Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Neteyam knew he’d regret this the second he sent the message.

“Hey, I need a favor.”

He groaned, tossing his phone down onto his bed without clicking that god forsaken send button. He was frustrated, in the universe, in his parents and his siblings, in his past self for putting him in this situation.

His 21st birthday was rapidly approaching, and young, naïve Neteyam had promised his family and friends he would have a partner before he came of age, and that he would allow them to subject him to any form of embarrassment if he was still single by then.

That Neteyam wasn’t focused on school, and work, he didn’t have the pressure of his future dragging on his shoulders when he made that deal. Today’s Neteyam didn’t have time for a relationship, his junior year of College took up all his time. Classes, study, work, try to find time to sleep, repeat.

To Lo’ak, these were not valid excuses. Of course the younger brother was looking for any chance to mess with Neteyam, but the eldest Sully knew what Lo’ak was capable of, especially when he had the go ahead.

So that’s how he got himself in this situation, picking up his phone and doing no more than staring at the messages of his sister’s girlfriend’s brother, about to ask him for a gigantic favor.

He groaned again, almost a growl as he pressed the back space button, deleting the whole message all together.

He could find someone else, not some stuck up asshole that would probably just make fun of him for it anyway.

But who? Who else could he ask to be his partner for a few months leading up to his birthday and a few after, to not raise suspicions? And one who wouldn’t tell everyone their deal after their end was up?

Neteyam didn’t have time for relationships, when he barely had time for friendships. His friend group consisted of his siblings, and their friends. Realistically, Neteyam had very slim pickings.

Rotxo was dating Lo’ak, Tsireya was dating Kiri, and Spider was basically a brother to him, so who did that leave?

Ao’nung Tonowari’itan.

The two of them did not get along the first time they’d met, or the second, or the third or the forth for that matter. They were just coming to civil terms, Neteyam didn’t even know if he could even call them friends, was it even worth it?

Ao’nung was a douchebag, to put it bluntly, but Neteyam could try and see past that, for his own sake.

He exhaled loudly, slamming his head down against his pillow and allowed the fabric to muffle his screams.

He had 6 months before his birthday, enough time to play off getting closer to Ao’nung and them getting together. Then, they could last for another month or two after Neteyam’s birthday and cut it off, and no one would suspect a thing.

Neteyam just didn’t know if he could last that long.

He sat up, staring blankly at the wall as he ran over his options for the hundredth time. He had used all his past ideas, it was this, or whatever Lo’ak had planned for him.

He scowled to himself before grabbing his phone, taking a deep gulp to swallow his pride before clicking Ao’nung’s contact and pressing the little call button.

Neteyam placed the phone to his ear, gnawing his lip nervously as he counted the rings.

In typical, Ao’nung fashion, he waited until the last possible second, the second where Neteyam was about to be sent to voicemail, where Neteyam could rethink his choices again and ask himself ‘Why am I doing this?’, and he answered the phone.

“Hello?” The voice was gruff, disinterested. “Why are you calling me…?”

Neteyam sat in silence, not responding as he racked his brain again for another choice, anything other than this.

“Uhm, okay, I’m gonna hang up no-“

“Hey.”

The voice paused when Neteyam cut into it. “Hi..?” Another pause. “Can I help you?”

Neteyam coughed, his head dropping into his hand where the tips of his fingers rubbed the dark skin of his temples. “Can you-“ This time, he cut himself off. “Can you do me a favor? Like- a big one?”

Ao’nung laughed, and Neteyam could hear shuffling on the other side of the phone. “Like what?”

Neteyam didn’t want to admit what he wanted, but swallowed his pride again before continuing. “Just- hear me out, okay? I’ll pay you.”

“Woahhh Sully boy, what kinda favor is this?” Ao’nung pressed with a hint of teasing in his words, although seemed shocked.

“Just- just listen! Goddamn-“ He took a deep breath. “My 21st birthday is coming up, and I promised my family I would have a partner by then or they could do anything under the sun to embarrass me. I thought it would be easy, but now I have school and shit and I just don’t have time; look, I need you to pretend to be my boyfriend for like, 8 months and then-“

“What?!” Ao’nung cut him off with a screech of a question. “Wait wait- back track here. You want me to be your boyfriend, because you can’t suck up a little bit of your pride? Oh give me a break, Sully.”

Neteyam bit his lip to stop himself from saying something that would ruin his chances all together. “Pretend boyfriend- and it’s not about my pride. Ask Rotxo, Lo’ak is crazy and I’m not ashamed to say I’m scared of what he’ll do to me. I will compensate you, just name your price.”

Ao’nung stuttered, at a loss for words. “How long did you say?”

“Eight months-“

“EIGHT MONTHS?! YOU have to be crazy, Neteyam! Holy shit! Yeah, give me a fucking million dollars for it, are you out of your mind?!”

Neteyam sighed, brushing a rouge braid away from his face. “My birthday is in 6 months, we can act like we’re getting along, pretend date for, like, 2 months, and then break up like a month after my birthday, or something, please, Ao’nung.”

Ao’nung sighed heavily. “No one is going to believe we’re dating, Neteyam. Everyone knows I’m not a relationship guy.”

“That’s why we can pretend we’re getting closer for a few months, it’s not like we’re complete strangers.”

“Am I even your type?” Ao’nung asked.

Neteyam’s eyebrows scrunched. “Am I your type?”

Ao’nung coughed, clearing his throat but not answering the question.

“Look, I’ll pay for everything. The dates and stuff, I’ll even pay you weekly allowance, just do this for me, Ao’nung, please.” Neteyam pleaded through the phone.

“How much money do you have, that you can afford to pay me like that?” The other boy scoffed.

“Not much, does that prove how desperate I am?”

“You know what? Fine, why not.” Ao’nung agreed cautiously. “and pay for my gas, too.”

Neteyam nodded, humming to himself. “Deal. I’ll do all the planning, all you have to do is act.”

Chapter Text

Act. That’s all Ao’nung needed to do for this deal. Pretend he was Neteyam’s boyfriend, pretend he felt any sort of romantic attraction towards the other boy. 

