Chapter Text
The bell rang as a new customer came in. You can already tell they came here to pick up an online order when you see them clutching their phone. You knew you should be extra careful. You didn't want to give them the wrong order. Again.
“Um…oh! Good Afternoon!” You curse at how easily your voice cracks on busy days. Mental note please work on practicing saying hello in the morning again.
The person walked up and they flashed you a Q code. You scan it and signal it momentarily as you head to the back. Lila was tossing pizza as you passed by. Her throwing skills were amazing. Just watching how she tosses the dough in the air before letting it glide threw her fingers. She makes pizza look like art.
No, don't get distracted! Oh crap did she notice you staring?! Retreat. Retreat!
You grab the pizza box from the waiting counter and walk back. Ignoring the small smirk on Lila's face. You could already feel your face grow warm at the future teasing from your boss.
The person is still on their phone as they grab and turn back towards the exit. Not saying anything more.
Once you heard the bell ring did you release the breath you didn't know you were holding?
It's okay! You're okay! Everything gonna be okay!
You fidget with organizing the parmesan packets. Anything to keep your hands busy right now.
You're never sure if you're supposed to interact with them with small talk or not. Heck, your small talk sucks.
You sigh as you lay your head to rest on the counter. Praying to the anime gods that today would be busy. So you forget about social cues and focus on work. Or maybe they would be merciful and give you the luck you need for today.
You sigh as you look down at the counter secret cubby. A nicely wrapped box was there. You took a deep breath as you touched the gift as a sign of good luck.
Everything has to go smoothly.
“Today I will engage” you chant with confidence. It's been a few months since you started this job. You only accepted it because you needed money and your parents encouraged you to get a job. They promise you could get into that art school if you could last a year. And as much as you wanted to stay home and snuggle under blankets. This was more important.
You needed to get into that school. It was your life's mission. You wanted to become a manga artist. So you need to get out of your bubble.
“Earth to squeaks. Come back to earth please” a snarky voice whispered into your ear.
“Eeeep!” You flinch at the voice.
You glance up to see your brother. The jerk was laughing like a hyena with his victory.
“Markus what the hell. You got spit in my ear” you glare at your annoying brother. He's the one that vouched for you to work here. And as much as you want to hit him. You didn't have the courage when a customer came in. You shove Markus to the register as you go to the back to take your break.
The scent of bread and basil filled your senses. You glance over to Lila. She was in the mix of working on a new specialty pizza. Lila sprinkles bacon on top of the already gooey mac and cheese. You gasp at your boss' ideas.
If mac and cheese had to become a pizza. That would be the pizza.
“We are trying this once it's done” Lila squealed, tossing the new creation into the stone fire. You give her a thumbs up as you see the clock.
It was almost time!
You got excited as you went to the small sink nearby. Inspecting your hair. Hoping it looked presentable to the small mirror.
You pat down the cowlick and flyaways from your hair. Those pesky things weren't going to ruin today's big day. In the mix of your grooming, you hear Lila.
“Oh? Is Skeletor coming today?” Lila tossed the dough in the air. Preparing for the next order.
It was small talk you appreciated as it gave you a chance to interact. Maybe even improve. Lila was the few people you were starting to get comfortable talking to. Compared to chatting away with your siblings.
There were times you felt like people were judging you. For how you say things or how little you talk.
You didn't want to annoy anyone.
“Space Cadet…you still there?”
Lilas's childish grin let you know she was waiting for you to tell her.
No, not her too!
You try not to pout at the nickname.
You had a feeling it was going to stick if you didn't answer her soon. Say something!
“um…yes! He ordered 7 Pizzas for a special occasion. ” You were the one to take the order. (And totally not because you elbowed Sammy for the phone once you found out it was Blue.)
You try to keep your hands from shaking. The super sweet skeleton that's been ordered from you guys invited you to his birthday party.
The plan was he would come to pick up the pizza and you would follow him to the party. Super Simple that you totally can't ruin this.
And it gave you a chance to talk to him alone and give him his gift!
You try to hide your blush as you help Lila knead the dough.
Your mind kept drifting at the clock.
It's a miracle Blue was kind enough to invite you to his party. The monster hardly knew you but was sweet enough to invite you. A part of your stomach felt like lead now knowing you were going to see your favorite customer. That means you will finally give him your gift.
He invited you out of chance. That sweet demeanor of his was honestly a slice of heaven.
