Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was around the afternoon when Anya found out. It was around that time when things seemed meek and gloomy. 

When her whole world fell apart. 

"How could this happen?! I was so careful about it too! This is a disaster! I won't be able to show my face at Eden ever again! I'll be turned into the laughing stock of the school! A total loser! I'll be bullied into oblivion. I'LL HAVE TO GO INTO HIDING!!!" 

"ANYA! Calm down and tell us what's going on!" 

"Yeah what Becky said!" 

Anya paused her mid-rant and took a deep breath as the events from this morning weighed on her like a pile of bricks. Suddenly she begins to freak out again causing her to go into another rant, one her best friend Becky couldn't pull her out of. She watched as Anya frantically freaked out over god knows what. 

She snapped her fingers in her face. "ANYA! Focus!! I can't help you unless you tell me what's wrong!" 

Anya looked at Becky and almost burst into tears. "My life is ruined." 

George, who was sitting at the table watching the two girls, crossed his arms in worry. "We get that but why and what happened?" 

Anya sat back down and looked at the floor intensely. She looked up at her friends with a look of utter despair. "This is what happened…" 

A few hours ago…

Anya wasn't a morning person but since she had school and responsibilities what other choice did she have? Thus here she was walking up the steps of the school with Becky in tow talking about the latest episode of Love Island, some new romance reality show she was into since Berlint in Love ended sometime last year. It was just one of those usual boring and tiring mornings where all Anya wants to do is sleep in and never come to school because it's boring and her mind can't keep up with the material being taught. Here she was walking as Becky talked her ear off when she caught sight of a familiar-looking Imperial Scholar cape. 

Anya couldn't keep her eyes off the owner of said cape because it happened to be someone she knew well, a little too well if she were honest. It was like a scene right out of a shoujo manga as he walked by and the wind hit just right and his cape flowed and his eyes shined and-

Anya quickly shook her head while mentally slapping herself silly like the idiot she is. It's been what, four years? She's been self-aware for four years now and has no idea how it started but it happened and Anya was starting to regret everything with a burning passion. For you see Anya has what one would like to call a crush but not just any crush but a crush on her classmate who she's known since the first grade. 

Who she punched during orientation. 

Damian Desmond. 

It was utterly mortifying to know she likes him of all people. Years of Becky alluding to her liking him and knowing she was wrong and that it couldn't ever possibly happen and when Becky accepted Anya didn't have a crush on Damian it was when Anya started to notice him more. Talk about great and worst timing. She no longer had Becky teasing her over something that wasn't true but now it became a reality and it was terrible! 

They don't exactly have the best relationship, it was worse when they were kids but they're not the best of friends either. They're rarely cordial to each other. It was like a one-sided battle every day on his end. She just wants to be nice but he takes it the wrong way and starts insulting her which results in her yelling at him thus an argument ensues and back to square one they go. 

He was so confusing too! 

The occasional peanuts, the invites to tutor her on the subjects she's struggling with. The flowers on Valentine's day! Granted those were anonymous but Anya knew it was him due to her mind-reading abilities. She always made it a point to talk about them with Becky knowing he could hear her. 

"I just wish I knew who they were so I can thank them because these flowers are so beautiful."

Becky gushed as she reread the note. "It's so romantic Anya! Your secret admirer must really love you!" She giggled. 

Anya blushed. "No way!" 

She laughed it off at the time but such a declaration still caught her off guard. She just wanted Damian to know she was thankful but she wanted to know if he felt the same way. Unfortunately, his thoughts were always a jumbled mess which constantly made her dizzy so she could never tell. 

The insults were enough to answer her questions though. 

It was obvious he hated her and only tolerated her because they've practically grown up together and knew how the other acted daily. They were more or less rivals to boot but the only thing Anya could ever beat him in was classical language. Every other subject was dominated by him, he made a point to rub it in her face every time. Naturally, she stopped reacting because that's what he wanted and knowing it annoyed the shit out of him was enough to clench her anger. However, her heart would constantly betray her whenever he was near. All the more reason why she couldn't react or fight back because she knew she'd be reduced to a stuttering mess. She became the very thing she feared the most… 

An idiot!

Well, an idiot in love to be more precise.

She found herself doing the stupidest of things whenever she was in his presence. It was like she forgot how to act like a normal person. Like the time he was gifting her a bag of peanuts, you know, something he's been doing for years and like the dumbass she is she stuttered and dropped them and just kept dropping them while muttering apologies and- 

Damian thought she was a weirdo. 

And truth be told she was because what even happened!? 

There was also that other time that in an attempt to get him to notice her she tried on makeup without the help of Becky or her Mama and ended up looking like a clown reject at school. She was the laughing stock for the rest of the week and since then she never bothered with makeup again. 

Or that other time she made him cookies and somehow managed to trip and fall on top of them. Right. In. Front. Of. Him. 

Becky had to help her pick up the pieces of her dignity that day. 

Ironically it was also the day they ended up befriending George Glooman, another long-time classmate of theirs that was an outcast due to his gloomy personality. He helped her out because out of everyone he knew what it was like to lose their dignity. 

That didn't make Anya feel any better but she gave him a chance to get to know him and he was nice, a fellow Spy Wars fan. They bonded over that and he also happened to enjoy Berlint in Love causing him to earn points with Becky. He wasn't lying either as he had all the episodes and knew them by memory like Becky. Anya watched as they gushed over their favorite episodes. 

It was strange but it's how it happened.

But Anya wished it wasn't at the expense of her dignity. 

Regardless they became a new tight trio which surprised everyone in Cecile Hall. Many questioned it but later accepted this new development. Anya was more or less happy she had someone else in her corner for once that wasn't Becky. Especially because George was a Spy Wars fan! She had someone to accompany her to all movies and special events. One time she invited him to the movies for the premiere of the new Spy Wars movie and people in Cecile Hall thought she was asking him on a date which was false. George knew, of course, he planned to ask Anya if they could go see it together. Regardless they were the hot topic of the day and Becky had to spend all week leading up to the movie disproving the rumors. The movie was fun although there was that odd moment where popcorn randomly landed on George's head. Anya couldn't tell where it came from as whoever did that was too far away for her to read their mind. Despite it all, they had a fun time and George brought up the idea to go to the amusement park with Becky next week and see the new Spy Wars roller coaster. 

She naturally accepted and Becky did too because it was a roller coaster even if it was Spy Wars-themed. Plus there was plenty to do at an amusement park. 

It got weird real fast with George ending up in the kiddy pool where you could fish out little fishes at one point but he never disclosed how or why he ended up there in the first place and his mind ran a mile a minute so Anya couldn't tell. 

All she managed to decipher in his mind was the following: 

Strawberry, huh? 

What about strawberries?? 

Anyway, off-topic, it was morning and like always she ignored Damian's rather commanding presence. He'd walk into a room and all eyes were on him. Besides being the most popular guy in school he was also the most desirable one. Every girl wanted to date him so the bravest of them all would constantly shower him with attention, gifts, praises, and love declarations. 

All of which he'd reject in the harshest way possible.

Because aside from being the most desirable he also held the title of causing the most heartbreaks. 

Ironically that only made him even more desirable which Anya didn't get at all. Granted she was used to his insults but if Damian were to find out about her crush she's sure he'd humiliate her so badly she'd cry and have to stop coming to school. 

This brings her to her current predicament which is… 

Writing her feelings out! 

She can't confess to Damian so she'll write her feelings out and crumble them up and then toss them in a trash can never to be seen again. Unfortunately, her timing was terrible as the moment she took out a piece of paper to start her venting session the teacher announced a group project. Becky was about to ask Anya to be her partner when the teacher clarified he'd be picking out their partners from a box. 

And much to Anya's dismay she got paired up with Damian of all people. 

"You better not hold me back Shrimp!" 

Anya had half a mind to not punch him again. 

Thus here she was working on her part of the project instead of venting. Venting and then burning her damn feelings like they were nothing at all and making them go away forever. Because what exactly does she even see in him anyway? Sure he's good-looking, smart, has nice hair, pretty hazel eyes, good-looking lips- 

No Anya! 

Bad Anya!

Bad!! 

She allowed her head to drop on the table with a thud. That earned her a weird stare but whatever she had no energy today. 

Her side of the project was simple and all the information she could easily find. So she spent most of the class and the next few hours working on it. Mainly because she wanted to get it over with even though it wasn't due until Friday. She just didn't want to spend any time with Damian. Because being around him burned her. It made her face feel hot and her mind numb. She wasn't like this at all! Becky always noted how bold and confident she often is.

If only she knew how much of a mess she is with a certain scion. 

So she resorted to venting on a piece of paper. Her Papa and Mama suggested she take up journaling and Anya found it to be quite relaxing and it helped. She had a journal full of her inner deepest darkest secrets and desires. However, she didn't have her journal with her so the piece of paper will have to do. Now that it was lunch time and Becky and George, who got paired up, (lucky them) were busy with their project at the library. Anya was in the courtyard eating lunch alone. The perfect opportunity to vent! 

She began to write. 