The first ‘date’ Neteyam had planned for them wasn’t much of a date. He invited Ao’nung to run errands with him, as well as offering to buy Ao’nung lunch of his choosing. 

He offered to drive Ao’nung, too, but the younger boy refused, opting to figure out if Neteyam truly would stick to his end of the deal.

And he did, which pleasantly surprised Ao’nung, handing him a ten dollar bill the second Ao’nung stepped through the doors of the mall. 

Neteyam smiled warmly, even though Ao’nung could see right through it and down to his actual feelings.

Truthfully, Ao’nung didn’t understand why Neteyam was taking this idea of Lo’ak embarrassing him so seriously. He found it hard to believe that Lo’ak was capable of something so heinous, that Neteyam had to fake having a boyfriend because of it.

But, he was getting paid for it, so was there really any harm in going along with it?

“So, what’s your plan?” Ao’nung asked, shoving the money into the pocket of his jeans. 

Neteyam hummed, turning around as he began to walk slowly, his head turnt slightly to the side to make sure Ao’nung was following him. “I need to run to Journey’s and return these shoes for Kiri, and then I was thinking we could go to Hawaiian Time?”

Ao’nung cocked an eyebrow. “What’s that?”

Neteyam watched from the corner of his eye as Ao’nung jogged to catch up to him, walking side by side. “Ionno.” Neteyam shrugged. “It just opened, I think it’s from the north western states, I thought it sounded interesting.” He glanced at the other boy, a look of uncertainty in his eyes. “I mean- we don’t have to, if you’d rather go somewhere else.”

“No no, Sully. You’re planning everything, remember?” Ao’nung teased lightly, bumping Neteyam’s shoulder with his. 

Neteyam laughed, the corner of his eyes scrunching upwards. “Oh yeah, that’s right.” 

The walked to the shoe store in an awkward silence, neither knowing what to say.

They approached the store, Neteyam nervously fiddling with the bag in his hands. “You can look around, if you want. I shouldn’t be that long.”

Ao’nung nodded firmly, his gaze lifting to look at Neteyam before he ripped his eyes away. “Do you mind if I go over to Zumiez?” The taller boy gestured to the store directly across from Journey’s. 

Neteyam’s mouth opened slightly, but he shook his head. “No- no, that’s fine. I’ll meet you over there once I’m done?”

Ao’nung nodded again, giving a small smile but didn’t move.

Neteyam looked at him, his thumb nail still nervously scratching the paper handle of the bag he was holding. He stared back at Ao’nung, his jaw still slightly agape. 

Ao’nung coughed. “Okay I’ll-“

At the same time Ao’nung began speaking, so did Neteyam. “Let me just-“

They both stopped talking once they realized the other had begun, staring at each other for another second before a small laugh fell from Ao’nung’s lips. “Okay, I’m gonna go over now.” 

The dark skin of Neteyam’s cheeks flushed slightly, his mouth closing to allow the corners of his mouth to raise to the sky in a small smile. “Okay.” 

With that, Ao’nung began walking backwards, shooting finger guns towards Neteyam before he turned around and ran into the other store. Neteyam turned, shaking his head and laughing while he walked to the counter of the shoe store.

Neteyam sparked easy conversation with the cashier, chatting with her and complementing her outfit while she processed his return.

The return didn’t take long, and within 5 minutes, Neteyam’s bag was empty and the money was transferred back onto his card.

He thought about looking around Journey’s, maybe finding a cute new pair of Vans for his little sister, but ended up deciding against it.

Neteyam bid farewell to the kind worker before turning and walking out of the store.

It had been awhile since he had ventured into a Zumiez, it was his brother’s favorite clothing store, and before Lo’ak got his license, the pair would make weekly trips and spend hours creating outfit for one another. 

The thought brought a smile onto Neteyam’s face, and he made a mental note to plan a day to do that again. 

Neteyam’s gaze began to scan the store, looking for Ao’nung. He wouldn't had taken Ao’nung as a skater boy, he realized maybe he didn’t know Ao’nung as much as he thought he did.

Ao’nung was not in the clothing or shoe section, so Neteyam walked deeper into the store. He reached out his hand, allowing his fingertips to graze the sleeves of the shirts as he passed them.

His eyes landed on Ao’nung, who was standing in front of the wall of skateboards, holding a tan one with blue accents. 

Neteyam walked straight over to him, giving a curt nod to the worker who was standing beside Ao’nung and was answering his questions.

As Neteyam got closer, he was able to decipher the patterns on the board more clearly.

Ao’nung was holding it upside down, the harsh grip rubbing against his palms so he could admire the design. 

“This is actually from a local artist.” The worker spoke, pointing at the brush strokes. The base of the board was raw wood, and covering the majority of it was beautiful painted waves. 

“It’s really cool.” Neteyam piped, causing Ao’nung to jump and turn to face him.

“Oh- I didn’t know you were here.” He laughed nervously, shuffling the board to his right hand so he could scratch his neck with the other. 

“Sorry.” Neteyam laughed lightly.

Ao’nung just smiled back at him, handing the skateboard back to the worker. Neteyam noticed his eyes lingering on it as the man placed it back onto the rack.

“Are you ready to go eat?” Ao’nung asked, standing awkwardly next to Neteyam.

“Uh sure- Are you not going to get that?” Neteyam pointed to the skateboard.

Ao’nung shook his head. “No, I was just looking, it’s pretty cool, though.” He began walking towards the exit. 

Neteyam followed him. “I didn’t know you skated.”

Ao’nung nodded his head. “Yeah, I surf, too.”

“I knew that.” Neteyam smiled, leading Ao’nung out of the store and towards the food court. “Which do you enjoy more?”

The taller boy shrugged. “Probably surfing, my roots are from the ocean so I love just about anything related to it.”

“You should tell me more about your roots and your childhood” Neteyam responded, a soft smile on his face as he pointed out the restaurant to Ao’nung.

“You don’t have to, really, get to know me. I don’t think you need to know my whole history when we’re only fake dating.”

Chapter Text

Dinner went smoothly, albeit slightly awkward and a little uncomfortable, but the food was good and they were able to maintain a light conversation.

