Archive of Our Own

Finally! After a while of waiting, Grian managed to organize a Magical Mountain meeting with everyone, including Mumbo this time. 

The plan was to continue work on the volcano, but the meeting did get pretty side-tracked. Scar started talking about who knows what, Skizz and Impulse were having their own side discussion while Gem and Joel were poking fun at things Scar said, occasionally talking to each other and ignoring Scar. 

But Grian noticed something the others didn't — Mumbo.

Your eyes only follow one single person
Despite there being a lot of others around, they follow only one

The avian squinted at his best friend, trying to figure out what was going on with the man that was beside him. He was zoning out clearly, but his eyes seemed glued on Scar, even his gaze shifting to follow the brunette when he moved around. 

Suddenly, he heard Scar's voice call out to the mustached man in question. 

"Mumbo! C'mon- I'm not a nerd right?" Grian heard the brunette ask, Gem and Joel snickering in the background as Scar came closer to Mumbo with pleading eyes. 

Mumbo practically jumped out of his seat, yelping at the startle Scar gave him as his face flushed a bright red. 

Grian snickered playfully as Scar looked confused at Mumbo. "Someone wasn't paying attention." He said in a teasing tone, nudging Mumbo. Mumbo stammered in reply. 

"N-No!" Mumbo stuttered out, glaring at Grian. The avian had a shit-eating grin on his face. Mumbo huffed, put his hands to his sides and looked over at Scar, giving the brunette a smile as Scar looked curiously between the two. 

"I would, er-" Mumbo paused, tapping on the side of his chair, "What was the question again?" he asked in a quiet voice, giving Scar a nervous smile. 

Scar let out a laugh. It was now obvious that Mumbo definitely wasn't paying attention and didn't hear Scar's question. 

"He was asking if he's a nerd, Mumbo." Grian repeated for the taller, snickering along with Scar's laugh as Mumbo blinked a few times while he processed this. 

"Well..." Mumbo started, clicking his tongue. "Y'know mate I wouldn't really say you're- well-" He stuttered over his words, fumbling as Scar went back to his pleading face, which definitely caught him off guard. It was obvious Scar wanted Mumbo to say that no, he wasn't a nerd, But everyone there knew that it was a lie.

"You're like a fun nerd!" he said with a shaky smile. Grian giggled, hearing laughs from Joel and Gem as well. Scar raised an eyebrow. "What does that mean..?" he asked, trailing off as he crossed his arms, playfully glaring at Mumbo.

"Oh— y'know..." Mumbo trailed off as well, looking down as he fiddled with his fingers before giving Grian a look that screamed 'Help me.’

Grian let out another giggle before speaking. "What Mumbo means is that you're not a Mumbo nerd you're aaaaaaa.." He trailed off, squinting at nothing in particular as he tried to find the right word. "A nerdy nerd!" He said so much confidence in his voice despite how silly that sounded. 

"A nerdy nerd?" Scar parroted with a stifled snicker, Joel and Gem laughing their asses off as Mumbo held his head in his hands. Grian also took notice of Impulse and Skizz paying some attention to the conversation, looking over at the group as they continued to talk among themselves. 

The avian stammered, his wings spreading out a little in embarrassment at the others laughing at his words and Mumbo's disappointment. "You know what I mean!!" He squawked, standing up on his chair as some sort of attempt to make them stop giggling and pay attention to him.

"Mumbo's a redstone-liking nerd, Scar's a star wars and whatever nerd!!" He continued, stomping his foot down, the others continued laughing. 

Grian felt a hand touch his own, the dry and calloused texture making him instantly know it was Mumbo without even having to look down, though his gaze still shifted to look down at Mumbo who was standing at his side, looking up at him. 

The avian's heart felt like it was being squeezed. 

"Mate, you can get down." Mumbo said with a smile tugging at his lips while his cheeks still being a light pink from the previous embarrassment. Grian could stare at him for ages, he almost forgot to reply as he felt another tug at his hand from Mumbo.

Grian sighed, hopping off the chair as his wings fluttered softly, Scar and the other two had stopped laughing by now and instead were now making some small talk, Scar's back now facing Grian and Mumbo.

Mumbo was staring again, Grian furrowed his brow as he looked up at the redstoner, then at Scar. Grian always took note of the way Scar always seemed to catch Mumbo's attention. In season 8 they'd often talk to each other in the middle of Boatem meetings, acting as if the others weren't there as they chatted away about their latest project or whatever was going on in their lives. Season 9 brought no change either, the two of them frequently chatting to each other for hours on end at least once every few days. Grian could never forget how hurt he was at finding out Mumbo got Scar to blow up his base with him instead of the avian.