Dear Damian, 

You'll never read this letter but I'm writing it anyway so I can get it out of my system one last time and move on and forget about you. Truth is I've written many times in the last four years about my growing feelings for you. I like you a lot! Like, really, really, REALLY like you. Maybe I love you, I don't know yet. And I often find myself wishing you'd feel the same way but knowing you the way I do considering we've known each other since the first grade I know you'd never feel the same way. I'd die if you were to ever catch wind of my feelings! The humiliation you'd put me through would be enough for me to die of utter shame and embarrassment. I can handle your occasional insults but I can't handle your rejection, especially because I've witnessed countless girls declaring their undying love for you only for you to crush their hearts into tiny little pieces. Like they mean nothing to you. And I don't want to be that girl. I'm not sure if writing this will be enough but I hope I can move on now. In case I don't then I'm sure I'll be miserable the day you marry some rich and perfect and nice looking girl your family approves of. You'll never know of course.

With love

Anya Forger 

With that, she took a deep breath and hid the piece of paper under her project. She didn't have her bag with her and she didn't want Becky or George to potentially see it so she hid it there. 

The bell rang so Anya gathered her things and made her way to the cafeteria to leave her tray and then head to class. She met up with her friends by the doorway and they went in. Almost everyone was already seated. She caught a glimpse of Damian talking to his friends Ewen and Emile by the back. Almost as if sensing her gaze he turned and locked eyes with her. Anya quickly looked away feeling her face heat up a bit. They sat in their seats by the front and waited for the teacher to arrive. Unfortunately for Anya, it wasn't the end of having to look Damian in the eyes. His cute and beautiful-looking eyes. 

Oh god. 

"Hey, Forger." 

Becky made a face. "Ugh, Desmond what do you want?" 

Damian ignored Becky and focused on Anya. "Are you done with your side of the project yet?" 

Anya was about to answer when George interrupted her. "It's barely been a few hours, lay off!" 

"Yeah! It's not due until Friday anyway!" Becky chimed in with a scowl. 

Anya appreciated the defense but she more or less knew what was in store being Damian's partner. Unless you were Ewen or Emile he had no mercy or patience for you. Absolutely none. With a sigh, she rubbed her temples. "I only have half of it." She quickly presented the information to him. Luckily she hadn't stored it in her bag yet. "I can get the other half done by tomorrow." 

Damian examined her work. "That is if you actually did it correctly although knowing you I doubt it." He scoffed and walked back to his desk. 

Anya let out a breath she didn't know she was holding. 

"I swear Desmond is the worst!" Becky glared at Damian as he sat down next to his friends. "He's always been such a jerk ever since we were in first grade!" 

George nodded. "It seems some things never change." He still recalls how mean Damian and his friends were to Anya and Becky when they were kids. Back then George's reputation was rock bottom. Still is but not as bad since he now finally had friends. 

"It's whatever guys, I can handle him." Anya dismissed what they were saying but she knew deep down they were right. She was doomed. She could only hope that writing her feelings one last time would be enough. 

The teacher walked in signaling the start of class. 

Anya couldn't pay attention for the life of her and she refused to tune into anyone's thoughts for the day. Mainly to avoid Damian's. So when the bell rang and it was a free period you bet she bolted out the door like a cheetah making her way towards the library where she and her friends planned to spend it since Becky and George wanted to continue working on their project and Anya liked the peace and quiet. As they sat down and began laying down what they were working on Anya went off to find a book to distract herself with. She quickly found a classic language-related one and naturally started to read it. She walked back to the table happily humming away while Becky and George were deep in concentration looking at a workbook. Anya sat down and started skimming through. She knew most of the material but studying wouldn't do her any harm. Sure she could do her other half of the project but knowing Damian he'll probably come back claiming he found a bunch of errors in her paper. She rolled her eyes and sighed, laying the book down as she stared at her bag. Now would be a good time to crumble up the paper and throw it away. She grabbed her bag and started rummaging through trying to find it. After a few minutes panic settled in as she couldn't find it at all.

Where is it, where is it?! 

I left it in here, didn't I- 

Suddenly she remembered she had hidden it under the papers that were related to the project she was working on.

The project she was working on… with Damian.

The one she handed to him a few minutes ago…

And was currently checking…

She felt herself hyperventilate and clutched her head. The attempts to steady her breathing weren't helping and trying to count to ten wasn't either. Anya let out a scream that caused mass panic among her friends. 

"MY LIFE IS OVER!!" 

Chapter Text

"And that's what happened." 

Anya finished her tale in the courtyard as all the screaming caused them to be kicked out of the library. Luckily they didn't get a bolt for the ruckus Anya accidentally caused with her screams.

Becky and George looked at her with astonishment. 

"You mean to tell me that you like Desmond and never bothered to tell me!" Becky exclaimed feeling offended. 

Anya groaned. "Becks please, that's not the problem!" 

"But it is! Who in their right mind would ever crush on Desmond?!" George added his two cents while crossing his arms. 

Becky quickly nodded at that. "Yeah! Especially with his track record of breaking every poor girl's heart." 

Anya groaned again feeling a migraine. "Guys please forget about my crush on Damian for a second." 

Becky gasped. "Oh my god, and she even calls him by his name now." 

George shook his head. "It's worse than we thought." 

Anya was about to slap them both silly. "GUYS! My life is over and that's what you're choosing to focus on?!" 

Becky and George shared a look before Becky answered. "Listen Anya it's simple, his next period is what… social studies? We just have to sneak in, steal his bag, and retrieve your letter. I'm sure he hasn't read it yet, you know how serious he is about his academics." 

Anya never in a million years would have thought of that which was ironic considering her Papa is a spy and her Mama is an assassin. "Huh, that could work." 

"Would it though? How are we going to sneak into his class?" George asked the important questions. It was clear this was a stealth mission. He's seen plenty of those in Spy Wars but he knew they were unrealistic. 

Becky snapped her fingers. "Simple we get the teacher's attention and then we'll cause a diversion that will cause all the students to leave class and that's when Anya will sneak in and take back the letter!" Becky patted herself on the back with her foolproof plan that in no way could go wrong. 

Anya and George sweatdropped. 

"Who's going to distract the teacher and what type of diversion will we cause?" Anya looked at Becky expectantly. 

Becky closed her eyes and crossed her arms as a smile graced her features. "I have just the person who can distract the teacher, as for the diversion I have a plan." Becky declared as she did an evil chuckle which made Anya and George nervous. 

What is she planning?! A shared thought amongst the two. 

And thus their plan to strike began. Anya wasn't sure where Becky was but she spent the next ten minutes talking to George about the new Spy Wars reboot and whether or not it'll be any good. They caught a glimpse of brown hair in long pigtails coming their way. They turned and were floored upon seeing Bill Watkins behind her with a confused expression. 

"Bill?" George asked questioningly. 

Bill merely shrugged making general gestures letting them know he was confused and was just here because… reasons. 

"So Bill owed me a favor and I'm turning it in for your sake Anya," Becky explained as she quickly hugged Anya. "Anyway Bill will distract the teacher and the diversion will be held by a bunch of students in Wald Hall who also owe me favors." 

"How many people owe you favors?!" Anya looked at her friend incredulously. 

Becky waved her hand dismissively. "That doesn't matter right now." She clapped her hands together successfully diverging the conversation. "Now this is the plan, as soon as Bill manages to distract the teacher and get him to leave the class the Wald Hall students will start a commotion which will be Anya's cue to sneak in and steal Desmond's bag-" 

"Wait, Anya is stealing Desmond's bag? For what?" Bill asked, looking at Anya funny. He didn't expect to be part of a crime. 

Anya laughed nervously. "It's nothing bad Bill! I just can't explain everything." 

Bill was about to protest when Becky shot him a glare. "You're here to repay my favor, not question Anya." 

Bill shut his mouth real quick. 

"We better do this quickly because class ends in thirty minutes," George said, noting the clock on the wall. 

Becky nodded. "It's show time!" 

And thus begins their plan.

Bill ran into the classroom winded, he was surprisingly good at acting. He put on the best and most dramatic performance ever. "Mr. Richardson! Your car is being totaled!!" He exclaimed dramatically, pointing down the hall. The teacher in question happened to love his car as if it was his child. He paled and ran down the hall to save his baby. Bill's part of the plan was over now time for Wald Hall to act. 

After a few minutes of silence in class, every student went back to work however the peace and quiet didn't last as various students started pouring in one by one exclaiming that a fight was going on which caught the attention of some students who followed behind. Those that remained rooted in their seats, which included Damian and his friends, needed something else to catch their attention. Thus the second phase of Becky's master plan was enacted as students from Specter Hall that also owed Becky favors (Anya was starting to question why so many people owed Becky) came in and started screaming that there was an emergency and they were evacuating every classroom. It caused mass panic and luckily for them, Damian didn't grab his bag. Everyone ran out without grabbing their things. 

Score! 

