Work Text:
Cory and Shawn sit side by side on Cory's bed holding comic books. After school, a few hours ago, Cory submitted his article on Veronica Wasboiski. Shawn still wears his female disguise, but Cory isn't bothered by it. He'd tried a wig and lunch lady-style disguise earlier in the week. Though he can admit that the skirt was breezy, the wig made his head itch, and that isn't in his cards. After some initial confusion and hesitation, Feeny let Shawn become his pseudonym Veronica for the week. By Thursday, Veronica was answering to both male and female pronouns. Cory knows there might be something his boyfriend wants to say, but he gives him time.
"It was fun to take on her personality," Shawn says apropos of nothing half an hour later.
Cory smiles at Shawn admiringly. He closes his book and places it on the floor, then turns to face Shawn on the bed.
"You know, you make a really beautiful girl. Any guy would be lucky to have you."
Shawn blushes, looking down at his manicured hands. "Aw, you say the sweetest things Cor. But you're the only guy for me."
Cory grins and leans in for a kiss. Their lips meet softly at first but grow more passionate. Cory wraps his arms around Shawn's waist, pulling him closer. After a few blissful moments, Shawn pulls away hesitantly.
"Cory, there's actually something I wanted to talk to you about. It's about Veronica... and me."
Cory looks at Shawn inquisitively, sensing this is serious. He takes Shawn's hands in his. "You know you can tell me anything, Shawnie. I'm here for you."
Shawn takes a deep breath, steeling himself. "The truth is, when I'm dressed as Veronica... I feel more comfortable in my own skin. Like I can truly be myself. These last few weeks exploring this side of me for the column, I've been doing a lot of soul-searching. And I've realized that maybe Veronica is more a part of me than I thought. When I look like this, I prefer female pronouns. But when I look like regular ol' Shawn again, he/him still feels right. I guess what I'm trying to say is, I think I might be a demigirl. Does... does that make any sense?"
Cory is quiet for a moment, taking it all in. Shawn anxiously awaits his response, knees starting to bounce nervously. It feels like hours, but the silence only exists for several seconds.
Finally, Cory speaks. "Shawnie, I just want you to be happy. If being both Veronica and Shawn at different times feels right to you, then that's amazing. You shouldn't have to hide any part of who you are. I love you for your soul, not what's on the outside. No matter how you identify, you'll always be mine."
Shawn releases the breath he's holding, eyes beginning to water in relief. "Really? You're not weirded out or wanna break up or anything?"
"Of course not! I fell in love with who you are inside, not what clothes or pronouns you go by. Shawn or Veronica, you'll always be my best friend in the whole world, no matter what. All that matters is that you're true to yourself."
Overwhelmed with gratitude and affection, Veronica adjusts her hair and throws her arms around Cory's neck, hugging him tight. Cory holds her close, rubbing her back soothingly. He hadn't meant to say 'fell in love with'. It's true, but he hadn't meant to say it. He hopes he hasn't ruined the tender moment. When Veronica pulls back, her eyes shine with tears, but a radiant smile lights up her face. Cory smiles back softly, cupping his girlfriend's cheek.
"I love you so much Cor. Thank you for accepting me."
"I love you too, Ronnie. Now go on, get comfortable, my beautiful girl."
Veronica grins, snuggling against Cory's chest with a contented sigh. Cory wraps his arms around her protectively as they lie down together on the bed.