - yknow." Jay takes Cole's hand, raising it to his cheek. "I'm scared. That I might never see you again."
"I'm fine Jay. It wasn't that bad, we've had worse."
"Your heart's been pierced Cole, it's super bad."
"Still here, aren't I?"
Jay just squeezes Cole's hand tight, not moving.
Cole tuts, but accepts he's not winning this disagreement.
"Fine. Fine. You can stay one more night. But then I'm kicking you out."
Another hand squeeze, and Jay sits down. "Good. And we should really talk about how much rest you're having, there's no way you can go back to work straight after the doctors clear you, I think you should take a good few weeks off."
Cole groans. "Can already feel my muscle mass shrinking."
"You'll build it back up."
"I think you're being way too overprotective."
"Oh, I'm not allowed to try and keep my boyfriend safe."
"Not when you're out doing dangerous shit without me. We work together on the field, that's how it is. If I'm not going out, you aren't either."
"If you can think of a way to justify that with the team, then yeah. Okay. I'll help you recover."
"You're making it sound way worse that it is. The blade didn't cut that deep."
"Explain why my clothes were covered in blood then."
"Maybe it was someone else's."
Jay snorts, and tucks a few curls of Cole's hair away from his face. "Ridiculous. I think you should try sleep again. Clearly deprived."
"Fine. Only because I'm tired, not because you said so."
Jay kisses his cheek. "Good. I'll be here when you wake up."
"You better."
Cole closes his eyes then, more than ready for another round of sleep (he is actually exhausted, and in a lot of pain, but Jay doesn't need to know that).
He's about to drift off, when he hears Jay mumble.
His eyes snap open.
"What?"
Jay immediately recoils. "Why are you still awake? Go to sleep!"
"What did you say?"
"I - Nothing, I was talking to myself." Jay looks away. He's blushing.
"Did you - you love me?"
Cheeks get redder. "Well. Yes."
"Say it again?" Cole can feel his face ache with the broad smile he can't control.
"... I love you." Jay makes eye contact. "Do you, uh - Wait, you don't have to answer that. It's okay, if you're not there yet, I can't tell if I'm rushing things and - why are you grinning you weirdo?"
"You love me?"
"I just said that! And it's cool if-"
"I love you. So much."
Jay's eyes crinkle, and he rubs Cole's hand.
As things progress, Cole's convinced he's found the person he's gonna spend the rest of his life with.
Jay's everything. Sweet, funny, strong, supportive, understanding...
Even when things get hard, like Cole gets panicky and overbearing the few days after Jay does something reckless, or Jay tailing him everywhere after Cole takes a bad hit, they work it out.
Cole's never been so happy. So in love.
Sneaking out to take Jay to restaurants, parks, the beach, a street market? It's what he looks forward to, counting down the days until he can whisk Jay off - or be whisked himself - and when they stay overnight somewhere private, Cole can't keep his hands to himself, he loves Jay, he loves him, he loves him, and just getting to be with him makes him the luckiest guy around.
So, when Jay tosses him a bar of chocolate from the hotel minibar, and curls up in bed next to him, Cole asks.
"I want you to meet my dad."
Jay quirks a brow. "I... have? Like, three times I think. He's chill."
"No. I meant like - properly."
"Like with a handshake? I mean, okay I guess. Kinda weird, but okay."
"I want to introduce you as my boyfriend."
"Oh!" Jay grins in the sappy way he does when he's feeling loved (Cole knows that about him now, knows so many things about Jay, wants to learn more, never stop learning).
"Would that be okay?"
"Only if I can do the same with my parents."
Cole nods, and wraps his arms around Jay, hugging tightly. "Love you."
"Love you too." Jay tucks his legs in between Cole's, intertwining their bodies on every level. "Are you gonna eat that chocolate?"
"You need to stop indulging my sweet tooth, I'll get fat." Even as he says it, Cole unwraps the bar, taking a large bite, before offering some to Jay.
Jay chews a bit off, and stretches. "You work out too much to get even a tiny bit chubby."
"Still." Cole finishes the bar, and chucks the wrapper near the bin. "It'll stop being a treat, and maybe I'll start hating chocolate."
"Damn. I'll have to find something else to give you then."
Cole snorts, and presses his face into Jay's hair. "I already have you. Don't need presents." He sniffs. "Have you changed your shampoo?"