To sell the story Becky and George joined in the mass panic while Anya sneaked into the class. She looked around making sure nobody decided to freeze up and hide. It was all clear for the most part and there weren't many hiding spots. Thus Anya started walking in towards Damian's bag feeling her nerves get the best of her. She was heavily breathing as she yanked the bag and ran out of the classroom making her way toward the girl's bathroom for more privacy. The reason Becky told her to do this is that the distractions won't last for long, someone will likely walk in on her looking through Damian's things. There will be a commotion but nobody will suspect Anya of doing anything. So Anya looked through his things without making a mess and began to feel dread. 

Okay, don't panic. 

It's definitely here, don't panic. 

Don't panic. 

Don't panic. 

DON'T PANIC. 

It wasn't there at all. 

Anya almost screamed in frustration. Damian didn't have her project in his bag! Where else would it be?! This operation was a bust and she felt bad Becky had to waste all of her favors not taking into account Damian's mind. Sure she could have read his mind but she forgot! Plus she's been avoiding it for obvious reasons. She slapped her forehead hard and closed his bag. She looked around making sure the coast was clear and started walking toward the classroom but paused when she heard voices. 

"Someone stole Damian's bag!" 

"The teachers are looking for the culprit right now." 

Feeling her blood run cold Anya ran the other way breathing heavily. She needed to find Becky and George and get rid of this damn bag before she gets a bolt over this or worse expelled! Papa will be so disappointed. Unfortunately, she couldn't find her friends at all. However thanks to her abilities she was able to avoid everyone including teachers however she realized she should be in class right now as their time was up so she did just that hoping Becky was there. She'll just stealthily place Damian's bag on his desk without anyone seeing, yeah…

"I'm sure we'll find your things soon Mister Desmond." 

Shit! 

Anya froze and quickly hid behind the pillar hoping to god nobody saw her. There was no way for her to place his bag on his desk now since he was in the classroom now. She can't lie and say she found it because how did she know in the first place? So Anya did the next best thing. You can't blame her for the actions she took as she was panicking and was not thinking clearly. 

She threw it out the window. 

She. Threw. It. 

Anya walked in casually as if she didn't just do that. "Hello, Professor!" She waved and made her way towards Becky and George who thank god were there and sure enough, Becky had her things. She told the Professor she was in the bathroom and he didn't question it. 

Becky grabbed Anya and quickly whispered in her ear. "Did you get it?" 

Anya looked at Becky with dread. "It wasn't in his bag!" She covered her face with her hands feeling tears threatening to spill. 

While George couldn't hear he could tell Anya didn't get the letter back just from her facial expression. "Where's his bag?" He whispered. 

Anya looked at him with a serious expression. "I threw it out the window." Becky and George looked at her as if she had gone mad. To which Anya clarified. "I had no choice! By the time I walked back he was somehow here!" She was sure she was about to hyperventilate again from all the pressure. 

She just wanted her damn letter back!

Becky crossed her arms deep in thought. "If it's not there then… where is it?" She looked at Anya and George for ideas. 

Truth be told Anya was coming up empty but George had an idea cross his mind. "What if it's in his locker?" He suggested. 

Becky's eyes went wide as she facepalmed. "Of course! I caught sight of them at the lockers, it never occurred to me that he'd put it in there!" Becky groaned feeling rather dumb. 

Anya sighed. "Well, that makes things worse! How are we going to gain access to his locker?" She was on the verge of despair at this point. 

"We have to get the code somehow," Becky said lost in thought once more knowing full well another diversion of that scale can't happen again because it'll be suspicious. Plenty of people still owed her favors so it's not like she can't recreate it but getting into Damian's locker was going to be a bitch in a half. 

"He's never going to so much as hint at what his locker code is, we'd have to be insane to even assume that." George whispered-yelled. 

That's when Anya's brain finally started working again. "I got it!" She declared and made her friends huddle closer to her. "We don't need his code, we just have to distract him and his friends whenever he goes into his locker again." It was a foolproof plan with no room for failure. It was oddly easy to distract Ewen and Emile, distracting Damian will take some work but they can manage it. 

"Then you'll sneak in and get the letter." Becky nodded understanding the plan. "Alright, we strike after school." 

As soon as Becky said that the teacher appeared with Damian's bag and a pissed-off-looking Damian. Anya would have felt bad but getting that letter was more important. And now they're about to mess with him after school. The boldness in which they decide to execute these plans knowing that getting caught will result in dire consequences didn't go unnoticed but Anya figured Becky covered their tracks properly including for everyone that was involved. At least she hoped anyway. She's also sure Bill won't go snitching that she's the one who stole Damian's bag. Especially since his things are intact, he didn't have the thing she wanted and it would have been hard to explain to Bill she wanted to retrieve the love letter because that would mean explaining why she wrote a love letter in the first place and admitting she had a crush on Damian was hard enough. Her friends didn't even know in the first place! She was glad she was good at being subtle which is funny considering Becky dubbed herself the love expert. How did she not notice Anya being an idiot in love? 

Regardless, Anya couldn't sit around in class the rest of the day. She was fidgeting and constantly making small noises of some sort because sitting still and waiting for class to end wasn't her style and she needed to retrieve that letter before all hell breaks loose and she'll have to explain to her Papa why she can't go to Eden anymore and why they need to change names, leave the country and go into hiding. 

George was right, who in their right mind would crush on Damian? She was stressed out over it and it's not like it's worth all that much considering all he does is remain hostile towards her. 

She let out a sigh and tried to concentrate. It took a lot of brain power considering she was avoiding using her abilities out of sheer boredom. Though she could have sworn she felt someone was staring at her but Anya knows better than to turn around and look for the person. She wasn't a child anymore after all. Anya was now sixteen (well fifteen) and while she lived a relatively short life it sure was full of many adventures. Maybe running away and changing identities won't be so bad… 

"Psst Anya." 

"Hm?" 

"Don't look so gloomy, that's George's job." 

"I heard that." 

Becky playfully stuck her tongue out to George who merely rolled his eyes at her antics. Becky turned back to Anya. "Seriously lighten up we'll get that letter, besides it's not like bombs will drop if Desmond does read it, I'll make sure he stays away from you." She gave Anya one of her usual bright grins.

It reminded Anya of Becky's promise to protect her back when they first met. It made Anya feel reassured. "Thanks, Becks." 

The two girls shared a giggle as George watched the two fondly. Unfortunately, their giggling was a bit loud and it got the teacher's attention. 

"Ms. Blackbell, Forger, what are you two giggling about?" The teacher looked at them with a small glare. 

Becky and Anya straightened up feeling embarrassed. "Sorry." They said in unison. When the teacher went back to teaching they let out a sigh of relief. 

When the bell rang it was finally the end of class. Anya was too eager to get started on the plan so she quickly dragged Becky and George to the lockers and waited by a pillar for Damian to make an appearance. As they did Becky called in some reinforcements. 

"Bill again?!" George exclaimed seeing Bill stand there sheepishly. 

"I owe Blackbell way too many favors." He admitted feeling a shiver go down his spine.

Anya sweatdropped, what the hell kind of mess is Becky up to that even she doesn't know? Oh well, no point in thinking about that. She let out a sigh. "Alright we just need-" She was interrupted. 

"He's here!" Becky quickly got everyone into position. Anya hid behind the pillar until the signal. Sure enough, Damian walked up to his locker with his friends chatting unaware of what was about to go down. When he opened his locker Anya almost gasped. The giddy feeling came back full force. She could see her project papers! It's right there! So close yet so far. 

Becky walked up casually 'chatting' with George and Bill. "So I said- oh, ew, it's Desmond." Becky was ready to put on the best performance of her life. 

Ewen and Emile scowled at her. 

"Back off Blackbell!" 

"Yeah! Stop insulting our Boss!" 

Becky merely kept walking while rolling her eyes. She needed them to turn around and for Damian to step away from his locker so Anya could sneak in. "Don't think I will, after all, Desmond here insults Anya and me daily." She turned around hands on her hips. George and Bill are on her sides as if they were bodyguards. 

Damian rolled his eyes. "So what? You're here to hurl insults then? Where is Forger anyway?" He looked around rather surprised to not see her. Could have sworn she left with them earlier. 

Anya panicked internally, she should have been more subtle. 

Luckily Becky already took this into account. "Anya? Oh, she was eager to leave because she had a date with one of the upperclassmen." She said that so casually that it shocked George and Bill. She looked at her nails examining them for emphasis. 

BECKY WHAT THE FUCK?! Anya screamed in her mind. Of all the damn lies she could have come up with! 

"Forger on a date? Now I know you're lying, who could ever date that ugly shrimp!" Emile said, mocking Anya.

Ewen joined in with a nod. "Yeah! No way anyone would ever date her." He began to laugh, Emile joining him shortly after. 

Anya wanted to punch them so badly. 

"What upperclassmen?" Damian asked, he was unusually quiet. 

Becky smirked, when Becky smirks it was enough for Anya to know she was planning something. "Oh just some really nice, hot, rich guy, he's also a gentleman and bought Anya peanuts!" Becky began to praise the non-existent suitor. "It turns out he's her secret admirer! He said so himself." Becky let out a dreamy sigh to sell her story. She subtly nudged the boys to help her out.