Neteyam could tell Ao’nung was ready to call it a day once they’d finished eating. He didn’t bother asking if Ao’nung had had a rough day, instead just paying the bill and offering Ao’nung a small goodbye as they parted ways.

He thought about sending Ao’nung a message that he had gotten home safe, but decided against it and walked inside his family’s home.

Neteyam had his own place across the city, but sometimes he preferred to go back home and spend time with his family.

It wasn’t too late, only 9:30, but his parents were on the couch. Jake was reclined on the furthest cushion, his head thrown back as loud snores left his open mouth. A small bundle of Tukitrey was laid on his chest, cuddling close to her father, while their mother was leaning on her husband’s shoulder.

Neytiri was the only one awake, and she gave a small wave to her eldest son as he walked through the door.

Neteyam made the way to his bedroom, passing his brother’s open door and seeing a quick glimpse of Lo’ak sprawled on his bed with Rotxo curled into his side, their gaze locked on Lo’ak’s TV.

Lo’ak had been combing his fingers through his boyfriend’s curls, but when the boy shot up after spotting Neteyam, his fingers got caught and tugged on Rotxo’s scalp.

“Nete- ow Lo’ak!” Rotxo squeaked, reaching up to pull the hand away from his hair.

Lo’ak laughed loudly, grabbing Rotxo’s body and trapping him when the boy tried to get up to greet Neteyam. “Sorry, babe.” He said through his laughter.

“I want to say hi to Tey, let me go!” Rotxo fussed in Lo’ak’s arms, trying to pry them apart.

“But you’re my boyfriend.” Lo’ak pouted, covering Rotxo’s face in smooches.

Neteyam laughed from the doorway, waving to the boys. “Hi Rotxo.”

Rotxo shouted a hello back, eventually giving up and relaxing his body into his boyfriend’s arms, Neteyam took that as an okay to continue to his room.

He pushed open the door to his childhood bedroom, smiling softly as he walked to his bed, collapsing onto the mattress and sighing deeply.

Neteyam scrolled aimlessly on his phone for a few hours, often going to Ao’nung’s contact to send him a message but deciding at the last minute not to.

It felt weird not texting him, not treating him like a boyfriend, but they weren’t really boyfriends anyway.

It was 11 when there was a soft knock on his door, the wood slowly pushing open to reveal his little brother.

Lo’ak leaned against the door frame, his arms crossed over his chest.

Neteyam looked up at him from where he was laying on his bed. “Did Rotxo go home?”

Lo’ak shook his head. “He’s asleep.”

Neteyam stared at his brother in silence, he could tell the younger boy wanted to say something. “So..”

“So about our deal, when you turn 21” Lo’ak smirked evilly. “How is it going?”

“I’m actually talking to someone.” Neteyam said matter-of-factly, though nerves bubbled in his stomach.

Lo’ak looked shocked, his eyes wide and mouth agape. “What?!” He shouted, causing Neteyam to laugh and shush him. “Who?”

Neteyam sat up when Lo’ak hastily walked over to him. “You’ll find out soon.”

“No- bro, tell me now!” His brother insisted, trying to reach for Neteyam’s phone.

Neteyam snatched it. “No! You’ll find out!”

“Is it serious?”

Neteyam nodded, his nerves creeping up very quickly.

“Bro- What?? I need to know ri-“ Lo’ak started to pry more, but was interrupted by a meek voice outside of Neteyam’s door.

“Lo..?” Rotxo yawned, rubbing his eyes as he stood in Neteyam’s doorway.

“I’m coming-“ He dismissed, turning back to his brother and pointing at him with a finger as he walked backwards to Rotxo. “It has to be serious or else it doesn’t count.”

Rotxo grabbed his hand, tugging him back to Lo’ak’s room drowsily, and Neteyam stuck his tongue out at his little brother.

Chapter Text

The second date came about a week later.

The two really hadn’t talked at all, other than Neteyam telling Ao’nung he mentioned he was seeing someone and asking Ao’nung to do the same with Tsireya.

The date Neteyam had planned today was just to hang out at the park, it was supposed to be a nice day, and it helped that there was a flower shop along the way.

This time when Neteyam offered to drive him, Ao’nung accepted, opting to drive his car to Neteyam’s house first and then carpool together to the park.

Lo’ak was still asleep when Ao’nung arrived, but Neteyam knew he’d get a urgent text when his little brother woke up and saw Ao’nung’s car in their driveway.

Neteyam came out as soon as Ao’nung pulled into their driveway, a sleepy smile resting on his face. He met the boy outside of his car. “Do you want anything to eat before we go? I put some lunch in a cooler for us, it’s already in my car.”

Ao’nung shook his head, replying that he wasn’t hungry as he stepped out of his car and stretched his back.

Neteyam hummed in response and turned on his heels. He walked to his car and opened the passenger door, giving a small bow and inviting Ao’nung to sit.

The gesture pulled a small chuckle from Ao’nung, shoving the other boy’s shoulder playfully on his way to sit into the car.

Neteyam waited for Ao’nung to adjust before taking it upon himself to close the door, giving Ao’nung a silly grin through the window.

Ao’nung rolled his eyes, a small smile resting comfortably on his face while he followed Neteyam with his eyes as the boy ran from the passenger side of the car to the driver’s side.

He got into the car, settling down in his seat and grabbing the auxiliary cord to connect his phone. “What kind of music do you like?”

Ao’nung shrugged, his gaze quickly switching to stare at his jittery hands. “I don't know.” He picked at his nail. “Anything, I guess.”

Neteyam nodded softly, going to his liked songs and clicking the shuffle button. Ao’nung recognized the song as something he’d heard Rotxo play before.

He bounced his leg subtly in beat with the song, moving to rest his elbow on the window, placing his chin on his palm.

The drive from Neteyam’s parent’s house to the park wasn’t far, a short 10 minute drive on a good day.

The song came to end and a new song began, the starting notes of the song sparking Ao’nung’s attention, causing him to sit up and turn towards Neteyam. “Is this Tyler Childers?”

Neteyam laughed nervously, reaching for his phone to skip the song. “Uhh… yeah.”