Now Grian wouldn't say he’s the jealous type. But he sort of is, and he sort of kinda maybe had a giant crush on Mumbo and has had one since early to mid season 6. Something in him had a hunch that these feelings were unrequited, and from the way Mumbo is looking at Scar, he had a feeling his heart was about to be crushed by the realization that they definitely were.

But all he wanted was for Mumbo to be happy. And if Mumbo being happy meant that Mumbo and Scar were dating instead of it being him and Mumbo? Then so be it. Grian was about to be the biggest wingman to ever exist

You understand this love now, right?
You don't have to hide it
I'll cheer for you with all my might 

The next day Grian was on a mission. He was going to get Mumbo to admit that he had a crush, whether it be on Scar or just in general, he had to know!!

So the second he saw Mumbo building at his base, he practically flew so fast he could've been mistaken as a hummingbird. He landed on Mumbo's shoulders, the velocity should've pushed Mumbo over but from doing it so many times; it was as if the redstoner was always ready for Grian to appear at any second, instead he simply stumbled a little with a yelp. Grian couldn't see it but he definitely knew Mumbo's eyes were wide in surprise.  

"Don't scare me like that!" Mumbo sputtered out, glaring up at Grian as the blonde adjusted himself to perch on the taller's shoulders more comfortably.

Grian simply giggled, "Hi Mumbo." He said with a grin, Mumbo simply sighed, letting out a quiet chuckle as he went back to building. Mumbo was practically built like a tank and Grian was almost weightless anyway, it came to no surprise that he could continue on with his work as if Grian wasn't there, albeit with some minor difficulties. 

When Mumbo didn't speak for a bit Grian huffed, poking at the other's head to get his attention. Mumbo looked up with curiosity and Grian made a face of slight confusion. "Aren't you gonna ask what I'm doing?" The avian asked. Mumbo shrugged in reply, the action making the avian move as well and almost lose his balance.

"I just assumed you were bored and wanted to watch what I was doing like usual." He said, going back to his work and once again losing his attention towards Grian. 

Grian huffed, deciding to not beat around the bush and go straight for it. "Do you have a crush on anyone?" He asked bluntly, looking down at Mumbo, his brows knitted together as he observed the taller closely. 

Mumbo froze instantly, Grian could feel the other's shoulders tense up. He stuttered and stammered, Grian raised an eyebrow as he could visibly see a blush creep onto the redstoner's face even from this angle.

"W-Why would you say that?" Mumbo stuttered out, his gaze looking anywhere but up at Grian as the avian crouched down more to try and force Mumbo to look at him. "Just a hunch." He replied nonchalantly, a smile tugging at his lips at Mumbo's reaction.

Maybe Mumbo did like him like that... maybe Grian was just reading everything wrong and Mumbo did like him. He was... probably wrong, but he had to keep some hope. 

Mumbo let out a sigh that took Grian out of his thoughts, the avian blinking a few times before the other looked up at him. "Maybe." The redstoner mumbled, bringing his head down again as having his head tilted up like that caused a bit of a strain. 

Grian tilted his head to the side, looking down at Mumbo with pure curiosity in his eyes. His ear wings flicked, "Sorry, didn't catch that." He said with a stifled giggle, "Care to repeat?" He teased.

Mumbo huffed, rolling his eyes. "I said maybe, pesky bird." He teased back, faking being annoyed at the avian. Grian knew Mumbo could never be actually annoyed at him. He hoped so at least. 

Grian gave a wide, mischievous grin that made the corners of his eyes crinkle. "Mumbo's in looove~!" He teased in a sing-songy voice. Mumbo chuckled, rolling his eyes in response as he went back to building once again. 

Do they live nearby? (What kind of person are they?)

"Who is it?" Grian asked, his curiosity getting the best of him. Mumbo froze up again, and Grian flapped his wings lightly. "They're a hermit, right?" He asked, a grin on his face. He wouldn't tell Mumbo he knew, something in him still tried to hope Mumbo liked him. Not Scar.

Mumbo stuttered and stammered, almost dropping the blocks in his hands. Grian’s wings twitched, waiting for Mumbo to reply as his patience thinned and his curiosity grew. He was half tempted to start guessing, maybe if he mentioned Scar Mumbo would say something?

His thoughts were put on hold by Mumbo speaking up. “Don’t you have a permit office to tend to?” He asked, looking up at Grian as his face was still red. Grian frowned, Mumbo never tried to shoo him off like this unless they were already finished a conversation or Mumbo was just being playful. Mumbo sounded more like he wanted this conversation to be over.

My heart is beating too!

Maybe it was Grian that Mumbo liked. Maybe his love was requited. Maybe that’s why Mumbo wanted him to go, because he just wasn’t ready to confess yet!

…Okay maybe Grian was being a bit too hopeful there. But you couldn’t blame him!! It’s hard enough having a massive crush on your best friend, and it’s even harder knowing that they most likely don’t feel the same!! 