Instead of awkward silence and even more awkward small talk. The skeleton was patient when you fumbled with your words. Even kind enough to take upon himself to talk for the both of you when you had nothing to say. It was a big relief, you were used to customers ignoring your words and trying to hurry you up to finish the order. Blue instead had started talking about his day.
It started out small thing. Talking about the weather. Then gradually you two hard started talking about books and stories about fantasy. Within a few months, you learned about his brother and his cousins. And in return, you try to talk about your developing manga.
Those little conversations were the world to you. They became a highlight of your day. It wasn't often but you at least saw him a few times a month.
Even if you added small comments like ‘yeah’ ‘oh?’ and ‘cool’. The monster had taken it with stride. Even being considerate by offering you his friendship. Something you didn't think you would be lucky enough to get.
You glance up at the clock ready to clock out. It was 5:30. Blue should get here by 6 to pick up his order. You were practically jumping with excitement to finally give him his gift.
His birthday was the perfect excuse for you to get him something nice. You had settled on crocheting him a new scarf. You heard him say once that his cousin had ruined his favorite one a week ago.
After a few attempts, you made him one.
You could already picture his eyes sparkling like stars.
Maybe with this gift, you could get closer to Blue. You were hoping for it.
Red
~ pickin’ up a postcard
picture of a mountain
throwing all her garbage
in the magical fountain
moving out to london
let her be your burden tonight~
The music blared from outside. A part of him wanted to turn it down. Normally he would but “Poor Tiffany” wouldn't be whining and crying about not getting her way.
~the streets are wide awake cuz the city never dreams
she says it’s in her blood, but it’s just the nicotine
check it off your spreadsheet
can’t you see she’s hurtin’ tonight?~
He stretched as he turned the TV on for early cartoons. Oh shit! Go Go Mighty Rangers was on! Whooo.
“The Hot Tub is set up”
“WE GOT ALL THE DECORATIONS SET UP”
“AND WE MANAGE TO GET THE CATERING FROM THAT ONE PLACE YOU LIKE”
Red glanced up from the couch to see 3 skeletons being dragged around by Blue’s new human. Tiffany….
The damn devil herself.
“Darling we are gonna need fireworks. I know a guy so don't worry” Tiffany smiled with a flick of her hair. He could already tell the woman already used her “daddy's credit card” to buy some.
It was too early to hear this woman bitch about anything.
Red went back to relaxing on the couch. He tried to ignore the dumb clicking of heels. The constant tapping. He raised the volume. The loud blaring of Saturday cartoons was the best! Especially when it was all the best classic 24/7 this weekend. Where he plans to be during this whole party.
He kicked his feet playfully to the Might Rangers theme song. He doesn't care what anyone says. It's a straight-up banger.
This would be 10x better if Stretch were here. That guy knew all the lines to the intro.
“Um excuse me can you lower the volume?” Tiffany called out. Red ignored it. He kept kicking his feet up like a kid enjoying early morning cartoons.
“Hey”
“Hey”
“I'm talking to you?!” The shrill voice was just above him. You looked up. Oh she's here.
“What did you need, Tiff” He flashed her a grin. A part of him knew she hated him. Not sure why. Maybe because he wasn't drooling over her plastic ass.
Tiffany let out a small cough before flashing him a fake smile.
“Could you lower the volume?” She blinked her hug lashes his way. With zero effect on his end. Normally this would get everyone to fall for her charm.
“I dunno…I could do a lot of things” He smirked. He knew he was being an ass but this was his TV time.
The small twitch when she got rejected was hardly normal. He only saw it by luck but now he could never unsee it. It's a shock no one else at the house has seen her malfunction.
It took every fiber of his soul to not ask if she was really human. Or if she was just a doll who came to life. The unnatural bleach blond hair and Barbie-like looks made her stand out. As if she were plastic. If you can ignore all the pink the women wore. She was as fake as her face.
Sheesh, she's caked in layers of makeup. If you can get past those evil cat eyes. He tried to avoid staring into those soulless crazy orbs. He still can't understand how Rus, Black and Blue seem to like her.
“Could you “please” lower the volume? I'm trying to finish getting everything for tonight's party” Tiffany shrieked. If he wasn't paying attention he wouldn't have noticed how quickly her foot was tapping in the hardwood floors.
He tried not to wince hearing her high tone.
“Sorry Doll, kinda busy. On a date with me and big Bertha” He tried not to grin so much. He took joy in seeing her eyebrows scrunch up.