Ao’nung stopped him, placing a hand onto his forearm. “You can leave it on.”

The darker skinned boy’s eyes widened slightly, locking them onto Ao’nung’s larger hand over the expanse of his arm.

Ao’nung coughed, ripping his arm away from Neteyam. “I didn’t know you liked music like his.”

“Yeah, uhh, my dad grew up in Kentucky, so he’s like- super country.” Neteyam spoke, one hand on the steering wheel with the other twirling in the arm with his words. “Lo’ak and I grew up riding horses and stuff.”

Ao’nung seemed shocked. “Really?” His jaw dropping slightly when the other boy nodded.

“I guess we don’t know as much about each other as we thought we did.”

~

They held a nice, light conversation for the rest of the short drive, and it flowed comfortably with them as they exited Neteyam’s car.

The slightly shorter boy grabbed the woven basket that held their lunch, Ao’nung commenting on how it looked like a cliche picnic basket that would be seen in the movies.

His observation pulled a small laugh from Neteyam’s lips, and he nodded in agreement.

Neteyam dropped his free hand next to his side, his other grasping the handles of the basket, both arms swinging subtly.

Ao’nung glanced at his hand, and then up at their surroundings. There was lots of people around them, some Ao’nung knew from college.

He thought about grabbing the younger boy’s hand, but ultimately decided against it because this was Neteyam’s thing, and if he wanted to hold hands with Ao’nung for the act, he would.

The pair approached a large oak tree, it’s size casting a decent shadow onto the grass. Neteyam looked at Ao’nung, his skin glistening with the smallest drops of sweat caused from the rays of the afternoon sun. “Is here okay?”

Ao’nung nodded, rocking on his heels awkwardly.

Birds were chirping in the tree above them, one robin especially upset they were so close to her nest. She squawked loudly at the boys, flapping her brown wings near Ao’nung’s head. “I don’t think she’s very happy we’re here.”

Neteyam laughed. “Did Rotxo ever tell you the story of when we were camping and a finch started attacking Lo’ak?”

“No, but now I’m intrigued.” Ao’nung replied, watching Neteyam sit down into the mix of moss and clover beneath the branches of the tree.

He moved to sit down next to the other boy, a good foot between them. “Okay- but you can’t tell him I told you, I assume there’s a reason Rotxo never did, he was very embarrassed about it.” Neteyam said through small, breathy laughs.

Neteyam began to unpack their lunch, laying out sandwiches and bags of chips onto the red and white checked blanket he had pulled from the basket. Ao’nung watched his movements, but made no move to help. “Do you want to go get something to drink?” Neteyam asked, pulling out his wallet.

Ao’nung shook his head. “No, I’m fine, thanks.”

Neteyam nodded, standing up and walking to the nearby water fountain to fill his water bottle. Ao’nung watched him go, a look of endearment resting on his face. He couldn’t help but appreciate how much effort Neteyam was putting into this fake relationship, even if it was just for the sake of his own embarrassment.

Neteyam had already began telling the story as he walked back over, swiftly moving to sit back onto the blanket as he spoke.

Ao’nung smiled at him, gazing at the way his lips formed words.

He was good at acting, he thought.

~

The rest of the date went well, they walked around the park after Lo’ak’s finch story, and during that walk, Neteyam got a text from the said boy, asking about the car in their parent’s driveway.

“He is absolutely freaking out.” Neteyam laughed, showing Ao’nung his phone and the influx of messages he was receiving from his brother. “He’s asking who’s it is.”

Ao’nung shook his head, a dry laugh slipping from him lips. “How does he not know it’s my car? I’ve dropped off Rotxo so many times.”

They continued walking, the sound of their steps crunching against the gravel of the park’s walking path. The sun was at it’s peek in the sky, casting warm rays over everything around them. “He isn't known to be the most observant one of our family.” Neteyam said, turning his gaze towards Ao’nung.

Eventually, it seemed that either Lo’ak had given up on trying to figure out who’s car it was, or he had realized and was already on his way to the park to yell at his older brother, because he had no longer been sending messages.

Neteyam glanced at the clock at the top of his screen, sighing softly when he decided it was probably time to head back. Ao’nung agreed with him and followed the other boy to the car.

As they got back into Neteyam's car and started the drive back to the Sully household, Ao’nung felt a sense of contentment wash over him. Despite the awkwardness and uncertainty of their fake relationship, he was enjoying getting to know Neteyam.

Chapter Text

Somehow, Ao’nung was able to slip off before Lo’ak saw him, bidding Neteyam a gentle goodbye and saying that’d he text him once he got home.

After Ao’nung had driven away, Neteyam walked inside his family home and collapsed onto his bed, feeling a mix of emotions.

He was relieved that the second date had gone well, but he was also feeling a sense of sadness that this was all just for show. He couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to actually date Ao'nung, but he quickly pushed those thoughts aside and decided to focus on the fact that they had become friends.

He sent Ao'nung a text to make sure he got home safely before sitting down on his bed, his mind still buzzing with thoughts of the fake relationship they were maintaining.

The boy tried his best to clear the unsure thoughts from his head, and instead pulled out his laptop to study.

Neteyam had been studying for a good hour before Lo‘ak burst into his room, his younger brother holding his phone tightly in his hand with a grinning Rotxo on the other side. He began demanding answers about the car that had been in their driveway. “Was the car Ao’nung’s?!?”

“Did you just wake up?” Neteyam asked, barely giving a glance to Lo’ak.

“Do not change the subject, Neteyam!” The younger boy shouted, running over the Neteyam’s bed. “Rotxo said it sounded like it was Ao’nung’s- was it Ao’nung’s?!”

He glanced at the boy on the screen, who in turn gave him a shrug with a smug smirk plastered on his face.

Neteyam shrugged back, trying to play it off nonchalantly. “It might've been.”

Lo’ak just stared at him, absolutely flabbergasted, with Rotxo on the other side laughing giddily.

“Get out of my room, I need to study.”

His little brother made no attempt to move, instead still staring with his jaw agape.

Neteyam laughed at him, shaking his head fondly. As he stood to push Lo’ak put of his room, his phone that was sitting on his bed buzzed.