"Yeah. It should be tea tree scented."
Cole inhales again. "It is."
"Good."
"I can't believe I have to associate you with another scent now." Cole huffs. "I was getting so good at thinking about you whenever I smelled raspberries."
"Bit rich coming from Mr Changes-His-Cologne-Every-Other-Week."
"It is not my fault that I haven't found one you like yet."
Jay laughs. "What?"
"I'm waiting for you to say 'you smell nice', and then I'll stick with that one."
"That's ridiculous. Just use one you like."
"But I don't care. You might."
Jay laughs again. "Well, I like whatever one you're wearing now."
"Thanks, it's called Super Ice Danger Bomb."
"No way is that a real thing."
"It is! I'll show you the bottle when we get home."
"Why would you- that's the stupidest name I've ever heard. It doesn't even describe the smell."
"According to the label, it's smells like manliness and monster trucks."
"Fuck off, it does not!" Jay untangles their bodies, reaching for his phone. "I am googling this."
"That's what it says!"
"Well, that's stupid. I change my mind. Hate this cologne. Get a better one."
"You don't like the everlasting essence of long forgotten days of hunting and warriors?"
"You're making this up, it can't say that!"
"It's the tagline."
"We need to have a discussion about the shit you buy."
"Do you want me to try out Grit Of Steel?"
"Please just buy something orange scented or whatever. Like a normal person."
"Orange?"
"I like smelling citrus."
"I'll make a note of that."
For once, after telling the team he was going to visit his dad, Cole wasn't lying.
He was just bringing Jay with him.
It's been a few months since Cole has seen Lou; they're both busy people, and Cole usually has better things to do than spend a few hours being lectured for improper posture.
Jay, because he is a suck-up, has not only researched Lou's performer days (for 'bonding'), but also bought him a bottle of wine and a box of chocolates.
"You're such a kissass." Cole had huffed after seeing Jay tie a bow around both items and put them in a pretty gift bag.
Jay had just rolled his eyes. "I want him to like me."
"He already likes you."
"Well. I'm just making sure."
Jay shifts from leg to leg when Cole rings Lou's doorbell.
He twists the straps of the gift bag between his fingers, and Cole smiles at him softly.
"It'll be fine Jay."
"Are you sure? I don't wanna-"
He's cut off by the door opening.
"Come in, come in." Lou ushers them inside, before wrapping his arms around Cole briefly.
Cole doesn't even get a chance to lightly pat him on the back before he starts bustling off into the living room.
"Uh. Are you busy? We can come back later if-"
"No, no, it's fine. Just have a project due the same day my son decides he needs to come and see me, that's all." Lou sighs slightly. "God forbid I have responsibilities of my own. It's always just 'drop what your doing, Cole's decided to grace you with his presence'. Forget about the fact that I'm managing several performers."
Cole can feel his anger flare, and he scowls. "You could've just said-"
Lou interrupts him when he notices Jay. "Ah. Ninja business is it? Too obsessed with work to visit your dad normally."
"I'm obsessed with work? You literally just said that you-"
Jay gently squeezes Cole's arm.
He takes a deep breath, and looks at his dad evenly.
"I wanted to introduce you to Jay. As my boyfriend. I DID say that in the text I sent you."
Lou blinks, and glances between them.
Jay holds out the gift bag. "Hi Lou. It's good to see you again."
"And it's lovely to see you as well." There's a physical change in Lou's body language, and he looks at Cole. "You didn't tell me you were getting interested in dating again. There's this delightful young lady in one of my troupes, shes'-"
"Dad. My boyfriend is right here."
"R-Right. Yes. Um." Lou finally takes the gift bag. "Well. I suppose it's good to meet you formally... Jake?"
"Jay." Cole corrects.
Jay waves him off. "Common mistake, don't worry about it."
A long stretch of silence.
Cole huffs. "I did tell you all of this a while ago."
"Well." Lou clears his throat. "How long have you been together?"
"Eight and a half months."
Lou nods. And then gestures at the couch. "Take a seat. I, um, I will make tea."
It's an awkward hour.
Jay eventually gets him talking for a bit, but even then Lou still seems uncomfortable.
It pisses Cole off enough to leave early, but not before giving his father a few choice words.