Before anyone could ask. He lovingly caressed the couch. Whispering sweet nothings to the big leather seat cushions. His most loyal girl. The couch.
He always got a kick out of seeing Tiffany's disturbed face. For good measure he slapped one of the seat cushions “She's a little naughty but we make it work”
Rus was hiding his laughter. While Black looked with disgust. Blue was kind enough to pull Tiffany away from him.
“LET'S GO OUTSIDE MY PRINCESS. THERE'S MORE STUFF TO PREPARE FOR THE PARTY” Blue whispered. Tiffany glared over at him. Her foot tapped at high speeds. Red was worried her heels would fly away with how fast they were going.
“But bluuuue you should listen to me! Today has to be perfect. It's our- your Birthday party
Uh-huh. Somehow he had a feeling she was gonna make it all about her.
“LET’S JUST LEAVE THIS CRETIN. WE WOULDN'T WANT YOU WASTING YOUR BREATH” Black huffed as he took Tiffany's hand and dragged her out. Rus quickly followed along with his brother. Leaving Blue behind.
“You could be a little nicer,” Blue lowered his voice. He waited until they left through the backyard. The music still blaring tunes.
“Maybe”
~she want that black card
she want that champagne
she want to jet set
to get that good brain
she want that blank check trust fund college degree
she want all that and more plus a p+rnstar martini~
Once the door was closed Blue sat next to him. His attention was on him. Almost as if he was waiting for him to explain his reason.
“I just can't with that one. She takes everything too literally” It was half true. Tiffany was too sensitive but that wasn't the reason he didn't like her.
Blue nodded but kept his mouth shut.
The poor kid had to pick the popular bitch. Out of everyone in that high school, he had to find the worst apple. If it wasn't for monsters becoming a hot topic around the school maybe Blue would've found decent friends. They preferred him and not because he was the latest trend.
Red wanted to ask if gaining a dozen fake friends was worth it because of that bitch. Sadly he didn't have the heart to say it. The little ball energy was starstruck with that bitch.
“Well, that's okay! Maybe we can all hang out one day and you can see she's really amazing!” Blue’s eyes were stars as he looked at him.
Yeah, maybe when he dusts.
“Is there another reason you stayed? I hope it wasn't just to ask me to play “nice” with her?”
Blue lifted his hands in surrender.
“YOU CAUGHT ME RED. I WAS HOPING YOU CAN PICK UP THE PIZZAS FOR TONIGHT” Blue hesitated but looked at him hopeful.
Well, shit that's a first.
Everyone at the house seemed to lose faith in him. He could chalk it up to the rumors circulating. But all of it is horseshit. He isn't having temper tantrums and he's hardly a slob. It's a surprise Blue was asking him to fetch something important.
Blue continued.
“I KNOW YOU CAN DO IT! I DON'T BELIEVE ONE BIT THOSE SILLY THINGS THE GUYS SAY AND…IT WOULD MEAN A LOT IF YOU CAN DO THIS FOR ME..?” Blue handed him a post-it note. “JUST USE MY NAME AND Y/N WILL HELP YOU OUT”
“Y/N?”
“SHE’S A FRIEND”
“Sure. You can trust me with this much” He chuckled less than happy to meet another “friend” of Blues. He placed the note into his pocket. He can pick up by 7. Easy.
“THANKS RED. OH! AND IF YOU COULD I PROMISED-” Blue was cut off by a bitchy voice.
“Bluuuuuuuu”
Blue looked over to the door. Red shooed him away. Blue sighed, he waved at him one last time before heading over to the girl. Tiffany guided him out. Not without glaring at Red.
Red was kind and flipped her the bird. The shocked look on her face was well worth it.
Red glanced at the clock it was only 1 o'clock. He still had time to catch up on his cartoons.
~A Few hours later~
“Who destroyed my favorite whoopie cushions?”
“WHO ATE MY IMPORTED PIE FROM THE QUEEN?!”
“Who added their red sweater into my white shirts?!”
“FOR THE LoVe of RED GET YOUR BONEY ASS OVER HERE!”
Among all the white noise. Red's eyes gaze left the TV. A part of him wanted to stay on the couch. Even ignore their yelling on the off chance they will leave him alone. Sadly, he wasn't gonna take the risk. From the way, his brother was tapping his foot impatiently at the new marble floors in the kitchen. He knew he had 5 seconds before he was dragged over by the scruff of his hoodie.
He flopped out of his comfy position on the couch and waddled over to his brother. He already knew what he was going to say. This was a long time coming.