“Grian?” Mumbo spoke up, concern and confusion in his expression as he looked up at the avian still perched on his shoulders. Grian blinked a few times, letting out a chirp in reply as he zoned back into reality. 

Mumbo frowned, “Are you alright, mate?” He asked, clearly seeming to be at least a little worried about the avian. 

It was Grian’s turn to stutter out a reply, “Sorry!” Mumbo let out a sigh of relief, “I’m fine, back to you!” he said, plastering a smile on his face as he changed the topic back to what they were talking about earlier, ignoring Mumbo trying to shoo him away. 

Mumbo sighed, looking back down even though he had stopped building by now. “I’m not telling you, Grian.” He said, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips as much as he tried to seem annoyed at the blonde. 

You have to confess with the right timing, right?
Hey, hurry! Hey, hurry! When will the chance come?

“C’mon!! You’re gonna have to confess eventually, why not tell me! Or even just tell them!” He said with a pleading face, even though Mumbo couldn’t see he hoped the other could tell through just the avian’s voice. 

Mumbo let out a sound that was a mix of a groan and a whine. “They probably don’t feel the same.” He mumbled, looking off to the side. Grian let out a loud, offended sounding gasp. 

“Mumbo! Of course they feel the same!” The avian spoke, tone dramatic, “I mean, unless they’re aroace…” He murmured, mostly speaking to himself, “But there’s always queerplatonic!” He continued, voice more clear. 

Mumbo laughed softly, “What are you, my wingman?” He asked, teasing Grian at his excitement. The avian huffed, wings fluttering lightly at the comment. In a way he was Mumbo’s literal wingman after all, considering he had the real wings and Mumbo didn’t! 

Grian puffed up his chest, grinning with pride. “Of course I am! Gotta help my best friend get bitches afterall.” He said, his tone so confident and casual that made Mumbo practically choke on air as he sputtered and coughed, shaking so violently that made Grian almost fall off his shoulders. 

“Grian!!” He shouted, to which Grian snickered, flapping his wings to lift himself off of Mumbo’s shoulders. “I’ll figure it out eventually!!” He said with a giggle as he flew off. 

Just like the day before, Grian jumpscared Mumbo. This time flying and quickly landing in front of him in the shopping district. “Mumbo!!” He shouted, jumping up and down a few times as his wings fluttered.

Mumbo jumped with a yelp, clearly so distracted with restocking his iron shop that he didn’t even notice Grian land on the stack of iron blocks in front of him at first. 

“Who’s your crush?” The blonde asked, looking at Mumbo with big eyes. The other sputtered, face turning red quickly. “Grian!! You can’t just-” He sputtered. 

Grian blinked a few times, frowning. “You didn’t tell me last time, c’mon!” He whined, shaking Mumbo by his shoulders lightly. 

So it will surely be conveyed (A Happy End of mutual love!)
Because I want to see you laughing happily
It will surely be conveyed!

“Just tell me!! I bet they’ll like you back, I’ll even set up a date for you two! If I know them that is.” He said, his smile almost faltering at the thought. He wouldn’t let his feelings get the best of him. 

Mumbo bit his lip, Grian stared in anticipation as he waited for Mumbo’s reply. Mumbo seemed hesitant, looking away from Grian before leaning in. Grian’s heart was practically racing, a blush rising to his cheeks. 

I hope the future I wish for isn't far away, either
But that's a bonus

Hope was definitely getting the best of him again, maybe Mumbo would kiss him and turns out it would be him and he was completely wrong about Mumbo liking—

“Scar.”

And Grian’s world shattered. 

“What?”

One word. That’s all it took. Mumbo, his crush, his best friend, whispering the name of the fellow Hermit- someone Grian was also friends with- into his ear. His mouth was dry, voice almost silent and squeaked when he spoke as his vision blurred, his body and thoughts felt like pure static. 

“I er-” Mumbo sounded nervous, he’s never told anyone this before, “I have a crush on Scar.” 

Mumbo didn’t love him. He had gotten too hopeful. Mumbo wouldn’t ever think of him that way. Mumbo liked Scar. Mumbo didn’t like Grian. He would never feel that way about Grian. They were friends. They were friends. 

Grian had to stop himself from letting out a sob, Mumbo had to be happy. All he wanted was for Mumbo to be happy. And if Mumbo being happy meant that Mumbo and Scar were dating instead of it being him and Mumbo? Grian didn’t know what he’d do anymore. Would he stand on the side and let it happen? He couldn’t. 

“Grian?” A voice spoke— Mumbo. It was Mumbo’s voice. The redstoner’s hand was on his cheek, an attempt to ground him. He was with Mumbo. Grian’s best friend, the person that would never love him back the way that the avian loved him. 

What's important right now
Is for this love of yours to be realized, no matter what!

