Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Aphmau! Get up!" A middle-aged, raven haired woman came up the stairs, banging on a the first door in the hall.

The long raven haired, teenaged boy groaned, covering his head with his pillow.

The woman banged on his door again, "APHMAU."

"I'm coming..." He mumbled, searching his nightstand for his thick, round, glasses. 

"Alright. Get dressed. I'll help you with your tie." The woman walked off, going down stairs to wait for her son to get ready.

He shoved his glasses on with a groan. "Ugh... why must school start so early? I'd rather get out at 5pm than wake up at 5am..." He angrily mumbled.

His white dog rolled onto his back, watching as his owner stumble around the room.

He slowly put on the layers of his uniform. He dug through his drawers for one of his clip-on bows, he knows it’s not apart of the male uniform; but he didn't care. He didn't have any clip-on ties, and if he happened to get in trouble for it, he had a spare tie in his backpack.

He drug his socked feet down the stairs, his dog clung close to his owners heels. He sat at the table with a yawn, his dog moving to lay under him. 

"Oh, what? Too old for your mama's help with your tie?" Aphmau's mother asked, setting down her sons plate.

"No, clip-on's are just less work." Aphmau yawned, lazily eating his waffles. 

"Alright, get outta here." His mother said, assuring him out the door, after he finally finished tying his shoes.

"If I didn't know any better I'd think you were trying to get rid of me." Aphmau joked.

"What? Never! Don't be afraid to go shopping or something with your friends!"

Aphmau waved her off, "Adiós mamá, te amo."

"Adiós!!"

Aphmau arrived at Phoenix Drop High. He avoided the large groups of kids huddled on the stone courtyard.

Shakily walking up to the large metal doors, five times his size. He gave it a harsh tug, the door loudly slammed against the lock, making the people closest turn and stare. 

His cheeks flushed at the unwanted attention, he hung his head, backing away from the door.

He looked up at the top of the metal double doors, wondering if the doors were supposed to be locked, or if that was an accident.

His back hit something solid, and hard, making him groan. Two strong hands rested on his upper arms, holding him up.

"You okay?" A deepish voice, with a slight posh accent, asked.

He froze, "Oh my Irene... I'm so, so, sorry." He didn't look up, patting the boy's arm; he felt prompt muscles under his fingertips. He only realized he had been holding on a, little too long, when the boy cleared his throat.

Aphmau jumped back, his whole face turning red; "S— sorry!"

The boy chuckled, "It's fine." "Woah... he's pretty..." He thought, smiling down at the raven haired.

"S— so, is there a reason the school doors are closed?" He backed up, creating space between him and the other male.

"You're a Freshman, huh?" The boy chuckled, "I'm not too sure why they do it but, they usually lock the doors on the first day here."

"O— oh... thank you. And I’m really sorry for bumping into you."

The boy smiled, "It's no problem, really." He walked off, with a wave and a: "Have a good first day."

Aphmau stared after him, his face still a little red.

"Did you see him drooling like a dog all over Garroth?" A tall, pink haired, beautiful girl strode over, from, somewhere, behind him, cackling.

"Drooling...?" He panicky reached up to his lips, "I wasn't! Was I? Oh, Irene help me... of course my dumbass was... please say he didn't notice!!" 

The girl cackled; "Oh, he totally did!"

Aphmau groaned, "Ah, great..." he pushed up his glasses, shrugging "Ah well! That’s one friend off the list!" 

The girl smiled through her teeth, "Good. Since he's mine."

Aphmau looked her up and down, "O... K..? I think he can have more than one friend. But whatever."

The girl groaned, "I don't have time to deal with you! Just know that Garroth Ro'meave is off limits. Okay? So, don't get any ideas! Later freshman."

She pushed Aphmau aside, as the doors of the school swung open. "Ok? Damn, GIRL I GOT A NAME!" He yelled after her, blushing once he realized he had said that aloud. He cleared his throat, rushing inside.

Walking aimlessly around the halls, Aphmau looked around.

A teacher approached the small raven-haired boy, "Are you new?" He asked, touching the boy on the shoulder.

"Huh!? Oh yeah... I'm a freshman... I have no idea where my class is." He chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck.

"What middle school are you coming from?"

"I was home-schooled." Aphmau chuckled.

"Oh, I see. So, do you have any childhood friends here, you could mingle with?" The teacher hummed, looking around at the kids around them.

"Oh... No... I don't. I wasn't very talkative as a kid. I did have some friends, but I don't remember them; nor did we stay in touch."

The teacher shook his head; "Now isn't the time to be alone!!" He said loudly, making some freshmen, in the orientation room next to them, look up; "Do you have any friends; at all?"

Aphmau sunk into himself: "No— not really... I have some online friends— but I don't think they count, right now..."

"Oh, you poor, poor socially awkward child." The teacher said, loud enough for everyone to easily hear. Aphmau blushed, looking at his shoes.

"Well, not to worry! I shall tell you how our school system works!!!" He cheered practically jumping up and down.

Aphmau regretted talking to this... enthusiast teacher.

After way too long, Aphmau was finally alone in the hallways; he was so desperate for alone-time, he didn't even look where he was going, and had gotten himself lost.

He looked around the empty halls surrounding him, as he slid down some lockers, sighing.

"You okay?" A boy with a beautiful voice asked, kneeling in-front of the close-to-tears boy.

"No!" He exclaimed, burying his head in his knees. "This schools huge, I don't understand the hall system, the bell rang almost 10 minutes ago, and I'm so SO late!" His long curly hair helped in hiding his now tear-covered face.

A gentle-yet-rough hand rested on his shoulder, "Hey, it's alright. Didn't you get a school packet in the mail over the summer? They were sent out to all the local jr high kids coming into high school."

"I was home-schooled..." Aphmau whined, tucking a strand of hair behind his ear.

"Ah. Well then… here, let me see your schedule." Aphmau dug in his pockets, pulling a folded up piece of paper and handing it to the other without looking up.

The boy hummed, "Hm, your class is nearby." He stood up, "Here, I'll walk you." He offered, holding his hand out to the younger.

Aphmau slowly looked up, reaching his— much smaller, hand to the others. He stared up at the dashing boy in-front of him.

"Wow... He's so so handsome!!" Aphmau thought, his face burning.

"Hm? Something the matter?" The brunette asked, taking the younger's hand and gently pulling him up.

"Huh!? N— no sir! Every-things fine!" He said, following closely behind his upperclassmen.

"Sir?" The boy asked, laughing.

"H- huh!? Oh shit! I'm so sorry I didn't mean to call you that!!" "Nice going Aph..."  Aphmau's face was bright red.

The boy snickered, "It's fine, your cute; so I'll let it slide." He winked at the freshmen.

"C— cute!?" Aphmau squeaked, his face bright red.

He'd never been flirted with... Not even in middle school, when he went to in-person school.

He's never really been handsome; he knew that, always did, his own mother treated him like a girl— not that he minded.

To hear this handsome boy in-front of him say something like that so... casually... made his heart skip several beats.

While looking at the ground, Aphmau ran into something hard for the 2nd time that day. "AH!" He jumped back, "I'M SO SORRY!!!" 

The boy turned smiling, "Not to worry. We're here." He motioned to the double doors next to them.

Aphmau looked up, “Oh! Thank you; sorry I probably made you late for class…”

“It’s no problem. I’m actually setting up at the club social for all the freshmen, so I'll probably see you there?” 

“H— huh? Oh definitely! I’ll check you guys out!”

“I’ll see you there.” The boy walked off, “Oh, and, by the way. That uniform looks good on you.”

“H— huh!?” Aphmau’s face went bright red, “T— thank you!!!” He called.

A smile made its way onto the boys face, as he walked away from the Freshmen.

Aphmau kept his head down as he sat next to a white haired boy in the back left of the class, hoping the teacher didn’t notice him late.

”Aphmau?” The teacher read, looking up.

Aphmau shakily raised his hand, “You were late.” The teacher said, looking back at his paper. “Is there a reason for that?”

“I—"

“The clichè 'I'm late because I'm new' excuse, right? You're lucky today's the first day, and that you're a freshman. The school sent out the orientation package during the summer and—”

”I— I was home-schooled!!” Aphmau stuttered, feeling that pressure behind his eyes already.

“Oh. Well... I won’t fault you for that… just, try not to be late again.”

”Thank you, sir...” Aphmau breathed a long sigh of relief.

"Alright, class. You can all mingle, and then we'll head on over to the club social." The teacher made his way over to his desk; pulling up his emails.

"Mingle? You know what? I'm not going to think too much into this whole 'being new' thing anymore! I'm just going to make casual conversation, with whoever I turn to next to me; and I'm going to enjoy it!" He turned to the white haired boy next to him with a smile; "Hi— Hi! My— my name is Aphmau! I'm new, like you! And, I— um... it— it's nice to meet you. Uh. Wha— what's your name?"

The boy started, looking over to the other with wide eyes; "Uh- um! It's Travis." His hair was white, like fresh snow, and eyes green like Spring grass, his skin was pale, like he’s never seen the sun.

Aphmau smile brightened, "Hey, that's a really nice name!"

Travis blushed. "Real— really? Um— your name is nice too!" He stuttered, his face bright red.

Aphmau cocked his head "Are you ok?" 

"Y- yeah, I'm just shocked a pretty boy would be the first person to talk to me..." He blurted out.

Aphmau's face went red, "Huh!? O- oh thank you... you're very handsome too..." 

Travis blushed, "Thank you..."

They sat in silence for a moment; before Travis looked up at the raven man beside him,"Um, w- want to be friends?"

"S- sure?" Aphmau nodded awkwardly.

"Okay then!"

"Ok!"

"Okay!"

...

"Heheheh!- W- what friends do?"

"Heh- I— I don't know..." Travis looked at his desk, nervously. "I just don't want to be alone for the first day here."

"So we're essentially: Not-Alone Buddies?" Aphmau giggled.

"Not-Alone Buddies!" Travis happily nodded.

"Hehe! Awesome!"

Chapter Text

“Alright, class we're heading to meet all the clubs and upperclassmen! Line up, and let's get going." They're teacher yelled over all the excited chatter of the Freshmen.

All the freshmen were herded into a line. Travis and Aphmau hung close together as they were pushed and shoved by their excited classmates.

”We’re sticking together— right..?” Aphmau nervously asked, grabbing Travis’ arm as to not be separated.

Travis’ face went bright red, trying to not pay attention to the fact his arm was being clung to the other boy’s chest. “Y— yeah; sure!!”

Aphmau beamed up at him, “Good! Let’s go then!”

Aphmau and Travis were standing in the crowd of other first years waiting for permission to enter the club social. They stood shoulder to shoulder, at the back, nervously looking at their peers.

”Home-school, huh?" Travis asked, much more relaxed now that they were acquainted.

Aphmau happily hummed, nodding.

”That’s sounds awesome!!”

Aphmau scratched the back of his neck, “Not really… it depends how you go about it. I honestly wanted to be alone, and play video games. I kinda regret doing that, since now I have zero real life friends…” (Home-schooler here, I hate people. Home-school’s great.)

Travis cocked his head, “Real life? What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Well, I do have this one friend that I met online, we message every now and then. We've been friends for a while, and he’s really cool!” 

“That's cool! Glad you’re not totally alone…” Travis looked to the ground.

“What about you?”

”I— I have one friend; he attends our school! He’s a sophomore and he’s really cool!” Stars filled Travis’ jade eyes. “He dated two girls at once!”

Aphmau’s eyes widened, “Wow! Uh— two girls!? You think that’s cool? He sounds like a total player…” He hoped he didn’t offend his new friend with that comment, but it was what he felt.

Travis sighed, “He is… I mean; I’m girl crazy, but I’m not that girl crazy. I don’t think I’d ever be able to approach one girl; let alone ask two on a date.”

Aphmau giggled, “That does sound like a lotta effort.”

”For real! And he’s in a club too, I have no idea where he gets that much time…” Travis shook his head fondly; “He and I became friends in elementary, he was in his last year there and I was the tiny quiet kid. He approached me and commanded I would be his friend.”

Aphmau smiled, “Awwwww! That’s so cute!! I can image little tiny baby Travis!! Ah!! I bet he was soooo cute!” He squealed.

Travis blushed, “I— am I not cute now?” He muttered, Aphmau leaned down, looking up so he could see his friends face behind all his snowy hair.

“Of course you’re cute Travis!” Aphmau beamed, a light flush on his cheeks.

Travis looked into those sweet honey eyes, his face becoming redder than the tomato’s his grandmother grew in their backyard. "Th— thank you…”

"ALRIGHT.” The teacher yelled from the head of the group, making sure everyone could hear him.

“Class, it's our turn to head into the gymnasium. You guys are free to mingle and get to know more about the school clubs and meet your upperclassmen until the bell rings."

A red haired girl, in the front, raised her hand, "Sir?"

The teacher held back a groan "Yes Ms. Von Ronsenburg?"

"Once the bell rings, do we head back to homeroom?"

The Teacher hummed: "Ah, great question. When the bell rings, you will all be going to your last class of the day listed on your schedule. Then after that, congratulations! Your first day of high-school will be over."

Aphmau cocked his head, "Really?"

"Wow. That went by... fast." Travis nodded, trying not to pay attention to how beautiful the male next to him looked.

The teacher sighed, "Tomorrow you'll meet your homeroom first, then you'll head to your other classes from there. But for now, into the gymnasium you go. Don't worry, the upperclassmen won't bite; well, most of them anyway. Come on."

Aphmau chuckled nervously, turning to his tall white haired friend, "We're staying together, right?"

Travis smiled down at him, "Of course! We're Not-Alone Buddies; right? We'll just stay close together." He nudged closer, "Strength in numbers; you know?"

Aphmau took his hand, "Perfect!" He drug the taller into the gym after him, "Lets go!!"

Booths lined in isles on one half of the gym, the other was filled with small round tables; a few of the upperclassmen were sitting at.

Travis and Aphmau stood on the table side, looking at all the booths in a mixture of awe and nervousness.

"W- Wow! There are so many clubs..." Travis muttered hiding behind Aphmau, their hands still woven together.

All of a sudden Aphmau saw a blurry purple banner where his glasses didn't reach, he gasped pushing them up and turning his full attention to the booth; "They have a anime club!!!!" 

Travis snickered, "Oh, your that kinda nerd; huh?"

Aphmau playfully punched him in the shoulder, "You really know how to flatter a guy; huh?

Travis laughed rubbing his shoulder, playfully, of course, he doubted Aphmau could hurt him if he really tried to. "I'm kidding! I like anime too—"

A whooshing sound made both of them turn, a volleyball hit Travis square in the face; making him fall to the ground.

Aphmau knelt next to him, his hand on his Not-Alone Buddies shoulder; "Travis!! Are you ok!?" He squealed— in a very manly voice! If he said so himself!

Travis groaned, still out cold.

A tall girl with long light blue hair walked over, she wore a button-up shirt with pants, the "male" uniform. She laughed, "Nice catch dork! You caught the ball with your face!!" 

Aphmau glared at her, "That's not very nice of you!!" 

The girl laughed harder, "You gotta admit: that, was hilarious."

"No it wasn't!!" Travis groaned again making Aphmau scream: "Travis!!" He leaned over him, still on his knees beside his Not-Alone Buddy.

"Katelyn, don't tease the freshmen." A familiar voice said from behind Aphmau, if he wasn't worrying over his past-out friend, he would've realized that voice belonged to his "knight in shining armor", as his thoughts like to call him.

The girl, the handsome boy called: Katelyn, scoffed "Hey come on! I'm just teaching them tough love! I didn't mean any harm in it." She rolled her eyes.

"Tell that to the dude's face." The boy mumbled shaking his head.

Travis moaned in pain, the boy leaned over him before sighing: "I'll go get the nurse." 

"Oh come on! It's just a scratch!" Katelyn groaned, rolling her eyes again. Ignoring the glare Aphmau sent her.

"Katelyn... come on, leave them alone. Not everyone's as tough as you." A voice with a slight posh accent said, Aphmau's head snapped up; seeing the tall handsome blonde from that morning.

Katelyn scoffed louder, "Well if it isn't Prince Charming." She crossed her arms.

The handsome boy chuckled, "I have a name, you know."

"Tell that to all the freshman girls gawking over you. I swear; they don't even wanna know your name." She teased.

The blonde smirked, leaning forward slightly "Jealous?"

A light blush appeared on Katelyn pale cheeks: "Hm... I don't care either way. You're annoying."

The blonde hummed, looking behind her, "Don't you have a booth to run?" 

Katelyn's turquoise eyes widened "Shit! That's right!" She turned to Aphmau, who was still leaning over the fallen Travis, "Hey! Freshman."

Aphmau looked up, "H- huh? M- me?"

Katelyn rolled her eyes, "Yeah, you. Sorry about your friend. Stop by the volleyball booth if you need someone to hang out with."

The blonde haired boy smiled, "There's the sweet Katelyn I know."

"SHUT UP PRETTY BOY! Jeez! Ah! My girls need me. See ya." She waved to Aphmau, who had turned back to his white haired Not-Alone Buddy.

The blonde boy shook his head a soft smile on his face, "Sorry about her. Are you okay?" He knelt next to the raven haired boy, moving a piece of long curly hair behind his ear.

Aphmau flushed, "H— huh?" He swallowed, nodding "Y- yeah. I- I'm fine..."

The blonde boy leaned over, looking up to see Aphmau's face behind his thick hair. "You sure? You're drooling." He teased.

"Dah!!" Aphmau wiped his mouth, realizing the elder was playing with him as he chuckled.

Aphmau giggled, "I- I'm perfectly fine- B- but Travis! That's right!"

Travis groaned, slowly sitting up; "W- what happened?" He asked, covering his eyes from the blaring LED lights above him.

Aphmau covered the light with his hand, feeling Travis' forehead with the other. "Travis! Are you ok!?" 

Travis nodded, blushing as the other took his hand again.

The blonde boy stood up, smiling "Looks like you guys are fine here. I need to walk around and see if other freshmen need help." He turned to Aphmau offering him his hand; the younger took it allowing the other to help him to his feet. "Don't be afraid to come asked me for help if you get lost or overwhelmed." He said, his voice soft.

Aphmau blushed, nodding his head, "S- sure!"

The blonde waved "Have fun." He walked to a group of girls by the back wall.

Aphmau helped Travis up, his eyes never leaving the blonde's form. 

Travis cleared his throat trying to ignore the feeling raising in his stomach; "So. Who's the dreamboat you're drooling over?"

Aphmau wheeled around, their chests nearly touching "H- huh!? I'm not drooling! Wait. Why are we talking about that!? Travis, are you ok!?" He asked, his hand, not holding Travis', found it's way to the taller's shoulder.

Travis swallowed, holding his head with his free hand "Yeah... I'm fine, just feel like I got hit by a truck..."

Aphmau smiled, "I'm so sorry... that must've been so embarrassing!" The hand on Travis' shoulder fell to his (Travis’) chest, patting him before falling back to Aphmau's side.

Travis smiled, "Normally it would've been... but I had someone there who cared about me... so, that made it better." Aphmau sighed, nodding.

"So... thanks, for that..." Travis mumbled, squeezing Aphmau's hand.

The raven laughed nervously, "I didn't really do anything... you would've done the same for me..."

Travis would've... what's this feeling? He and Dante were never touchy... but Aphmau seemed to be; he assumed that's what this feeling was. It had to be... right?

Travis hummed "I didn't feel alone... and that's enough for me." He avoided the other's amber eyes.

Aphmau giggled happily, "You're too sweet!!"

Travis shook his head laughing.

"Well, come on! Let's go check out the clubs!!" Aphmau ran off, dragging Travis close behind him.

"Woah..." Travis looked left and right as Aphmau moved them through the crowd.

"Any that catch your interest?" Aphmau asked, dragging Travis into a corner, so they could stand and talk, without being pushed around.