George cleared his throat. "Yeah, he was really great! Anya was so happy she couldn't sit still in class." 

Bill added in his two cents. "I was passing by because I needed to ask George a question. What a gentleman to offer to take her entire family to a resort this weekend." 

Becky almost let out a laugh. Holy shit we're really selling this story. 

Meanwhile, Anya was internally screaming for her life. 

"No way!" 

"Someone actually likes that shrimp?" 

The trio now had Damian's full undivided attention. Hook, line, and sinker. Becky had the urge to laugh. "Well yeah, he's so in love with her it's romantic! They might even get married once they graduate." Becky made a subtle sign for Anya to go for it. 

Anya was blushing at all the exaggerated lies. Oh well, it's for the best. She started sneaking in while the boys had their backs turned, unable to see Anya. She slowly made her way toward Damian's locker making sure her shoes weren't making any noise and if they were thanks to Becky's loud declarations it was likely being masked. When Anya finally got close to the locker she reached her hand in to get the papers. 

Almost there! Almost there! 

"Well I doubt he loves Forger, he's probably just messing with her, she's a commoner after all, and an ugly one at that. She's unbearable and inelegant on top of being stupid with the worst grades since first grade!" 

Anya stopped mid-grab and glared at Damian. She started making rude gestures that clearly screamed 'FUCK YOU'. Becky, George, and even Bill looked at her like she had gone mad. She quickly grabbed her project and looked through it. 

She paled once more. WHERE THE FUCK IS MY LETTER?!

"Forger?!" Damian stared at her with wide eyes. He looked at his open locker and then at the papers in her hands.

He was putting two and two together. 

Anya blinked and blinked again. "Uh…" 

"Were you… going through my locker?!" 

Oh shit.

Busted. 

Chapter Text

All hell broke loose.

And Anya had nobody to blame but herself. 

"WHAT WERE YOU DOING GOING THROUGH BOSSMAN'S LOCKER!!" 

"YEAH SHRIMP!! WERE YOU TRYING TO STEAL FROM HIM!!??" 

Becky quickly came to her defense. "NO SHE'S NOT! ANYA DOESN'T STEAL!!" 

George immediately jumped in. "YEAH!" 

Bill held his hands up slowly leaving the scene as technically his part of the deal was already repaid for. He just didn't want to get in trouble and earn a bolt as a result. 

Anya would have rolled her eyes but she gets it. She watched as a screaming match ensued between her friends and Damian's friends. She winced at the harsh language being used. This was her fault, her doing, she should have just accepted the consequences of her love letter and dealt with it by changing identities. 

"I BET SHE WAS THE ONE THAT STOLE BOSSMAN'S BAG!" 

"YEAH!" 

Anya's eyes went wide. "NO I DIDN'T!" Oh god no please no! They turned to look at her, and once again all eyes were on her. Well actually Damian had been staring at her this entire time but she was conveniently ignoring that. 

"I don't believe you shrimp!" 

"Yeah! You're a lousy crook!" 

Anya glared at them clenching her fists. She took a step forward while they took a step back in fear. "Don't call me that!" Anya felt her frustration seep in. She was so close, they were going to get away with it too! But like always things never went her way. She felt her body tremble as an excuse finally appeared in her mind. "I was… okay I admit I just wanted to retrieve my project because Desmond is such a perfectionist I was scared my work wasn't good enough!" She allowed herself to breathe. Becky and George exchanged knowing glances. They were also proud she was able to come up with a quick lie that sounded believable. 

There was a moment of silence before Emile broke it. "Since when do you call Bossman by his last name?" He looked utterly confused.

Anya just looked at him weirdly. "Huh? What?" 

"Yeah, you always call him by that dumb nickname," Ewen interjected. 

Anya was like a deer caught in headlights as she realized she hadn't called Damian 'sy-on boy' for a while. But at the same time why is that relevant anyway? "Why is that important?!" 

"Uh…" Emile looked at Ewen, a silent conversation ensuing between them. 

Anya tried reading their mind but it was all jumbled which was weird coming from them. They always had straightforward thoughts. However, before she could say anything Damian finally made a move. 

"I'll deal with Forger, you two will deal with her friends." 

Huh? 

Damian suddenly grabbed her hand and started pulling her away towards god knows where. 

HUH?! 

Anya started fighting back but couldn't against Damian. Fuck he works out! That thought alone made her blush but she quickly mentally slapped herself silly to focus on assessing the situation. She looked back only to see Ewen and Emile fairing well in holding back Becky and George. Seems she'll have to face this on her own. She tried reading Damian's mind but it was empty. Which scared the shit out of her if she were honest. She's never heard Damian's mind not have a single thought. So when they ended up outside in a secluded area Anya figured this was going to end badly.

One way or another. 

Anya stood beside a tree. The wind picks up, making her feel like she's in a damn shoujo manga again. Except this wasn't a shoujo manga but more like a horror manga. She begins to prepare herself mentally and tries to look for an escape route. "So…" She started awkwardly. 

"So." He matches her energy which was surprising to her. 

Just continue with your lie. "I'm sorry about the locker thing I was just scared because you're such a perfectionist and I'm tired of your insults so I thought-" 

"Are you sure that's the reason you went through my locker?" He interrupted her. 

Anya paused feeling a shiver go down her spine. "Ye-Yes I'm positive I mean what else would I-" 

"Are you sure you weren't looking for this?" Damian took out a folded piece of paper from his sleeve. He unfolded the paper and showed her the contents. 

Anya paled looking at what was her love letter. She took a step back out of shock. That's where he hid it?! Fear overtook her mind as the billions of scenarios passed through all of which end with her needing to flee the country. "I… I can explain!" Explain what? You can't explain a love letter! To make matters worse his mind was still empty. She could feel herself lose. Just say something already! 

"Explain what exactly?" 

Really?! "I- Listen I didn't really mean what I wrote-" 

"Anya." 

"Wait no I did mean it but like- wait forget I admitted that I-" 

" Anya ." 

"Listen it's hard okay because I really like you but I know you hate me so please just reject me gently and pretend this never happ-" 

It took Anya a few seconds for the sensation to register in her mind. She was talking and then the next she felt something foreign on her lips. Well, maybe not foreign more like her mind was running wild as she realized what was going on. 

OH MY GOD WE'RE KISSING?! 

She was kissing him. 

She was kissing Damian fucking Desmond. 

…

Was this a dream? 

Well, whatever fuck it. 

Anya returned the kiss in full force as she wrapped her arms around his neck pulling him closer. She's never kissed anyone before but from the many romance shows Becky made her watch she knew the gist of it. It was warm and nice, his lips fit perfectly with hers. She felt like she was on cloud nine. Too good to be true. Maybe she was dreaming? 

She would have continued to think so had she not realized she needed air. 

When their lips parted she almost whined as she wanted to continue but stopped herself. They were heavily breathing staring into each other's eyes. Anya blushed at how intensely he was looking at her. His thoughts were no longer jumbled. 

I love you. 

I love you Anya. 

He… felt the same way? 

Anya tried not to react to his thoughts and averted her gaze to the ground as she tried to suppress her blush. Naturally, she failed. "Dami-" She was interrupted again. 

He put a finger on her lips and shushed her. "We'll talk about this tomorrow." He captured her lips once more savoring her before he had to leave for the day. Anya's bus was leaving soon and he needed to head back to the dorms. 

Anya could care less though, she clutched his cape not wanting this moment to end, for it to last forever. She was in a daze as it seemed like all her hopes and dreams were coming true. If this is a dream please god I never want to wake up. Lips parting once more Anya indulged in finally letting out a whine. Damian chuckled and kissed her lips briefly. 

"I'll see you tomorrow." He said as he caressed her cheek.

Anya nodded, her eyes were half-lidded and she still felt dazed. She couldn't keep her gaze off his lips. The sensation was still present. But she knew she was being greedy, she needed to head home soon since it was getting late and he had duties to attend to, and… well she can't help the part of her that wants to be selfish. Resigning herself to the inevitable she sidestepped him and began walking away. "I'll see you tomorrow Sy-on boy." She smirked slightly using the nickname she unconsciously had stopped using. She couldn't see his expression but she could read his mind and knew he liked it when she uses the dumb nickname she gave him in first grade. 

Well, that's good to know. 

-

"I'm home." She announced rather cheerfully. 

"Welcome back Anya." Her Mama greeted her with a smile and a kiss on the forehead. "How was school?" 

Anya had a huge grin on her face as the events from earlier repeated in her mind. "It was great!" She twirled around as she was greeted by her dog Bond. She gave him lots of pets and scratches 

Yor looked at her daughter trying to decipher her good mood. "Did something happen? You're oddly chipper, you usually always complain and feel tired after school." She let out a small giggle as memories of Anya over the years complaining about Eden's strict schooling passed through her mind. 

Anya blushed slightly. "Oh, nothing." She still had a grin on her face. "Just had a good day is all!" She quickly kissed her Mama on the cheek as she grabbed her bag and skipped towards her room. 