“Who is that-“ Lo’ak demanded, his own phone still grasped tightly in his hand as he tried to side step his older brother. “Is that Ao’nun- Is he who you are talking to?!?”

Neteyam shrugged again, but a small smile rose to his face. “Just because I’m texting him doesn’t automatically mean he’s the one I’m talking to, ~” He trailed off at the end, sparking Lo’ak’s interest more as to what his brother wasn’t telling him.

“So it IS HIM!?” The younger boy shouted, making a grab for Neteyam’s phone. “Rotxo, I have to go- this is urgent.”

Rotxo simply laughed at his boyfriend’s antics, deciding not to hang up in hopes of watching this scene unfold further.

“No, don’t hang up on him!” Neteyam shoved his brother away. “Get out of here or I’ll go back to my apartment.”

Before Lo’ak was able to form a remark, their mother yelled up the stairs to keep it down and told her youngest son to go back to his room.

Once again, Lo’ak pointed an accusing finger at his brother. “This isn't over.” He said before he walked out of Neteyam’s room.

Neteyam rolled his eyes playfully, and waiting until his brother completely left the room before picking up his phone.

1 new message from Ao’nung: home :)) i had fun today

A small smile rose subconsciously to Neteyam’s teeth, his bunny teeth poking out and nudging his lower lip slightly.

You

>>i did too!!! thanks for hanging with me 😁

Ao’nung

<<yeahhh

when’s our next ‘date’?

Neteyam’s stomach twisted in excitement, he was happy they were becoming some sort of friends.

You

>>i was thinking in about a week? where do you wanna go?

Ao’nung

<<mann ur supposed to be making the calls dawg

but since ur asking we could go to the movies

You

>> i’m game!!

but if i even mention it to lo’ak he’s gonna wanna come

he’s onto you

Ao’nung

<<isnt that the point?

You

>>i mean yeah i just dont want it to be too quick on you

Ao’nung

<<no worries my man

we could go on a triple date with roxs n lo’ak and reya n kiri

Neteyam’s toes curled giddily, but he coughed and shook his head once he realized he was getting excited over virtually nothing.

You

>>you want to tell them we’re dating??

Ao’nung

<<again idk ur the one planning this but we dont have to

kinda just like easing them into it ig

You

>>okay

yeah sure :) ill let my siblings know, what do you wanna watch?

Ao’nung

<<the new spiderman?

You

>>sounds good to me!!

Ao’nung

<<and ur paying ;)

Chapter Text

The pair had been texting back and forth nearly everyday between their second and third date.

What surprised Neteyam was that it was normally Ao’nung reaching out and starting the conversation.

It was usually silly stuff, things Rotxo told him about Lo’ak or something completely random.

Neteyam was just happy Ao’nung was talking to him, and that they were growing more comfortable with each other.

Both of Neteyam’s siblings agreed to go to the movies with their partner, and everyone was very excited, although Lo’ak was growing suspicious of his brother and Ao’nung.

They decided to take two cars, since the theater was and equal distance for each family, Rotxo, Tsireya, and Ao’nung drove together in one car, and Neteyam, Lo’ak, and Kiri in another.

They met up not long after lunch, parking in the back of the lot.

Neteyam stepped out first, giving an awkward wave to Ao’nung before walking to him.

He felt his little brother’s eyes glaring into the back of his neck, but he ignored it. “Are you ready?” 

Ao’nung nodded, a small smile rising on his face as he took int Neteyam’s outfit. “You look cute.”

The dark skinned boy blushed lightly, his head dropping slightly, causing his braids to fall over his face. “They can’t even hear you.”

“That’s okay, I said it for your ears anyway.” Ao’nung said nonchalantly, shrugging his shoulders and locking his car as he walked towards the theater.

Neteyam stood dumbfounded, his jaw slightly agape as he processed what Ao’nung had just said.

He said it for Neteyam’s ears, what was that supposed to mean?

“Come on, bro, the movie is starting soon.” Lo’ak said, tugging his brother’s arm with one hand, his other hand intertwined with Rotxo’s.

“It’s just the trailers, baby.” Rotxo laughed, watching as Neteyam shook his head to clear his thoughts.

“How am I supposed to know what movie I want to see next without the trailers?” Lo’ak responded, looking to his boyfriend. He dropped Neteyam’s wrist once the older boy began following them.

Tsireya and Kiri were already walking towards the doors, their hands also intertwined. Kiri was talking to Ao’nung, a smug smirk on her face, while Tsireya was laughing and Ao’nung seemed offended.

All the tickets were on Neteyam’s phone, so after he realized they group was waiting for him, he picked up a jog and sheepishly apologized to his friends.

Rotxo and Lo’ak went to pick out candy, and Tsireya and Kiri went to get slushies.

Neteyam had not realized Ao’nung’s presence until the boy spoke from behind him. He could feel Ao’nung’s breath against his neck while he spoke.

“Do you like popcorn?” 

His question was so simple, so reasonable, yet it struck something in Neteyam.

Neteyam was frozen, accidentally staring wide-eyed at the kind lady who was scanning their tickets.

She gave him a funny look in return, her eyebrows quirking. 

“Neteyam?”

“S-sorry.” Neteyam stuttered out, once again shaking his head to clear his head. “What did you ask?”

Ao’nung smirked down at him, a hint of entertainment swirling in his blue eyes. “Popcorn, do you want any?”

“Oh- uh, yeah sure.” The dark skinned boy stumbled, clumsily reaching into his pocket for cash.

Ao’nung placed his hand on Neteyam’s bicep, his hand lifting to show the credit card he was holding. “I’ve got it.”

Neteyam froze once again, staring at Ao’nung’s hand on his skin. He swallowed thickly and nodded his head, but didn’t tear his eyes away from Ao’nung’s hand until Ao’nung pulled it away. 

Ao’nung offered a gentle laugh in return, shaking his head as he handed the card to the lady, ordering a large bag of popcorn.

After Ao’nung received the popcorn, and Lo’ak instructed him to pour an ungodly amount of butter onto the fluffy snack, they finally managed to get to their seats. 