Travis chuckled nervously "Well... I'm kinda interested in theater..." 

"Wha— Really!?" Aphmau asked, the large purple bow keeping his hair up bouncing. Travis had to use every ounce of his strength not to let his mind wonder.

Travis chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck with the hand not being held in Aphmau's. "It's gonna sound cliché, but I've always kinda wanted to be Romeo, in Romeo and Juliet..."

Aphmau giggled, "Wow, wanna be a dreamboat I see. Hmm?" He teased, leaning forward. The bow clipped to his shirt hung between them, Travis tried to focus on it and not the fact he could, just barely, see down Aphmau's shirt.

"N- no! I- I just think it would be c- cool." Travis said, blushing furiously.

Aphmau straightened up, "Uh-huh. Right. I think you'd make the perfect Romeo!" He winked.

"Real- really?" Romeo, was often thought to be the standard for handsome in alot of girls minds— not that Aphmau was a girl!

Aphmau nodded, "Your tall, charming, and handsome to boot!" He exclaimed, letting go of Travis' hand to place both his hands on his hips. "You should go talk to them~." He sang.

Travis blushed, "You'll be right behind me... right?"

Aphmau nodded animatedly, "I've got your back! Not to worry!! Let's go!!" He grabbed Travis' hand again, it was still as warm as when he let go of it. He clung to the far wall, looking for a banner that had "THEATER CLUB" stamped on it.

"Ah-ha!" He exclaimed, seeing the red banner with the aforementioned "THEATER CLUB" on it. He pushed Travis in-front of him, placing his hands on the taller's shoulders,

"You got this! Want me to come with you?"

Travis took a deep breath, "I can do this!! You'll stay right here right?"

Aphmau nodded, "Uh-huh! I'll be right here, signal me if you need me to come swoop in and save you; ok?"

Travis nodded, taking another deep breath as he weaved his way through the line to the front.

Aphmau smiled as he heard his Not-Alone Buddy shakily introduce himself.

His phone dinged from his vest pocket. He smiled, seeing the text on his screen

FC:
Heya! How's ur 1st day goin?"

You:
Well, I'm not dead yet!
I'm still really nervous tho...

"I mean... I do have Travis, but still..." Aphmau thought, watching as Travis talked to the boy at the booth.

FC:
Nervous? U? Come on! If u talk to ppl the way u talk to me, u should be the most pop. guy in school be now.

Aphmau rolled his eyes.

You:
Yeah. Right.
This is irl we're talkin abt!

He shook his head fondly, "I mean, seriously! It's way harder to talk to people in-person..."

You:
How's ur day goin?

FC:
Meh. It's goin.
Shouldn't u get off ur phone and get back to class?

You:
LOOK WHO'S TALKIN!!

Aphmau shook his head, freezing when he saw a tall dark girl standing off to his side. He stuffed his phone back into his vest pocket.

The girl smiled, "Hey cutie. Don't you know, it's against the rules to text, during class hours?"

Aphmau squeaked, "I- I'm so sorry-"

The girl hummed, "But since you're new; and this isn't really a class... I'll let it slide. For you." She winked, Aphmau let out the breath he had been holding.

"Thank you ma'am... I'll try not to do it again."

The girl nodded, "Good!" She tossed a look over to Travis, she had seen how touchy the two freshman had been, and— safely (In her humble opinion), assumed they were dating. "Seems like you're boyfriend already found a club he's interested in.”

Aphmau blushed, "We- we aren't dating! We- we're Not-Alone Buddies!!"

The girl giggled, "Awha!! That's too cute!!"

Aphmau looked down, his face still red.

"Oh sh- I'm so sorry! I wasn't laughing at you- ugh... sorry that came out bad..."

Aphmau waved her off, "It- it's ok... I'm just really nervous... your so pretty, and confident..."

The girl giggled, "Awwh! You flatter me too much... Hm... what clubs have you talked to?" She asked, fixing the large bow on Aphmau's chest.

The bow measured to just about the size of his palm, it was light blue, and had soft slightly darker blue lines going through it, in a waffle-like pattern.

Aphmau swallowed, "None... yet. I've been looking, but, I'm a little nervous, to talk to the clubs directly..."

The girl hummed, "What clubs have you been interested in?"

Aphmau looked down: "Well the Anime and Track club mainly... I played track way back in middle school, but got a pretty bad injury that prevented me from running; and I didn't get all healed up for a long while, in that time I joined the anime club, so I didn't see any point in re-joining..."

The girl smiled, "Well, I know the leader of the anime club personally, and I can say he's a pretty nice guy. You can join, and leave a club at any time, so there's no real rush. Now, I gotta go, before my Captain reprimands me for "slacking off". See you around Cutie!" She rushed off waving.

Aphmau waved, "She seems so awesome!" He thought, fan-boying over the fact such a pretty, and nice girl talked to him. Hey! He might be gay, but he can still appreciate a women's beauty— respectfully, of course.

Travis came back to Aphmau's side beaming. "I did it!!"

"You joined the theater club!?" Aphmau asked holding Travis' shoulders.

"NO!! But I kinda- almost talked to them!!" Travis rubbed the back of his neck.

Aphmau shook his head fondly, "You should've called me over-"

*Bell Rings*

Both boys jumped, looking up.

"Well there's the bell... what's your last class?" Travis asked, looking back down to meet Aphmau's honey eyes.

Aphmau pulled a neatly folding piece of paper out of his pocket, pushing his glasses up as they fell down his nose. "WWLF 107..?" 

Travis cocked his head at the words on Aphmau's schedule, "Weird... Never heard of it! I've got BIO 101..." He groaned as they walked out of the gym and towards their classes.

"Hopefully we have more classes together." Travis commented.

Aphmau nodded, "Hopefully! I can't stand only seeing my Not-Alone Buddy once a day!!"

Travis nodded, "Good luck in WW- whatever it was."

"Thanks! You too we're both gonna need it!!" 

Aphmau ran all the way to his next class, he panted "I-" he put his hands on his knees, "I made it in time!!" He looked up to the clock in the hallway, "Oh my Irene; I actually have a lot of time to spare..."

"What did you just say!?" A voice, from inside the classroom, demanded.

Aphmau pushed open the doors curiously looking around.

"Buzz. Off." A boy, with black hair, and eyes, growled. He sat at a table, in the back, next to the window facing a few lockers in the hall.

Aphmau looked at the spectaculars, "Wh- what's happening?" He asked, a werewolf boy next to the blackboard. 

"Some new kid decided to get on Balto's bad side. He's about to have a baddddd time. Balto's gonna rip him apart if he keeps it up."

Aphmau looked from the werewolf next to him to the two fighting in the back. "A- a fight!? Shouldn't we do something!? Like, get a teacher?"

The werewolf shook his head, "Nah. It's better we stay outta it. First day back, and Balto's been itchin' for a fight. Last kid that got in his way was in the hospital for weeks."

Aphmau squeaked, "That- that's awful!!"

The werewolf shrugged, "Ya don't get to be the Alpha by playing nice."

"Alpha..?" 

"That's. My. SEAT!" A werewolf with short dark brown hair with a pair of purplish-grey ears yelled, slamming his clawed hands on the table.

"There aren't assigned seats. Go find another one." The black haired human shrugged, leaning back in his chair.

"DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM!!?" The brown haired werewolf demanded, his ears flat against his head, his tail puffed, and his fanged teeth bared.

"Yeah. You're annoying."

The brown haired werewolf growled, "That supposed to be funny?"

The black haired human smirked, "Kinda."

The brown haired werewolf shook his head, "Oh, this is PERFECT!" His nails made an awful sound as they scratched against the plastic surface of the table. "YOU'VE GOT A DEATH WISH TODAY; DON'T YA!?-"

Aphmau rushed forward, "O- OI!" He yelled, the brown haired werewolf slowly turned around. "St- stop!! Or- or I'll call a teacher!!" 

The werewolves laugh sent shivers down Aphmau's spine, "Little pup intends to tell on me?"

"I- I just don't want anyone getting hurt!!"

The werewolf slowly stalked forward, "You're in the wrong class if you don't wanna get hurt."

Aphmau yelped, "I- um- well- I just-"

"Isn't your fight with me?" The black haired human had stood up, he was tall and muscular; but, in Aphmau's opinion, the werewolf would still win.

Aphmau was now cornered; the werewolf was nearly nose-to-nose with the freshmen. "Don't worry. I'll get to you in a minute."

The black haired human walked over, grabbing the brown-haired werewolf by the back of the shirt. He held him over his head, before throwing him through the window next to them.

Aphmau screamed, rushing to the window. "WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU!?" He screamed, climbing through the broken window, and rushing to the werewolves side.

"He's a werewolf."

"I don't care! He could've been a demon, and that still would've been wrong!!" The class erupted into whispers. The black haired human hesitated for a moment, before scoffing, and walking back to his seat.

The teacher walked in, "Looks like werewolf class is off to a wonderful start this year!!" He laughed, setting his book on his desk.

He turned to the class "Hello class!! First day, and we're already throwing each other out the window; huh?"

Aphmau worriedly set his hand on the werewolves chest, feeling a steady heartbeat; as to be expected, something like that wouldn't kill him. 

The teacher cleared his throat, "I know tempers can run high in classes like this but, the principal informed me that, the school had to cut back on their window repair budget." He rolled his eyes, "So, we need to try and cut back on that kinda behavior; alright?"

The werewolf began to stir, Aphmau placed his hand on his back to help stabilize him. "Are you kidding me!? Th— this is normal!??" 

The werewolf groaned, holding his head. "You alright!?" Aphmau asked, "Do you feel lightheaded? Remember who, and where you are?" The werewolf pushed him away, using his shoulder to push himself up; making Aphmau fell back on his hands.

The werewolf made his way back inside.

Aphmau stood brushing off. He followed the elder werewolf, grumbling under his breath.

The teacher cleared his throat again, "Alright! Welcome to Werewolf 107: Intro to basic transformation; everyone! Now, I know some of you already know how to transform, but I'm here to explain—"

Aphmau hung by the door awkwardly, "U— um..." he tugged on the back of the teachers shirt.

The teacher stopped looking back to the nervous freshman; "Yes?"

"I- I th- think there's been a... mix-up..." he shuffled, feeling his classmate's staring him down. "I- I'm not supposed to be here..."

The teacher hummed, "Really? Well than, let's take a look at your schedule."

Aphmau nodded taking his schedule out with shaking hands, he handed it over.

The teacher hummed reading down the schedule, "Nope! It's says right here, WWLF 107. You're in the right class."

Aphmau pushed up his glasses, looking from his schedule to his teacher in shock, "B— but that's impossible!! I— I'm not a—"

"I'm not supposed to be here either." The black haired boy, from earlier, said, lazily leaning on his hands.

"What's that?" The teacher asked, his ears perking up.

"I'm not a werewolf."

The teacher rolled his eyes, "Well. According to your schedule; you are. Go talk to registration tomorrow if you wanna transfer, but for now; you're stuck with me."

He turned to the rest of the class. "Now. Everyone; pair up with a seat buddy. We have an even number of students, so anyone without a seat buddy... gets thrown out the window."

...

"I'm just kidding!" The teacher's ears dropped "Kinda."

He turned back to Aphmau, "Since you and Balto get along so well. You'll be sitting with him. RONNIE MOVE."

A red haired werewolf slowly got up, muttering under his breath as he took a seat next to the black haired human in the back.

Aphmau was pushed towards the isle closest to the window overlooking the sport fields.

The raven haired boy walked to the very back; where the brown haired werewolf— Balto; sat.

"Are you serious!! I have to sit next to this guy!?" He sat down, setting his bag on the floor next to his chair.

The only recognition he got was a slight twitch of the ear as Balto stared outside. "Shou- should I talk to him..? He's pretty scary..." He took a soft breath, "Don't judge a book by its cover Aphmau! You know better!!" 

"Hel- Hello! My names Aph-"

"Shut. Up." Balto growled, his ears going flat against his head, and his tail puffing out. A clear sign to back the hell off.

Aphmau yelped, turning away, to face the, now broken, window.

The tall blonde from earlier came over to the glass, his classmate next to him, as they inspected the damage.

He looked up, his dark blue eyes meeting Aphmau's amber ones. He smiled at the younger, winking.

Aphmau's face flushed red, looking back at the teacher. His thought's racing as fast as he used to. "Did- did he just WINK AT ME!!!????" He mentally shook himself, "No! No... He was probably winking at some girl— yeah that's it! Why would a guy like that like a guy like you?"

Aphmau sat at the bar in his kitchen with a bowl of ramen in-front him.

His mother came over to him, leaning on her hands. "So, how was school? As terrible as you thought?"

Aphmau rolled his eyes, feeding his dog a few noddles he'd been cooling off; "You know what? It was actually pretty nice..."

Chapter Text

Aphmau set his dog, Thorgi’s bowl down, his breakfast was kibble with some scrambled eggs on-top (Aphmau had had some for breakfast and thought to share some with Thorgi, it was good for him).

"Bye, mama! I'm heading off!!"

His mother smiled, waving her son off, "Alright! Take care!!" 

Aphmau scratched Thorgi behind the ears, as he shut the door. He jumped down the stairs, walking down the side-walk.

"Well, if it isn't Mr. Droolypants." A high pitch, and frankly, annoying, voice said, making Aphmau look up. 

"Huh?" He looked around, before pointing to himself, "Me?"

"Who else would I be talking to? You're the only Freshman who slobbered, like a dog, over Garroth yesterday."

Aphmau searched his mind for the name... Garroth? Garroth... no, not ringing a bell... "Who? Wait. You were watching me?"

"Of course! I don't like it when someone gets all over my man! I mean; I know it's hard, he's such a dream-boat after all!" She gloated, flipping her hair.

"Maybe you should tell "your man" to not let other people get "all over" him. Who's your boyfriend again? I have no idea who "Garroth" is."

"Ugh! The tall blonde you've been all over!

"Oh!! Him! Wait. So your his girlfriend?"

"Of course I am! He just... doesn't know it yet..."

Aphmau burst out laughing, "I— I'm so sorry. Girl, you are out of your mind!"

The girls face went red, "DON'T LAUGH AT ME!!"

The didn't help the situation, it only made Aphmau laugh harder; "I'm sorry!! I- I just." He took a deep breath, pushing up his glasses and wiping his eyes. "You are out of your mind. You do know Garroth needs to know about you, in order for you to be his "girlfriend". Right?"

"I don't like his tone, Ivy..." A girl with long black hair drawled out.

"Her name is Ivy? Not that that's a bad name... but pretty much every Ivy I've meant, has been a bitch... no surprise..."

"I don't either. His voice is so high pitched and squeaky! Plus he looks like a short potato. I don't see how Garroth would even be interested in him!" She flipped her hair again.

Aphmau cocked an eyebrow, "You're one to talk." 

Ivy's gang laughed at her awful (In Aphmau's option) joke.

"Potato?" Aphmau tried not to laugh, "That's the best you can do?" He scoffed, "I've been called worse." He shrugged.

There was a small moment of silence before Ivy growled. "What is it with you!!? Listen up! If you even think about getting close to Garroth Ro'meave you're in for a world of hurt! He's MINE! So, stay. Away!!!" She turned around, "Come on Lily, Alex." 

Aphmau stood there, waiting for the girls to leave his sight. "Hm..." he shrugged, he used to be pretty badly bullied in middle-school, that was, one of the reasons, he went into home-school for jr. high.

Whatever they wanted to do. He could take it.

Aphmau walked into class, his eyes instantly found Travis' seat; "Travis isn't here?" He sat down, setting his bag on the floor. A pout on his face. "Ugh... Hopefully he hasn't transferred outta this class..." He pulled out his phone, “g on FC's number.

You:
“Hey, u there?"

"Hopefully he's not-"

FC:
“Yeah I'm here. What's up?”

You:
“Some girls just bullied me...”
“I think.”

FC knew of Aphmau's past bully problems he hoped the other wouldn't over-react. But once he looked at FC's response he sighed fondly.

FC:
“WHAT!?”
“R U OK?"

You:
“Yes I'm fine.”
“They called me a potato… Not very effective, but they tried?”

Even though he made fun of it in his head, it kinda hurt... it some weird way.

FC:
“Hmm... well I've never seen u.”
“How do I know I haven't been talking to a potato this whole time?”

Aphmau deadpanned, staring at his screen in mild disappointment.

You:
“Srsly?”

FC:
“8D”

"I hate that stupid face!!" Aphmau raged in his head, angrily typing:

You:
“I HATE THAT STUPID FACE!!!”

FC:
“I know. 8D”
“Bet that made u laugh tho.”

Aphmau chuckled shaking his head.

You:
“Wtv...” 
“It did make me laugh”

FC:
“And if those girls bully u again, go tell someone.”
“Don't put up with it, like last time.”

You:
“And if that doesn't work?”

FC took a moment to respond, when he did, his response made Aphmau smile:

FC:
“Then I'll get over there and kick her ass.”

You:
“Oh? Rly?”

FC:
“U bet ur ass!”

Aphmau chuckled, responding with a smile.

You:
“Fine. Fine! I'm laughing! Happy?”

FC:
“Last I checked potatoes don't laugh.” 
“Focus on ur class.”

Aphmau rolled his eyes laughing under his breath.

The door opened and a tall white haired boy walked in rushing to his seat.

"Morning Not-Alone Buddy!!" He greeted, sitting next to his Not-Alone Buddy.

"Morning! Your late. How was BIO yesterday?"

"It wasn't too bad; my Sophomore friend was in there."

Aphmau raised an eyebrow, "The player guy?"

Travis nodded happily; "Yeeah! So I'm cool; I'm cooool—" He coughed, clearing his throat; "W- what about you? How was the class you had?"

Aphmau shrugged, "It was werewolf class. Some dude got thrown out of the window." He chuckled nervously, hoping Balto didn't get hurt somewhere.

"Yep. Sounds like werewolf class— Wait! Wait! I didn't know you were a werewolf!!"

Aphmau waved his hands, "I'm not!” He didn’t want anyone knowing he was a half-werewolf who had fangs, and claws, but no damn ears and tail. It was embarrassing enough back home, where everyone and their mothers knew about it. “I gotta go see admin about getting outta the class..." He chuckled to himself.

*Bell Rings*

Travis jumped, "Time for first period already?" He groaned, watching as Aphmau stood stretching; "Geez... I was late it didn't feel like homeroom at all... what classes do you have today?"

Aphmau and Travis walked out of class, Aphmau hummed pulling out his schedule; "Hmmm... it says my first class is creative writing; than I have WCFT 203..."

"Ooooo! That's a fun class! My dad teaches Witchcraft at the local university! In any-case I got French 101 and I don't wanna be late. See ya later, Not-Alone Buddy!!" Travis waved running off to his French class.

"See ya!!" Aphmau waved. "Wait... he's taking French? Ooh la la!" He giggled, walking to his class.

Aphmau looked at the number plaque next to the double doors of his class.

"304... That's it!!" As he was pushing the doors open he caught a glance at a group of girls crouching by the window. He was a bit creeped out, but thought it was none of his business.

"Hope the teacher isn't here yet..." he thought, sneaking through the doors. He sighed in relief seeing the teacher's desk empty. "Alright... now time to find a seat."

He walked down the aisle closest to the window the girls were staring in, trying to ignore them. "Huh?"

He caught the eye of two handsome, tall boys sitting in the back. One sitting at the desk, his hand resting on his hand, and the other boy was leaning on said desk, they seemed to be deep in conversion.

"Eep!" Aphmau squeaked, "What are they doing here..?" He muttered under his breath. Trying, unsuccessfully, to hide behind his glasses.

"Hey, it's you!" The brunette, leaning on the desk, said, turning to face the small freshmen.

"Ah, the little freshman from yesterday!" The blond, Aphmau learned to be Garroth, smiled.

Aphmau squeaked, "Are— Are they talking to me!?"