"I'm going to study in my room!" She declared and locked herself in. 

Yor and Bond shared a look deciding not to question Anya's sudden good mood for now. After all, if Anya was happy then that's all that matters at the end of the day. 

Anya was not studying but instead attempting to conceal her squeals in her pillow as the events from earlier kept replaying in her mind. She clutched Agent Penguin and let out a sigh as she stared at the ceiling while her heart beat erratically. She wanted to see him again.

Yes, she was that desperate. 

It felt like a need now.

Now that she knew and now that they had kissed she needed to see him again. Feel him again. Never in her wildest dreams did she think Damian would ever feel the same way. It was better than she originally thought. He didn't just like her, he loved her. No way his thoughts were lying. 

Which just begged the question.

Why was he always so mean to her? 

She knew he didn't hate her completely, he often was nice and again he would compliment her (in his mind anyway) and was consistent with his Valentine's day gifts. 

Anya paused and sat up. My secret admirer. 

She began to squeal again into Agent Penguin. Becky was right the entire time! There was another pause, she let out a gasp. "Oh my god, Becky was right ?!" That realization hit her hard. The realization that she had been blind as hell. Oblivious beyond belief! The entire time Damian liked her back and had she confessed he wouldn't have rejected her at all! She let out another gasp. "Oh my god for how long?!" Her eyes were wide as she thought back to every interaction they'd ever had. 

All the way to first grade. 

When they first met.  

Out of everyone, Damian approached her first. Granted at the time he was under the impression she had a crush on him. Ugh, the fact that I did end up having one years later. She rolled her eyes at that and then let out a small giggle. He dismissed her, despite thinking she was cute because her Papa was a mere psychiatrist (a spy actually but he doesn't need to know that). And because of her 'smile' that she later learned was more like a smug one (now she understood why her Mama's advice didn't work at all) he thought she was mocking him and looking down on him. Then she punched him because he wouldn't stop his bullying and that was her first bolt. However, the takeaway here is that he thought she was cute from the get-go. 

The cafeteria apology.

This one hit her like a truck. He was as red as a tomato that day and his thoughts were confusing to her at the time but… 

He didn't reject my apology, he rejected the idea of liking me!! 

Her heart skipped a beat. 

The dodgeball game.

He protected her! 

And the way he blushed when she offered to help him with his art project and the-

"Oh my god, he's liked me since the first grade??!!" She felt like slapping herself but not really. She was just a kid and concepts like romance and crushes weren't on her radar. All she knew was that she loved her parents, Bond, peanuts, and Spy Wars. She was learning about romance from Becky of all people and she was six at the time! 

Suddenly another thing hit her. 

Oh my god, Damian is a tsundere. 

It all made sense as soon as that thought crossed her mind. Of course, she knew her commoner status and how she acted right after, played a role in him finding her annoying and thus rejecting the idea he could be crushing on her but…

HOW DID SHE JUST NOW NOTICE?! 

Back when she started liking him, how did she miss all the signs?! She let out a long and painful groan. Goddammit me. She's a mind reader for fuck sake, she had no excuses to be this oblivious. 

But then again why did he never bother to confess?! 

He was still so confusing even though most of her questions were finally answered. Did he constantly reject every girl because he only liked her? That thought made her giddy and feel above every girl that ever confessed to Damian. HA! Finally beating the rich girls at something. If they start dating they're all going to be so jealous that Anya will have a hard time not rubbing it in their faces like a big win. All these years of reading their minds full of love confessions and their flaunting. Finally, she can get the last laugh! 

…So maybe she was a bit jealous and envious of them but it's over now. 

Kinda. 

She was still confused. 

I need tomorrow to come quickly. 

She needed to know. 

Knock knock 

"Anya dinner is ready." 

She blinked and got up. She hadn't noticed her Papa was home. "Coming." Deciding to pause her internal debate for now she opened her door and walked toward the dinner table. Her parents were in the kitchen, likely adding the finishing touches. They were looking at each other lovingly. Their thoughts swarming with love for each other. She smiled as she allowed those thoughts and feelings to invade her mind. Once upon a time years ago the Forger family was forced apart for a couple of days. Everything is out in the open. Papa being a spy, her Mama an assassin, her mind reading abilities. It was like everything stopped. She was only eight years old. She went to Eden still but things weren't the same. At the time her biggest help was her professor, Mr. Henderson. Who was the only one who knew something was going on with the Forger family. He didn't know the full details though and to this day doesn't ask about them. But he helped manage her feelings and stress. Becky found out later when things were resolved. She scolded her for not being honest with her. 

That they were best friends. 

In hindsight, Anya always felt guilty. Becky doesn't even know she has mind-reading powers. Much less George. 

Ever since the revelation and Operation Strix came to an end they've been cautious and protective of the other. Especially with Anya as anyone could easily exploit her powers if they so wished. Her parents were fine. Her family was fine but her fear remained. Maybe one day she'll tell her friends about her abilities. She trusts them… surely they won't freak out. 

Okay, they will freak out but not for long.

…Well maybe for long but they won't reject her! 

…

She thinks anyway. 

She internally groaned and looked at Bond who sat beside her wagging his tail. He had a smile on his face before his ears shot up which was always code for having a vision! Anya straightened up in her seat

The vision consisted of her in the middle trying to stop two people from an argument. She raised an eyebrow. "More clear Bond!" She encouraged him. With his age, the visions weren't as clear as before. Sometimes she would have to guess. Unfortunately, the only thing she got out of it was her trying to stop an argument or perhaps a fight of sorts. She was struggling apparently. Great, I'll have to recruit help then. Seems she'll have to prepare for whatever might go down. 

A plate was placed in front of Anya. Loid looked at her and Bond. "A vision I assume?" He asked as he sat down followed by Yor who tilted her head in curiosity. 

Anya merely nodded. "Seems something will happen at school and I'll be in the middle of it." She let out a sigh. 

"Something bad?" Yor asked in concern. 

She shook her head. "No, it seems I'll be fine." I hope so anyway. "I think I'm stopping whatever is about to happen." She admits. Truthfully she doesn't want to fully disclose what it is because knowing her parents they'd be worried. Not because she'll get hurt, they know she can handle herself. But mainly because they don't want her getting in trouble. Anya will never start a fight but she won't hesitate to end it. Naturally, she can't use violence to solve her problems. The last time she did she punched Damian and it resulted in a bolt and her parents feeling utterly mortified. 

Especially her Papa. 

She can't forget when he fainted over her second bolt. 

Let's not even talk about her third one. Although to be fair that one wasn't her fault at all! Honest. Her parents believed her but her Papa still fainted from the shock to the point of being bedridden for a few days. And she won't bring up the fourth one. She still shivers at the thought. 

"Alright but if you're having any problems remember-" 

"Yes Papa, I will call a teacher immediately, don't worry I'll be fine and it won't result in a bolt." She looked at him accusingly to which Loid looked guilty. 

He sweatdropped as Yor giggled slightly. "I'm just worried is all." 

She nodded. "I know Papa, but I can handle myself!" 

"I know that, it's everyone else I'm worried about." 

Ah yes, she is her Mama's daughter after all. 

Chapter Text

It was just another day. Same old morning routine and the same old habits of studying before class officially starts.

This particular morning though he was a mess. But nobody could see through his facade unless your names were Ewen and Emile, alias, his best friends. But it wasn't over the usual like pulling an all-nighter to study or his father being an asshole like usual. No, this time he was just a mess. Had nothing to do with a certain pink-haired menace. 

Okay, maybe it had everything to do with Anya Forger but- 

Okay, it was about her but- 

Dammit brain! 

Today he didn't want to think about her in particular. His mind and heart were in the middle of having an all-out war. 

Over what? 

Well, she had the audacity to look extra cute today! He can't contain himself when she's her regular cute self, no today she just had to look extra cute. She had her hair up in a bun and it just looked… 

SO CUTE!! 

He looked around and noticed nobody was looking at him. Quickly composing himself he went back to 'studying' as he calls it. The bags under his eyes were apparent but nobody commented on it aside from Ewen and a small acknowledgment from Emile via asking him to sleep more. He didn't care though, seeing Anya Forger in a bun was enough to make him feel fully rested and full of energy. 

"Boss, you should really stop staring." 

"Yeah, you're too obvious." 

Damian looked at his friends in alarm. "What?! No, I'm not, shut up!" He practically yelled. They didn't argue back because despite it being an open secret between the three about Damian's obvious crush on a certain pink-haired peanut-loving classmate of theirs. Getting him to fully admit it is impossible. So impossible it's annoying.

Thus they resort to helping their friend by teasing said classmate but it was getting old. Real old. Because it was obvious now that Damian didn't mean anything he was saying. He didn't think she was ugly or a shrimp or that she had stubby legs. He found her inability to properly study enduring. Ewen and Emile were witnesses to Damian's countless attempts to get closer to her by inviting her to study. They never work out because Damian for the life of him doesn't know how to NOT insult the girl. 

"You're hopeless," Ewen said while facepalming to which Emile couldn't help but agree. 