Out of the row, the group had reserved 6 seats. Kiri and Tsireya took the two middle, immediately pushing armrest between the up. Tsireya pulled out a fluffy blanket from her bag, as well as some sour snacks she snuck in as well, before she plopped down and cuddled into her girlfriend’s side.

Rotxo was sat next to Kiri, with Lo’ak next to him, their hands laced as they watched the trailers intently, pointing out which ones they found interesting.

And next to Tsireya was Neteyam, with Ao’nung on the farthest outside seat.

“Have you seen the first one?” Ao’nung asked, reaching his hand into the popcorn bucket.

“The first Spiderverse movie?” Neteyam repeated and glanced at Ao’nung. The tanned boy nodded, turning his head to look at Neteyam. “Yeah, I watched it with Lo’ak when it first came out, but that was before he and Rotxo became a thing.”

Ao’nung laughed lightly, adjusting himself into his seat and reclining it back. “I still can’t believe that. When Rotxo told me I was shocked, I hated Lo’ak, and then my bestfriend started dating him, and now I’m dating his brother.”

Neteyam blushed softly, looking away from Ao’nung. He caught a gentle smile on Tsireya’s face.

Once the lights dimmed, the theater quieted down, only the sound of squeaking faux leather and crunching popcorn was heard until the movie began.

During the movie, Neteyam found himself getting lost in the plot and in the characters, but he couldn't help but feel Ao'nung's eyes on him every now and then. 

He tried his best to ignore him, focusing on the movie instead, which wasn’t hard as he was genuinely enjoying movie.

Neteyam did not like moving during the quiet parts, waiting until the scene with loud music came before he adjusted his position or ate a handful of popcorn.

He moved to grab his drink, a very sugary lemonade from the fountain outside, taking a long sip and placing it back down. His arm moved to rest on the armrest, but recoiled quickly when he felt warm skin against his own.

Neteyam whipped his head to the side, the bright screen only allowing him so see the convex features of Ao’nung’s face.

Ao’nung did not look at him, but simply instead raised his hand and placed it on top of Neteyam’s, lacing their fingers together and giving it a gentle squeeze.

Neteyam could see him smile, and a smile raised on his face too.

Once the movie was over, the group chatted about it while they walked to the car. Lo’ak was upset by the ending, and Kiri really appreciated the diversity.

As they parted ways for the night, Neteyam and Ao'nung exchanged a quick hug, and Neteyam couldn't help but feel a sense of longing for something more.

Chapter Text

The two boys had been talking much more the two weeks before their next date, sometimes they called, sometimes they facetimed.

Neteyam enjoyed each passing conversation he had with the other boy, but he noticed how Ao’nung’s responses began to sound less and less scripted. 

Their fourth date was another triple date, but this one was less concrete, because their local fair had opened up for the season.

The group, as well as their families, all decided to take a trip the same day.

Neteyam started his day by spending it with his family, going on every ride his little sister wanted to go on. He decided an hour into the trip that it would just be easier to buy the young girl all the junk she wanted, being he wouldn’t have to be the one dealing with her stomach ache later in the night.

Eventually, Lo’ak and Kiri departed from their parents and siblings, in search of meeting up with their significant others.

Neteyam stayed back a bit longer, waiting for Tuk to finish off the last of her tickets before her sugar crash hit. She begged for Neteyam to carry her back to their parents, her sleepy head rested on his shoulder as she moaned about the pain in her abdomen.

He patted her back softly, giving his mother a sympathetic smile before shifting the youngest Sully into her arms.

After bidding his family goodnight, he sent a text to the friend’s group chat saying he was finally available to hang out. 

He got a response from Tsireya, saying her and Kiri were at the food court, but didn’t hear anything from his brother’s boyfriend or Lo’ak himself.

Ao’nung, however, seemed eager to meet up with the other boy, almost immediately suggesting Neteyam come over to the games.

So Neteyam gladly did, moseying his way through the crowds and towards the games. He stopped momentarily a few times to say hello to some of his childhood friends.

Eventually he made his way over, spotting Ao’nung before the other boy saw him.

He looked cute, Neteyam thought. He had a faded brown “The Cure” shirt tucked into loose fitting jean shorts and his classic black Vans. They had unintentionally matched their outfits, as Neteyam was wearing an acid washed “The Cure” tee with cuffed jean shorts and hazelnut Converse.

The realization brought a bashful smile to Neteyam’s face but he quickly twisted it into a more friendly one after Ao’nung noticed him.

The other boy raised his hand, waving it eagerly before picking up a jog and running over to Neteyam.

They both stood awkwardly in front of each other for a moment. “We match!” Ao’nung said gleefully, pointing at Neteyam’s outfit before pointing at his own.

Neteyam nodded softly, his grin shifting again, this time to one filled with fondness. “We do.”

Ao’nung sparked a quick conversation about the band with Neteyam as he led him to the various stands of games, his large hand wrapped delicately around Neteyam’s wrist.

The pair stopped in front of ring toss, and Ao’nung reached into his pocket before slamming down a crumpled ball of tickets. “Watch this.”

Neteyam nodded in amusement, his eyes watching Ao’nung pick up his three rings. 

The taller boy straddle his legs, his knees bending slightly to form what he probably deemed as the perfect stance. “Are you watching?”

Neteyam laughed, nodding his head again and stepping up closer next to Ao’nung. “Yes, I’m watching.” 

“Okay.” Ao’nung readied himself by cracking his neck and shaking his wrists. The blue ring grasped tightly in between his fingers, his eyes trained onto the bottle in the center.

He heaved in a deep breath before tossing the ring, a look of determination on his face.

That look quickly dropped to disbelief when the ring hit the neck of a completely different bottle and fell to the floor. 

Neteyam turned his head, smirking at Ao’nung.

“I’m just getting warmed up. Look, I’m gonna win that bear.” Ao’nung said, his eyes wide like he was a deer that had been caught in headlights. He pointed to a large brown bear with a red ribbon around it’s neck.

“Yeah? With just those two rings?” Neteyam gestured to the two remaining rings in Ao’nung’s hand.

Ao’nung nodded. “Yes, with just these two rings.”