Pushing his feelings aside, Grian moved as fast as he could out of Mumbo’s touch. He chirped, struggling to let words out as he coughed, “Great talk! I’ll do- I’ll go chat with Scar and see if I can organize something!” He said, wanting to cry right there and then as he backed up on the block, trying to escape from the gaze of the taller as fast as possible. 

Mumbo seemed worried and concerned, “Grian?” He called out, Grian shook his head, shutting his eyes tight as his wings flapped quickly. “I’ll talk to you later!!” He shouted, flying back to his base as fast as he could, leaving behind a fairly confused but majorly worried Mumbo behind.

Grian never spoke to Scar. His tears were a lullaby as he slept the rest of the day away, trying to forget everything.

Two days passed since their last encounter. Grian had been trying to forget everything that happened, trying to avoid Scar and maybe also Mumbo as much as possible, even though it hurt like hell.

But Grian was bored today, and when he spotted Mumbo once again building while the avian was flying around he decided why not bother the other! Nothing could go wrong. 

“Mumbo!” He shouted, flying towards Mumbo as he instantly gained the other’s attention as the redstoner looked up at him. He looked startled, as though he was in deep thought and Grian had just interrupted him.

"Just the two of us", my heart's going to burst

Grian landed beside Mumbo, grinning up at the other “Hello there!” He said, giggling softly as Mumbo gave a small smile in return before turning his head back to where he was looking before Grian showed up. 

The blonde furrowed his brow, looking from Mumbo to the direction he was looking at. Scar’s train? Squinting, it took him a second to realize that Mumbo was staring at Scar.

Grian’s heart was being squeezed, twisted and ripped out of his chest. Because of course he was staring at Scar! He had a huge crush on the man after all! He felt his wings twitch in a mix of frustration and sadness. Frustration that he could never be the one Mumbo stared at, never the one Mumbo adored. They were just friends.

Just by imagining it, I get scared

What if he told Mumbo how he felt and the other never spoke to him ever again? What if years of friendship went down the drain because he just had to have been so stupid to go and fall in love with his best friend. 

But what if Mumbo found out- His gut twisted, a sickening anxiety crawling its way in. What if Mumbo managed to find out Grian had a massive crush on him and was too disgusted by that to even look the blonde in the eyes again? 

Grian couldn’t bear the thought. He wanted to throw up, cry, bury himself 6 feet under and never be seen again. He furiously blinked away the tears that welled up in his eyes, rubbing at his eyes with frustration at himself for thinking so negatively over this. Mumbo was in love. He had to be happy for him. He couldn’t throw a pity party for himself. He had to be happy. For Mumbo. 

“Grian?” 

The man in question was looking down at him, Grian’s hands that were just rubbing at his glossy eyes froze in an instant, looking up at Mumbo like a deer in headlights. Grian silently hoped Mumbo couldn’t see the way his eyes were most likely ever so red and puffy, he didn’t want Mumbo to worry. 

“Are you in love?” The mustached man asked, obliviousness and curiosity in his voice. Grian blinked, caught off guard by the question. It was clear Mumbo hadn’t seen Grian’s tears. 

If I ever fall into this kind of love
You'd be the first one I'll tell

Grian hesitated, moving his hands down to fiddle with the hem of his sweater. Looking between Mumbo and his clothing he debated with himself, he couldn’t tell the truth. Mumbo couldn’t know. But at the same time what if Mumbo liked him too? Polyamory exists, maybe Mumbo liked him and Scar and he just lied that he only liked Scar because he wasn’t ready to tell Grian yet. No- No, he needed to stop with these dreams and hopes and stupid thoughts. Mumbo only liked Scar and it was obvious. 

He stammered, realizing he had been silent for a bit too long there. “No!” He blurted out, lying like a liar. He partially regretted it, maybe it’d be easier if he said he did, just to see Mumbo’s reaction. 

Mumbo clicked his tongue, “Ah. I see.” he said simply, looking away from Grian and back to the distance. “But!!” Grian added, giving a nervous chuckle, “I pinky promise I’d tell you if I ever fell in love. You’d be the first one I’d tell, in fact.” He said with a smile, hand on his chest as he looked up at Mumbo with false confidence. In all honesty he was kinda sorta dying on the inside, but he wouldn’t let Mumbo know. 

Mumbo let out a laugh, looking down at Grian with a raised eyebrow. “Really now?” He asked, tone playful. The shorter nodded with confidence, giggling. “Of course!” He said, nudging Mumbo, “You told me your crush after all.” Mumbo rolled his eyes at his words, “After practically begging me to tell you.” He teased playfully. Grian let out a loud dramatic gasp. “You take that back!!” He squawked, “I didn’t beg!!” 

Mumbo was laughing, leaning forward a bit. Grian was hitting his back (Not hard enough to bruise) as he squawked, wings flared open. Mumbo was letting out a few “stop”s each between laughs, tears in the corners of his eyes. 