He tells Jay to wait in the car, and the moment he's out of earshot, Cole jabs an angry finger in Lou's chest.
"What is wrong with you? Jay has been nothing but lovely to you, and you've just been an asshole."
"I was underprepared for this Cole."
"I let you know two weeks ago. And again last week. And again yesterday. It is not my fault that you choose to ignore whatever I say."
"I think you're being harsh."
Cole laughs, derisive. "Fuck off. Do you have any idea how much thought Jay has put into meeting you properly? You didn't even thank him for the gift. I am gonna marry that man one day, and you better buck up, or you won't be invited to the wedding."
Lou raises a brow. "You're planning marriage already?"
"I'm in love with him dad. Of course I am."
"I see." Lou glances away. "I just. Thought you would tell me if you were gay. I've always tried to show you how supportive I would be, ever since you were little"
"Oh." Cole shrugs. "I guess I didn't really feel the need to say anything. Thought you knew."
"Cole. I really hope you know what you're doing. Dating a colleague is-"
"Dad. I know. Trust me. Jay's the one."
"He is a very sweet young man."
"I know. Maybe next time you see him you could tell him that."
"I'll keep it in mind."
It's much easier with Ed and Edna.
They'd clearly prepared in advance, the entrance to the junkyard looking far tidier than the last time Cole had been here, with a string of pretty lights hanging over the caravan the Walkers resided in.
Despite accusing Jay of bootlicking Lou, Cole had gone all out. He'd got Edna a bouquet of lilies and orchids, Ed a set of fancy screwdrivers, and a box of cookies for them both. Jay had laughed at him, then warned to take off any and all price tags.
Cole spent three hours double checking there was no sign of how much it cost.
The moment they stepped up to the door, before even getting the chance to knock, the door flew open.
"Hello lovely!" Edna has scooped Jay into her arms, ruffling his hair. "So good to see you."
Jay lets out a muffled grunt as she squeezes him.
Ed looks over her shoulder, and waves at Cole.
"Hey Ed. I, uh, got you something."
"You really didn't have to." Ed shakes his head, and then throws an arm around Jay the moment Edna releases him. Another stifled groan.
"And hello to you too Cole. It's been a while." And she embraces Cole too.
It's been... a long time since he's felt a mother's hug.
Cole bites his lip hard, and tries not to clutch her too fiercely.
"Mom! You're gonna suffocate him."
Cole snorts, and steps back. "I doubt it Jay-Jay."
They're urged inside and practically forced to sit on the couch.
Cole puts his presents on the table, and Edna fusses over them as Ed starts boiling some water.
"So." Edna's smile is infectious. It must be where Jay gets it from. "This is a surprise! I was starting to think Jay might've been making his boyfriend up to get us off his back."
Jay flushes.
"Oh? Jay talks about me?"
"Of course he does." Ed says, pouring some tea. "We didn't realise it was you he was talking about until last week. But 'my boyfriend' comes up frequently in conversations."
"I wouldn't say frequently, that's an exaggeration." Jay cuts in.
Edna shakes her head and winks at Cole.
"Now. When did you two start dating?"
The conversation flows easily. It ranges from general dating questions, to sports, to ninja work, to Jay's hobbies as a child to the fact Jay had a big crush on Cole when they first met.
It's fun, breezy, welcoming.
Cole imagines this is what a family is supposed to be like.
It's a family that Cole wants to be a part of.
"You know, when Jay was little, there was this wonderful drawing he did-"
"Pa! No, Cole doesn't need to see-"
"Of his future life plan-"
"Dad. Pops. Pa-"
"I think we still have it somewhere."
"Cole, don't look. Close your eyes. It belongs locked in a vault, never to be seen again."
He just smooshes his head to Jay's shoulder. "I promise that no matter what this picture contains, it will not affect my judgement of you."
"It's real bad."
"Here it is!"
"Mom, not you too! I'm being ganged up on!"
Edna passes the piece of paper to Cole.
Drawn on are four humanoid figures, each with large eyes and stick legs, a grey blob next to them, and a giant blue square above, with green circles on it.
Cole points at the square. "Is that an alien spaceship?"
Jay shoves him. "I was five! I wanted to live in a UFO."
"The grey thing is...?"
"That is very clearly a dog."
"Ah, of course, my mistake, how could I not see." Cole snorts, and glances at the figures. "You, Ed, Edna and...?"