Ao’nung was not able to achieve the bear with the last two rings, or the six others he ended up buying. He eventually decided he would show Neteyam his skills on a different game, tugging him over to darts.

He wasn’t very good at darts either, and began getting flustered when he was missing almost every shot. 

Neteyam didn’t mind watching Ao’nung embarrass himself. He almost thought it was cute. 

With his last dart, Ao’nung was able to hit a large blue balloon. The boy squealed, jumping up and down before turning to Neteyam, his hands moving to rest on the darker skinned male’s shoulders. “Look!”

Neteyam laughed fondly at him, his left hand subconsciously moving to rest on Ao’nung’s hip. “I see!”

Ao’nung’s face reddened when he realized what he had just done and he cleared his throat awkwardly, stepping away from Neteyam. He pointed to a small teal seal stuffed animal, with darker teal stripes. 

The attendant handed the cheap plushie to Ao’nung and the young boy grabbed it proudly, assessing it’s worthiness before passing it to Neteyam. 

“For me?” Neteyam asked, a look of slight disbelief on his face as he took the stuffed animal from Ao’nung. 

Ao’nung nodded. “Who else was I trying to impress with my amazing skills?” 

Neteyam blushed softly. “Yes, your amazing skills, I’m sure everyone is dying to get a piece of you now.” 

“Too bad I’m a taken man.” Ao’nung responded, bumping shoulders with Neteyam playfully.

The comment made Neteyam’s face heat up more, but he tried his best to push it aside. He looked back down at the seal, squeezing it’s face gently. “He reminds me of you.” He held it out next to Ao’nung’s face.

“Of me?” Ao’nung said, shocked. “Why of me?”

Neteyam laughed slightly, squishing the plushie again. “I don’t know, it just does.” He pulled it back, hugging it tight and pushing his face into the soft fabric.

Ao’nung scoffed playfully, turning back to face the wall of balloons. “Well, that cat reminds me of you.” He pointed to a very large blue cat with dark blue stripes, and a small black floof at the end of it’s tail. “I dare you to win it.”

“That’s not gonna happen, I need to hit like, one of those super tiny balloons.” Neteyam replied. “Plus I don’t have any tickets.”

“You have to at least try. Here,” Ao’nung spoke, reaching into his pocket for a few more tickets from his dwindling pile. “I bet you won’t be able to, but it’ll be fun to watch.”

Neteyam shook his head, stepping up, determined to prove Ao’nung wrong. “Fine, hold your mini me.” He said, shoving the seal stuffed animal into Ao’nung’s arms. He picked up the darts, readying himself slightly before tossing one dart at a small red balloon. 

It popped, and Neteyam’s jaw dropped. 

He turned to face Ao’nung, who had an even more flabbergasted expression plastered on his face. “No way.” Ao’nung turned to him, his jaw still agape. “How did you do that?!”

Neteyam shrugged, smirking smugly as he asked the attendant for the big blue cat, to which he immediately handed to Ao’nung. “Give me my mini Nung back.”

Ao’nung blushed at the nickname, shifting the small plushie to Neteyam and grabbing the big one. “Can I even call this mini Neteyam?”

Before Neteyam could respond, his brother’s voice boomed next to them. “Woah, that’s a big cat!” He shouted, and Neteyam turned to look him.

Lo’ak had Rotxo’s backpack hanging on his shoulder, the bag overflowing with food and cheap prizes that he would probably just end up giving to Tuk. His hand was intertwined with Rotxo’s, the shorter boy grinning widely at his bestfriend, though his eyes looked tired.

“I just won it for Ao’nung.” Neteyam said proudly, stepping one step closer to Ao’nung so their arms brushed together. 

“You’re crazy.” Lo’ak scoffed, shaking his head. He cooed softly when a yawn slipped from Rotxo’s mouth, pulling his hand away from his boyfriend’s to instead wrap his arm around Rotxo’s shoulders. “Anyway, we’re gonna go on the Ferris wheel and then head home, do you guys wanna come?”

Neteyam gave a quick glance to Ao’nung, humming when the boy gave him a shrug. He looked back to his brother and nodded his head. “Sure, why not.”

After Ao’nung dug through his pockets, he was able to scrounge up just enough tickets for both of them to ride the Ferris wheel together.

The line wasn’t super long, but it was long enough for the four of them to have a nice conversation. Lo’ak didn’t pester them about the state of Ao’nung and Neteyam’s relationship until they were at the front of the line.

“So, are you guys, like, dating?” He asked, ducking his head down when Rotxo reached up to tap his head gently. “What? I’m just asking.”

Neither of the two other boys answered, but Neteyam felt Ao’nung’s arm wrap around his waist, rubbing his hip bone gently. 

Neteyam bit his lip, not sure how to react in this situation. He tried to brush it off as Ao’nung acting once again, but he struggled to wrap his head around it. It was dark, he wasn’t even sure if Rotxo and Lo’ak could see what he was doing. 

Rotxo huffed and rolled his eyes, grabbing his boyfriend’s wrist and tugging him onto a purple cart.

Ao’nung’s arm did not move from Neteyam’s body, in fact Neteyam felt it tighten when a group of boys jostled a little too close.

When it was their turn to get onto the Ferris wheel, Ao’nung stepped in first, placing his big cat stuffie on the left seats. He didn’t immediately sit down, and instead reached his hand out of the cart, offering it to Neteyam. 

Neteyam smiled softly, grabbing Ao’nung’s arm and allowing the taller boy to pull him up. He sat his seal stuffed animal down next to the cat, positioning it slightly so it looked like it was sitting. 

He backed up a step after, admiring his work, before sitting down next to Ao’nung. 

The tanned boy’s arm moved to rest behind Neteyam, turning his body slightly to face Neteyam. 

While waiting, Neteyam had counted that the wheel spun 3 times before each rider had to get off, something he decided to keep in mind.

He gave a side eyed glance at Ao’nung’s hand resting by his shoulder. “You’re pretty good at this whole acting thing.” Neteyam turned to look at the other boy more clearly.

Ao’nung seemed to think deeply after Neteyam’s observation, nodding his head subtly. “Yeah?”

