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His heart had never beat this fast before. Has it always been this capable of thumping? He felt as though it would beat right out of chest, although maybe that would finally get Buck to realize. Buck wasn’t the best at picking up on signals. Despite the many times they shared a bed on adventures, ate together, and all of Nate’s affectionate touches, Buck seemed none the wiser. He was convinced that Nate vied for the attention of his sister, Dorothy. Why did he have to go off and fall in love with a hopeless fool?
He recalls the first time he interacted with Buck. Nate had gathered with all of his new found friends on the playground. Every new person greeted him with an eager smile and cheerful tone, except Buck. Despite offering his best smile, he had only retorted with “we’re not friends just yet.” Upon hearing this, Nate had felt the gears turning his head. If Buck didn’t want to be his friend just yet, he would just keep working at bringing down his walls. Buck would be his friend, he just knew it.
The first time he saw Buck in the scrapyard, he admired how he fit in. His hair matched the many shades of brown sprinkled throughout the place. His clothing was well used and clearly belonged to someone who loved to explore, no matter how dangerous. But what truly inspired adoration from Nate was the way he relentlessly searched for treasure. Never stopping to take a break or worry about the yokai around him. He had one goal and nothing could get in his way. In some small ways, Nate realized the similar traits they shared. His desire to befriend Buck increased, this was the boy who would make his summer just as much fun as the summers in Springdale.
When Nate was trapped in the realm of zombies, he wished that he could have someone by his side to help. Whisper, Jibanyan, Buck…But at the same time, he thinks it’s strange how Buck has managed to become so precious to him in such a short amount of time. Maybe it’s the lack of familiar faces in such an unfamiliar place. Still, even this friendship has come more naturally than the ones he formed in Springdale. When he’s finally free, Nate feels relieved. He can continue seeing his friends, just like he wanted.
On their trip to the supermarket, Nate’s feelings shift. As he and Buck race through the aisles with their shopping cart, the two are forced to lean on one another for support. Due to the limited space on the handle bars, the pair are forced to connect hands. Maybe it’s the adrenaline of racing through the store or the fear of being caught, but Nate feels his heart beating, desperately. It’s trying to communicate some sort of message, one that he’s unsure of. But as they finally make their way to the storage room after a desperate chase, Nate feels like he’s floating. He looks at Buck and the way the moonlight illuminates his face.
Once they’re finally out of the store, the panicky feeling and desperate heart beats don’t go away. They stay, increasing when he looks over to Buck and sees his signature grin. With a start, Nate recognizes what he’s been feeling: love. He felt it just a few years back when he first met Katie. With her warm personality, good looks, and general popularity, he had fallen in love quickly. Noticing the similarities between Buck and Katie, Nate realized it was no wonder he’d fallen for the boy. He was just as lively, beautiful, and untouchable. God, why did he have to fall in love with the people who could never love him back? But it was alright, Nate had the whole summer to get over his little crush. In just a few weeks time, he was sure that Buck would return to being his best friend and his silly crush would simply remain a thing of the past. That was all he could hope for.
When Buck takes him to the circus, he wasn’t expecting all the wacky hijinks that ensue. But once everything calms down, Buck treats Nate to a little ice cream. Nate is dragged by Buck, across town, all the way to BBQ’s ice cream stand. As they both begin ordering, Buck urges Nate that they should eat outside, he knows a great spot. Just before he’s about to take a bite of the tempting treat, he feels someone tug on his sleeve. Buck takes Nate’s hand in his own, propelling him through the streets of Northbeech. They pass by buildings, street signs, and finally make their way to the boardwalk. Passing by the fence, Nate and Buck sit down, right next to one another. For the first time in what feels like forever, it’s just them. Whisper and Jibanyan are busy, running off to somewhere else. As Buck continues talking, Nate stares at him. The way his hands move as he tells a story, the gentle twinkle in his eyes, and the enthusiasm he carries. Nate can’t help but admire it all. As the afternoon sun begins to fade away, Nate wishes this moment could last forever. Just the two of them, exchanging stories and jokes. But like all good things, it must come to an end. As he leaves for home, Nate can’t help but wonder, does Buck think about love the same way he does? Or is he just content to have friends by his side, no need for something else?
The day it all changed began like any other. Upon waking up, Nate was greeted by the hollering of Buck. Quickly dressing himself, Nate and Buck left the house and looked for something to do. When they finally reached Northbeech’s rivers, Nate and Buck both decide to go fishing. Aside from their usual talks, they somehow get on the topic of love and relationships. Buck admits that he’s never had a preference in terms of gender, Nate does too. Something about that moment changes everything. Realizing that Buck could love him back, Nate was filled with a feeling of determination. Before he could think, the words were out of his mouth, “Buck, I’m in love with you!”
“And here I was thinking only my sister could capture your attention, well then. I accept your proposal!”
And just like that, Nate’s summer was suddenly the best he’d ever had. The adventures the two partook in together, the happy feeling that never left Nate’s stomach, and the kisses stolen in the heat of the moment contributed to a summer that would stay with Nate and Buck forever.