"That's me and my future partner - look they are obviously holding hands - and those are two children." Jay pauses and then hurriedly grabs the paper.
It's enough time for Cole to register the meaning.
They'll talk about it later.
It's on the way home that Cole brings it up.
"So. Two kids, a loving partner and a spaceship. Stereotypical suburban life."
Jay pouts. "If I had the option to live in a spaceship right now, I'd take it."
"Maybe one day." Cole looks at him. "That life plan changed at all?"
"Obviously. I want two dogs now. And, uh, my drawing skills are better."
A moment of silence.
"Cole. I know it's unrealistic. For any of the team to have kids. It's just a daydream I guess. Not-"
"We'll figure it out." Cole squeezes Jay's hand. "No way I can convince you for four?"
"Four?" Jay snorts. "On top of ninja work? In your dreams."
"Well, never say never."
Jay leans against him. "Yeah. Maybe."
"I found her!"
Cole looks up from his cereal to see an excitable looking Nya, eyes wide. "Uh. Who?"
"Your true love, duh." Kai shoves a picture in his face.
It looks like an ID. Camilla Girovski.
"She looks familiar." Cole squints at her green eyes. "Are we supposed to be looking for someone? I wasn't awa-"
"COLE." Lloyd whacks the back of his head. "It's the lady you saved like... six months ago!"
Oh. Of course it is.
Cole stands up, pushing the photo away. "I'm good. She's probably forgotten it anyway. I did."
Zane frowns. "I doubt it."
Nya shushes him. "Of course she does. I know this because I messaged her and - drumroll please - you're going on a date with her tonight! Kai, stop drumrolling now."
Cole blinks. "Uh. No I'm not."
Jay walks in with a yawn, and tilts his head. "What's all this hurrah about?"
"Cole's going on a date!"
Immediately, Jay's expression clouds over. "With who?"
"The lady from six months ago! Camilla."
"No. I'm not going on a date with anyone." Cole frowns. "Why would you even arrange this without telling me?"
"It's called matchmaking Cole." Lloyd tuts. "And you're totally going. We're making sure of it. You're not gonna miss out on the love of your life because you're scared."
"I'm not scared!" Cole scowls. He glances at Jay again, who's still looking wary.
"Good. We booked you seats at a restaurant. And-"
"I'm not going on a date."
"Cole. C'mon man. Let yourself fall in love. You deserve it."
"I am in love. So just... stay out of it. One of you go out with her instead."
Kai stares. "You're seeing someone?"
"What? I don't think I said-"
"You're in love. With...?"
"Oh. Ohh. Um. Pretend I didn't say anything."
Lloyd gawps and then nudges Jay. "You're his best friend. Do you know?"
Jay looks away unhelpfully.
"You have a secret girlfriend and you've only told Jay? What the hell man!" Kai thumps his shoulder. "Deets. Now."
"Just checked my databases. No sign of Cole's girlfriend at all." Zane shakes his head. "Elusively hiding from all monitoring."
Cole slurps the last of his cereal, before standing up.
"Well, it's none of your business anyway."
Cole exits the kitchen, despite the loud protests.
Only four days afterwards, Cole fucks up.
He's tired. It's been a long day. It's normal to want to just hold the love of your life for the rest of the evening.
No one else is in the room, so Cole just snuggles into Jay, buries his face in his chest. Jay curls around him.
And Cole kisses him.
At the same moment that Kai walks in.
"Fuck's sake."
Cole immediately straightens up.
"Kai! Uh. Hello. I was just-"
"I owe Zane fifty bucks now. Are you kidding me? You couldn't have waited two more days?"
Jay raises his brow. "What?"
"We had a bet. It was real obvious in the kitchen. And now I've lost money. Can I mooch off you guys? It's kinda your fault."
"... No. Don't bet on our love life."
"How long have you been together? Bet I could win some back on when you get married."
"Dude!"
Kai held his hands up.
"Right. Sorry. Okay. Uh. I'll leave you to it. Congrats. By the way."
As he leaves, Jay looks up at Cole.
"Blamin you for that. And the questions that'll probably come next."
"I accept that blame." Cole rolls his eyes. "Means I get to cuddle you all the time now."
"Sappy."
"That's me." Cole kisses Jay again. "I love you."
"I love you too."