“Bro I didn't do nuthin. I promise I was on that couch all day!” And he meant it. The grooves on that couch can be his only witness. But from the harsh whispers, he could tell he didn't have much of a case. If this had been a few weeks ago they might've believed him.
About a month ago he had a family. Who had his back and helpped him out. He wasnt a saint but things were peaceful. Those happy days are gone. And now he walked on egg shells. Getting constantly blamed for shit he didnt do like right now.
His brother glanced over to Black, Vanilla, and Cinnamon. That left: Blue, Stretch, and Mutt to sit out this “fun” conversation.
He didn't have to look up to see half of the house were glaring daggers at him. It wasn't like he didn't notice the side comments. If the peanut gallery had anything to say. They should say it to his face.
“Fuck guys. I barely do any shit” He gestures to his sweet beloved couch and his sidepiece the TV. Those Two objects have been keeping him company all day. And had become his only companions compared to the cold reception from his cousins as of late.
“HOW CAN WE TRUST IT WASN'T YOU? WE HAVE JOBS BUT YOU'RE HERE ALL DAY!?” Cinnamon asks as he reveals an empty box with little remains of a key lime pie.
“I've been looking for a job. And trust me cinny. you would know I ain't into sour. And I never eat the crust” Honestly he didn't have the heart to eat the nicely shaped patterns. He much prefers a sweet treat.
Cinnamon faltered and nodded slowly. Black shook his head, still not believing it one bit.
San tosses the shredded rubber over to Red. “ I always appreciate a good prank but this is pushing it Red. We don't mind keeping you here but at this point, you're making it hard for all of us with your antics” Vanilla barked. His eyes narrowed at him.
Red simply shrugged.
“I’m a simple monster yes. But I have standards. And whoopies are hardly something I’d get my claws on” He smirked as he glanced at the rubber. “This is hardly my handy work. An amateur cut this. Look at the shreds! They too straight”
Red flashed his sharp canines. His gold tooth could hardly break rubber. So it wouldn't be him anyway.
Sans glared, hardly believing him. His hands are still holding a shred of his beloved toy. Red could tell Vanilla didn't want to face facts. Not with him mourning his treasure.
Red looked at the final monster.
Black glared. Pointing at the basket full of pink shirts. The little red sock is the culprit of the whole mess.
Red could hardly contain his laughter.
“The fuck? I don't even wear socks? Where's your other proof blackie?” The sock looked like it would be his. The black and gold was a nice touch but it was too new. He used to wear socks that were worn out. These were brand new. Almost as if someone bought it. And the only one with money is that Bitch.
Oh shit, shes really trying this time.
He looked at the group and let out a villainous laugh. Just a month ago they were all buddy buddy. And by a short span of a few weeks. This bitch made him out to be the Bad guy.
He argued. And maybe if he didn't have such a short fuse. Maybe they would’ve listened. Except that bitch would've changed the story.
If they want a bad guy. He will gladly give it to them.
“Honestly it's pretty pathetic that all you guys assume it's me. Where's the proof? Where's your justice? Because all I see are sheep following a fake lead” His sly grin made the rest of the group uncomfortable. They didn't say a word because they couldn't. They knew he was right. Now if only they would believe him when he tells them Tiffany is bad news. Too bad that bitch has her fangs on all of them.
The reason he hated that bitch was how easily she manipulated his family. His cousins and even his brother. No one with a soul could pull it off.
He glances at the clock. It's 5.
“Well bitches, I'm heading out. I can understand why y'all are jealous. Not my fault I got bigger tits than your scrawny asses” He strutted around. Pretending to flaunt his imaginary boobs around before slamming the door shut. He knew he probably stunned them enough to keep quiet. Phew.
If they kept it up he would have blown up on all of them.
Ah, Humor. His go to defense.
He hopped onto his bike and drove out. There was still time for him to drink a bit of his happy juice. To get the edge off. Something to get rid of that bad taste in his mouth.
While he drove he could feel his anger rise from how stupid the whole situation was. That bitch. He truly needed to get rid of her before she did something too drastic.
But right now he could use a bottle of monster whiskey.
He checks his watch.
Eh… he's got time, what's the worst that could happen?
_♡◇◇◇◇
You wait by the counter. Add powdered sugar to the cannolis for an order while you wait. You sneezed and powder sugar got all over you. You wipe your face with your sleeve.
Well, now your dress is ruined. You look up at the clock. Blues late.