Their noise seemed to draw some attention, as before Mumbo could look back up again there was none other than Scar looking at the two of them with confusion. 

Grian instantly stopped hitting Mumbo, noticing the brunette before Mumbo did. He tried to act like a knot hadn’t formed in his stomach at the sight. Mumbo looked at Grian first, furrowing his brow in confusion as his laughter died, but when he stood up and saw Scar he froze up, his cheeks turning a light pink. 

“Scar!” Mumbo stammered out. Grian waved but stayed silent, biting on the inside of his bottom lip as he tried his hardest to ignore the sick feeling in his stomach. He and Scar are friends. He can’t let himself feel this way whenever he sees the other. 

“What’re you two rapscallions up to?” Scar asked with a snicker, raising an eyebrow and looking between the two of them. Mumbo stuttered out a nervous laugh, Scar’s eyebrow somehow raised even higher. 

“Nothing! Nothing… Grian tell him what you were just doing.” Mumbo spoke, pushing Grian in front of him towards Scar. Grian squawked “Mumbo!!” He groaned, hitting the other with his wing that made Mumbo let out a squeak. 

Scar’s hands were on his hips as he looked suspiciously between the pair. “Somethings up with you two…” He said with a suspicious hum, stroking his chin in a comedic manner. Mumbo laughed nervously, Grian looked over at him. 

What do you do next? (Get closer!)
My heart is fluttering.
Confess with only a yes
Hey, hurry! Hey, hurry! Just go for it!

‘Confess!!’ The avian mouthed to the mustached man, nodding his head towards Scar. Mumbo’s eyes widened, shaking his head aggressively. Scar coughed, making both of their heads snap towards him. “What’s ah-” He did a repetitive swiping motion between the two of them, “Theee… secret talk?” He asked, looking confused and curious. Mumbo stammered, trying to come up with an excuse but Grian took the lead before he could speak. 

“Mumbo over here has something he wants to tell you!” Grian said with confidence, chest puffed up as he tried to mask any hints that this was one of the worst things in the world. Grian’s had bad moments but this? This takes the cake. 

Mumbo stammered again, pulling Grian back as the avian let out a startled chirp. “Ignore him!!” Mumbo laughed nervously, Scar squinting and giving a somewhat monotone haha in reply. “It’s nothing. I don’t need to talk to you about anything in fact!” His tone was nervous, clearly lying and Grian could see that he was sweating. 

Grian sighed, grabbing Mumbo’s clammy and sweaty hand and dragging him away from Scar to hide behind the mess of trees in front of Mumbo’s base. 

You've always longed for it (A fated Happy Love!)
So go and be happy! Enough to annoy me
What you've always been longing for
Saying it sure is embarrassing...Love is wonderful, isn't it?

“You should tell him!!” Grian stage whispered, loud enough for Mumbo to hear but not quite loud enough for Scar to hear from the distance. He just wanted it to be over with, honestly. Maybe if Mumbo and Scar actually dated his brain would be able to process the fact that he’d never have a chance with Mumbo and then he’d move on!! 

Mumbo… definitely didn’t think what he did though. The other seemed hesitant, nervous and all around looked like he was about to say that was a bad idea. Grian huffed, putting up a finger to Mumbo’s lips to silence him, the taller was startled by the action. 

“I know what you’re gonna say, ‘Grian this is a bad idea’ and ‘Grian this is quite utterly pants!”

“Well not that exac-” Grian shushed him before he could continue. 

“But I want you to be happy!! You obviously love Scar and I definitely-” Did not have “-talked to Scar! He likes you back! You’ve clearly always wanted this so go on!! Confess!! Be all happy and lovey-dovey until you forget I exist or something.” Saying that hurt himself more than it should have. 

Mumbo frowned at that, “I would never forget you.” He said with pure honesty and genuine kindness in his voice that Grian wanted the ground to swallow him up instantly right where he stood. 

“Well- I know that.” He replied with a frown and a sigh, “But you get what I mean!” He huffed, giving Mumbo a shove that caused the other to almost trip and land face first. “C’mon!! Talk-” Grian made an attempt to push the redstoner again, “To!!-” again, “Him!!!!” and again, finally pushing him a few steps forward. 

The shorter took the lead again, speaking before Mumbo had a chance to stammer out another apology. “Sorry about that!” He said with the click of his tongue. “Me and Mumbo are just- Chatting about important stuff.” He said, leaning on Mumbo’s side as he tried his hardest to seem casual. Scar was definitely still suspicious. 

“Y’know you’re not helping your little ‘We’re definitely doing nothing’ act you got going on.” Scar pointed out with a squint, looking between the two. “You’re leaving me out! I feel hurt.” He said dramatically, holding a hand to his heart. Grian snickered, Mumbo letting out a laugh of his own. 