Seeing their best friend so hopelessly in love had its perks though. It was rather hilarious seeing the ever prim, proper, perfect Damian Desmond be reduced to nothing but an utter red mess when dealing with Anya was comical at best. Any other girl? He never cared. Damian has no tact and isn't shameless about rejecting girls. He throws away their gifts most of the time. Unless it's chocolate. He'd subtly find a way to give those to Anya who always happily accepted them because she loves chocolate. And to Damian seeing Anya happy was everything. Now if only he'd just confess his feelings.

But no, he remains in denial. 

They would at least hope he'd get along with her but even that seemed impossible. Heck, even George Glooman of all people managed to befriend her. That day they watched as Damian seethed in anger and jealousy. And it only spiraled when all of Cecile Hall kept commenting on how they were going on a date to the movies. Ewen and Emile knew that was false and they were just friends, they knew because of Becky mainly. Becky didn't seem like she was lying either. And yet they were dragged by Damian to go 'watch' the movie. As in ruin their date. However, it was obvious to the two boys it wasn't a date. Just two friends enjoying a movie. And yet Damian had the bright idea to throw a box of popcorn on George's head from a distance. 

How they didn't get caught was a miracle. 

Then came the amusement park incident. It was the most vivid memory they have of Damian being jealous. 

Anya and her friends had gone because a new Spy Wars-themed roller coaster was opening. Naturally, they were dragged once Damian caught wind of it because he somehow missed the part that it wasn't a date and that Becky was going too. That day they arrived late as they had trouble getting permission to leave the dorms and have a fun day out. When they finally arrived the trio was just barely getting off the roller coaster and they immediately noticed Damian's pissed-off expression. He was pissed at Glooman. Why? Because he committed a crime. His crime? Hugging Anya Forger. 

If you ask Ewen or Emile they'll tell you how in Damian's jealousy-fuelled state he missed the part where Glooman also hugged Becky and also had his other hand over Becky's shoulder. He was just laughing and having fun with his new gal friends. Everyone knew George was an outcast and had always been alone since the first grade. He finally stopped looking so gloomy. It only got worse when George decided to try and win some fish for his friends. He planned to name the one for Anya, Princess Honey. Anya and Becky were buying some snacks and drinks. It was the perfect opportunity to surprise them. 

When he got what he wanted he turned around and was greeted by Damian towering over him with a frown and his arms crossed. Ewen and Emile are behind him knowing full well what's about to go down. 

"Oh hey, Desmond-" 

"This is for taking MY strawberry ice cream!" 

And then he pushed him and George landed on the kiddy pool in utter shock. 

Next thing you know they're running because Damian finally realized he fucked up. That day Ewen and Emile didn't get to have much fun and they spent the rest of the month fearing retaliation from George via telling a teacher, resulting in them getting in trouble. Or worse a bolt. But by some miracle George never told anyone, not even Anya or Becky seemed to know what had happened. It was suspicious and Damian did confront him at some point. 

"What's your angle Glooman? Why haven't you told anyone about the incident at the amusement park?!" 

George merely shrugged. "I'll be honest, I have no idea what strawberry ice cream you were talking about. I still don't but when I remember well… you'll be hearing from me again." He patted his shoulder with a slight smirk. He got away with it because Anya and Becky were nearby and it took all of Damian's self-restraint to not make a scene and have them find out.

The thing is Ewen and Emile knew what Damian meant by strawberry ice cream. When asked why he liked it so much he would always dodge the question. Eventually, they found out it wasn't so much the flavor as it was the color that he liked. It happens to be the same color as the hair of a certain someone named Anya Forger. When this fact clicked in their minds they felt like smacking their heads against a wall. Their friend was doomed, whipped, an idiot. And he still dared to claim he didn't like her at all. 

They were glad George never caught on to the fact that Damian pushed him because he saw him hugging Anya. 

That incident happened three years ago. Things haven't changed much. 

"So Bossman, is today finally the day you talk to Forger normally ?" Ewen asked, he was carrying his bag like he always has since first grade. Damian didn't want him doing that anymore but it was a tradition at this point and Ewen refuses to break it. 

Emile chimed in. "You know that won't happen, he still gives her Valentine's day gifts anonymously!" He shook his head in disappointment. The talk about Anya's secret admirer was a trending topic in Cecile Hall. Naturally many always thought there was no secret admirer, that Anya was giving those things to herself. They would insult Anya and belittle her every time.

Now the trio does the same thing but only they can mess with Forger and her friends. Everyone else can back off. 

"Can you guys shut up!" Damian exclaimed. Once again his face was as red as a tomato. 

Emile shook his head. "Don't think we will." He snickered. 

"Come on Boss, you need to make a move." Ewen got closer and lowered his voice into a whisper. "I've been hearing rumors about a guy from Wald Hall having a crush on her!" He let it know that this was no joke. 

Damian stopped walking and looked at Ewen with wide eyes full of horror. "WHAT?! WHO? WHEN? HOW? DOES SHE KNOW??!!" He grabbed him by the shoulders and started shaking him. 

Ewen broke free from his grasp. "Calm down!! I don't know much but I can figure it out if you want." He watched as Damian let out a sigh of relief. 

Emile merely rolled his eyes. "What's the point, you don't plan to confess." He pointed at Damian accusingly. 

Damian felt like smacking Emile on the head but refrained from doing so. "Shut up! I can't just confess… she'll reject me for sure." He muttered that last part. 

"Weren't you saying last year that she won't because you're a Desmond and she'd be luck-" 

"SHUT-! Please shut up." Damian quickly covered Ewen's mouth. The embarrassment was apparent. It was practically oozing out of his entire being. 

"Oh yeah, I forgot you finally humbled yourself." Ewen teased. 

Damian glared at him. "Oh like you two weren't just as bad as me!" 

Emile held his hands up defensively. "Hey what did I do?! I wasn't even saying anything!" 

"Exactly!" 

Emile rolled his eyes again but let out a slight chuckle. "Okay, so we all got humbled last year." 

Ewen felt a shiver go down his spine. "I mean we weren't that bad, to begin with, it was automatic since we mostly always followed Bossman's lead… of course, the one who took most of the burn was-" 

"Can you please for the love of all that is holy do NOT remind me!" Damian hissed at him. 

"Sorry," Ewen muttered. 

They entered class and sat in their usual seats by the back. The conversation was at a pause as all three got ready for class. It picked back up by mentioning what they were doing for the weekend. On cue, Anya and her friends walked in. It was brief but Damian made eye contact with her. He quickly looked away feeling his heart race and his face heat up. SO CUTE SO CUTE SO CUTE! 

The teacher walked in and immediately announced a group project. 

"Ready up Ewen, I'm beating you this time at rock paper scissors and finally be Bossman's partner." 

"HA! As if-"

"I'll be choosing everyone's partner." 

A chorus of groans and indignant 'WHAT's' could be heard. Damian could only hope he didn't get stuck with someone who's a total idiot. 

"Damian Desmond and Anya Forger." 

Oh god that's my idiot! 

"Now is your chance, Bossman!" 

"Yeah go for it!" 

Damian got up feeling confident that this could be what he needs to finally get close to Anya. He strolled towards her desk and as soon as his eyes met hers everything was thrown out the window and his mouth moved faster than his brain could. "You better not hold me back shrimp!" Damian mentally facepalmed. 

Ewen and Emile did facepalm. 

The silence was loud. Anya was pissed and only talked to him when they were choosing the topic they were going to work on. Damian knew he fucked up once again. And it kept happening because he wasn't making this any better. Eventually, they parted ways. She chose to work on her part on her own and naturally he was forced to do his part by himself too. If it weren't for the fact that Damian was good at masking his emotions it would have been so obvious he was disappointed and upset. 

Lunch came and went, Anya was nowhere to be seen and it made everything unbearable. He'll admit he was getting irritable. It was a miracle he hadn't snapped yet. When he saw Anya again in class he relaxed. 

"Just talk to her, apologize," Ewen suggested. It was just nothing but pain seeing Damian struggle with his crush. 

Emile nodded. "Yeah, you guys are partners anyway so you don't need an excuse to talk to her." 

Oh yeah. Damian got him abruptly and walked up to Anya. He was prepared to apologize but… "Hey Forger." Settle down with the tone Damian. 

"Ugh, Desmond what do you want?" Becky said annoyingly. 

He decided to ignore her and focus on Anya. Okay don't fuck this up. "Are you done with your side of the project yet?" WHAT?! APOLOGIZE YOU DUMBASS!! 

"It's barely been a few hours, lay off!" 

"Yeah! It's not due until Friday anyway!"

I KNOW I'M JUST BEING DUMB!!!

"I only have half of it." Anya presented him with the information. "I can get the other half done by tomorrow."

He grabbed it and skimmed through it. Oh my god even her handwriting is so cute! "That is if you actually did it correctly although knowing you I doubt it." He scoffed and walked back to his desk. 

He walked back… 

When he sat down his entire mind started screaming at him. He was met with judgemental stares from his friends. 