You hope the sweet skeleton is ok. Car trouble? issues at the party? Maybe he had to help a stranger out?
It's been over an hour since the pickup time. You glance at the newly made pizzas you bought for the party. The old ones you gave a while ago to some teens going to a party.
Lila glanced up at you. The grim look on her face didn't help. She came to your rescue as she handed you a damp washcloth to get rid of the excess sugar on your dress.
“Sweetie…Maybe Blue was busy or forgot about the food” She tried to grab your shoulder but you moved away quickly.
“N-no it's fine! I'm okay. He's probably running late. It's his birthday after all” you try to reassure your boss. That only made her more worried as she ruffled your hair. Getting rid of a bit of the sugar.
You handed her back the container of newly powdered Cannolies.
“Okay….But next time please dont pay for the pizzas' ' she whispered. The disdained look on her face.
You know she wasn't trying to scold you. But you couldn't help but feel bad.
You just felt like paying for fresh pizza. It's stupid but you didn't want to go to his party with cold pizza. That might ruin his party. And you didn't want to disappoint your favorite customer.
“Don't worry-”
“Um…iiiis this the place with pizza?”
You both look over to the tall monster. Woah he looked so so… Dangerous?
The tall monster stuffed his hands into the pockets of his worn-down leather biker jacket. You notice he wore a black hoodie under it. The guy was a little out of it. The moment you looked at his face. You notice those pearly whites. His sharp grin reminded you so much of a shark.
“Just here to pick up an order for the birthday boy” He gruffed. His red eye lights were piercing. And for a moment you could swear there's some edgy theme music playing in the background.
“Name,” Lila said flatly. You could tell your boss wasn't in the mood. You poked her to get her attention. The woman glanced down as you gave her a look. Lila huffed as she tied her red hair back. She motioned for you to deal with the skeleton.
You silently thanked her. While your boss left for the kitchen. You walked over to the edgy monster.
“Hi um, you here to pick up an order? We just need a name” You quickly headed over to the back to grab Blue's order.
“Naaames under uhhhh Blueberry!… No wait he changed that..uh azure? cornflower? Periwinkle?” The monster's voice was low as he kept listing different shades of Blue.
You couldn't help but crack a smile at the random names.
“You mean Blue?” You lift the pizzas over to where the monster stands. The stack was taller than you but you held on like a champ!
“heh yeah, thanks. I really knead those. The yeast I can do is meet ya halfway. ” His voice sounded playful as he tried to walk to you. His sneakers shrieked under the polished floors. It was so loud you couldn't help but squeal in pain from the sound.
“I'm sorry!” You shrink. You could already feel your face grow red.
Dang it! Now he's gonna make fun of me.
You close your eyes for a moment waiting for the big guy to ridicule you for making such a weird sound. What will he say? Sounds like a puppy bark? Or a sneezing kitten or the worst one. Aw, you sound like a little kid. You hate that last one the most.
You wait for his judgment.
Nothing happens.
You look over to see the monster…he was smiling?
When you handed him the pizza you caught a whiff of liquor on his teeth. The small exchange felt off. He gave you a confused stare as he grabbed the pizzas from your hands.
“Huh? Not a fan of puns. Oooo I got a good joke….never mind too cheesy” He mumbled.
You couldnt help but smile. Was this monster trying to make you laugh?
“Knock knock”
“Who's there?”
“Cheese”
“Cheese who?”
“Cheese don’t be scared”
The tall monster hunched over a bit as if inspecting you. Shockingly enough he was sweating a storm. His eyes kept shifting from you to the floor.
Was he waiting for you to laugh ?
His nervous grin made you giggle.
The monster's grin widened the moment you began to laugh. This got the edgy monster to throw a few more.
“knock knock”
“who's there?”
“Norma Lee”
“Norma lee who?”
“Norma lee I have better jokes, the name Red. What's your name, sugar?” He points at the leftover powder on your dress. You quickly wipe it off with your hands.
“Y/n and you?”
“Red”
You smile as you help him walk to his vehicle. The more you walk with him the more he keeps throwing you cheesy knock-knock jokes. Each one was cheesier than the last.
It was honestly a relief. You chuckle as he gets sillier as you keep walking.
Red stopped by a black bike.
“Well shit”
“Um…we could take my car…if you okay with that”
Red looked at you as if you were a miracle. His jaw dropped.
“Woah you do that for me sugar?” Red cheeks were dusted red as you settled over to your car.