The brunette chuckled, "Yeah we're talking to you."

Aphmau's cheeks flushed, "Are— are they reading my thoughts!?"

Garroth and the brunette shared a look, chuckling. "We're not reading your thoughts... You're just talking aloud." 

Aphmau covered his mouth, blushing "I— I'm so sorry!" 

Garroth laughed, waving him off, "Why don't you come sit with us?"

The brunette nodded, "Yeah, no-one else wants to. So, it'd be nice to have another person at our table."

Aphmau shuffled his feet, tucking a piece of his bangs behind his ear. "Are— are you sure?" 

Garroth nodded, waving him to come over and sit on the chair at the table beside them.

Aphmau sat at the seat, setting his bag under his chair, he placed his hands in his lap bouncing his leg.

"Hm... I wonder where the teacher is..." Garroth commented, his elbows resting on the table, he'd never dream of doing this in-front of his parents— or brothers; but, it was a bad habit, the brunette had taught him.

"It’s the second day of classes, Garroth. Things are hectic." The brunette said Garroth's name different from how Ivy said it. It sounded better in Aphmau's head. "Maybe he didn't show? In any case, let’s not sweat over it. Kinda nice to have a free day at the start of the year."

Garroth hummed, "I suppose you're right, Laurance... So, Freshman." He said, finally turning to the raven haired freshman next to him.

Aphmau squeaked, again. Drawing a laugh from the brunette, Laurance; prefect name for him, in Aphmau's opinion.

"What's your name?" Garroth asked.

Aphmau scrambled to answer, "It— It's Aphmau!" 

"Aphmau? That's a unique name... it's nice." Garroth commented, watching as Aphmau squirmed at his words. 

"Thank— Thanks!" Aphmau squeaked, in a weirdly high-pitched voice.

Laurance leaned over the table, looking to the raven in concern, "Why are you shaking? Are you cold?" He asked, beginning to take off his uniform jacket.

"Handsome and considerate!? What a dream-boat!!!" Aphmau thought, hoping to everything, he wasn't thinking aloud.

"That's because he's sitting next to the hottest guys in the Sophomore class." Garroth played with a strand of his curly short blonde hair.

Aphmau made a odd nervous sound, gripping the edge of his seat.

Garroth chuckled, winking.

Laurance sighed, "You're gonna give the poor guy a heart attack..."

"Ah! Sorry! It's just you're really cute." Garroth rubbed the back of his neck, chuckling under his breath.

Aphmau squeaked. "It's definitely the uniform." Laurance hummed, looking the shaking freshman up and down, "The bow really adds to his beauty." He nodded towards the large bow on Aphmau's chest.

Aphmau placed his hand over his chest, mumbling a small thank you before clearing his throat, "S- So, Laurance, and Garroth are your names?" He muttered, unable to look the two in the eye.

"So, you have been paying attention to more than just our looks?" Garroth chuckled happily.

"I- I mean- yeah... it's kinda hard not to... your voices are so nice..." He mumbled, before correcting himself, "I- I mean! It's rude not to listen to what someone's saying; right?" He giggled nervously, running his fingers through his ponytail. 

The two Sophomores shared a look before laughing. 

"So is your friend from yesterday okay?" Garroth asked.

"Travis? Oh yeah! He's fine... he recovered pretty fast; he's a though one." Aphmau giggled, more at ease talking about someone other than himself.

"Glad to hear." Laurance nodded, "So, what jr. high are you from?"

Aphmau looked up, meeting Laurance's sky blue eyes, "Eh?" He hurriedly looked away, his mother said keeping eye contact with your elder’s is disrespectful; and the last thing he wanted, was to be disrespectful to these two.

"I- I was home-schooled..." He nervously rubbed his neck.

Laurance hummed, "No wonder you're so nervous. I was home-schooled for a-while in elementary, so I get how hard that change can be."

Aphmau hummed, "Uh- I- umm... It's— It's really scary..." He played with his ponytail some more, the purple bow in his hair slightly coming undone, making his appearance seem more nervous.

"You're doing a great job adapting." Laurance praised, a soft smile on his handsome face.

"I bet we're not helping either." Garroth chuckled.

Aphmau jumped, waving his hands around, "N- no! You're hottin- I MEAN, HELPING A LOT!!" He whined at his mistake, hiding his face in his hands.

The laughs of the two older boys made Aphmau's body go hot.

"I think you'll fit in with us just fine." Laurance chuckled, "We know that we have this effect on people, so we like to tease." 

Garroth leaned back in his chair, folding his muscular arms over his chest- Aphmau really needed to stop thinking about his upperclassmen's muscles... "Speak for yourself. I don't do it half as much as you do."

Laurance rolled his eyes, "That's because you play the Prince Charming role."

Aphmau looked from one to the other. "Wait- so you two are like; friends?

"I guess. We met freshman year and had a-lot of classes together, so we just kinda got close over time." Laurance shrugged.

Garroth laughed, "This guy had orange hair back then!"

Laurance blushed, "DON'T TELL HIM THAT!! My sister dyed it..." he muttered, crossing his arms.

Aphmau giggled, "I- I can imagine that, actually."

Laurance's blush darkened, "Where the hell is our teacher!?" 

Garroth shrugged looking at the analog clock above the black board; Aphmau had never learned how to read those, and he never will! "Not sure. But the bell's about to ring-"

*Bell Rings*

"Anddd there it is." Laurance picked up his dark green bag, slinging it over his shoulder. Garroth slowly stood, pushing his chair in and picking up his own bag.

Aphmau stumbled to follow, tossing his purple bag over his shoulders, his charms clang together loudly, as pushing in his chair.

"Hey, Aphmau." Aphmau's head snapped up, meeting Laurance's eyes again. "You seem really cool. We should hang out sometime." He pulled a piece of paper from his jacket pocket, handing it over to the smaller. 

"I- I didn't even talk!" Aphmau said pushing Laurance's hand away with both of his.

Laurance took one of his hands, "But you listened. That nice for a change." He placed the paper in Aphmau's palm; closing his (Aphmau's) fingers around it.

"You- you're welcome... I- I guess..."

"Don't be a stranger." Garroth smiled, happily waving as he and Laurance left the room.

"Yes- yes sir!" Aphmau waved back, there was a moment of silence after the door shut before Aphmau started squealing like a little girl.

A few werewolf upperclassmen pinned their ears at the sound, but didn't care enough to say anything.

Aphmau walked down the foyer overlooking the lunch room. He looked down, humming "Looks like lunch is clearing out... that's a good thing; since: I've been eating lunch alone... In any case..." He sighed, "Looks like I'm early to class."

Aphmau pushed the doors open, stopping in his tracks when he saw two girls arguing.

"Are you even supposed to be in witchcraft?" The orange haired slightly shorter girl asked, her arms crossed under her chest.

"It's what my schedule says! So like it or not; I'm here until I can change it!" The taller blue haired girl scuffed. Aphmau recognized the girl as Katelyn, the girl who knocked Travis out on their first day. He was still a little mad at her for that.

"You don't have to yell at me, Kateyln." The orange haired girl rolled her eyes.

"I'll yell at you all. I. Want!! Irene! I never should've let you be my BFF..." Kateyln flipped her hair.

Aphmau awkwardly looked around, he never got that "BFF" stuff, but alot of his female friends said it, so, he just ignored it.

Aphmau cleared his throat, making both of the girl's snap their head's over to look at him. "Are- are we the only ones in class?"

"Huh?" Both girls asked, in unison.

"I- I'm sorry... I didn't mean to stare... you— you guys were just yelling and-" Aphmau wrung his hands, hurriedly explaining.

"Oh, you're that freshman from yesterday!" Katelyn smirked, whispering to herself: "Oh this is just perfect!" 

Aphmau looked around, "Huh?"

Katelyn started laughing, "Lucinda! This here is my new best friend!!" 

Aphmau jumped, taking a step back, "What?"

"Oh? Really?" The orange haired girl, Lucinda, asked, looking skeptical.

Katelyn nodded proudly.

"You hit my best friend in the face with a volleyball—!!!" Aphmau cut in/

Katelyn laughed loudly, "Oh! What an imagination you have!!" She lowered her voice, whispering: "Play along, and I'll owe you big time!" 

Lucinda chuckled, "Oh? What's his name? Your new... friend."

Katelyn giggled, "Oh! Um... His name is—"

"Aphmau. It's Aphmau." Aphmau answered his arms crossed under his chest, pushing it up to make himself look bigger (it didn't work, but he's trying).

"That's right! Aphaguguh- What?" She looked to Aphmau, seeing his anger at the situation made her feel slightly bad- slightly.

"That doesn't count! He answered for you." Lucinda scuffed.

Katelyn huffed— proudly! She might add. "Well. That's one friend for me. And, how many, for you?" She leaned forward, "Hm?"

Lucinda's jaw tightened, "Hey, boy, who's obviously never met Katelyn before in his life! Wanna be my best friend instead? I'll help you out in classss." She smiled at the shorter boy.

Aphmau looked from one to the other, "You guys are fighting over me? Seriously!? How does this make any-sense!!?" He stomped his foot in frustration, and, a bit of, confusion.

"Don't listen to Lucinda!! I'll buy you lunch every week from the café in school!" Katelyn argued.

"I'll give you a spell that turns people into cute cats!!!" Lucinda rebooted.

Katelyn gasped dramatically "You're allergic to cats! She's trying to kill you!!'

"I'm not! I love cats! My mama's allergic to cats!" Aphmau cut in.

Lucinda laughed, "You don't even know your own friend's allergies!!" 

"Wait! But I'm not her friend!" Aphmau pouted.

Katelyn and Lucinda growled at each-other, before a bottle flew over Aphmau's head and broke on them; Aphmau yelped, ducking down.

A groan came from behind him, "Ugh... those girls can fight. Sorry about that, little one." The teacher stood behind him.

She was around average height, with pale bluish-periwinkle eyes, and medium-light gray hair; which fell over her shoulders. Her eyes were soft as she helped Aphmau back to his feet.

"Thank- thank you ma'am."

"My name is Hyria, I'm the witchcraft teacher." She smiled down at him.

Aphmau looked down, seeing two large cat's on the floor, where the two girls had been standing. "Why were they fighting so frantically? If you don't mind me asking."

Ms. Hyria sighed shaking her head. "Well one of these girls just so happens to be my daughter... I won't get into too much detail... but there was this girl, they both liked, and they turned her into a frog... and well— you've read the Frog Prince. In any case, class is about to begin. Students, take your seats! As for you three, since you all get along, so well, you all get to sit together!"

Aphmau jumped back, "What!?"

The cats- girls; meowed angrily.

"Go on; sit down and let's begin your introduction to witchcraft!"  

Aphmau nodded, letting the cats lead him to three seats in the back, he sat between them. "Oh this is too cute!! First I get to sit next to two hot guys, and now I get to sit next to little kitties!!" He mentally giggled.

The class started, but Aphmau couldn't hear a word, his long, sharp nails tore at the pages of his notebook as the cat's on either-side of him angrily yowled at each-other. "Oh. My. Irene. They won't shut up!"

Ms. Hyria walked back and forth clearing talking about the intro to witchcraft, Aphmau tried to listen and take notes but it was just impossible! He would have to ask for someones notes later...

Chapter Text

"WHAT!? GET NAKED!? IN-FRONT OF OTHER GUYS!?" 

Travis blushed, "We- well when you say it like that of course it sounds bad..." They both stood outside the boy's locker room. Aphmau had a deep blush on his cheeks.

"I don't wanna go to gym!!" Aphmau jumped behind Travis as some of their classmates came out.

"Hey calm down. Look I'll go in with you, you can just, go into a bathroom stall. I'll guard the door to make sure no-one bothers, or sees you." Aphmau wrung his hands.
"Look, on the bright side. This is our first class together!!" Travis awkwardly smiled, trying to distract his friend.
He knew all too well what's it's like to be insecure, he wanted to tell Aphmau there was nothing to be insecure about, but he knew that wouldn't help, Aphmau would just think he was lying, to make him feel better.

"I mean... That is a plus..." Travis turned to face him, placing his hands on the shorter's shoulders.

"You'll be fine."

"Woah-oh!! Travis!" Travis jumped back, making more space between him and Aphmau.  

Aphmau hummed, looking up to see a tall, handsome, dark blue haired boy, behind Travis.
"Hey baby!" He winked.

Aphmau sighed, shaking his head.

"Travis! I didn't know your boyfriend was so adorable!!" The blue haired said, clearing checking Aphmau out.

Travis stepped over, so blue hair's view of Aphmau was blocked, "What!? He- He's not my boyfriend!" 

Dante raised an eyebrow, his beauty almost stunned Aphmau, almost. He didn't expect the player Travis had been talking about to be like nearly as hot as Garroth and Laurance. "And he's not gonna be if you don't put the moves on him!!" If only he kept his pretty mouth shut...

"WHAT!! N- N- N- No way man... I'm not ready to ask!!"

Aphmau jumped, "Not ready to ask!?" He asked, staring at Travis in bewilderment; ignoring the blush on his cheeks.

"I- I didn't mean that!!- I mean- SHIT! DANTE! Why do you have to make things so awkward!?" Travis lied, he didn't want his and Aphmau's friendship to be ruined by his stupid feelings.

"It's fun! Plus what can I say? I love the ladies." He winked at Aphmau.

"I'm not a lady- wait, you really are the guy who dated two girls at once?"

Dante pouted, "Aw man... You already told him about that?" 

"Of course I did... I didn't want him to fall for you stupid charm... He's my Not-Alone Buddy..." "He deserves better." Travis thought.
He loved Dante, he did! He was like a brother to him. But, despite all his charm, he was a player. Dante knew how good-looking he was, and he knew how to use it to get any girl he wanted.

Dante sighed, "Well; it's nice to meet you, Aphmau!" He pushed Travis aside, holding his hand out to the shorter man. "My name's Dante. And yes, Travis told me your name, I didn't look it up. I'm not a creep." He chuckled.

Aphmau turned his nose up at him, smacking Dante's chest with his long ponytail. "Tsk. It's something to meet you too, Dante."

Dante chuckled, finding this boy cute already. "Thanks for being friends with my shy buddy over here." He glanced at Travis, "I was afraid I'd be his only friend in high school. So, its nice to see him getting along with someone, who isn’t me."

"It's my pleasure. He's a good deal nicer than you."

Travis felt a warmth come over his body.
Dante chuckled, "Let me know if I can do anything for you little lady." He kissed the back of Aphmau's hand, priding himself in the bright blush that came over Aphmau's cheeks.

Dante felt something bore into him, looking up he saw two freshmen girls glaring at him from behind Aphmau. "I- I gotta go! Uh, see ya!" He ran off to his class, leaving Aphmau and Travis behind.

Aphmau cocked his head, "What was that about?"

Travis shook his head, whipping the back of Aphmau's hand with his gym shirt. "I'm not sure... Dante's weird sometimes... I'd stay away from him. He takes after his big brother, Gene, who's an awful influence... also, stay away from Gene and his friends." 

Aphmau nodded, "Oh- Ok. I will..."

*Bell rings*

Aphmau squealed.

"You're gonna be fine. Just go into the bathroom stall, get dressed and come out. I'll wait for you, right here." Travis smiled reassuringly.

Aphmau nodded, Travis opened the door holding it for the shorter.

"Alright... I'm way overthinking this! I'll just get dressed in the stall and leave! Yeah, that's it..." Aphmau kept his head down, making a B-line for the stalls.

"Are you sure he's in there?" A girl with a California accent asked.

Travis looked up.
Three girls were walking towards the boy's locker room.

"Yes I'm sure!—" The girl, in the front, with light pink hair, said.

Her voice made Travis' ears hurt. He stepped in-front of them, blocking the door.

The girl's fell short. "The— the girl's locker room is down the hall." He muttered, pointing to double doors just a few lockers away.

"We know." The pink haired girl flipped her hair, "But we need something from in there. Won't you let us in?" She fluttered her eye-lashes, trying, and failing, to seduce the tall Freshmen.

"If— if you need something I can get it for you..." Travis shuffled, urging Aphmau to hurry up.

"It's something from my boyfriend's locker, and he doesn't want anyone else knowing his locker code."

"I- I get that... but—"

"Sorry for the wait—" Aphmau came out of the locker room, braiding his hair. He froze seeing Ivy and her gang.

"Oh look! It's the potato!" Ivy cackled.

Aphmau finished his braid, tying it with his, large, purple bow. "Still calling me that?"

Ivy growled, "I saw you next to Garroth Ro'Meave—"

"It's Garr-th. Long A. Gaaaar-th." Aphmau corrected

Ivy walked up, getting into Aphmau's face.

"He— hey..." Travis was ignored.

"I told you to stay away from him!"

"It's not my fault! He and Laurence asked me to sit with them!!! And who am I to say no? I mean... look at them..." He giggled.

Ivy, with all her strength pushed Aphmau making him fall to the ground.

Travis stepped in-between them. "He— hey!! Don't push him!" 

Aphmau grabbed Travis' arm, pulling himself up. "Yeah. What are we in, elementary? We're still pushing each-other around, and calling each-other potatoes?"

"Aph—"

Ivy clenched her fists, punching Aphmau square in the face, making blood spurt out of his nose, his glasses broke, clean in the middle.

"That enough!? Huh? STAY AWAY FROM GARROTH!"

She flipped her hair, walking away. Aphmau whipped his nose, holding his glasses together, blood dripped all over his white new uniform.
He groaned, "Shit... Mama's gonna kill me..." He muttered trying to wipe all the fresh blood off his uniform.

"That's not what's important, you can have mine if you want. Let's get you cleaned up." Travis said worriedly, holding Aphmau's glasses together, and to his eyes.

Aphmau sat on the bathroom counter, Travis stood in-between his legs, wiping the blood from his nose. 

"What a bad first week..." Aphmau pouted.

"Does it still hurt?" Travis asked, grabbing more paper towels.

"No. I'm fine... We're gonna get detention for skipping class!—"

"So you're aware?" A familiar posh voice said from the door, he leaned on the door-frame glaring at Travis; before he saw Aphmau's bloody face.

"Gar— Garroth!?"
Travis got more paper towels, giving them to Aphmau so he didn't dirty his shirt anymore.

"What happened?" Garroth asked, taking the paper towels Aphmau held to his nose, to see the damage.

"It— it was nothing... Travis, you should get to class... I don't want you getting in trouble."

Travis looked from one to the other. "Will he get detention?" He asked Garroth; who shook his head. "Oh- Okay, I'll cover for you."

Travis left, leaving Garroth and Aphmau alone, "I- I'm fine. You— you should get to class... I guess, I can't go to mine..." He said motioning to his bloody shirt. 

"You can have one of mine. I'll take yours home and wash it, our washing machine is really good at getting out stains." He helped Aphmau down, walking him to the locker room, and giving him a spare shirt.

"I won't give you detention... but I want to know what happened."

Aphmau knew that telling him would only make it worse, he didn't want his mom to find out and worry.

So he just shrugged "I- I ran into the door..." He muttered blushing. He typed his glasses together with some extra type he kept in his bag.

Garroth sighed fondly, "You should be more careful. Get to class."

Aphmau nodded, rushing out and to the gym.

Travis and Aphmau walked out of the school waving each-other off before walking in different directions.

"Hey."

Aphmau looked up; "Laur- Laurance!? What- what's up?"

Laurence smiled, "I didn't have practice today, so, I decided to wait for Garroth... But, I wouldn't mind walking you home."

"I— I wouldn't wanna trouble you..." 

Laurence shook his head, "Nonsense. I want to. If you wanna walk with me, of course." 

"M- me? With you? Walk, on two legs, to my house?"

Laurence chuckled, "You don’t have to, if you don’t want to, just thought I’d ask."

Aphmau nodded. "Yea- yeah! Sure..."

"Great! Let's get going!"

"Thank you for walking me home..." Aphmau blushed, standing with Laurence at the bottom of his stairs.