Neteyam hummed. “Yeah, I think we’re playing it off very well.”

Ao’nung nodded again, falling silent for the remainder of the rotation.

The silence wasn’t awkward, but it wasn’t exactly comfortable either.

“So, how much longer do we have to do this?” Ao’nung asked after a little, his gaze trained on the paws of the cat sitting across from him. 

Neteyam turned his head to look at him. “Uh- I don’t know. There’s a month until my birthday.”

When he moved to be face to face with Ao’nung, Neteyam felt his breath catch in his throat.

Ao’nung’s eyes were locked onto his lips, moving swiftly to look into Neteyam’s eyes before moving back down to his lips. 

Ao’nung hummed in response, but he seemed unfocused. He leaned his shoulders forward, just slightly enough to quicken Neteyam’s heart beat.

“Uhm-“ Neteyam said nervously, his eyes flickering back and forth between Ao’nung’s lips and his eyes. “Why do you ask?”

“Just curious, we haven’t even told anyone yet.” Ao’nung said before sitting back, his eyes tearing away from Neteyam and out to the fair.

They once again fell into silence, a full rotation of the wheel, with Neteyam staring at Ao’nung’s cheekbone.

They were a third way around their last rotation before Neteyam spoke up.

“Ao’nung.” 

Ao’nung turned his head, his gaze soft. His curls blew over his eyes from the gentle breeze, the smell the caramel and popcorn traveling with it.

Neteyam looked into his eyes, and his breath subconsciously halted. “What would you do if I said I wanted to kiss you right now?”

Ao’nung’s eyes flicked down at Neteyam’s lips once again. “For the act?” His eyes stayed trained where they were.

“No.” He replied and leaned in slowly, locking his lips with Ao’nung’s.

The kiss was sweet, soft. It wasn’t heated or feverish, it was delicate, one that was testing the waters.

Ao’nung kissed back nearly instantly, moving his hand up to rest on Neteyam’s cheek.

He felt Ao’nung’s thumb trace his cheekbone, rubbing across the coarse stubble along his dark skin.

He sighed deeply into the kiss, his own hands moving to cradle Ao’nung’s face.

As the voices from the people on the platform got louder, Neteyam pulled back, pushing the other boy away slightly.

He stood before the ride halted, forgetting his seal and running off the cart as soon as the attendant opened the door.

“Neteyam-“ He heard called behind him, but he ignored it, pushing past the exit doors.

His lip quivered slightly, and he gave himself a pitifully laugh as he wiped the tear from his eye before it could fall.

Why was he crying? Or more importantly, why did he kiss Ao’nung? Why did he kiss Ao’nung like that?

He plowed through the crowd, ignoring the buzz of his phone from inside his pocket. 

He shoved past a group of people, rubbing his eyes angrily.

“Neteyam?” He heard a voice call. He immediately recognized it as his sister, and swiftly halted his steps.

He kept his head down as he approached her, looking at her painted toe nails peaking through her Birkenstocks. A clean pair of Nike Airforces stood beside her.

He refused to look at his sister, and Ao’nung’s sister, instead opting to reach a blind arm out to grasp Kiri’s hand. “Let’s go. Tsireya, Ao’nung is at the Ferris wheel.”

“Tey- What’s wrong?” Kiri asked, glancing at her girlfriend softly before grabbing her hand and placing a gentle kiss on her lips. “Text me, okay?”

Neteyam could tell Tsireya was unsure by the way her feet stumbled, but she eventually obliged and walked away.

Kiri turned her attention back to her brother and he began tugging her towards the parking lot. “Neteyam?” 

“Nothings wrong, I just want to go home, I’m tired.” He lied, trying his best to not cause suspicion.

It didn’t work, as Kiri immediately knew something was wrong, but she decided not to push it, at least not until they got to the car.

“Will you text Lo’ak?”

Kiri nodded, pulling out her phone and instead calling their little brother.

Once they got to the car, Kiri tried once to pry a confession out of her brother, giving up when Neteyam nearly snapped at her. 

A few minutes later, Lo’ak showed up under the dim street lights. He opened Neteyam’s car door, climbing into the back and sitting himself in the middle. “Hey!”

Kiri laughed softly at his enthusiasm. “Where’s Rotxo?”

“He went home with Ao’nung, I don't know, Ao’nung seemed kinda off so he wanted to go with to check on him.” He shrugged, zipping open Rotxo’s backpack and finding some candy to gnaw on. “Yo- Tey, Reya told me you and him kissed on the Ferris wheel- is that true?” He asked, leaning forward onto the center console. 

“I hate when you talk with food in your mouth.” Kiri moaned, turning to look out the window as they pulled away from the fair.

Neteyam stayed quiet for a few seconds, not knowing how he wanted to answer.

“Yes.” He decided on. He did not know why he was upset, but it wasn’t worth losing this act over.

“DAMNN OKAY BIG BRO!” Lo’ak exclaimed, laughing excitedly and patting his older brother’s shoulder. “So you guys ARE like a thing?” 

Neteyam shrugged, his gaze locked on the dark road in front of them. “I guess.”

He allowed his brother to babble about Neteyam’s ‘boyfriend’ for a few minutes until he got bored of his brother’s short responses and began talking about his own relationship instead.

Once they got home, he parked his car to allow his siblings to get out. 

Lo’ak got out immediately, complaining about his stomach hurting, but Kiri hesitated. “Are you okay?”

Neteyam closed his eyes, sighing deeply and throwing his head against the headrest of his car. “No.” His voice broke and he cringed at himself.

“Oh, Tey.” Kiri said, leaning across the center console to hug her brother. “What’s wrong?”

“I did something stupid.” Neteyam admitted into his sister’s neck, his tears smearing on her skin. 

“Do you want to talk about it?” 

Neteyam shrugged, sniffling and pulling away. “I don’t know if I can.”

Kiri nodded softly, reaching a hand up to brush a tear from Neteyam’s cheek. “That’s okay. I’m here if you decide to. Do you want me to stay with you tonight?”

He thought for a moment before nodded his head softly. He wasn’t sure if he would end up talking to Kiri, but it would at least be nice to have someone beside him while he slept.