"Really?!" They exclaimed.

He allowed his head to hit the table and mentally groaned. Dumbass, dumbass, dumbass- wait what's this? Damian raised a brow noticing an extra piece of paper. He started reading it. 

Dear Damian,

Wait what?! 

It was a letter for him? 

Ewen and Emile watched as Damian read a piece of paper. They watched as his facial expressions changed in a matter of seconds. He was surprised, shocked, overjoyed, and utterly horrified all in one sitting. But most of all he was redder than a tomato. He covered his mouth attempting to stop himself from screaming. It wasn't that he was in a bad mood. The wide goofy grin on his face was obvious. 

The blondes shared a look of utter confusion. 

It wasn't just any letter but a love letter. From Anya Forger. Addressed to him however she didn't have any intentions of ever letting him see it. She never planned to confess her feelings. He had no idea Anya was so scared that she thought he'd treat her worse than trash. 

I mean I'm not exactly the nicest person around her. 

What struck a nerve was reading the following: 

In case I don't then I'm sure I'll be miserable the day you marry some rich and perfect and nice looking girl your family approves of. You'll never know of course.

As if! 

He'd rather die if he doesn't get to marry Anya! Fuck whatever his father has to say!

…

Okay, he's getting ahead of himself there. 

He couldn't contain himself though. Even as they left the classroom and made their way towards the lockers before the next period. Damian had enough self-restraint left to not go up to Anya and declare his undying love for her and seal the deal with a kiss. However, he can't contain his happiness. It changed everything knowing Anya felt the same way. He needed to hear her say it, he needed her to know. Fuck, he needed to see her. Social studies was pure torture . His thoughts were all over the place and all he could think about was Anya. Until Bill suddenly ran in claiming the teacher's car was being totaled, moments later a bunch of students started evacuating everyone and Damian was so panicked he forgot his stuff.

When he came back he noticed his bag was stolen. Naturally, he was pissed. 

Even more so when he found it outside on the ground with all his items scattered around. Thank god I hid Anya's letter in my sleeve. He was also glad he had the right idea to also place her project in his locker. It would have been ruined otherwise. It was strange though, they didn't steal anything. Regardless he was pissed. Not a cool prank at all. He wondered if this was deliberate considering there was no way it was pure coincidence everything that went down in social studies just… happened. 

He grabbed his bag and a familiar scent hit him like a truck. 

His eyes landed on Anya. 

No way… right? 

No, Anya isn't crazy enough to pull that off- 

But Becky just might. 

But why-?! 

Wait… 

The letter! 

So his initial anger was gone now. Knowing it was likely Anya that stole his bag and dumped it on the ground sounded like a her thing to do. Unfortunately, she wasn't that smart about it. She left crucial evidence behind and that was her perfume. Granted any other idiot wouldn't have been able to recognize it but Damian was awfully acquainted with this particular perfume. The day Anya wore it for the first time he almost went insane. Long story short he liked it. A lot. And Anya wore it often which made him a happy camper. 

However, he needed confirmation. 

Instead once school was over and he went to his locker he was forced to hear the atrocities coming out of Blackbell's mouth. It was like a bucket of ice-cold water was poured all over him at the sudden realization he was too late. Sure he had her letter but… it implied she wanted to move on. And that bastard claimed credit for the stuff I was giving her!! Those were my gifts!! He finally knew she felt the same way and yet it was too late and he had nobody to blame but himself for being an idiot. He could have stopped it had he just asked her to talk after school or apologized in the first place. But wait, how does Blackbell even know he's taking Anya seriously? That sudden intrusive thought entered his mind and made him go on autopilot. He was sure he was throwing out insults but he can't stop himself at the moment. He needed a name and fast, this was- 

Wait, is that Anya's perfume he's smelling?! 

He turned around and sure enough Anya was there holding her project. "Forger?!"

I was right wasn't I?!

"Uh…" 

Right?!

"Were you… going through my locker?!"

Not that he minded one bit, if anything he was just glad she wasn't on a date. 

Chapter Text

They kissed. 

They kissed.

Damian couldn't contain himself anymore so he kissed her and she kissed back and it was magical! Until he interrupted it because he knew Anya would miss her bus otherwise. She didn't want to stop and quite frankly neither did he.

Shit I could have offered to take her home instead. 

Well no point in thinking about these things he'll have to keep this in mind next time. 

Despite his happiness over the sudden development of their relationship, there was something still bugging him, that being the upperclassmen Becky was talking about. Was Becky just exaggerating or was he an actual threat? Sure he could ask Anya but she'll likely dismiss him and won't give a name and he needs a name because it's important and he's totally not- 

"Boss, are you okay?" 

Woah, when did he end up back in the dorms? Was Emile talking to him? He was so sure he was outside watching Anya walk away from him yearning for the feeling of her lips on his once more. I really should have just offered to take her home later. "Yeah, I'm good." He finally answered as he realized he had been staring at his two friends in silence for the past few minutes. He was far from being okay. He was ecstatic! He finally had the girl of his dreams. 

Truth be told he originally dragged her out to confirm she was going through his stuff because of the letter. But hearing her say how much she liked him made him act impulsively. He was glad she didn't hesitate to kiss back otherwise he would have been screwed. Any thoughts of them potentially being friends would have been thrown out the window. They were thrown out the window to begin with but Damian had hope. He thought she didn't like him at all but he realizes he's the dumbest smart person ever. He missed the signs. It was so obvious now. When thinking back to all their interactions. When she seemed to want to linger around him alone, just them and no one else. 

Has she liked me since the first grade?? 

He knew he liked her but if he recalls all she wanted back then was his friendship. If he could go back in time he'd slap his six-year-old self and tell him to be her friend. If they had been friends to begin with he's sure they would have been dating a long time ago. Dammit me! 

He'd been in denial for far too long. 

Then again she always seemed hellbent wanting to come to my house. 

It was a strange phase she had at the time. Lasted until the third grade. Although during that time Anya always seemed down and sad. Damian couldn't bear the sight but despite that, he didn't help with whatever was going on with Anya because he was an idiot. He's sure he made her cry at one point and he still cringes at his younger self being so oblivious to the obvious. She wasn't okay at the time but he wanted attention. Her attention. God, I was a spoiled brat. 

She got better after a while and the old Anya was back. He did stop his antics for a while but again he really wanted her attention so he started doing it again. Every time he thought about it the more he wished the ground would swallow him whole. It had nothing to do with the fact that while the students around him oftentimes constantly hounded him for his attention at school, Anya was the only one who was ever sincere. Ewen, Emile, Blackbell, and Glooman were a special case. Ewen and Emile were his friends so their attention was obvious. Blackbell and Glooman hate his guts. 

Speaking of, he didn't know what to do about Glooman, he knew his deepest darkest secret. Granted revealing it won't hurt his ego or anything. At most Anya might scold him for jumping Glooman like he committed a crime. Thinking back he didn't deserve that, for once he felt guilty about trashing Glooman. He shuddered a bit, he never thought the day would come but then again he's Anya's best friend so he'll have to get used to his presence whether he likes it or not. Surely he had some good qualities otherwise Anya wouldn't be his friend and Blackbell wouldn't be caught dead hanging out with him. 

He huffed and shook his head, knowing Blackbell he's sure his beloved Anya was in good hands. The girl is strict and picky when it comes to who she decides to associate with. 

He picked up a random book and pretended he was reading it. His attention was elsewhere naturally but he didn't want to worry his friends. He'll let them know soon, first, he needed to establish whether or not Anya was his girlfriend. He still needs to ask Pops for his blessing and god knows if he'll even give it to him. He could argue he's a good match for Anya. He's well educated, from a good family, and rich, he can provide for Anya and any potential future children they might have. He might be thinking way ahead but he sees himself marrying this girl okay! 

His parents might not approve but he didn't care. They stopped having any right to make decisions about his life a long time ago. At most maybe he'd run the idea by Demetrius, he'd be the only one invited to the wedding anyway. And his fiance of course can't forget her. 

"Boss, are you sure you're okay?" Ewen asked in concern. 

"Yeah, you're holding that book upside down." Emile pointed out. 

Damian noticing that the book was in fact upside down he shut it and tossed it aside, it landed on the ground with a thud. He'll pick that up later right now he's a little embarrassed. He cleared his throat. "I'm okay, I'll tell you guys tomorrow." After my conversation with Anya. He knew he wasn't going to be able to sleep tonight but whatever he needed to force it. 

Ewen and Emile shared a look and decided to trust that their friend would tell them everything tomorrow. For now, the boys decided to continue working on their assignments 

As Damian lay on his bed staring at the ceiling he thought back to all his interactions with Anya leading up to this point. He should have confessed sooner but he was an idiot so not much he can do to fix that. He might still be one but he hopes Anya can keep him grounded. He also has homework to do but he decided to for once prioritize everything else. That being his wandering mind. Usually, he scolds himself for letting it wander too far and away from his studies. He's an imperial scholar after all he needed to set an example. But Anya and thoughts of Anya were more important. Today she looked cuter than ever and he can't help but think about her constantly. 