Laurence smiled, "It's no problem, I enjoyed it."

Aphmau hummed, "Well; I- I'll see you later?"

"Yeah, you have my number." He winked, Aphmau blushed, nodding, opening his doors. 

Laurence watched him safely make it inside, before walking home himself.

Throgi happily rubbed up on his owner. His mother was waiting by the window her arms crossed: "Was that a boy?"

Aphmau froze, "Whaaaaat? A boy!? No mama, I don't even know what a boy is!" He ran upstairs.

"Mijo! Get back here!" 

It was the end of the day, Travis and Aphmau were walking, hand-in-hand towards the assembly hall.

"I don't see why we have to attend a assembly right now... It's almost time to go home!!" Aphmau whined.

Travis chuckled, "The teacher said the principal wanted to have a few words with the students to congratulate us on a successful first week."

Aphmau groaned, swinging their joint hands "Couldn't he just, congratulate us by letting us go home early?"

"That's be too easy; obviously."

Aphmau giggled.

"That reminds me. Do you- Would you mind if I gave you my number?" Travis blushed, rubbing the back of his neck.

Aphmau blushed as well, "Um- of course! I would love to have your number Travis."

Travis blushed, "Y- ya know: since it's the weekend; if- if you wanted to talk or anything, well, you could text, or call me- or some- something..."

Aphmau giggled, taking the paper with Travis' number happily; "Heh, Thanks!"

The students filed in, taking their seats, Aphmau sat next to Travis at the end of the pew (Those long church benches).

A teacher tapped the microphone, mumbling: "Testing... testing... one two three-"

The heavy wooden doors crashed open, a crazed looking man ran down the isle, punching the teacher out of the way.

"Hello, students! Congratulations on completing your first week! Truly a remarkable feat!" The principal had a weird voice that creeped Aphmau out a bit. He scooted closer to Travis; who was feeling the same way.

"I have no doubt that all of you have been hard at work; acclimating yourselves to the year ahead! So many new things to learn! Which reminds me:" He spun around, walking over to Ms. Hyria, "Ms. Hyria has informed me that: all potions brewed, in the Alchemy Class are: not. To. Be. Taken. From. The. Class." He nodded after each word, getting uncomfortably close to the woman. "Correct, Ms. Hyria?" She nodded, backing away from the crazed man.

He went back to the podium; "Ah! What a fine start to an exciting new year!! Now then, that ought to to cover my quota for principally things for the day!" He clapped, "Now, I am off to go make a new scientific discovery!!" He yelled running down the idle, "Good day; children!!" He slammed the door, leaving everyone in shock.

Travis and Aphmau stood outside still bewildered.

"I- Well." Travis cleared his throat, "That was... yeah." He cleared his throat. "You walk home, right? My dad's picking me up today so if you wanted a ride, I'm sure he'd give you a lift."

Aphmau hummed; "No thanks. My mama's coming to pick me up today."

"Ah. Well, you've got my number, so text me if you wanna, kay?" Travis smiled.

"Same goes for you! I'm always free; for you." Aphmau giggled.
Travis' face went red.

A grey van pulled up, honking it's horn and Aphmau's mom yelling out the window: "APHMAU!! Vamenos, get your butt in here! Wait." Her eyes narrowed, "IS THAT A BOY!?"

"Mama!!! Stop yelling and honking the hornnnn!!" Aphmau groaned, hiding his face in his hands.

"OI! YOU WITH THE WHITE HAIR! DON'T YOU GET ANY IDEAS WITH MY SON!!! REMEMBER, YOU MARRY INTO THIS FAMILY, YOU HAVE TO DEAL WITH ME!" She yelled pointing from him to herself.

Travis blushed, redder than ever before. "Oh my Irene... your mom is so embarrassing!" He whispered to Aphmau.

"I knowwwwww..." Aphmau whined into his hands.

Travis cleared his throat, "Uh- Um miss? I'm just Aphmau's Not-Alone Buddy!" He kept the: "For now..." to himself

"Oh? Why didn't you just say so? Alright then, it's nice to meet you. Vamos Aphmau, lets get going!" The quick personalty change gave both boys whiplash.

"See you later, Travis!" Aphmau said patting Travis on the chest.

Travis cleared his throat "See you!"

Aphmau hopped into the car, tossing his bag into the backseat. "How was school?"

"Good. You gave Travis a heart attack. You know I'm a boy, right?"

His mother shook her head, "Of course I do mijo, if you were into girls, I'd treat them the same way."

Aphmau chuckled, taking out the bow in his hair, letting it fall over his shoulders. "At least your supportive."

Aphmau sat on his bed, his computer open in-front of him; Thorgi was laid beside him.

His phone buzzed on the bed next to him, he looked at the screen in curiosity, "Laurence?"

Laurance:
"Aphmau! Hey!! :D"

Aphmau giggled, falling onto his back, typing his reply.

You:
"Hi Laurance!"
"What's up?"

He was nearly kicking his feet at the fact the Laurance was texting him.

Laurance:
"Are you free to hang out at the park today?"

"Hang- hang out!!!?????" He grabbed his pillow, screaming into it so his mom wouldn't hear. He cleared his throat.

You:
"How do you know about the park?"

Laurance:
"I live nearby, remember?"
"If you don't wanna that's fine :)"
"Just thought I'd shoot my shot."

"Wait, what? NO NO NO!!" Aphmau panicked, typing: "No, I don't mind!" Before deciding that sounded needy and erased it.

You:
"I'd love to!"
"Would it be, just us?"
"Alone?"

Laurance:
"Another friend of mine's gonna stop by, but we can be alone for a bit ;)"

Aphmau blushed, kicking his feet; seeing Thorgi from behind his phone he typed:

You:
"Would you mind if I brought my dog? I've been meaning to take him there for a while."
"It's no problem if not, just asking."

Laurance:
"Aw you have a dog!?"

Aphmau giggled. Snapping a picture of him.

You:
"His name's Thorgi, he's a Czechoslovakian wolf-dog."
(Picture)
"A very good boy."

Laurance:
"I can't wait to met him.” 
“So meeting you there?"

You:
"Yep!"

Aphmau squealed "AHHHHH!" he screamed into his pillow kicking his feet. "He- he want's to speak to me... alone? What does he have planned!? A hot guy like that-!" He screamed into his pillow taking a deep breath he jumped out of bed.

"Wanna go for a walk Thorgi?" Thorgi jumped out of the bed, whining happily while running downstairs to get his leash.

Aphmau giggled, following him downstairs. "Hey mama?"

She hummed, "Yes, sweetheart?"

"May I go to the park with a friend?" He asked, slipping Thorgi's collar on, and clipping his leash.

"A boyfriend?"

Aphmau giggled, "Maybe!" 

"Aphmau-" She took a deep breath, reminding herself to let her son have, and go out with... friends. "Fine. You can go, only if you promise to tell me everything that happened; if I ask!"

Aphmau nodded, "Of course mama, you know you can trust me."

"You know I trust you Mijo. I just don't trust other people! Not only that, but that thought of my baby boy dating is just- oh!!" She burst into tears, muttering in Spanish, Aphmau couldn't make out.

"Mama, I'll be fine!" Aphmau rolled his eyes, smiling fondly.

"Ok- ok! Just no kissing! I swear!" 

"Kissing is gross... only mommy and Thorgi kisses are best kisses!"

His mother smiled, "That's my boy. Have fun, and be safe."

Aphmau nodded rushing out the door after Thorgi.

"Man... it's been ages since I've last been here... I mean, last time I came here was when I was a little kid. And you've never been." He smiled down at Thorgi, he preferred to walk Thorgi in quieter areas.

"Hey." Aphmau jumped, Thorgi rushed to greet the newcomer.

"Laurance! Do you always have to sneak up on me?" Aphmau held his hand over his racing heart.

Laurance laughed, "Sorry! I've always had this habit of doing that." He chuckled, leaning down to pet Thorgi, who was rolled over onto his back.

"Well give me some warning next time!" Aphmau pouted.

Laurance chuckled, "I did. I said "hey"."

"Uh- oh... R- right..." Aphmau blushed, realizing that he was, indeed, alone with one of the hottest guys in school.

Laurance stood, lifting Aphmau's chin with his finger, "Hey. Don't get all blushy like that. I was enjoying your confident side."
Thorgi got up, shaking the dirt off his coat.

"M- me? Con- confident? That isn't exactly the word I would use to describe myself..." Aphmau nervously licked his lips.

Laurance smiled, “Just give yourself some time.” Laurance pushed up Aphmau’s glasses with his thumb, keeping his pointer finger under the younger’s chin.

“Aw come on… I won’t bite.” He leaned close, whispering his next words in Aphmau’s ear, “Unless you want me to.”

Aphmau squeaked, shuffling his feet. Laurance stepped away letting go of him. “So, you’re new to town?”

“Uh—“ Aphmau cleared his throat, “Kinda. I used to live here when I was a little kid, but my family moved.”

“Hm… you don’t have any friends from back then? Or, are you just taking this weekend off from them, to see me?” The brunette teased, they began walking along the trail, Thorgi happily leading them.

”I didn’t even think you’d actually reach out… I wouldn’t wait around for someone I didn’t think was gonna reach out.” Aphmau nervously stated, hoping that wasn't hurtful.

“That’s kinda... refreshing… actually.” Laurance smiled to himself.

Aphmau chuckled, “I used to have friends here, but I was too little to remember them, and I didn’t keep up with them either, they could be anywhere. And I didn’t really have any friends back home… so Travis is really my only friend around here.”

“I see… well… then I’ll be your friend!”

Aphmau looked up, “What?”

“Yeah— If you’ll be mine, that is.” Laurance chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck.

“I— I wouldn’t mind!” What was he talking about? Having Laurance as a friend would make sure he got to hear that beautiful voice of his, and see his wonderful face as often as he wanted!!

They came up to a forested area, the path stayed out of the denseness of the trees, but provided a pretty view. Thorgi went from one side to another loudly sniffing.

”I mean I kind of just wanna get to know you better; and I’d like you to get to know me…” Laurance swallowed stopping.

Aphmau stopped turning to face the elder, calling Thorgi back so he wouldn’t tug on the leash. “H— huh, what do you mean?”

“What I’m trying to say is: I’m really interested in you as a—“ Laurance’s face was red, and when a voice cut him off, he glared at them in shock.

“Gross.”

Thorgi barked, baring his teeth, at the boy who had just come out of the woods. Aphmau saw two other people sitting under a tree, on the edge of the brush. 

“Huh? What?”

Laurance stepped in-between Aphmau, and the tall black haired boy.

“Good to see you around this park again, Laurance.” The boy glanced at the barking dog, not a tad bit nervous.

“Ugh. Gene.” Laurance growled.

“Trying to be forward there, eh?” The black haired, dark blue eyed boy, teased.

“Who— who are you?” Aphmau asked, dragging Thorgi closer to him, making him sit, in-between his legs.

Laurance put his arm in front of Aphmau, trying to shield him. “What do you want, Gene?”

“Geez, we just wanted to say hi, Laurance. Gosh…” A girl with long, white hair, and purple eyes scuffed rolling her eyes. She had a book in her lap, not looking up while making her comment.

“So rude.” A handsome hickory-haired boy drawled, leaning against the tree next to the one the girl is sitting under, his eyes closed.

“Who are these guys?” Aphmau asked Laurance, giving them curious looks; Laurance’s on-edge attitude rubbed off on him, making him a little suspicious of them.

“Haven’t even introduced us to him?” Gene asked, tsk-ing at the younger.

“I’d rather not introduce him to you guys, at all.” Laurance really hoped Gene didn’t charm Aphmau into his gang, like he did to him in his Freshmen year.

“Fine. I’ll be the gentlemen, and do it myself.” Gene walked around Laurance coming to Aphmau, making sure to stay out of the dog’s grasp.

“Hello, my name is Gene. I’m the leader of the Shadow Knights.” He smiled, holding out his hand.

Aphmau didn’t want to take it, but his mother raised him to be respectful. And this, “Gene’ hadn’t done anything to him. Yet. So he took his hand.

Thorgi suspiciously sniffed the air, not disobeying his master by standing up.

“Shad— Shadow Knights?” Aphmau took back his hand, petting Thorgi behind the ears with the other.

“It’s our group. If you wanna know more, you could always join us.” Gene winked, making Aphmau blush.

What was happening? He knew he had changed during puberty but damn… was he that attractive? Probably not, but a man can dream.

“Enough; Gene. Leave him alone.”

00Aphmau stood between two tall boys, looking from one to the other, like a fish out of water.

”In any case.” Gene said through his teeth, glaring at Laurance. “If you’re interested in having some close friends, check us out. We hangout, talk about things, and sometimes do our… group activities… we usually hang around this park so, feel free to stop by.”

Aphmau relaxed, in doing so Thorgi became less irritated not longer trying to lunge at the tall black haired boy.

“We— well, thank you… maybe I will!” He smiled, trying to be friendly.

“NO!” Laurance, pushed himself between Gene and the freshman. Trying to shield Aphmau from the horrors of his 1st year.

“Huh?” Aphmau looked at the two in confusion.

Gene sighed rolling his eyes. “Laurance used to be in our group. But he wasn’t hard-core enough.” 

“What?” Aphmau looked up at Laurance, who looked away shamefully.

"Aphmau. We need to— just walk away.” Laurance stood in-front of Aphmau, motioning his hand ahead of him.

"A guy who walks away from his problems? I wouldn't want to be with someone like that." The hickory-haired boy, snickered.

"So true, Zenix." The white haired girl, drawled, flipping through her book.

Laurance took Aphmau's hand, dragging him somewhere, far away, from the Shadow Knights. "Come on Aphmau, let's go anywhere else."

"Oh- ok." Aphmau felt like an idiot. He had stood there with his mouth open like it was his first time hearing the human dialect.

"You used to be cool, Laurance!!!" Gene yelled after them.

Aphmau looked back, making eye contact with, what seemed to be the youngest member, the red eyed, pale skinned, hickory-haired boy.
He was handsome... but every fucking guy in this town was!
How did they do it?

Aphmau always knew he wasn't good looking, it never bothered him that much— before now.
Everyone here was so good looking! He couldn't help feeling insecure— he needed to play a dating sim later, so hot men would tell him how pretty he was.

They ran to a wooden bridge, the view of the river below was beautiful; perfect spot for his first—

He mentally slapped himself. "This is why mom doesn't trust you!! God damn it."

He looked to Laurance, who was staring off the railing.
Aphmau sighed, walking over "What was that about?"

Laurance sighed, "That's just... Gene and his gang..." 

Gene… Gene. Why did that name sound familiar? 

“He takes after his big brother, Gene, who's an awful influence... also, stay away from Gene and his friends."
Travis’ words from yesterday rang through his head. Gene! Dante’s elder brother!

"Gene? Wait- Dante's older brother!?" Aphmau asked, trying to keep Thorgi away from the gaps in the railing, so he didn't fall to his fucking death.

"You know Dante?" Laurance felt a little concerned, he loved Dante, he was one of his close friends. But Aphmau is just Dante’s target, beautiful, sweet, intoxicating… Dante would definitely try to charm him.

"Uh... Kinda... he's Travis' best friend, so I know Dante through him." Aphmau shrugged.

"In any case. Gene is the leader of this little group of trouble makers at our school. They call themselves, The Shadow Knights. It's- it's real stupid." He ran his hand through his hair. "In any case, please stay away from them. They're bad news."

Aphmau hummed, "I see... wait. What— what did he mean when he said you “used to be cool”?"

Laurance groaned, turning so his back was against the railing. "When I was a Freshman, I thought they were cool... they were always so… awesome, and confident—"

He sighed, clearly disappointed in himself. "They're just a bunch of drama queens. Gene's not as crazy around Dante; but he's definitely influenced Dante's recent... outgoing spurt.

Aphmau nodded, he knew what it was like having a terrible influence as an elder brother— in his case it was his older cousin.
They grew up together; as Aphmau got into middle school, his cousin got into high school.

Well, long story short his cousin got in with a bad crowd and both of them got into a lot-of trouble.

Aphmau was working hard to make up for his wrongs but nothing could change his mother's disappointment in him.

Laurance didn't notice his silence: "Just stay away from them. It's you choice, but I highly recommend not getting involved with them."

"Hey!"

Laurance snapped out of it, straightening up to wave to... GARROTH!? Aphmau really should've expected this.

Thorgi perked up, happily dragging his master towards the tall blonde. "Hey, Garroth!"

"Huh? I didn't know he'd been here." Garroth smiled, petting Thorgi and greeting Aphmau in turn.

"Well I did invite you first; but I knew you'd take awhile, so I asked Aphmau here if he wanted to come—"

"Wait. So, you told me you'd be here around this time so you could be alone with him!?" Garroth demanded, making the space between him and Laurance smaller; his muscles so obvious, he made Laurance look small, in comparison.

Laurance did have some muscle, but no where near the amount of Garroth Ro'Meave.
What a man!!!

Laurance's sweet sultry voice snapped him out of his Garroth-trance.
"Maybe~!" He teased, sticking his tongue out.

He was such a man too!!! Maybe Aphmau should be sent to an all girl school... he's starting to see his mom's point. He is boy-crazy...

Garroth shook his head, taking a deep breath. "Well. In any case. I'm glad you could make it." Garroth turned to Aphmau, "I'm actually kind of happy about this. I've been wanting to spend some time with you."

Aphmau jumped, blushing furiously. "I- is he-!!"

"Garroth!" Laurance lightly pushed Garroth away, jealously written all over his face.

"What? You know I'm interested too." 

"Interested? In what?" Aphmau thought, humming. "In any case you guys ok going to the open field? I want Thorgi to be able to run around." He said patting Thorgi on the head, Thorgi was previously owned by someone who trained police dogs, he was very well trained; Aphmau didn't fear him running off.

"Sure!"

"That sounds wonderful."

Aphmau happily led them to a large open field, un-clipping Thorgi's leash, the dog quickly ran off, rushing to find a stick.

Aphmau sat in-between the two others. Garroth leaned on his hand, his elbow on his knee. "So, ever thought about having a boyfriend Aphmau?"

Aphmau blushed, "H- huh!?"

"Geez, Garroth... making things pretty obvious, aren't you?" Laurance shook his head, enjoying the blush on Aphmau's dark-ish cheeks.

"Wha- what? N- no, it- it was just a question!" Garroth straightened up, waving his hands around.

"Obvi- obvious!?" Aphmau asked, looking from one to the other.

"Rather a blunt question don't you think?" Laurance asked, talking easily right over Aphmau's head (literally).

"At least I'm not afraid to ask blunt questions." Garroth scuffed, rolling his royally blue eyes.

"It's ok-"

"Two can play at that game." Laurance turned back to lock eyes with Aphmau, "Aphmau. Will you be my boyfriend?"

Chapter Text

Aphmau jumped up, stuttering.

"Oh great. You killed him!" Garroth reprimanded.

"N- no I'm ok!!!" Aphmau shook his head, his ponytail going back and forth. Thorgi looked up from his stick, which he had been chewing on next to Garroth.

"See? He's fine."

"Laur- Laurance! I'd be honored to be your boyfriend!!" Garroth's heart sank, and Laurance's rose to the clouds. "B- but!! I'm not ready for anything serous anytime soon! There are a lot of emotions I need to sort out before than!" Garroth's heart rose, and Laurance's fell.

Aphmau tried not to feel like a shitty person for having a crush on like 3 guys... but he needed to get himself, and his grades together before he could even think about having a boyfriend!

"That's alright! I'll wait!" Laurance smiled.

Garroth felt like it was now, or never. "Aph-"

A grey van pulled up, honking it's horn, again.

Aphmau freezes as his mother's voice screams through the park, "APHMAU!! I was heading to the grocery store and I was wondering-" Her eye's narrowed, "Wait. IS THAT TWO BOYS I SEE?"