With a little luck, all the pizzas fit in your trunk. While you drove Red kept glancing outside as he chatted with you.
It was nice. He wasn't like Blue who would talk about his day. He somehow kept asking you about your opinion. Soon you both ended up debating.
“So you admit I'm always right and you're a huge pervert”
“Yeah sure” you yawn. Not focusing on his words. You roll your eyes while you drive. Red's hand would occasionally point to a street to go to.
“I knew it! You were always eyeing my bones. Like some sick pervert,” Red fakes a sigh of relief “Glad you could finally admit it”
You quickly glance at him while you panic.
“What?! No! I was being sarcastic!”
“No, no, no. You're a pervert. Case closed. You already agreed. Everything I say is right, sugar”
“What the hell?! no! I want to go to court!” You beg while Red was howling with laughter.
“Alrighty, if you say so sugar”
*court case later*
“That court case was rigged” You whine as you pull up to the mansion.
“You were the judge, the jury, and the executioner! I didn't have a fighting chance. Everyone was on your side”
It was an imaginary court case. The only person who could defend you was yourself. After rejecting Red as your attorney (much to his disappointment).
“Of course. Who would side with a pervert?” Red teased. The heat from your cheeks couldn't get any redder. Just hearing him was getting you all riled up.
“That's not fair! If it was anyone else you would have given them a much fairer trial!”
“I was completely fair! If I wasn't you wouldn't be even given a trial. I would've put you on that watch list for the sexual harassment!” Red tsk at you. Shaming you as he shook his head. You puffed your cheeks in retaliation.
“You're not a fucking child!" You're a grown-ass man!” You barked as you got out of the car. Red was already out and grabbing the tall stack of pizzas in his arms.
The two of you kept walking on the pathway to the backyard.
“I'm somebody's child!” Red added. Not skipping a beat.
You pause. Staring at the shit-grinning monster staring back at you.
Well….shit…. He was right.
You both started to laugh at the comeback. That jerk had pulled a fast one on you. And you couldn't even get mad. He was good.
“Oh my gosh! You terrible” You couldn't stop laughing as you held onto his arm for support. Red grinned cheekily while you two walked.
“Nah I'm just too good sugar. Maybe next time you should go messing with the big bad monster” Red chuckled as you bumped his hip against you. You chuckled and did the same.
Honestly, you couldnt stop smiling. Your cheeks were hurting from how much you were laughing with Red.
“but stick to me and you’ll….well shit” Red paused as he looked at the backyard. You followed his eyelights and saw the giant party.
It was bright.
The whole place was covered head to toe with glow-in-the-dark paints. A giant concert stage playing live music. And you couldn't forget there was magic moving around as you watched white blasters fill the sky with beautiful light. You couldn't believe how amazing the party was.
The food was on a long table that spanned far from one side of the pool to the other. Wait. They. Have. A. Pool!!?!?!?
The pool was the shape of a giant star. And littered with people and monsters swimming as they passed a beach ball around. If you saw those peach clips in movies. That same vibe was hitting this party.
Why does this scare you?
Looking around at all the people. You felt like some were staring at you. Almost as if you didn't belong there.
maybe you didn't…
You tighten your grip around Red's arm. Red turned to you and wrapped his free arm around you as he shielded you from the party people. Slowly you two walked over to the food table.
Red placed the tall stack of pizza on the table. While you stuck to him.
A tall skeleton walked up to Red. He was wearing an orange tank top and Hawaiian shorts. He gave Red a smack on the back. He had a plate stacked high with pancakes drizzled in honey.
“Bro! Glad you could finally come” The monster saluted.
Red chuckled as he saluted back.
“Glad to see you a familiar face…how you holding up?” Red's bone brows furrowed as he reached out to place a hand on the monster's arm.
The monster rejected his hand and quickly waved it off with a smile. Letting out a small ok. For a moment you noticed Red shift a bit. Almost like he wanted to say more but clenched his hand before moving it back.
“Oh! Stretch! I brought a friend” Red wrapped his arm around your shoulder. Giving it a squeeze.
“Don't mind this little trouble maker”
You chuckle at Red's words before waving at the taller monster.
“Hi, nice to meet you” You chirp. The music was blaring so you hope he heard you. Stretch glanced down at you before giving you a shy smile.
“Nyeh, Sorry I didn't see you down there” Stretch hesitated as he scratched the back of his head.
“Just call me Stretch” .
The monster was reluctant to offer you his hand.
Wait! That’s Blue’s brother. You remember Blue saying his younger brother was shy around new people. And would normally hide in his hoodie.