Scar and Mumbo started talking together, their words becoming quiet and distant as Grian watched the two of them. Mumbo’s cheeks were pink, clearly embarrassed about the events that had occurred moments before. Grian knew that he was just like that because he was talking to Scar. His mouth went dry, knowing that Mumbo would never act that way while talking to Grian. 

Aah, when will that day come for me?
The love that you embrace is so dear

Mumbo didn’t like Grian like that. He didn’t have a big crush on the avian so there was nothing to hide. He didn’t feel the way his wings subconsciously lightly wrapped around his body, trying to hide him from everything. He picked at a loose feather absentmindedly, trying to distract himself from the way his breathing wavered and chest hurt. 

Mumbo would never like Grian like that. He had to tell himself that, he had to know it. He needed to get over this stupid little crush as soon as possible before it swarmed his every thought and Mumbo found out. Mumbo couldn’t ever know, because all he wanted to do was to make Mumbo happy. 

That’s it really, a few selfish things. Because at his core, Grian was selfish, wasn’t he? Wanting something he could never get, yearning and wanting and never getting because the man he loved was in love with another man that wasn’t him. Grian could never— would never, be the man Mumbo loved. 

Grian wasn’t Scar, and no matter how hard you tried to rearrange the letters of his name to spell Scar or act as if Scar was some secret codename for Grian, he knew deep down that Mumbo loved Scar, not Grian. 

Grian wanted to be okay with that. He’d always fall in love with someone else, maybe not the same way he fell in love with Mumbo. Maybe not in the same joking about being a clingy girlfriend or doing almost anything and everything together way— But maybe he could fall in love with someone. So Grian had to move on. 

Grian could move on, right? 

And suddenly there was a face in front of his vision, startling him and making him almost fall backwards with a loud chirp. “G!” Ah. Scar. “Thought we lost you there for a second.” The elf joked, Mumbo nodding beside him. Grian didn’t even notice the two of them there, how long had he been zoning out? 

“We were quite worried for a second there.” Mumbo said with a nervous chuckle, “Are you feeling alright?” he asked, concern and worry in his voice. 

Grian breath stuttered, he knew he wasn’t. But he’d raise suspicions more if he just left but everything would go a lot worse if he said he wasn’t okay because then they’d ask and he couldn’t just not tell Mumbo- But he had to say something, right? 

Grian hesitantly nodded, ignoring the way his vision blurred from the tears that started to arise. “S-Sorry,” He laughed out, voice sounding like he was about to cry as he tried to keep every single one of his negative feelings down and away from being revealed. “Just got something in my eye-” He said, rubbing at his eyes to wipe away his tears. Mumbo looked slightly suspicious, clearly still worried, Scar didn’t seem to notice his lie as much. 

“Whatcha thinkin about?” Scar asked, curious yet there was some concern lingering in his voice at the same time. Grian didn’t know what to say, stuttering and stammering as he tried to make up something. 

“Base plans…?” He said, a squeak in his voice. Grian continued before Mumbo or Scar could say anything, “Which I should get working on actually! You guys keep talking and stuff I got things to do!” He said, starting to walk backwards as he got ready to take off. 

“Grian are you sure you’re alright this is the second time you’ve taken off this suddenly-” Mumbo started speaking, the concern in his voice too much for Grian to handle. Grian wanted to start crying right then in there, fall to the ground and sob as a selfish cry for help. But he couldn’t. He never could.

The blonde took two fast paced breaths, taking another step back, speaking quickly as he tried his hardest to get Mumbo to back off and let him leave, “I’m fine!! I promise- I’d tell you if something is wrong.” Liar.

Mumbo frowned, brows knitting together, “If you’re sure.” he said hesitantly, and Grian was off, flying back to his base as fast as he could. The only thing he heard was a bye from Scar as the distance between them grew. 

He had to stop doing this.

The next few days Grian spent on and off fishing, trying to forget about what happened and just be happy. He wouldn’t say he was running away from every attempt Mumbo made to talk and check up on him- But he definitely was. Making up excuses and generally hiding from the other when he saw the redstoner approaching, anything to avoid his own feelings. 

And it was definitely working! All their conversations were cut short or didn’t even happen at all, and the guilt piling up in Grian’s stomach making him feel ill was easily ignored! Until today at least.

Grian was fishing happily, he hadn’t had a single bad thought at all today! Until hands were on his shoulders that freaked him out so hard he almost fell into the water with a loud squawk.

“Sorry mate!” The voice behind him spoke, and Grian froze up instantly. 

“Mumbo!” He said with a nervous laugh, his fishing rod discarded on the dock as he clasped his hands and turned around, trying to act like he wasn’t freaking out more and more with each second that passed. “Don’t scare me like that!!” He scolded playfully, giving Mumbo a small, fake smile as he tried to relax. 