Garroth hung his head, trying- and failing- to hide behind the bench.

"MAMA!! YOU SAID YOU TRUSTED ME!!" Aphmau whined, hiding his face in his hands, again.

"I DO!! AND I'M RESPECTING YOUR PRIVACY BY STAYING IN MY CAR!! BUT I'M ALSO ASSERTING MY AUTHORITY, AS YOUR MOTHER, BY THROWING THOSE BOYS NASTY LOOKS!" 

Laurance felt her glare boring into him, Garroth looked like he was about to cry. Aphmau placed a hand on his shoulder. "I'm so sorry... I'm so embarrassed!"

Laurance chuckled, "It's alright, my dad's the same way with my sister..."

"You- your mom's kinda scary... I think she's boring into my soul..." Garroth swallowed.

"Uh, mama! I'm coming with you!!" Aphmau called, picking up Thorgi's leash, "Sorry to cut this so short. I need to talk to my mom about her yelling problem."

Laurance chuckled, "No worries. See you at school then?"

Aphmau nodded, reaching to hug him before stopping; he cleared his throat, "For sure. See you two. Come on Thorgi!!" 

They ran to the car, Aphmau flung open the door, letting Thorgi jump in. Redundancy leaving his stick in the grass, next to Garroth.

"How many boys do you know?" His mother asked him.

"All of them." He said, staring outside the window, watching his two upperclassmen talk to each-other.

"Mijo!!" She took a deep breath, "I- I am glad you have friends." She spoke through her teeth, wanting so badly for her son to have friends. But ONES HE COULDN'T BE ATTRACTED TO!! Like girls!

"One of those boys look familiar... I can't place my finger on it."

"Is it the blonde one? If so: that'd be because he's white, tall, and blonde. Guess what? He has blue eyes too!" Aphmau rolled his eyes.
He was sick of his mother acting like this… he appreciated her, but wished she’d just trust him.

His mother sighed, "Are you mad?" Aphmau didn't answer, staring out the window. "Ugh... I'm sorry... Wanna go to McDonald's?"

Aphmau sat in silence for a moment before, reluctantly, muttering: "Yeah..."

His mother smiled, "Ok! Let's go!!"

Aphmau stood at the end of his drive, waiting for Laurance to come down the road on his way to school.

"Aw... I was hoping to catch Laurance on his way to school... w- would he even wanna talk to me though? I mean... he did ask me to be his boyfriend... and I didn't say no!!! Jeez, I hope that doesn't get in the way of our friendship..." 

His phone rang from his pocket, he pulled it out, smiling at the contact name: "FC"

FC:
Mornin Shu!!!

You:
Heya FC!

"What's he doing texting me this morning? It's so early... well, I guess it's not that uncommon-"

FC:
I had fun this weekend.

You:
Doing the dungeon?
OFC U DID!!
I had to heal u through it!

"It was fun though..."

FC:
LMAO! Right :P
I DID tank the whole thing

You:
That u did...
I suppose we're even.

FC:
Hey, I wanted to ask u a question...

You:
Yes?

FC:
R U ok being my friend?

Aphmau cocked his head, "What?"

You:
Wat? Y?

"Is everything ok with him?" He thought concerned.

FC:
Just wanted to know, kinda meh rn...

You:
Oh plz. We've been friends for years like this!
U couldn’t shake me off even if u wanted to!!
Ur stuck with me.

Aphmau typed triumphidly; "Hopefully that brings him out of his funk..."

FC:
Thx Shu.

You:
I love it when ur weird but ssly chill.
I'll always be here for u. Even if we never meet.

FC:
...
:)

Aphmau giggled.

FC:
Have a great day Shu

You:
U 2 FC :)

Aphmau chuckled, putting his phone away, "I swear... FC can be so weird sometimes."

"Hey beautiful."

Aphmau wheeled around, "Laurance!? Beautiful?!" 

Laurance smirked, "Why, thank you."

Aphmau blushed harder, "No, no, no!!! I- I didn't mean that!!"

"Oh?" Laurance asked, his hand on his hip. Looking so flawlessly beautiful.

"NO, no, no!! Not that!" Aphmau panicked, "I mean: you're absolutely gorgeous and anyone would dream about you at night!!" Aphmau giggled nervously wishing Irene would come down from the skies and kill him.

"Do you?" Laurance asked, leaning forward.

"Wh- what?" Aphmau backed himself into the hedge wall in-front of his house? His mom was off at work, so there was no fear in being caught, but he was still a little on edge. 

"Because I dream of you." He winked.

Aphmau's whole face went red, he hid his face in his hands, and squealed.

Laurance chuckled, adoring the others reactions. Their faces were less than an inch apart.

Aphmau peaked through his fingers, "Why- why are you doing this..?" 

Laurance hummed, "Doing what?"

"Make- making me blush like this!!" Aphmau shuffled, trying to back away.

"Because you're cute. Plus, you over-react, it's adorable."
Aphmau squeaked. 

"So- so you really are a tease..." Aphmau muttered, feeling a little sad he does this with everyone.

Laurance hummed, "Usually. But with you… I don't know... It's different."

Aphmau swallowed, "O— oh?"

Laurance nodded, "I'm glad I ran into you. What do..." he cleared his throat, bowing and offering Aphmau his hand; "May I walk you to school?"

Aphmau took his hand, "Real- really!? I- mean yeS-" His voice cracked, Laurance burst into laughter as Aphmau cleared his throat. "I'd love to."

"That voice cracks cute too. Come on, let's get going." Laurance didn't let go of his hand, and Aphmau didn't complain, just watching as their hands went back and forth.

They walked up to the fountain in-front of the school, letting each-other's hands go.

"So," Laurance leaned on the stone fountain, staring at Aphmau with those dreamy blue eyes—
Aphmau needed to stop thinking while he's ahead.
“What class do you have first?”

“M— my first class?” He pulled his schedule from his pocket, pushing up his glasses. “Let me see… Oh… it looks like I have—“

”Good morning, you two.” Garroth greeted.

The black haired masked boy, who sat in the back, on the other side, of Aphmau’s Home Room, rushed into the building, his head down. Aphmau watched him with interest.

“Morning, Garroth.” Laurance greeted, yawning openly.

”Morning!” Aphmau waved happily.

“Aphmau, h- how was your weekend?” Garroth asked, rubbing the back of his neck. 

“Hm? Oh it was good! I got to go to the park with these two cute guys!” Aphmau giggled, making both Sophomore’s blush.

Garroth chuckled, “That’s sweet…”

“How about yours?” Aphmau asked, the charms on his back bag dinging together to make a soft melody he was slowly becoming know for.

“Well, I went to the park too; with this beautiful boy. So, it went pretty fantastic.”
Aphmau made an odd nervous excited noise, at Garroth’s flattering words.

“Too bad you missed walking with that beautiful boy, this morning.” Laurance teased, wrapping his arm around Aphmau’s shoulders, leaning onto him; careful to not put any actual weight on his fragile form.

“What?” Garroth asked, glaring at the closeness of the two males.

Laurance smirked, “I just walked that beautiful boy to school this morning.”

“Oh did you? Well, maybe I’ll get to walk him to school next time.” Garroth leaned forward, pushing Laurance away from the younger.
He brushed off the younger’s shoulders, and readjusted his bow. 

“Or maybe he can walk himself?” Aphmau asked, playfully pushing Garroth away, this felt so… familiar…

Garroth chuckled, holding Aphmau’s hand to his chest, the raven felt the faint, soft beating of older’s heart. “I’m sure he can. It’s just, maybe I’d like to get to know him more.”

Aphmau squeaked pulling his hand to his own chest. “Classes!” He giggled awkwardly, “I should really get to mine!”

“Ah right. What class do you have again?” Laurance asked, leaning in to try and get a peak at Aphmau’s schedule.

”Uh… Art 101…” Aphmau muttered, shoving his schedule back into his pocket.

“Really? Me too!” Garroth and Laurance said in unison.

“We have another class together!!?” Aphmau squealed.

“THAT’S AWESOME!!” Laurance cheered, overly happy he had more chances to sit, and admire, Aphmau’s beauty for an hour.

“YEAH!!”

Aphmau took both the boys hands dragging them inside after him, he had zero idea where to go but he was too excited to care. He hoped he’d have more classes with Travis as well…

Aphmau giggled, skipping down the hall, acting as a link to Garroth, as Laurance led them down the hall. His hand tightly woven with Aphmau’s smaller one.

“I’m so excited!! I love art!” Aphmau cheered.

“Really? So you- art a lot?” Laurance asked, glancing back. 

“Uh-huh!! I don’t do it as much anymore, but I’ve always been artsy.” That much was clear, he just screamed “artsy”.

”Bet you’re pretty good at it.” Laurance commented. Trying to image the younger’s art skills.

Aphmau hummed, “Not really. I do stitching mostly these days, fixing my clothes and such, but I do doodle a-lot; especially when I was in homeschool.”

“Still more than I can do… I’m absolutely rubbish at every kinda art… I still remember when I tried to sculpt for the first time.” Garroth chuckled, shaking his head.

“Oh yeah! You made a pretty good ashtray. I was impressed!” Laurance added trying to made his friend feel better.

“It was supposed to be a vase…” Garroth said, in a small voice.
Aphmau giggled, giving Garroth’s hand a squeeze.

Garroth sighed, “I can’t believe you talked me into this Laurance.”

“You didn’t have to take art with me. It’s your fault for being such a good friend.“ Laurance chuckled, rolling his eyes as he guided them down a small side hall.

Garroth looked simply bewildered, “Than— thanks?”  

Aphmau thought his confusion was cute: seeing the gears working in his brain to figure out rather or not Laurance was insulting him. Was just too cute!

“So, why are you taking Art, Laurance?” He asked, clearing his throat.

“Because of my sister; she’s kinda really artsy, and said I had to take some kinda art class if I was going to be her brother.” He sighed, shaking his head, “Cadenza can be a bit dramatic…”

Garroth hummed, “True. But lots of our classmates find her cute.”

Oh. So Cadenza was who Garroth had set his beautiful eyes on?
Well that’s fine! Aphmau’s not jealous! Not. One. Bit!!!

“HEY! SHE’S MY SISTER!!!” Laurance yelled, glaring at Garroth from over Aphmau’s head.

Aphmau giggled, “Well, I think that’s sweet Laurance. I’m sure she appreciates it.”

Laurance cleared his throat, covering the bottom half of his face.

Garroth let go of Aphmau’s hand, rushing ahead of them. “At last, we’re here!”

He pushed open the doors, Aphmau rushed to catch up, making Laurance yelp, as the boy took off like a rocket; dragging him behind.

Aphmau sat between the two boys, pulling out his notebook.

”Good morning students! Welcome to Art 101. I’ll be your Art teacher. Today we’re going to learn all about—“

Aphmau droned him out, sketching Thorgi lightly, tucking his hair behind his ear. 

Garroth leaned over Aphmau’s shoulder, watching his pencil dart around the paper.

“You should teach me how to draw sometime.” He whispered, his breath fanning the back of Aphmau’s neck, a shiver ran down his spine, as foreign feeling ran through his stomach.

“What? Bu— but we’re in Art class right now!” Aphmau whispered, trying to hide his dog sketch.

”Yeah but I’m awful. Some private lessons from you would be awesome.” Garroth’s hand rested on the back of Aphmau’s chair.
His curly hair looking like a halo under the horrifying rays of the LED school lights.

“But— but I’m not an expert artist!!”

”I know. But maybe we can learn together.” “In my room, on my bed…” Garroth smiled.

Aphmau blushed, “How ‘bout we see where this class goes first, hm?” He nudged the taller with his shoulder,

“Fair enough.” Garroth chuckled under his breath, facing the teacher again as Aphmau continued his drawing.

Laurance glared down his best friend, growling under his breath.

“So. Do we have any volunteers?” The teacher asked, looking around the class.

Aphmau shot his hand up, nearly hitting Laurance in the face if not for the others soccer reflexes. 

“M— me?” Aphmau quietly said, his hand slowly going down as the weight of his actions fell on him

“You!?” Laurance and Garroth asked, almost as shocked as he, himself was.

“Well! And here I thought everyone would be too shy. You sure you want everyone to draw you? Some people aren’t too pleased with others’ perspectives of themselves.”

Aphmau swallowed, “That— that’s alright…” 

“Very well.” The teacher smiled, guiding Aphmau to stand on a pedestal-like thing, “Pose here. Now students! You have one hour to draw this beautiful young gentleman. This will be a test to see where your skills are. Ready? Go!!” 

The room filled with pencils scratching paper. Aphmau felt more and more awkward by the second, people were staring at him, evaluating every bone and feature.
He swallowed closing his eyes and accepting his fate.

“Alright students! Pencils down. Leave your drawings on my desk before you leave; we’ll go over them next class!” He turned to the shaking boy, tripping off the pedestal. “Thank you young man, for being so courageous.” 

Aphmau hummed, “I have a few drawings in my notebook, do you want one of them?”

”If I could, just to see where you are.” 

Aphmau nodded, running back to his seat and ripping out a page with a drawing of Laurance on it… he hoped the other didn’t see it…

“Here you go…” he handed the paper to the teacher.

”You’re very good.” He praised.
Aphmau blushed, muttering thanks, before rushing off to join Garroth and Laurance.

“Hey, can I see y’all’s drawings?” Aphmau asked, practically jumping up and down.

Laurance nodded, “Sure, here.” He slid his drawing to the younger.

It wasn’t anything crazy, he was average, but Aphmau loved it all the same. “Wow!!”

Laurance chuckled, blushing: “Yeah, its nothing crazy but, I tried…” 

“It’s beautiful. Garroth may I see yours?”

Garroth looked down “N— no… it’s really bad…” 

“Oh come on… I won’t judge you!” Aphmau begged, giving his best puppy-eyes. 

Garroth melted instantly, showing his drawing while covering his face.

It looked like some kinda gingerbread stick figure. Laurance burst laughing, Aphmau took the paper holding it to his chest. “I love it Garroth! It’s beautiful…” 

Garroth blushed, “Real— really?” 

Aphmau giggled, “Hm-huh. I do think you need some work, but I love it.” He handed it back to Garroth.

“Th— thank you.” Garroth cleared his throat,

Aphmau took Garroth’s free hand, “Maybe you and I should practice some time. I actually do have some pointers for you.”

Garroth nodded, “That actually sounds very nice…” “1 Garroth, 2 Laurance…”

Aphmau and Travis sat in homeroom talking happily. “Wait— theater!? So you actually did it!”

“Yeah!” He nervously cleared his throat, “I mean, I’m not gonna do anything crazy, I figured I could play some small roles, and see if the club is even for me!”

“You’ll do great! Have you ever been in a play before?” 

“When I was a little kid, I played in a few small plays and stuff. I liked it, and I kinda wanna try it out now that I’m in high school.” Travis shrugged, finding Aphmau’s interest cute.

Aphmau squealed, “AHHH!! That’s awesome!!! Travis,” He scooted his chair closer, taking Travis’ hands in his. “I’m gonna go to every. Single. Play!!” He said, stars in his eyes.

”Wh— what if I get casted as a rock or something?” 

“Then you’ll be the best— most handsome rock ever!!!” Travis blushed, feeling that swooping heat in his stomach.

“Y— you really believe in me..?”

Aphmau nodded, “Absolutely!!!! I’ll be cheering you on in the audience; even if I make a complete fool of myself by doing so!”

Travis chuckled, feeling his love for his Not-Alone Buddy quadrupling by the second.

“Alright students! Settle down.” Both Travis and Aphmau turned their attention to their teacher.

A medium skin, average height, dark brown haired, and bright green eyed, boy hid behind the teacher, looking around cautiously. “I know we’re in homeroom but I have an announcement! We have a new transfer student, everyone welcome Vylad Ro’maeve!!!”

“Hi!!” Vylad waved happily.

“Wait… Ro’meave? Does that mean you’re related to—“

“Yup!!! That emo kid in the back is my older brother! Hey Zane!!!!” He waved enthusiastically at the black haired masked kid in the back right corner.

“Agh!! Shut. Up Vylad!!!!” Zane groaned hiding himself in his uniform.

“Well… that’s one way to say hello…” Vylad chuckled awkwardly.

“I wasn’t aware you had another sibling Zane. Must be nice to have two brothers in the same school. Vylad go take a seat. Everyone, be sure to make him feel at home!”

Vylad made a b-line for his brother, “Zane!! Boy am I glad you’re here!!” 

“What. Ever. Just stay away from me!! It’s bad enough I have to babysit you in high school…” Zane grumbled, waving him off angrily.

Vylad cleared his throat; “Oh— ok Zane… um, cool— um… I— I’ll see you around!” With his feelings clearly hurt Vylad walked to the other side of the room, nearing Travis and Aphmau.

Aphmau felt bad, he thought about talking to him but was afraid, Vylad seemed like a confident guy, he was very attractive and seemed to know he wasn’t bad looking.

Aphmau couldn’t explain it, he felt like he knew this guy…

“Uh— uh— He— hey… Vylad!! My name’s Aphmau, and this is Travis! It— it’s nice to meet you!!” Aphmau stuttered out.

Vylad straightened up and turned to him, his intense green eyes made Aphmau feel like he was seeing every single secret he has— and he does happen to have a lot of secrets.

“Hey!! Oh wow. I wasn’t expecting anyone to talk to me so soon!” Vylad seemed to be very friendly, his tone made Aphmau take a breath of relief.

“We—we just started high-school ourselves; so we get how it feels to be new and alone…” Aphmau chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck.

”Hey Vylad, nice to meet ya.” Travis waved.

“Same to you Travis.” Vylad cocked an eyebrow at the closeness of Aphmau and Travis’ seats, it’s like they had moved their desks closer.

“It’s kinda nice you approached me like that, Aph… meow? Uh, sorry, is that how you say your name?” 

Aphmau chuckled, “Ah, no,” Travis shook his head behind him, “But close enough. Don’t worry a lot of people have a hard time pronouncing my name!” 

“Uh, hey! Aphmau! Vylad’s not gonna take my Not-Alone Buddy away from me, is he?” Travis asked, looking worried.

”Huh? What’s a Not-Alone Buddy?” Vylad asked, looking from Aphmau to Travis.

“No way Travis!! You’ll always be my number 1 Not-Alone Buddy!!! It’s part of being in the club.” Aphmau comforted, grabbing Travis’ hand again. “And, Not-Alone Buddy is something Travis and I made up on our first day here, to feel less awkward, and well— lonely!”

“Wait, we have a club?” Travis asked, watching as Vylad flipped the chair in front of Aphmau so he could sit facing them.

”Of— of course we do!!” 

“Man… there’s more to this than I even knew.” Aphmau giggled, “Do we get cool jackets for being in this!?”

Aphmau laughed, “No.”

“Aww….”

Aphmau giggled, "But the first rule is: nobody is ever alone, and the second rule is anybody can be a buddy!!"

"Real- really" Vylad asked, Aphmau hummed happily. "That's great and all, but... it's kind of a strange name... maybe we could change it to something else?"

Aphmau cocked his head, "What could we possibly change it to?"

"I don't know... maybe something like... friends?" He shrugged. He had this odd feeling, like he's known Aphmau for longer than 15 minutes...

Aphmau hummed, looking to Travis for his option. "That does sound pretty cool."

Aphmau hummed, looking as though he was really thinking hard about this. "We'll think about it. So, new Not-Alone Buddy! What do you do for fun?" 

Vylad chuckled, shaking his head, Aphmau wasn't going to change it; ah well, he didn't mind. "Hm... I just like to sit around, and hangout."

Aphmau's eyes lit up, "Ah! Me too!!!"

Travis rolled his eyes fondly, "Oh my god, we have, so much in common!"

"Though to be perfectly honest I've been thinking about getting back into track..." Aphmau thought, 

"You ran track?" Travis asked.