You look at him puzzled. Why wasn't he wearing a hoodie? With this many people, you would prefer wearing something comfy to brace the hardship.
You were terrified of this many people around. So you could relate. With a closer look, you could see Stretch’s hands were shaking whle holding the plate of pancakes.
You felt bad for the monster.
You quickly dig into your pockets. A little fumbling around and you found the honey lollies you stashed for emergencies. You wrap one in each hand as you ball your hand into a fist.
“Pick a hand!” You offer your closed hands to the monster. The curious grin widened once he poked your left hand. You open it and offer him the lollipop.
Stretch smiled as he took the candy. The moment he popped it into his mouth he began to relax. And you know why. When anxiety hits you. You always sucked on a honey lolli.
You pop the other one into your mouth. This got the monster to chuckle as he gave you a nod as thanks.
You failed to notice Red's eyes turn into stars as he witnessed you interact with his cousin.
Stretch smiled before placing the plate on the table.
“ I'm just here to drop that off… thanks for the sweets kiddo” And with that, he disappeared without a trace.
“That's real sweet of you. Now come on, let's go say hi to the birthday boy.” Red offers you his arm. You graciously take it as you two walk. Grabbing on the big monster. You stay close to him in the sea of people.
You look around astounded by the magic in the air. It's so pretty you wanted to touch it. And for a moment you see a floating Blue bone move around. You move toward it. Before you could touch it someone grabbed your shoulder and pulled it back.
“Woah easy there. Don't touch that…those hurt” Red scanned the area. “Someone is getting sloppy with their attacks. Brb sweets!” Red quickly moved away and in a second he was gone.
You shrunk back as you were alone in the crowd. You walk around as you look for Blue.
“HI EVERYONE I HOPE YOU'RE HAVING A MAGNIFICENT DAY!!” An energetic voice boomed from the speakers. You look up to see Blue holding the mic. His usual stars were like comets you could feel your face blush from his light. He truly looked like a star.
Blue waved at everyone as everyone did the same.
“THANK YOU FOR COMING TO MY BIRTHDAY. I WANTED TO PLAY SOMETHING AS THANKS AND TO SHOW OFF MY NEW GUITAR!” Blue gushed as he pulled out an elegant guitar. Colorful and sparkly just like the sweet skeleton.
While he began to play. You made your way to him. You didnt forget his gift as you had it nestled in your bag. Thank goodness you remember to grab it from the car.
As you made your way to the stage you bumped into a tall lady.
“Sorry I-”
“Watch where you're going! This is all designer!” The tall blond screamed.
You winced at her tone but quickly apologized. She stared you up and down. Making a harsh click with her tongue as she circled you like a wild lion about to kill.
“I dont recall inviting you to this party” Her voice was sweet but the way she stared made you uncomfortable.
“Well…I was invited by Blue. I just wanted to drop off his gift and then-”
And you were cut off.
“You like him?” The blond asked.
“What?! I just came to drop off his gift!” You blurted out. You're grateful the lights were hiding your blushing cheeks.
Tiffany flashed you a grin.
“Well come with me. I'll take you to the birthday boy” she smiled.
“Oh! Are you sure?” You couldn't believe she was so nice. You could use some help. “If you don't mind. I don't want to get in the way”
“It's fine. It will be my pleasure, oh call me Tiffany” Tiffany offered you her manicured hand as you took it.
Now that you have some help. You felt a little better. Maybe your luck was turning around.
It hadn't even been a half an hour yet. You wipe your tears as you hold the box in your hand. Running like a psycho while tears kept falling off your face.
You're so stupid. Such a moron for even considering coming.
With each breath, you begged that you got farther away. Just to forget the terrible moment.
Why did Tiffany even do that? Why?! Why?!?
You stop as you make it to a dark alley. The thumping on your ears. Your lungs hurt. Your feet hurt but that's nothing compared to your heart.
You just wanted to disappear.
You pull out the scarf from its box.
“Why…did I think this was ever gonna work”
It was a thick navy blue scarf with gold accents woven into it. You rubbed the fabric with your thumb. You did it so he would like you.
Boy were you a fool.
But after tonight. You know you weren't going to ever get another chance. Not after Tiffany asked Blue out in front of the huge crowd. Even going so far as….
You flinch.
You grab the scarf and walk over to the dumpster. You intend to throw it all away. Especially what Tiffany said.