Mumbo chuckled, “Sorry, sorry.” he apologized again, giving Grian a sheepish smile.  

“It’s fine!” Grian says, starting to maneuver around Mumbo to leave as fast as possible, Mumbo looked down at the avian with confusion. “Sorry I’m super- really busy right now and I gotta go uhhh- Do the permit off-” 

“No, Grian, this is really important.” Mumbo cut him off, causing Grian to freeze in place like a deer in headlights, arms snapping to his side. Grian knew he couldn’t ‘I’m busy’ his way out of this one. Grian’s stomach pooled with dread, did Mumbo find out? What was so important that he needed to talk to Grian right now? 

Mumbo sighed, making Grian’s neck snap up to look at him. The other’s eyes were filled with concern, not this again.

“Look, bud, I’m-” Mumbo sighed, clasping his hands together, “I’m worried about you.” He said with nothing but genuine concern in his voice, “You claim to be busy every time I try to talk to you and it feels like you’ve been avoiding me.. Is something wrong? You know you can talk to me, right?”

Yes Mumbo of course something is wrong!! I’ve been avoiding you because I have the biggest fattest crush on you and I’ve liked you that way since season 6 and you don’t feel the same way and I can’t help but want to cry whenever I see you and Scar together and I just wish you could feel that way about me—

“I’m fine.” Is all he could let out, swallowing a breath as he tried to calm down as much as he could. “I’m not trying to avoid you I just really-” he paused, almost forgetting how to breathe for a second there. “I’ve just been really busy.” He said, looking down with guilt. 

Mumbo frowned, opening up his arms and gently wrapping Grian in a hug. Grian happily accepted, wrapping his arms tightly around Mumbo’s torso, squeezing as if Mumbo would fade to dust if he let go. He couldn’t cry, he was tired of crying. 

Mumbo let go, backing up a little to look down at Grian. “On a uh-” he coughed, clearing his throat. “On a better note…” the mustached man started speaking, piquing Grian's curiosity. 

Where will "I like you" come from? (Before you realize it?)
My heart is fluttering and beating

“I’m going to ask out Scar.”

“What?” 

“I’m going to ask out Scar.” Mumbo repeated, Grian wanted to throw himself in the lake. 

The shorter laughed, unable to speak from the pure shock he felt in the moment, “You’re- You’re going- You-” He laughed, gasping between laughs and sucking in deep breaths of air. “You’re going to ask out Scar?” He repeated, taking a step away from Mumbo. The taller nodded, brow furrowed in confusion at Grian’s reaction. 

“That’s- That’s great! That’s amazing!” He said, his ear wings flapping vigorously as he attempted to make his tone sound as excited as possible. That was it for him. Scar had to like Mumbo back- Something must’ve happened to make Mumbo so confident with doing this. Mumbo was never going to like Grian that way. They’d always just be friends. Scar and Mumbo would move on to be more than friends while Grian rotted away with this crush that would never leave. 

You have to confess with the right timing, right?
Hey, hurry! Hey, hurry! When will the chance come?

Mumbo was about to speak before Grian cut him off, “You should go do that!! Right now actually!! And I’ll go off and do the things I need to do because I’m busy, okay? Great plan!! Tell me what happens, bye!!” And Grian was right about to take off when a hand grabbed his own, one that was dry and calloused. 

“Grian.” Mumbo spoke, he sounded so tired that Grian wanted to give up on everything and tell him right then and there why he was avoiding everything. But he was selfish and he couldn’t. 

“I’m okay.” The avian replied, Mumbo hadn’t asked, not then at least. But he was going to ask, he was going to ask Grian to not leave, to stay, to help. But he couldn’t. He couldn’t bear to look at his best friend for a second longer. He shut his eyes tight, guilt bubbling up in his chest that made it tighten up as if there was a brick directly on it. 

Mumbo sighed, “Are you sure?” He asked, and Grian didn’t know. He’s just been saying it and he never even knew if he was okay or not. Sometimes he was, sometimes he wasn’t. He couldn’t tell. He didn’t know. Did he want to know? 

Grian swallowed a breath, once again suppressing all his feelings as tears pricked the corners of his eyes. He opened his eyes, looking at Mumbo. He looked worried, concerned, and if Grian knew any better he’d say Mumbo looked hurt. Hurt that Grian was most likely lying to him. Which he was. Grian was selfish and a liar. He wanted Mumbo all to himself and he wanted Mumbo to love him the way Grian loved him. 

“Yeah.” He breathed out. It was quiet, barely inaudible but Mumbo seemed to understand. He nodded, short and simple. Guilt made a home in Grian’s stomach and chest, weighing him down to the point where he felt stuck in place. “I’m sure.” 