Aphmau remembered he didn't tell Travis about his injury, he had told that pretty girl at the club social.

"I- I used to; it's a long story I'll tell you it later." Travis felt that feeling in his stomach again, Aphmau was going to tell him something, alone! He prided himself in that.

"Do- do you play any sports, Vylad?"

"My mom made me sign up for fencing, I've been doing that awhile." Vylad rubbed the back of his neck, hoping this school didn't have a fencing team; he really didn't enjoy it.

"You get to play with swords!!? That's sick!" Travis said in awe.

"Yeah it's really not that cool... I mostly fight saber; it has the least rules. There isn't a fencing team here, right?"

"Erm..." Aphmau thought, he didn't think so. 

"I don't think so." Travis hummed, he didn't remember seeing a fencing booth at the club social.

"Ah, perfect!! One less thing I'll have to do! Maybe I quit taking lessons too..." Vylad thought aloud.

"You don't like playing with swords!? That sounds like it'd be awesome!!"
He looked to his lap, "Maybe than people wouldn't think they could just push me around... my mama might even see I'm not a complete mistake..." He mumbled to himself.

Vylad cleared his throat, "Well. You can play with swords all you want. It's not my thing. My mom said each of had to choose a sport. Garroth took baseball, and I chose fencing."

That would explain-
"Wait! You're Garroth's little brother?! A- a- and that guy's your brother?" He pointed to Zane. "So- so you're all related!?" He knew Ro'maeve sounded familiar!!

"Yep! We're fondly called the Ro'maeve brothers. Though Zane over there would like to stay as far away from the title as possible." Vylad glanced at his elder brother.
No-one sat by him, he knew that's what he liked but he couldn't help feeling a bit bad...

Aphmau stared at Zane, he was hunched over his phone, his hair covering his face. "So he's Garroth's brother? I never would've guessed..."
"What sport was he forced to play?"

Vylad chuckled, shaking his head "He's the exception. Mom says he's sensitive. Doesn't want any sport to rough him up."

"Maybe she should've made him do chess or something... that seems a bit unfair..." "What's living with him like?" Aphmau asked, tightening the bow holding up his hair.

Vylad glanced at his anti-social brother, "Living with Zane?"

Aphmau nodded, "I mean... he's so quiet, I barely even realize he's there. Whenever we see him- it's like- I don't know... it's like somethings always bothering him. Is- is he just like that?"

Aphmau knows he's being hypocritical, he used to be just like him. Sitting in the back, no-one wanting anything to do with you.
It's not a good feeling.

Vylad sighed, "Not always. He wanted to go to O'khasis Prep, but he didn't get in. The last thing Zane wanted was to go through high-school in Garroth's shadow."
Zane's always been in Garroth's shadow, so has he; Zane always hated it, Garroth was a lot to live up to, but, Vylad didn't mind.

Aphmau hummed. "That must be... rough." Travis gave Zane a sympathetic look.

"Well, Zane thinks so; I have no problem with it! I knew he wasn't happy about being here but I didn't think he'd be this salty. Anyway to answer your question, he's not always like this; sometimes he's a good brother. Sometimes. He and Garroth sometimes get along; but he's going through this phase right now of: darkness and pain."

Aphmau cocked his head, Zane was clearly going through something, sure it could be just chucked up as "teenage angst" but him, being a teenager, doesn't mean he isn't going through something; even if it seems silly to others.

"I swear it's just because he didn't get the first slice of cake this morning..." Vylad muttered.

"Huh?" Aphmau cocked his head, not clearly hearing the other's statement.

"He's not too fond of me, but he and Garroth fight more and more these days." He sighed, "Must be a brother thing."

"A brother thing? Aren't you their brother too?" Aphmau asked, leaning forward.

"Well yeah." Vylad scuffed, "But all that sounds like a lotta work, and who wants to do that?"

"Hm, not me... that's for sure. Don't worry about Zane; he's probably going through a lot... Maybe we should try to invite him-" 

*Bell Rings*

Travis jumped, "Ah! There's the bell! I've got bio," he stood slinging his bag over his shoulder and pushed in his chair, "And I need to be early to that class in order to get a good seat!!" He patted Aphmau on the shoulder.

"Ah... luckyyyy I've got Werewolf 107..." Aphmau sighed loudly, clearly unhappy. And he stood and slowly slung his bag over his shoulder.

"Ouch! You still haven't been able to get outta that?" Travis pushed in his chair for him.

Aphmau shook his head; "Nope... apparently I'm stuck there for the rest of the year." he sighed, "Good luck you two. I'll see y'all tomorrow." 

Travis waved, hurrying to leave the room.

"What class do you have Vylad?" Aphmau asked, seeing the other looking over his schedule.

"I've got Home Ec. People still teach that class?" Vylad wondered.

Aphmau giggled, "Oooo!! That class is awesome!!! I call it second lunch!"

Aphmau was cute, Vyland gave him that, he wasn't really someone to have crushes, but if he was going to have a crush on anyone, it would be Aphmau.
And given time, he would be proven current. 

"Do you take it?" Vylad asked excitedly.

"Um, pth. no... I signed up for it but didn't get in..." Aphmau giggled, 100% sure Werewolf 107 STOLE his Home Ec class...

"I don't understand... I don't remember sighing up for this class..." Vylad rubbed the back of his neck.

"Yeah, same thing happened to me, there must be some problem in the registration office. You should probably head there and try and fix that ASAP..." Aphmau held open the door for Vylad.

"Well, that can wait until after school. I really need to get going." Vylad said walking down the hallway, looking around.

"Mk! Enjoy-" Aphmau cut himself short seeing Vylad stopped in the middle of the four way stop in the hall.

"Now... how do I get there?" He asked, looking back at the raven boy behind him.

Aphmau cackled, "You've asked the right person!!" 

"I- I did?" Vylad asked a little nervous at the others reaction.

"Mh hm!!" Aphmau giggled, "Of course!! I'm kinda a hall master at this point; I've gotten lost so many times, I pretty much know my way around!"

"That- that isn't reassuring at all..." 

Aphmau laughed, “You can trust me! Come on,” he took Vyald’s hand, it was cold, like Garroth’s always was, maybe cold hands ran in their family… “I’ll get you there in one piece!”

“O… k…. I trust you…” Vylad shook his head, trusting in the other’s words; but making sure to look around in case he had to call Garroth to save them.

“Alright! Told ya I’d get you here in one piece!” Aphmau giggled, letting go of Vylad’s, now warm, hand. 

“That you did… thanks. I’ll see you around Not-Alone Buddy!” Vylad waved as he went into the classroom-turned-kitchen.

Aphmau watched him make it inside, before looking at the clock and, realizing how late he was gonna be, ran off toward’s his class.

“I’ve gotta go, go, go—“ He froze sliding across the ground as he heard the bored voice of a girl.

He crawled to the corner of the wall, peaking around it to see the three kids from the park, sitting at the student seating, in the corner.
The hickory-haired boy was spraying a weird logo with the initials: S.K in the middle.

“Who did that guy think he was?” The white-haired girl asked.

“He blatantly ignored us!” The hickory-haired boy raged.

“He’s the new trouble maker on the block.” Gene hummed, clearly deep in thought.

”Wh— who are they talking about… wouldn’t wanna be in that guys shoes… Gene sounds mad.” Aphmau pressed his back harder to the wall behind him; trying not to make a sound.

“Saying he can take you, Gene?” The girl teased.

“Tsk. I don’t need to fight.” Gene crossed his arms.
He looked strangely… preppy; with his uniform on; nothing like the first time Aphmau saw him… he was; handsome… on the outside.
Like his younger brother, pretty on the outside, ugly on the inside.

“I heard he’s won all the fights he’s been in so far.” The hickory-haired boy commented, focusing on the tag on the wall, it looked like it took awhile…

“It’s been like, what, five fights? I’ve lost count.” The white haired girl scuffed crossing her legs.

Aphmau tried to find anyway around them, he really didn’t want to have trouble with them.

“Yeah, but the school can’t do anything about it, because no one can prove he started them.” The hickory-haired boy sneered; “But how dumb can the adults be? He’s all scratched up, and we’ve seen the fights. They’re just over before anyone can get there.” 

“Chill. If he tries anything I can take em’.” Gene stood walking to stand in front of the other two.

“So confident Gene. Oooooo.” The white haired girl awed.

“I need to get to class!!” Aphmau whined, wanting so desperately to get to class, he didn’t wanna be thrown out the window by his werewolf teacher, he hasn’t done it, yet. But Aphmau didn’t doubt for one second he would, any chance he had.

"Stop drooling, Sasha. It's pathetic." The hickory-haired boy sneered.

Aphmau eyed the hall he needed to go down, if they didn't hurry up he'd be late! He promised himself he'd be a straight A student, for his mother; at this rate his grade would suffer!

"Jealous?" The white haired girl- Sasha, teased.

"You two. finish that tag and we'll head off to the coffee shop."

It was now or never! Aphmau quickly got to his feet, and snuck past them- or, tried to...

"I don't wanna be here longer than I have to-" Gene turned, seeing Aphmau sneaking close to the wall. "Well, well. Look who we have here... You're that boy Laurance was hanging with the other day."

Aphmau jumped, turning his nose up at the elder. "Hmph."

"What's wrong? Oh." Gene walked closer, "Let me guess. Laurance told you not to talk to us, huh?"

"I wouldn't wanna talk to you, even if Laurance told me you were the nicest guy in the country!" 

"Wow. You haven't even taken the time to get to know me!" Gene stepped closer again, Aphmau huffed. "Don't you know it's rude to judge a book by it's cover?"

"I don't judge you by your looks! I judge you by what your devotees are doing!" Aphmau pointed to the hickory-haired boy, still tagging the wall.

"Devotees?" Gene asked, the hickory-haired boy scuffed, "No no no. They're my friends."

"Friends or not, I don't care. I'm not interested in your little gang. I have to get to class, you've already made me 5 minutes late." Aphmau flipped his hair, hitting Gene in the chest. 

"What's the rush? Do you see us going to class? We're just hanging out here. Why don't you come sit with us, get to know me and my friends here. It'll be fun." Gene urged.

Aphmau turned back to him. "I really need to go." He groaned.
He never thought he'd miss his Werewolf class, but here he was.

"Oh, come on. What's the harm?"

"Gene. Leave him alone." The pretty black haired girl from the club social said, walking over to save him. His knight in shining armor!

"Oh great. Miss goody-two-shoes." Gene rolled his eyes, backing away from Aphmau.

"It's you!" Aphmau cheered, reminding himself to get her something.

"If he doesn't want to hang out with you, he doesn't have to. Aphmau, get to class. I'm going to write these three for skipping." She walked over to Aphmau.

"Greattt. You're such a lame hall monitor, Teony. Why can't you just give us a warning?" Gene sighed, rolling his eyes.

Teony took a deep breath, trying to stay calm and be a good example for her underclassmen. "Fine. But this is your first, and last one of the year. I am reporting you guys for graffiti though. So hurry up and get to class before I change my mind."

"Fine, fine! Catch you later, little freshman." Gene patted the freshman on the head, leaving Sasha and the hickory-haired boy to follow.

The hickory-haired boy glanced at Aphmau as he passed, he was taller than Aphmau expected, when his amber eyes locked with the other's red one he felt this shiver, like he was in danger. Like he should run away. But it was gone the second it came.

Aphmau shook himself, "Thank you mis- Teony? Was it?"

Teony chuckled, "Yep! It was no problem, if you're lucky you're teacher won't mind you being ten minutes late."

"R- right! I don't want Mr. Gavin throwing me out the window!!! Thanks, Ms. Teony!! You- you're awesome!" Aphmau said running off.

Teony smiled, giggling: "He's adorable."

Aphmau ran to his werewolf class, bursting the doors open with all his might. 

The loud boom made everyone jolt up, almost everyone's ears pinning.

"Glad you could join us, late. Mr. Aphmau." Mr. Gavin sneered.

Aphmau hung his head, "I- I'm so sorry!! There was this-"

"No excuses! I want to see you after class to discuss this matter. Right now we're in the middle of a lesson, so, take your seat."

Aphmau swallowed, the pressure behind his eyes, at least he had time to say his goodbyes to his loved ones before he was thrown across the soccer fields.

Aphmau walked down the idle. A green haired werewolf boy stared at him, his tail wagging excitedly.

"Oooo! Daniel! Do you have a crush on that human?" A blue haired werewolf girl giggled, leaning over to her seat-buddy.

"H- huh!?" The green haired werewolf- Daniel; blushed, his tail still wagging while staring at the human boy next to the ex-alpha. 

"You're staring at him like he has a stick- wait does he have a stick!?" A brown hair werewolf jumped up, staring at the human as well.

"N- no?"

"Thought you were transferring..." Balto sneered, glaring out the window as the human first year sat next to him.

"Now look who's talking to who." Aphmau grinned, staring ahead at the teacher.

Balto growled, but didn't say anything else.

Chapter Text

Aphmau sat at a bench, his legs crossed; "I don't see why I had to come to the park with you, mama..."

"Because Mijo, you need to get out of the house! All you do is study and play video games! Some fresh air and exercise never hurt anyone." His mother stretched, "Look, all I'm saying is: I'm glad you paused your game and decided to come out with me! Mommy appreciates it!"

"Mama... I've told you before; you can't pause MMOs... but if it makes you happy, then it makes me happy... why couldn't Thorgi come out with us?" Aphmau sighed, shaking his head.

"That's my boy. You'll see why Thorgi couldn't come; not to worry." His mother giggled.

"So, what do you think of my new jogging wear?" She asked, turning to show off her new white two piece.

"It's a tad... revealing... But it looks amazing on you." Aphmau cheered.

His mother smiled. "Thanks!! It's pretty tight, yo." She flipped her hair.

"Mama!! Where did you learn to talk like that..?" Aphmau asked, hoping no-one he knew heard his mother's... slang.

"From an old friend of mine! Speaking of which, she should be here any minute..." She looked around, supposedly looking for her friend.

"W- wait! You invited another adult to join us?" He asked looking at his clothes, it was his old tracksuit from Middle School, when he was jumping hurdles; he was thinking of joining his mother to get back into running, but if another adult was going to run with her he didn't want to intrude.

"Of course I did!!" She put her hands on her hips, "I didn't wanna be seen alone with my son! He's so embarrassing." She giggled.

Aphmau pouted, "Don't sass me Mom!! Wait, shouldn't I be saying that about you!!?"

His mother laughed, "Calm down, Mijo!! This "other adult" is cool. I just reconnected with her this week! In fact, she's bringing her kids too! So while we're jogging, and catching up, you can play with them!!"

Aphmau crossed his arms, "So, you dragged me out here to babysit your friends kids, so you and her can have adult alone time." He rolled his eyes, trying to ignore the tape still on his glasses; his new pair would come in the mail in a few days so he just had to hold out until than.

His mother laughed, finding her son's small temper tantrum cute.

"Fine. But you owe me." He deflated, "So am I watching some five-year-old brat again?"
It's not that he didn't like kids, he did! But they could be a handful.

"Well-"

"Hey Gurlfriend!!!"

Both Aphmau and his mother looked up at the sudden voice. She was beautiful, a little on the taller side, she had long black slinky hair, and watercolor blue eyes. 

"AHHH!!!" His mother ran up to the woman, "Wassup gurl!!!!" They hugged, Aphmau stood to greet the woman properly.

"Oh Sylvanna, it's been years!! You're still lookin' fine!" The woman gave Aphmau's mother a look down, snapping her fingers.

"You're one to talk! I only had one kid, you had three, and look at you! I'm so jealous, Zianna!!" Aphmau's mother squealed.

The black haired women- Ms. Zianna's eyes found Aphmau, awkwardly standing behind his mother. "Oh, and you must be Aphmau!! Look at how beautiful you are! You've grown so much!!! You're all going to have so much fun together!"

"It's nice to meet you, Ms. Zianna!"
"Did she say all? Great I'm babysitting multiple brats..." He smiled through his distain, it would be rude to call her children brats to her face, his mother would have to give him Mc. Donald's for three days now!

"Aphmau?" Aphmau's head shot up at the familiar voice.

"Gar- Garroth!?" Aphmau's face flushed, straightening out his messy clothing. "Wha- what are you doing here!?"

"Funny, I was just about to ask you the same thing. But, I think I've figured it out." Garroth chuckled, walking up to the shorter raven haired boy.

"Wait... you're Ms. Zianna's- so Ms. Zianna is Mrs. Ro'meave..?" Aphmau muttered, pushing up his glasses.

"This is the brat we have to babysit?" Zane's shrill voice asked, Aphmau had only heard him once, he was still shocked that what he sounded like. 

"Hey, Not-Alone Buddy!!!!" Vylad came over, stepping next to his brother.

"Mama!! Are you kidding me!?" He lowered his voice, panicky whispering to his mother: "These guys go to my school!!" Aphmau hid behind her, he was a little shorter than her so, it worked out.

"Zianna! I didn't realize your boys went to the same school as my son!!!" Aphmau's mother gasped.

"Same-zies!!! That's so cute!!!" Mrs. Ro'meave squealed.

"We have so much to catch up on! Ready to start our jog?" 

"Ma- mama! Can't I go with you two?" Aphmau asked, nervously glancing at the three boys.

"Non-sense!!! You were right. I have been a tad overprotective, you deserve to have male friends! And here are three boys I know won't try anything!!" His mother pushed him towards Garroth, patting him on the head. "You'll be fine."

"Right. Okay kids, have fun together! Remember Zuzu, I want you to try at least one sport with your brothers and new friend while you're at the park! We need to toughen you up! But not too though for mommy kisses!!!"

"Moooom! Stop embarrassing me!" Zane whined.

"Zuzu? That's so... cute. Doesn't suit him..." Aphmau nudged closer to Vylad, taking his cold hand into his own warm one. 

"I love you too, Zuzu!!! You kids play nice!" Mrs. Ro'meave waved off her children.

"Zianna, do you still listen to our lady, Beyoncé?" Aphmau's mother asked, waving off her own son.

"Are you kidding me!? I brought portable speakers so we could listen to her while we run!!! This is going to be the bo-omb!!" Mrs. Ro'meave giggled, pulling out a light blue portable speaker from her bag.

"Word, yo!!!" Aphmau's mother laughed, the speaker started blasting some Beyoncé song, as the women began running, and screaming in excitement.

Aphmau shook his head fondly, it was cute how excited his mom got about these things.

"Oh my Irene..." Vylad muttered, hanging his head. 

"Can mom get any more embarrassing?" Zane shook his head, muttering under his breath.

"So, that's where mama learned to talk like that... I see..." Aphmau chuckled, watching his mother run like a mad-woman.

"I'm pretty sure your mom influenced our mom." Garroth teased, trying not to pay attention to his brother's hand being woven with his crush— friend's own. Yeah, his friend.

"No, no, no my mama was a nice mom, before your mom got involved." Aphmau giggled.

"They both seem to rub off on each-other and it just started escalating." Vylad said, mortified. 

"True..." Aphmau shook his head, the twin breads he wore that day shaking with him.

"Whatever. We're stuck in this stupid park. In the stupid sun." Zane groaned, walking away.

"Baby brother; where are you going?" Garroth asked, Zane froze.

"I'm going to sit under a tree. On my phone. And be as far away from you three as possible." Zane hissed, pulling his phone from the pocket of his brown ripped jeans.

"What a delight." Aphmau hissed through his teeth; only Vylad being able to hear it. It took all his strength not to burst out laughing.

"Nope!" Garroth grabbed his little brother's hand, "Come on now, you heard what mom said, you need to play a sport."

"I'm not doing it." Zane hissed, ripping his arm back from his brother's grasp.

"Let's toss him in the lake! That counts as swimming right? Swimming's a sport." Aphmau thought picturing Garroth tossing Zane over his head and throwing him halfway into the lake, making him swim back.
That's something he'd pay good money to see. 

"Yes. Yes, you are." Garroth grinned.