‘Why would MY bestie bother with a loser like you? He was only nice because he pitied you. I would too but you're too depressing to look at
Tears started welling up in your eyes.
“I'm so stupid, so dumb and useless!” You call out as you hide in the alleyway. You wipe away any remaining tears. It was stupid to think you ever had a chance with someone so amazing.
You lean against the brick wall of the alley. The music blaring from the distance was the only reminder. You never want to see him again. Just thinking Blue had only chatted you up because he felt bad…it made sense. You suck at talking…you were some charity case to him.
“Why…Why am I like this? I thought maybe he could help change me…” you stop yourself. In your mind, you thought maybe Blue would be the one to save you from yourself. To help fix you. You wanted to change and be more than this loser. Maybe Improve to the point you aren't so weak and timid.
The explosions of fireworks blared in your ears. You look at the sky. And you felt your world fall apart.
‘TiffanyXBlue’
Blown in colorful fireworks.
You bared your teeth at the whole thing. Your eyes get blurry as you close your eyes
In the darkness, you could picture the scene so clearly. She kissed him. And then he grabbed her! The way he held her. All while they kissed… just when you were about to give him your gift. You scream in frustration. At being so stupid.
You saw them kiss.
All while Tiffany smirked at you. You still can't believe she did that! Why didn't she tell you she liked Blue?
"Heeeey whyyy you crying baby doll?"
You look up to see a tall smiling skeleton. Red!
“How did you find me” you quickly try to wipe all your tears.
“Saaaaw ya ran. Can't say I blame ya..” Red's voice was more slurred.
Even if he was super drunk. He was the biggest comfort to you.
Red's eyes were more dilated as he got closer. He frowned as he moved his face closer.
“Sugar, what's wrong? Why you crying?”
“Oh, I’m fine just…just stuff”
Red eyebrows shifted. Doubting your lame excuse.
"Tears dont look right on someone so sweet" Red moved his hand as he wiped a stray tear from your cheek.
“It's fine…I’m fine..”
“Bull shit” Red scooped you up as he walked out of the alley. “You're not okay. So talk to me”
You slowly started telling him the whole situation. The more you talked the darker his expression. Red quickly shook it off as he gave you a small smile.
“Sweetness your fine as you are” Red face softened before poking your cheek. "Dont let something that little dwindle that spark of yours. Blues an ass for not seeing how precious ya are...you can do better sugar”
"Red... you're sweet but honestly you're wasting time on someone who barely gets noticed. I suck at talking to people and I just seem to be so weird" you voice your insecurities as you glance his way.
He raised his bonebrow a bit. He noticed the insecurities behind your words, and that's not something for him to just ignore
“Doll..I'm not wasting my time one bit...and you aren't that bad at talking to people, I'm talking to you right now arnt I?~ and you havnt done anything weird so far..in fact, you're so sweet and lovable”
“You're just trying to be nice”
Red sighed gently and tugged you that much closer to him, basically pulling you against him. In an attempt to make you listen to him.
“Doll..I'm not saying all this stuff because I pity you...I'm saying all this stuff because I genuinely think it's true. You're a sweet little cutie and it's a damn shame no one's noticed sooner”
You chuckle at the way he is waving his bone-brows at you. The more you laughed the quicker he moved them.
“Your silly Red. Thank you” You blush at the sweet skeleton.
He chuckled at your words. There was a slight blush on his face, showing that even he wasn't immune to getting flustered. He smiled, happy that you accepted that he wasn't just spewing out things to make you feel better.
“You're welcome sugar” He put you down as he grabbed your hand.
“Well, Tonight let's celebrate!”
“To what?”
“To a new beginning and maybe something else” Red chuckled as he swiftly stole you away into the night.
RED
ahh, why does his head hurt?
He looks around to find himself in a room. He sighs in relief that for once he didn't drink himself into a dark alley or something again.
The last he remembered was taking a new friend to the party. And then arguing with Rus about his magic…and then booze! He drank a ton aaaaand..what else happened?
He lay back on the bed. Happy that he didnt fuck anything up too badly. He considered it a win. He glances down to see a small human clinging to him. Wait not just any human?!
“Sweetheart?”
It was the cute human he met at the pizza place. The way they were holding him. He couldn’t lie but adore the way they were nuzzling his sides.
Wait…what the hell?!
The human looks up at him with a cute smile.
“Oh morning Cheesy” she giggled. Their messy hair bounced around as they went back to hugging his body. He stared frozen in place.
What the hell happened last night?!