Mumbo sighed, letting go of his hand. Grian instantly missed the feeling, the warmth of the other’s hand in his own. He wanted that every day, he wished he could have that everyday. He wanted to feel loved by Mumbo, he yearned for it, but he couldn’t have it. Never in the way he hoped for. He knew it was selfish, but he wanted it. 

Mumbo sighed, Grian being brought back to reality by the sound. “I’m sorry.” He said, the apology being genuine but at the same time it was clear he didn’t even know what he was apologizing for. Grian gave a sympathetic and sad smile. “It’s not your fault.” He replied, trying to picture it as if Mumbo was apologizing for not being able to love him back or even apologizing for not being able to feel the same way. Something, anything to avoid the burning feeling in his chest. 

“Good luck with Scar.” He said, trying to put on a more happy tone to lighten the mood and cutting the silence. Mumbo gave a nod and a sheepish smile, “Thanks.” He replied. And before Grian could cry in front of the redstoner, he flew off. 

Grian had been avoiding Mumbo for as long as possible. Knowing that he probably asked Scar out left such a feeling of dread in his stomach that he couldn’t bear it. 

He knew it was bad. He knew Mumbo was probably now worried ten times more than usual because of him. Void, Mumbo probably thought he hated him. Grian could never hate the redstoner. 

He was hopeless, he gave up on trying to believe Mumbo felt the same. So today’s the day he’d do it! He’d be brave and finally talk to the other. They were friends- are friends and Grian needs to bridge this gap that’s started to form. Which was entirely his fault so he didn’t blame Mumbo for starting to give up on trying to fix it himself.

It didn’t take long for Grian to find the redstoner, managing to hear his voice after flying around his base a little. He landed with enthusiasm, right beside Big Rons. “Mumbo!” He called out with a chirp at the end. He could hear giggling, that wasn’t one voice, maybe two?

He turned the corner and almost booked it in an instant at the sight. Scar and Mumbo were sitting outside of Big Rons, holding hands with interlocked fingers as they giggled about void knows what. But Scar caught sight of him before he could run off. 

“Look who’s here!” The elf spoke, nothing but joy in his voice. Grian felt sick. Mumbo turned his head towards the avian, smiling at the sight of him. Grian gave his best fake smile in return, putting on a mask of false confidence and walking to be in front of the pair. 

“I take it you two are finally dating then?” He asked with a stifled snicker, Mumbo’s face instantly being dusted a light pink. Void how he wished to be Scar right now. 

Mumbo stammered a little, Scar looking puzzled as he looked between Mumbo and Grian, clearly missing something. “Well- Ah- Yeah, We are.” The redstoner spoke, seeming a bit embarrassed about it yet not afraid to admit it outloud. 

So it will surely be conveyed (A Happy End of mutual love!)
Because I want to see you laughing happily

“Wait, wait, wait, wait-” Scar spoke up, doing jazz-hands like gestures with his hands. “What do you mean finally?” He asked with confusion, clearly puzzled, Grian couldn’t help but let out a chuckle at that. 

The blush on Mumbo’s face grew, Grian wanted to leave. “I ah- Before we started dating, I told Grian about having a crush on you. He was the one that convinced me to ask you out.” He said with a sheepish smile. Grian wished this wasn’t real.

“Aww!” Scar smiled fondly at Mumbo, giving him a peck on the cheek. Grian wanted the ground under him to open up and swallow him whole. Scar looked up at Grian, gesturing for the shorter to sit with them. Grian hesitated, but the second he crouched down he was wrapped up in a hug by Scar, Mumbo following suit after. 

And for the first time in a long time, Grian felt loved. All the feelings of misery and anguish simmered and were replaced by something that made his heart hurt but in a way that he never wanted to stop. 

It will surely be conveyed

He sniffled, tears making his eyes glossy. “Grian?” He heard a voice speak, Scar. A hand was rubbing his back, the spot between his wings, Mumbo. Grian could never explain his feelings, he just hiccuped and let the tears fall, his wings wrapping around the two of them as if to try and shut out the outside world. 

“Are you okay, mate?” Mumbo asked and once again, Grian didn’t know. But he knew he was better than last time. So he nodded, because he did feel okay, just a little. He could feel a suspicious gaze on him from Mumbo, as if he was silently asking if the blonde was telling the truth. Grian let out a quiet laugh and nodded again. “I’m being honest Mumbo, I promise.” He said genuinely. 

“Just know that because me and Mumbo over here are all lovey now, that doesn’t mean we’re not friends anymore!! I mean sure you’ll be a third wheel but we’re not The Buttercups without’cha G!” Scar spoke, trying to bring light into the situation. It felt like Scar could practically read his mind- or he was less oblivious than Mumbo is. And honestly? Grian did feel better with that. 

Mumbo was happy, that’s all he ever wanted.

What's important right now is for your love to be realized, no matter what!