"And why should I?" Zane almost laughed at his brothers miserable attempts.

Garroth looked down then back up, "If you don't. I'll hug you, in-front of the whole school, every chance I get; for the rest of the year."

Aphmau let go of Vylad's hand to cover his mouth as he started laughing.

Zane looked down, ignoring Aphmau's giggling. "I hate you. Garroth."

"Aww! Zane, you should just tell your brother you loveeee him!" Aphmau giggled, enjoying teasing his emo classmate.

"Shut up- you- thing!!!" Zane huffed, Aphmau didn't know what he was trying to call him, but it was a cute attempt.

"To be honest; I'd prefer it if you told me that instead, Aphmau." Garroth commented, a light blush on his cheeks.

Aphmau made an odd squeaking sound, hiding behind his Not-Alone Buddy.

"Could you be any more creepy, Garroth?" Zane rolled his eyes, sick of his brothers failed advances.

Garroth laughed, of course his flirting would be "creepy" or "gross" to his little brother.

"S- so! Vylad!" Aphmau rested both his hands on Vylad's upper-arms, "Um-" he cleared his throat, "Pick a sport." 

"Ha! Easy!!!" Zane walked away, sitting under a nearby light pole. "Soccer!!!"

Aphmau froze.

"Are you sure? I was thinking base-" Garroth was cut off by what sounded like a vacuum sucking all the air from the earth, even Zane started in a mixture of shock and concern (for himself. Mind you).

"I LOVE SOCCER!!!!" Aphmau squeaked, "Vylad!! Oh my gosh!!" He giggled, 

"Real- really? You should talk to Laurance, he's the captain of the soccer team you know. Yo- you should try out." Garroth was still recovering from the shock of the younger's reaction.

"Huh? Oh Irene no. I played soccer for a few years to build my hand-eye coordination, and I don't want to take it that serious again." Aphmau commented, stars in his eyes.

"Dedicated boy, huh?" Garroth smiled, the stars in Aphamu's honey eyes made them look more sweet than usual.

"YEAH!!-" Aphmau cleared his throat, "I just, really love soccer."

Vylad smiled, "Me too!!" He giggled.

Aphmau grinned, "Awesome!!"

Zane groaned, "Oh, great..." No-one heard him-, or, well, no-one minded him.

"In fact... we have a soccer ball in our trunk!!" Aphmau ran off yelling: "Go find a spot!!" 

"Perfect! I know just the spot!" Vylad led his brothers to two soccer nets, making sure Aphmau could see them from his car.

Zane stood, an old soccer ball in-front of him, his brother stood, not too far, in-front of the net.

"I cannot believe I'm doing this..." Zane muttered under his breath.

"Okay Zane. We're going to introduce you to the sport slowly. Nothing too intense for you, since we know running is out of the question." Vylad hoped his big brother would at least try at this; Aphmau had been so excited.

"Oh. Oh, I can run." Zane smirked.

Vylad's green eyes lit up "Real- really?"

Zane's smirk widened, though it was for himself since no-one else could see it; "Yeah. Away, from you."

Vylad deflated, visibility swallowing; "O... kay... You're going to be preventing me from scoring a goal. Now you can touch the ball with your hands, if you need to, but-" 

"I hope Zane isn't killing to mood for you. I know you were really excited to play." Garroth sighed watching his two little brothers... interact.

"Does Zane always treat Vylad like that?" Aphmau asked, he really liked Vylad, he was nice, funny, among many other things.
He wanted to respect their family dynamic but— Zane was making it so difficult. It would help to know Zane did knew how to be nice to his little brother.

Garroth sighed, "Not always. But, most of the time these days... don't be too mad at him, Vylad is just an easy target. Don't worry too much about him."

"Vylad's my Not-Alone Buddy, I might not've known him for long... but I really care about him..." Aphmau sighed, shaking his head. "Anyway. It's nice to see Zane at least humoring the idea. He always seems so... alone; in class." Aphmau hummed.

"He prefers to be like that. Which I try to respect... but he's my brother. I can't help but love the little guy." Garroth chuckled.

Aphmau giggled, "That's really sweet of you, Garroth."
Garroth really was straight out of a romance book. How was this dude real?

Garroth chuckled, "You know, you were the very last person I imagined spending the day with. Our mom dragged us here to meet her friend and told us about her son, but, it's weird it turned out to be you." He said softly.

Aphmau blushed lightly at the older's tone, "I— I was actually thinking the same thing..." 

"I'm really happy about this." Garroth leaned on the tree next to him, staring at Aphmau like he was the first person he'd ever seen.

Aphmau swallowed.

"You're blushing." Garroth teased, lifting Aphmau's chin with his finger.

"I- I- I- well- I just-"

"I don't want to play with you, Vylad." Zane kicked to ball away, kicking it so it was far away from all of them.

Vylad sighed, "Fine. Then Garroth will play with you." 

"No."

"What's going on?" Garroth kicked off the tree and walked to his brothers.

"Zane's being emo again and saying that he doesn't want me or you to kick the ball to him." Vylad rolled his eyes, wandering how on earth Zane was older than him by nearly a year.

"It's stupid!" The ball hit Zane's shins, looking up he saw that Aphmau had retrieved the ball, and, like some kinda dog, brought it back to him.

"You just don't want I or Garroth to show you up." Vylad crossed his arms, sighing.

"Shut. Up. Vylad." Zane angrily said, realizing Aphmau had taken back the ball and was kicking it to himself.

Aphmau caught the ball, "I- I'll play with you Zane..." He muttered, holding the ball to cover the bottom of his face.

"You?" Zane looked down at the raven, "I bet you can't even kick a ball far enough to reach me." He teased.

Aphmau froze, "Excuse me?"

Garroth stepped in-front of Aphmau, "Zane. That's not very nice to say."

"Oh... Oh I'm so scared! I'm so scared of this little potato!" Zane teased.

"What. Did. You. Just. Call. Me?" He dropped the ball.

"I've heard your little nickname going through the school."
Aphmau steadied the ball making sure to stay clear of Garroth, who was still guarding him from Zane.
"I'm not exactly scared of you."

Aphmau backed up kicking the ball into the net, it bounced off the metal bar making a loud sound. Aphmau laughed, "You know the point of me doing this is for you to block the ball." He teased.

"That was a practice run! I'm ready this time!" Zane readied himself in-front of the goal.

"Fine." Vylad passed Aphmau the ball, he steps back giving it a hard running kick. It whistled through the air and hit its target.

Zane's face.

Aphmau ran over to the fallen man, "Zane!!! I'm so so so so so so so SO sorry!!!! My mom has a ice pack in her car. I- I'll go get it!" He took the soccer ball running back to his mom's grey van.

He threw the ball into the trunk and dug threw his moms medical bag, one of the many pros of having a nurse for a mom. He took out one of the many ice packs, and ran back.

Zane was sat at a bench, his one showing eye, black. Aphmau rushed over, pressing the ice pack to Zane's bruised eye.

"I have to say, I wasn't expecting you to catch the ball with your face!" Garroth teased, seeing his brother was okay, and he did kinda deserve it.

"SHUT UP, GARROTH!!" Zane pouted trying to rip his face from the gentle hands of his classmate..

"Oh my Irene!!! Zane, I'm so so so so sorry!!!" Aphmau whined, keeping presser on his swollen eye; holding the taller's face with his other hand to keep him in place.

"You did that on purpose!!" Zane groaned as Aphmau's hands proved to be stronger than he expected.

"I didn't mean to!! I swear!! I've never been that good with aiming!!" Zane shook the ice pack away wanting to see what was happening.
Aphmau was nearly straddling his waist, his face inches from his own.

"You could've told me that!!" Zane pushed him away, along with his ice pack.

"I'm so sorry Zane!! Is your eye okay!?" Aphmau worried, wanting to put ice on it a little longer.

"I'm fine. It just stings a bit." Zane groaned, shaking off his pain.

"Zane's always had his other eye messed up a-bit because—"

"SHUT. UP. VYLAD!" Zane winced, his head throbbing from the impact, he could give the other that— he was strong.

"In any case." Garroth cut in, almost as though he wanted to rush past the topic. "I think we're going to cut it here. I'm glad you tried, Zane. I'm proud of you."

"Whatever." Zane hissed.

"ZUZU!!" All three, standing, boys looked to the woman running up to them, "What happened!?"

"I'm so so sorry, Mrs. Ro'meave!!!" Aphmau blinked, struggling to keep tears down. "We were playing soccer, and I accidentally kicked the ball into his face; I- I didn't mean to! I just..."

Mrs. Ro'meave laughed, "Is that all? Oh, he'll be fine. I have three boys, and Zane's been through worse." She waved the young boy off.

Aphmau's mother took the ice pack from her son, kneeling to look at Zane's injury. "I'm sorry!!" 

His mother sighed, standing up and giving the ice pack to Zane. "Did you tell him that?"

"I've been saying that this entire time!! Of course I have Mama!! I'm sorry!!" His voice cracked; his eyes brimming with tears. 

"You better have." His mother scolded.

"Oh Sylanna! This is totes déjà vu!! Remember when Aphmau did this exact same thing to Zane back when the kids were playing dodge-ball; way back in the old neighborhood?”

Aphmau hummed, whipping his tears, and cocking his head.

Aphmau's mother gasped, "That's totes right!! I remember that!!

"Wait, what? What do you mean, mom?" Garroth asked, looking to his mother.

"Oh this happened before!!" They all look at each-other in confusion.

"Uhhh, when? We just met Aphmau." Vylad commented, worried for his mother's sanity.

"Don't tell me you don't remember each-other!!" Both the women laughed.

“We all used to live in the same neighborhood when you were all so tiny. Remember? You all used to play together almost every-day!!” Aphmau’s mother laughed looking to her son.

“Oh girl, I was so devastated when your family moved!!” Mrs. Ro’meave whined to her friend.

“WHAT??” The four teenagers asked simultaneously.

“That boy in the large red hoodie…” Garroth muttered looking down at Aphmau. 

“Those— those three boys… I vaguely remember—“ Aphmau scoured his memories, only remembering three boys who always dressed in Ralph Lauren polo shirts.

He couldn’t remember their faces, he just remembered one of them used to gently hold his hands when he got injured, another used to tie his shoes for him, and the last who used to braid his hair.

But that can’t be right, all three boys doing something sweet for him, even Zane?
He must not be remembering correctly.

”Oh, this is too cute!!! I didn’t realize they didn’t remember!! We need to catch up more; Sylvanna! How about you and Aphmau come over for dinner tonight?” Mrs. Ro’meave suggested, smiling at her old friend.

”Sure! That sounds wonderful!! We have to head home and wash up, I’ll bring a dish.” Aphmau’s mother nodded.

“Oh bring those guesa-dillas, you use to make!!” Mrs. Ro’meave squealed.

”Guesa… dillas? Does she mean—“ Aphmau’s thoughts were cut off by his mother.

“They’re called que-sa-di-as, Zianna.” Aphmau’s mother chuckled.

“They’re called delicious to me!!!” Mrs. Ro’meave giggled.

Aphmau’s mother shook her head fondly, “We’ll see you tonight, then!” 

“For sure!!” 

“This— this is crazy, Aphmau…” Garroth’s eyes were bright.

“I— Garroth.” Aphmau cleared his throat, “We— we’ll talk more later, right?”

“S— sure.” Garroth felt a proud feeling come over him.

”See you tonight Not-Alone Buddy!” Vylad smiled.

Aphmau nodded hugging him goodbye, Vylad froze not knowing where to put his hands; before he figured it out, Aphmau pulled away, walking after his mother to the car.

Aphmau and his mother stood in their kitchen. His mother stirring some sort of soup.

"I HAD NO IDEA!!!" Aphmau screamed, a fierce blush on his face. 

"It's just the funniest thing!!" His mother laughed, "I can't believe you don't remember Garroth, Zane, or Vylad! You were all so close when you were kids!!" 

"EVEN ZANE!?" Aphmau felt like he was having a crisis! "I just don't remember..."

"You were all really young, so it's understandable." 

"And you're ok with me hanging out with them? They're boys." He said, waiting for his mother to realize that those three, were, in-indeed, boys.

His mother laughed "I'm perfectly fine with it! They're Zianna's boys, they know how to act and control themselves."

"Well two of them do..." Aphmau grumbled.

"You and Zane used to be very close you know. He might be going through a... phase at the moment, but you and him were think as thieves. The only person you were closer to was Garroth. He use to put foods he knew you liked on your plate, and braid your hair, and— AH!! It was just too cute!!" His mother squealed remembering the sweet moments, before it all got complicated.

"H- he did?" Aphmau blushed, he shook his head, they were both different people now... "I think I'm gonna take a small break." He washed his hands clean of the jalapeño juice.

"Are you done making the salsa?" His mother asked.

"Yes mama, I just finished!" 

"Alright, but I don't want to see you on that game again. We're going to this dinner!" His mother yelled after him.

"I know Mama! I'll be back in a minute!" "Of course I'm going to this dinner. Garroth is there and he's just-!!" He whimpered, "What's wrong with me!? Do I like Garroth? Laurance? Travis?" He groaned, sitting on the stairs, "Emotions suck!" 

His phone dinged shaking him from his thoughts.

FC:
“Thought we were going to do the dungeon again...”

You:
“Ah! So srry! My mom dragged me to meet her friend.”
“And now we're going to dinner.”
“Can't really play today so...”

FC:
“Sounds like a day. I've also got a family dinner soon, I'm trying to get as much play-time in before they arrive. Hopefully my mom forgets me and I don't have to go eat with them.”

You:
“It has been... but it's been kinda fun!”

"I did get to kick Zane in the face with a soccer ball- not that I meant too! But still..."

FC:
“XD”

"That face!" Aphmau groaned, quickly typing his annoyance.

You:
“Why FC!? U know I hate that stupid face!!”

FC:
“X3”

"WHAT!? CAT LIPS DON'T MAKE IT BETTER!!!" 

You:
“No cat lips!”
“Stop it!”
“Don't make me come kill u in PVP!!!”

FC:
Oh?

You:
What!?
Getting sassy with me!?

"He's just taunting me!"

FC:
What if I am?

You:
THAT'S IT!!
U. Me. PvP tonight.
No exceptions! I'll be there!"

FC:
Do u rly think a healer can beat a warrior?

You:
No! But, I'm gonna try!!

Aphmau giggled.

You:
If I lose, I'm not healing u in anymore dungeons!

"I'll show you FC. I've been leveling up since our last match! I'm ready for him this time!" Aphmau huffed.

*Doorbell Rings*

"Hm?" He jumped to open the door, a handsome white haired boy stood outside, smiling.

"Aphmau! Surprise!" Travis cheered.

"Travis!? What are you doing here?" Aphmau hugged him as though they hadn't seen each-other just yesterday.

"I was in the neighborhood and wanted to say hi!"
Aphmau stepped back, keeping his hands on Travis' upper-arms.
"Did— did I come at a bad time?" He whispered, eyeing Aphmau's mother, who was running around the kitchen; the smell of Mexican food strong.

"No, not at all, but-"

"I hear a boy! Is that a boy!?" His mother ran over, "Hey you!! Stop!-" Her eyes landed on the tall white haired boy who ducked behind her son. "Oh. It's your Not-Alone Buddy."

"I- I was in the neighborhood and I wanted to stop by to see Aphmau... I- is that okay..?" He whimpered, his hands gripping the back of Aphmau's shirt.

"It's fine. We are heading to dinner in about an hour, so when that happens you've gotta leave." His mother whipped her hands on her apron

"That works! I just wanted to spend some time with Aphmau." Travis' eyes lit up, straightening up. 

"Aw that's cute! Are you sure you're not interested in my son?" She crossed her arms.

Aphmau's face turned red, "MAMA!!"

Travis turned redder, if that was possible.

"Fine, fine! I trust you Mijo! Pero en el momento en que lo vea con esos ojos de diablo, juro que lo golpearé tan rápido— (Engish: But the moment I see him with those devil eyes, I swear I'll hit him so fast—)" She grumbled going back to the kitchen.

"Alright mom! Go smack talk him over there!" Aphmau nervously laughed, hoping Travis didn't understand Spanish.

"Wow... your mom's pretty uptight, huh?" Travis nervously chuckled.

Aphmau sighed, "When it comes to me dating, yeah. She's incredibly overprotective..."

"Understandable. She's your mom, she cares about you."
"And with such a beautiful and prefect son he deserves the best." Travis kept his thoughts to himself, if he was ever going to date Aphmau it would help to have his mother's approval... which was never going to happen.

Aphmau giggled, "She does. And when she's cool, she's cool. But then she over-reacts like that it's—" he sighed.

"Aphmau! Make your little friend useful; and have him help make the salsa!" 

"Mama! I already made it!" Aphmau grumbled, wanting to hang out with Travis without interruptions.

"IT WASN'T SPICY ENOUGH! I want Zianna's mouth to burn with the fires of friendship!!" 

"That doesn't make any sense! She's your friend!"

"I KNOW!" 

"Interesting..." Travis hummed.

"Wanna help me make salsa?" Aphmau chuckled.

"Su- sure! I'd love to! I- I've never made it before..." Travis chuckled, he was going to cook; with his crush!! 

"It's easy! Well once you have enough jalapeños... Which reminds me, we actually gotta go pick some." He thought aloud.

"Sounds fun! Where at?" Aphmau dragged him inside, closing the door behind him.

"It's out back." He took Travis' hand, taking him through the house, past the kitchen where his mom was angrily cooking.

"Hey, you have a... nice house." Travis awkwardly, hummed. 

"I suppose. It's better then our old one!" 

"You should come over and visit mine sometime." They exited the house, as he said that, the backyard was large and had signs of a dog.

Aphmau froze "Really?" He whipped around, he and Travis nearly nose-to-nose.

"W- well I'd have to ask my dad first. But, I'm sure he wouldn't mind me having you over. He doe- doesn't mind Dante." Aphmau had stars in his eyes, his chest brushing against Travis'. 

"I'd love to come over! I've never been to a cute guys house before-." Aphmau covered his mouth, "I- I mean... I- I'd love to." 

Travis swallowed, "I- gr- great! So- so dinner?"
He tried to ignore the tightness of his pants. Aphmau thought he was cute?

"Ye- yeah! You know Vylad? Well apparently, his mom and my mom have known each-other for a really long time." Aphmau walked to the small garden full of jalapeños kneeling next to the bushes picking the reddest ones and placing them in his shirt. "And it turns out their family and our family knew each-other when we were really really young! And we didn't remember each-other." 

"Are you serious!?" Travis knelt next to him, offering his shirt as a basket instead.

"YEAH! I AM!" Aphmau placed all the peppers in his lap into Travis' instead.

"That's crazy!" 

"It's so weird. I honestly didn't even realize!" Aphmau yanked another free, tossing it into Travis’ lap. 

"It's kinda cool! You two must have some kinda connection you never knew was there!" 

Aphmau giggled, "Yeah. I didn't realize how much Garroth has grown up." He muttered under his breath a blush covering his cheeks.

Travis' heart dropped past his stomach; of course Aphmau wasn't interested in him. "H- hey. Stop drooling."

Aphmau wiped at his mouth, "I- I'M NOT DROOLING!" 

Travis smiled, "No, you're not, but I can tell what you're thinking about."

Aphmau's face went beat red, "H- huh!?"

"You like Garroth, don't you?" Travis ignored his feelings, teasing his friend.

"Can we not talk about our feelings? You know what? No. No!" Aphmau slapped his shoulder, standing up. He lead them back inside and started the Salsa. 

"You have a crush. It's not a bad thing..." "Well, it is for me..." Travis nudged Aphmau's shoulder.

"Can we not? No no no, Travis! I don't like Garroth, or anyone! So can we just focus and make the salsa?" Aphmau asked lifting Travis' shirt to dump the peppers onto the cutting board.

Travis blushed looking away, "Alright. Alright..."