Blackbell was right, he's whipped. 

Damn you Blackbell. 

-

Getting ready to head to class has never gone any slower. Damian didn't want to miss Anya's arrival. Usually, she rides with Becky to school these days but occasionally her parents drop her off. It was only after school she rode the bus. Becky doesn't drop her off since she has other things to attend to and George doesn't live anywhere near her to drop her off himself and her parents are working during that time. His friends were getting suspicious as to why he was standing by the dorms seemingly waiting for someone. Didn't matter much, he will explain everything soon. 

He saw Blackbell walking by without Anya. It immediately caught his attention, to say the least. "Blackbell? Why isn't Anya with you?" He called out. 

She stopped walking and glared at him. "I don't know and don't bother me." She huffed and continued walking while dramatically flipping her hair. 

He rolled his eyes. Whatever. He continued waiting like a loyal boyfriend… 

Oh right, they haven't established that yet. 

Technically they were, maybe, he doesn't know, he should probably ask her on a date before deciding they're a couple now just because they kissed. 

Ewen tapped his shoulder. "Boss we're going to be late for class." 

Emile chimed in. "If you're waiting for Forger it's likely she'll be late so we might as well wait for her in class." 

Well, he was more or less caught, he blushed slightly while nodding. Right, Anya isn't here which means she'll be late. He might as well wait for her in class and talk to her during lunch so they can get away and finally spend some quality time together. 

"Speaking of Forger, what did you guys even do yesterday when you dragged her away?" Ewen inquired which was weird of him to do because Damian was sure neither he nor Emile were going to ask because they didn't exactly seem keen or curious about it yesterday. 

"Nothing, she was clumsy and gave me the wrong notes and was embarrassed about it." That was a rather smooth lie. Lying wasn't anything new to Damian, quite the opposite. 

Ewen hummed and didn't say anything more, Emile was quieter than usual. Those two shared a look that Damian couldn't help but notice. They knew something was going on but he didn't want to tell them yet, not until he was sure. They walked to Cecile Hall where most of their other classmates were already waiting. He immediately spotted the very girl he was looking for, Anya Forger. Wait since when did she get here?! She was in deep conversation with Blackbell and Glooman, they were whispering. Suddenly Glooman made eye contact with Damian and nudged Anya while subtly pointing towards the entrance. She turned around and immediately grinned upon seeing Damian. Her eyes were shining brighter than the sun. Damian had to suppress his blush and beating heart. She waved at him cheerfully causing him to wave back. The magic was broken as soon as he realized he needed to get to his seat before the teacher arrived. 

His friends stared at him all-knowing. With that short interaction, everything and nothing was said at the same time. Damian was too busy staring at Anya to even notice the way Ewen gave Emile money.

The teacher walked in commencing class immediately. 

The wait seemed eternal to Damian as he sat there listening to the teacher go on and on about a topic he was already well versed in. Regardless he took notes but his mind kept wandering to memories of yesterday. The kiss he shared with Anya. He couldn't help his smile. Luckily nobody was watching, too busy trying not to miss the important lecture. As soon as that bell rang signaling lunch time he didn't hesitate to pull Anya away from everyone. He ignored the way Blackbell immediately tried to fight him but Glooman pulled her back, he was observant enough to know they were going to have an important conversation. 

"I wish to set the record straight." He began not even giving her a moment to speak. "We're dating now, correct?" Way to sound confident. 

Anya almost giggled but refrained herself from doing so. "If you want to, yes." 

Damian had to stop himself from jumping up and down with joy, in a way he was in his mind, such a sight safely tucked away with no prying eyes. 

Unfortunately, Anya knew and she had to do everything in her power to not burst out laughing. She thought it was cute, endearing even. 

Before anything more could be said they were (rudely) interrupted by a random student whom Damian was sure he'd never met before. Or maybe he just didn't care enough to remember their face or name. He was fidgeting trying to face Anya. The immediate alarm bells went off his head as he noticed this student hadn't even acknowledged Damian at all; he was there to talk to Anya. His Anya. 

“I was wondering if you'd like to go on a date.” 

Hearing the sudden use of the word date his mind immediately went blank. His Anya was being asked out… on a date… way before he could ask her! It was like a sudden burst of thoughts went through his mind a mile a minute trying to hold himself back from the surge of anger he felt from deep within. 

He didn't notice as Anya suddenly went wide-eyed as if she pieced together something that had been on her mind for a while now. That would be the case as Bond’s vision had played in her head on her way to school. She was so nervous she woke up early surprising everyone in her household and got here before Becky. 

Now she knows. 

Instinctively as soon as she felt Damian take a step towards the guy's direction she held a hand up similarly to the vision. Without meaning to, she did the same to the guy to keep them separated. She needed to shut this down quickly. She had heard the guy’s thoughts but couldn't react on time. She could see the way Becky was manhandling George as if this was an episode of Berlint in Love. Granted she's sure a similar scenario has happened in that show before. But also when did they get here?! Was that Emile and Ewen too?!?! “Sorry I'm flattered but I already have a boyfriend!” She quickly blurted. An immediate collective of WHATs invaded her mind including Damian's which if not for the circumstances she'd find that quite hilarious. 

Damian on his part was ready to put the guy in his place but hearing Anya call him her boyfriend made his mind go blank and thus he looked like a fish out of water. 

With her declaration, the guy apologized and quickly ran for his life putting two and two together without her having to vocalize who the boyfriend in question could be. He ran for his life knowing he just asked out the girlfriend of Damian Desmond. Oh boy. 

Anya heard that and couldn't help but the sweat drop that had formed. She'll have to keep Damian at bay then. Crisis averted, I stopped a potential fight. She felt rather proud of herself. Despite not having full context she figured out Bond’s vision pretty quickly. She turned to Damian who was still recovering from the shock. She sighed trying to get his attention again. 

Damian, who's been bright red since god knows when quickly cleared his throat trying to save face. They unfortunately now have an audience granted he hadn't realized that yet he was just embarrassed. “Before anything more unexpected happens…” 

Anya almost burst out laughing. 

“Would you like to go on a date?”

She nodded. “Of course!” 

As soon as those words left her mouth she was jumped by Becky. “OH MY GOD ANYA YOUR FIRST DATE!!!” 

George was behind her looking mortified she had essentially interrupted them. “I'm sorry!” 

Becky promptly stopped and glared at Damian. “I don't know how this happened I want details later but Desmond this is your only warning, you hurt my dear Anya and I'll destroy you.” And she wasn't lying. 

Damian would laugh but Blackbell truly was the only one who had the power to hurt if she wanted to. It made him shiver in fear a bit but he'll never admit that out loud. “I'd never hurt Anya.” He declared, causing Anya to blush. 

“No, but you're not above insulting her.” George couldn't help but say that. He's not mad on her behalf but he figured he'd point this out. 

“I already apologized for that and intend to make it up to her!” Damian couldn't help but raise his voice out of sheer embarrassment more than anything. “Plus didn't you try to get me expelled during sixth grade?” 

“...Fair enough.” 

Anya couldn't help but laugh. The absurdity of the situation was finally dawning on her. She was here in the hallway with her newly acquired boyfriend with her two best friends who prior never got along with his two best friends joining the conversation casually as if they weren't at odds with each other just the other day. Who would have thought her accidentally giving Damian her love letter that was written as a vent and had every intention of getting rid of as if it was evidence of a crime would lead to this? 

In a way, she was worried over nothing. 

They walked out towards the cafeteria like a group of long-time friends, like they were never rivals to begin with, a truly odd sight to most students who had been there since the beginning when Anya first punched Damian. As they got their food and sat down at a table just for them Anya recounted everything that happened since Becky wouldn't stop insisting and Damian was too embarrassed to talk about it. She figured she'd give context to why they were suddenly dating. 

“Oh, so that's why you were out of it yesterday.” Ewen noted recounting the tale of Damian ‘reading’ a book upside down which caused some laughter and an even more embarrassed Damian. 

That's cute. Anya thought. 

Becky soon clapped her hands together, getting everyone's attention. “Well seeing as my dear Anya officially has her first boyfriend who unfortunately happens to be Desmond.” She said pointing at him in disdain. She ignored his indignant ‘hey’ and continued talking. “I say we all celebrate by going to the fair!” She declared. Everyone immediately agreed.

Anya’s mind was invaded by thoughts from Damian as his mind couldn't help but intrusively remind him of the fair incident. Something even she wasn't aware of. She almost glared at him as the image of George being pushed into a mini pool. She'll have to pry that information out of both of them later and for apologies to be exchanged. She'll give Damian credit for feeling extremely guilty. 

He quickly recovered and agreed to the idea. We can have our date this weekend. 

Anya smiled and intertwined her fingers with his. He stopped and looked down, noticing what was happening, and immediately smiled at her. She laid her head on his shoulder seeing as there weren't any teachers around. Plus she wanted to make a public statement in case anyone else had the bright idea to ask any of them out. 

The intended effect was immediate. 

Anya smiled at herself glad that everything worked out in the end. 

Fin.