"Good, now wash these with the strainer in the center cabinet." Travis nodded walking to the center cabinet.

He walked back to Aphmau placing all the peppers in the strainer and washing them. "I heard a rumor at school."

Aphmau hummed, picking up one of the freshly washed peppers to cut it. "About?"

“I heard you were seen around Gene and his gang a while ago.”  Travis glanced at Aphmau’s busy hands, hearing the sound of knife hitting board stop. 

“Huh? Oh yeah I ran into them but we didn’t talk.” Aphamu commented continuing his cutting.

Travis sighed in relief, “Good. Sorry. I was worried about that.”

”Whe— where did you hear about that?”

“Dante had mentioned Gene talking about you. They didn’t say anything weird, they were just talking about it. I just wanted to run it by you. I’m not going to let anything happened to my Not-Alone Buddy.” He bumped his hip against Aphmau’s. 

“Thanks Travis.” Aphmau smiled, pouring the peppers into the pan.

“It’s no problem, anything for you.” Travis moved next to Aphmau and reached out to hold his hand. 

“Anything?” Aphmau asked, leaning his face closer to the others. Travis swallowed, nodding.

“APHMAU!” The two jumped apart as Aphmau’s mother stormed into the kitchen from her bedroom, she wore a long green sweater dress, her hair tied up nicely.

”Is that salsa ready?” 

“Just finishing up now!”

She pushed past her son and his friend taking a spoonful of salsa, “Hm… It’s alright… Travis. Let me know what you think.”

”Wait. Mama… I don’t think that’s a good idea—.

”Nonsense!” She held the spoon to Travis, “Here you go.”

”U— uh… O… k…” Travis took a tiny sip, Aphmau held his breath.

”It’s good!—“ Aphmau knew the minute Travis stopped talking the spice had hit him, the poor thing never had a chance.

They sat in Aphmau’s car; Travis in the back with Aphmau and his mother in the front.

”Dante and Gene’s here?” Travis wondered aloud, “Oh, that’s right! Our bio project!” He hopped out, leaning on Aphmau’s window.

”Thank you for the ride Mrs. Aphmau’s mom! See you Monday.” Aphmau gave Travis a hug.

”See you.”

”Bye Travis!” Travis ran in-front of the car and onto his lawn next to Dante and his brother. Aphmau ducked down.

”Bye ma’am!”

As the grey van drove off Gene and Aphmau locked eyes, Aphmau looked away at once, but Gene watched until the car disappeared around the corner.

Chapter Text

"Ahhh! I'm so glad you could make it!" Mrs. Ro'meave squealed, running to the door to hug her friend.

She had on a pink sun-dress with a dark blue jacket over-top, a fancy gold necklace, some golden bangles, and a pair of hoop earrings to top it off. She looked like a supermodel.

Aphmau saw where her sons got their good looks from.

"It was our pleasure! Sorry it took longer than usual," Aphmau's mother pushed her way inside, placing her bags filled with food, on the table in the foyer. "I wanted to make sure the salsa was spicy enough for you." 

"Oh Sylvanna!! You know me so well!" She turned to the raven haired boy.
His hair was braided and tied into a bun. He wore a red and black semi-formal suit, instead of a tie, he wore a large black bow.

"Aphmau, oh just look at you! You're so beautiful! Gar-Gar, don't you think so?" 

Aphmau looked up. Garroth stood on the stairs, looking at Aphmau with eyes as bright as the sun. "He- he's... stunning..." Garroth swallowed.

Aphmau blushed, "I-".

Garroth had on a beautiful, blue suit, his dark blue jacket was open, he had a collared white shirt, and dark blue pants. His curly blonde hair; a halo over his head. "Thank you."

"I swear I'd let you marry one of my boys if you wanted!!" Both the teenagers faces flushed as their mother's laughed. 

"Mar- Marry?" Aphmau muttered, he heard Garroth's footsteps come down the stairs. 

"Then we'd be related, Zianna!" 

"Then we could never get rid of each-other!!" The women laughed, leaving their sons in shock by the door, as they went to the kitchen.

"Anyway, let's get to dinner, I just need to finish a few things up." Mrs. Ro'meave happily said.

"I'll help! Aphmau, why don't you and the boys go play?" Aphmau's mother waved off her son.

"O- ok!"

"S- so you think our moms are gonna force us to get married?" Garroth teased, glad Aphmau was facing away from him, so he couldn't see the blush on his cheeks.

"I- I- I don't think they'd have to force anyone to marry you..." Aphmau commented, brushing his bangs out of his face.

"O- oh?" Garroth tried to regain his compositor- truly, he did; but Aphmau looked like a god right now, he looked so elegant, and beautiful. Sure, his shirt was a size or two too big, but he made it look better that way.

"I mean." Aphmau swallowed, "Look at yourself. You're handsome, charming, sweet, and smart. You know that. Anyone would kill to get with you. Plus." He motioned around them, "You're rich." 

Garroth chuckled, "Why thank you. I find myself quite a catch." He fluffed his hair.

Aphmau's eyes softened, he felt a feeling rise in his chest. 
"Oh yeah. I'd never throw you back if I catch ya." He teased, tugging on Garroth's sleeve. "Total A+ fish here. Or whatever the fishing term for "best fish" is."

"Oh Sylvanna! These quezidaylas are amazing! As usual!" Zianna cheered, leaning on the counter.

Sylanna laughed, "It's pronounced kay-su-dee-uhz, Zianna."

"That's what I said!" She shook her hair, "Macarena!" 

Sylanna couldn't help but laugh at her friends outgoing personally. "You haven't changed one bit!" She really hasn't. Ever since they were in high-school she's been the same- in a good way; of course.

"Never, girlfriend!"

"BFFs fo' life, yo!!" 

"Fo' sho'!"

Aphmau and Garroth stood in the doorway of the kitchen, Garroth leaned on the door-frame with his arms crossed over his chest. 

"Ugh... mom..." Both the teenagers groaned.

"Do you remember our moms being this embarrassing?" Aphmau whined.

"I honestly think we were too young to remember." Garroth chuckled, turning away from his mother, and to the boy next to him.

Aphmau sighed, "At least it isn't at school." 

"That would be a nightmare." Garroth sighed, "Maybe I could show you around the house. That way, we don't have to listen to our moms' embarrassing conversation." 

Aphmau breathed a sigh a relief, "That sounds wonderful." 

Garroth waved Aphmau to follow him.

They stopped at the stairs "These are our stairs." 

"Wow! I've never seen stairs before! How do you have access to such technology!?" Aphmau teased giggling.

Garroth chuckled, "I didn't mean it like that." He led the younger upstairs, walking to the nearest door. 

"Anyway, over here is Zane's room." Garroth opened the door, "Hey Baby brother." He opened it just enough for them to go inside. Garroth stepped in.

"GARROTH!!" Zane's room was dark, the wall with the door on it and the wall across it was black, the back walls were dark blue. His bed was in the corner, his sheets and blankets were all black; giving his room a quiet- but dark, look.

He was sitting at his desk in-front of his window, which was across from the door. "CAN'T YOU SEE I'M IN THE MIDDLE OF SOMETHING?"

"Are you playing that dumb game again..?" Garroth shook his head, "We have company over. Just pause it and come downstairs."

Aphmau watched Zane fight in a dungeon, he was good. "GET OUT, GARROTH! I'M IN THE MIDDLE OF A DUNGEON! I'LL COME DOWN WHEN I FEEL LIKE IT! NOW. SHUT THE DOOR. AND LEAVE!" 

Garroth nodded, leaving his brother's room and closing the door behind them. 

"Sorry about Zane." Garroth sighed, "He likes to isolate himself a-lot."

"It's not problem. Though he's right; you can't pause MMOs." Aphmau giggled.

Garroth chuckled hoping he didn't offend Aphmau with his "stupid game" comment. "I wouldn't know. I'm not that into gaming."

"Real- really?"

"Well, I am, but I only play console games every now and again." Garroth led them down the hall, "This is Vylad's room."

He opened the door, walking inside. Vylad sat on his bed, candles lit around him. "Hey Vylad!"

"Garroth. Brother." He sounded oddly calm, "You really have this problem with knocking." He took a deep breath. "Don't you?"

Garroth chuckled awkwardly, "Sorry, baby brother. I'll try and remember next time." 

"It's *breathes* fine. I was just finishing some new meditation thing I saw." He opened one of his green eyes, looking at Aphmau; "Woah... he's so beautiful." "H- hey Not-Alone Buddy. I'll be with you soon. *breathes* I want to finish this, or I won't be at peace with my inner self. Or something." He muttered looking away.

"Wow, I didn't realize you were so deep, Not-Alone Buddy!" Aphmau giggled finding Vylad's meditation cute. 

"We'll leave you alone now." Garroth wrapped his arm around Aphmau's waist, gently pulling him outside and reaching to close the door.

"And Garroth. I swear, if you don't fix this knocking problem, you'll be breaking down doors left and right when you're older."

Aphmau giggled.

"That'll never happen. That's just plain rude." Garroth chuckled, "Good luck with your meditating." He closed the door behind them. 

Garroth chuckled, "Sorry about that. I didn't mean to put you on the spot with those two." 

"It's alright." Aphmau giggled as they walked down to the last door.

"And this is the last room. It's mine." 

Aphmau squeaked, was he about to go into Garroth Ro'meave's room!? Garroth fucking Ro'meave!!

"Wanna come in?" Garroth teased, leaning over closer to the shorter. 

Aphmau nodded, shuffling, Garroth opened the door, going in. Aphmau swallowed, following.

Looking around Aphmau was taken aback, it was just as he had imaged it. His walls were a dark blue, his blankets a blue plaid, and he had a Zelda poser over his wooden dresser.

"Yo- you're room is really nice, Garroth. Love the Legend of Zelda poster."

Garroth chuckled, "Yeah, it's my favorite video game series."

Aphmau giggled, "Can't blame ya. Wait. I thought you said you weren't into gaming as much?" 

"Ah, but I did say I played console games. I just, don't have much time for them. I'm the captain of the baseball team," He motioned to the baseball bat leaning against his bedside table. "You know." 

"You— you are!?" Aphmau stared at Garroth's upper-arms, all the baseball paid off. He looked like he went to the gym every-other day. 

"Yeah, you didn't know?" Garroth turned his desk chair to face the younger sitting down. Aphmau sat at the end of the elder's bed.

"Th- that's awesome! All that work shows." Aphmau nodded at the elders biceps.

"Not to gloat, but, I'm also the star player." He boasted, tossing his head proudly.

"Wow! That is absolutely gloating right there, bud." He teased.

"What? It can't be gloating if it's true." Garroth laughed, motioning to the trophy case on his far wall.

"Fin- fine. I'll give you that. Wait... I think I remember playing t-ball with you when we were kids." 

Garroth thought back, remembering he and his brothers playing t-ball with a cute raven hair boy, just a few months younger than Vylad; "That- that's right I remember."

Aphmau giggled.

"You were really bad at it, if memory serves me correctly." Garroth hummed.

"It's not like I was going to be the captain of the baseball team or anything!" Aphmau pouted, looking away.

"No, you weren't." Garroth chuckled, "But you would get distracted by snails and lizards you found while at the bases." He teased.

"I couldn't help it! Snails and lizards were cool! Still are!" Aphmau defended.

Garroth laughed, "They are. Funny, I remember you being a soft, talkative boy in a large red hoodie."

"I- I- I still am! Kinda... I just developed these things called feelings." He sighed, "Wish I didn't have them." He grumbled.

"Feelings? For... someone?" Garroth asked, nudging his chair closer.

"W- well-"

"Garroth. This is gross." Zane opened the door, walking in.

Garroth jumped up from his chair. "Ah! Zane." Aphmau put a hand over his heart. Zane wore a black suit with a red tie. 

"Ah, hello baby brother." Garroth walked over to his brother, away from Aphmau. Ignoring the annoyance building in his stomach.

"Why don't you just kiss him already? It's making me sick listening to you try to flirt." Zane rolled his eyes- eye.

"FL- FLIRT!?" Aphmau's face went bright red.
Garroth. Flirt? With him!?

"Calm down, baby brother. We were just having a conversation, about the good old times." 

"You mean the times we don't remember that well? Oh yeah, those were real good times." Zane paced back and forth; each-time he neared the bed Aphmau shifted. 

"Come on, Zane. You must have some good memories of Aphmau." Zane stopped near the bed, Aphmau jumped up rushing back to Garroth's side.

"I don't. And honestly, I'd prefer it to stay that way." Zane sneered at the young man hiding behind his brother. 

"Zane. That's not nice." Garroth sighed, his brother really could be a child...

"I vaguely remember you being a big crybaby Zane." Aphmau giggled, he didn't comment about what his mother had told him.
Zane didn't want to be reminded of that.

"HEY!" 

"And then Garroth would tease you, but Aphmau would come and push back Garroth. Remember?" A voice from the hall asked, Aphmau turned around to see Vylad; dressed in a green collar polo shirt, with a white one underneath, and a blue bow-tie; leaning on the door.

"Heh! Huh?" Aphmau hummed, "I protected Zane, from Garroth?" 

"Huh?"

"WHAT THE- Where'd you come from Vylad!?" Zane whipped towards the door.

"From across the hall." He pointed to his room, "Half-brothers exist too, Zane." Vylad pushed himself off the wall rolling his eyes. 

"You look great Vylad." Aphmau whispered, Vylad nodded thankfully.

"You too." 

"Hmph! Whatever." Zane crossed his arms, looking at the Zelda poster.

"I don't remember ever teasing Zane. I remember being a good big brother..." Garroth sounded a little guilty, Aphmau took his hand.

"Mmm, nope! You're a great big brother now; but back then, you teased Zane, a-lot. And Aphmau, stood up to you." Vylad smiled, remembering how sweet Aphmau was- still is.

"Huh?" Aphmau remembered that... he did used to stick up for Zane.

"I did?" Garroth looked down, squeezing Aphmau's warm comforting hand.

"Wow, actually, it's kinda coming back to me..." Aphmau hummed, looking up.

Zane looked down, his fists clenching.

“Huh… I— I do remember that; actually.” Garroth rubbed his ear, still remembering Aphmau grabbing it and dragging him to apologize to Zane. 

“Aphmau was always looking out for Zane.” 

“And you were always eating dirt; Vylad.” Zane hissed, playing with the bottom button of his suit jacket.

“H— HEY!!” Vylad flushed, “What can I say? I love nature…” He ran his hands through his hair.

“And glue.” Zane huffed turning away.

Aphmau giggled.

“And I still got into Okhasis Prep.”
Aphmau started laughing trying- and failing- to conceal it behind his hand.

“WHAT! EVER! I DON’T EVEN CARE ANYMORE! I’M GOING BACK TO MY ROOM UNTIL DINNER.” Zane stormed off.

“Oh, come on, baby brother;” Garroth stepped forward, finally letting go of Aphmau’s warm hand. “Don’t be like that.”

“I’LL BE HOWEVER I WANT TO BE. YOU GO TRY TO FLIRT WITH THAT-“ Zane waved at Aphmau, Vylad took a step closer to the raven. “THING. I’LL GO BACK TO MY ROOM. I OBVIOUSLY HAVE MORE GAME WITH ONLINE BABES THEN YOU’LL EVER, HAVE WITH REAL ONES!” He slammed the door behind him, Aphmau flinched at the loud sound.

“That escalated quickly.” Vylad sighed.

“I— I’m sure Zane didn’t mean any of that.” Aphmau looked from Vylad to Garroth.

"Puberty is hitting him hard. He's been on a roller coaster of emotions." Vylad rolling his eyes. Aphmau had to agree.

"Either way. If Zane has online friends he's talking to, then I'm happy for him. Although I must admit. He's been taking a lot of his anger out on on me recently; it's starting to get under my skin..."

Vylad pat him on the back, "At least he acknowledges your existence..."

"Aww, Vylad. Zane loves you. He's just going through something at the moment." Aphmau took Vylad's cold hand in his own. 

"I know. But still-" Vylad looked down.

"KIDS!! DINNER'S READY!" Mrs. Ro'meave yelled up the stairs, making all three boys in Garroth's room jump.

"Looks like I made it home just in time, then." A man with a slight posh accent said, in a loud enough voice to travel throughout the house. 

"Dad!!" Both Garroth and Vylad ran out of the room.

"Oh Mr. Ro'meave's home?" Aphmau exited Garroth's room gently closing the door behind him. 

He turned seeing Zane leaving his own room, "Zane." 

Zane jerked his head up, "What?"

"You look nice." Aphmau rushed down the stairs, running to his mother's side.

"Nice?" Zane looked down, "He thinks I look nice?" He shook himself, "Like I care." 

Aphmau sat next to his mother, on her other side sat Mr. Ro'meave at the head of the table, on his side sat his wife. Vylad and Zane sat next to her, Vylad in-front of Aphmau and Zane in-front of Garroth, who sat on the other side of the long haired raven.

"Look at you, Aphmau! You've grown so much!" Mr. Ro'meave smiled over to the young boy.

"Good- good evening, Mr. Ro'meave!" Aphmau stuttered.

Vylad nudged his foot against Aphmau's. "Too much." He whispered, Aphmau looked at his lap; his hair covering his beautiful face.

"Oh please. Call me Garte. I bet you have all the boys at school chasing you!" Aphmau blushed at the flattery.

"No. No! Do not give him any ideas! He's not boy crazy. At all! And I would like it to stay that way!" Aphmau's mother glared, crossing her arms, and leaning back in her chair.

"That's right!" Mrs. Ro'meave turned to Aphmau, "Stay away from boys that aren't mine!"

"Right! Zianna's boys know better than to get all kissy-lovey-dovey-goo-goo eyes!" Aphmau sighed, well there goes having a boyfriend anytime soon.

"Tell that to Garroth." Zane pushed the food on his plate around.

"What?" Garroth looked up, giving Zane a "Don't do it" look.

"Zianna, dear, is there anything to drink? I'm thirsty." Mr. Ro'meave asked, pulling his tie from his work blazer.

"Not as thirsty as Garroth- apparently." Zane smirked.

"Zane." Garroth said in a angry deeper voice, gripping his spoon tighter. Aphmau swallowed as the sliver bent in his grip.

"Ah, right! I forgot the water! I'll be right back!" Mrs. Ro'meave stood, placing the napkin, she had-had on her lap, onto the table. "While I'm up, does anyone else want something to drink? I've got this red drink that's totes the rage!"

Aphmau's mother stood as well, "I don't, but I'll help you take the rest of the food out of the oven." They left to the kitchen, Aphmau finally took a breath of relief.

"I bet Garroth would like a red drink. In a small glass." Zane teased, raising his eyebrow as he tipped his glass of water towards his elder brother.

"Zane. Stop. It." Garroth growled through his teeth.

"Stop what Garroth? I'm just trying to help you out with your- ... game." Zane glared at Aphmau making him slide down his chair.

"I know what you're doing. And frankly, it's getting annoying." Garroth put his, now bent, spoon down. 

"Uh- Hey... Dad? Maybe you should tell Garroth and Zane to stop fighting." Vylad suggested, scooting his chair away from Zane's and closer to his mother's.

"Hm?" Mr. Ro'meave looked up from his food, "They're fighting? Well:" He placed his fork down, wiping his mouth with a napkin, and clearing his throat. "Garroth, Zane, stop-"

*Ring. Ring.*

"Ugh. Shoot." He pulled his phone out, "This is about the beach house. Excuse me for a second," He stood up, "I need to take this call upstairs. Hopefully I can close this deal" He leaves, much to Vylad and Aphmau's dismay.

"All I'm saying is: you have this awful habit of flirting with girls and not following through. How do we know this isn't any different? I just don't want Aphmau getting hurt." Aphmau would've believed him and found himself touched, if it wasn't for that glint in his glass blue eye.

"Zane, stop. Now." Garroth's clenched fist twitched in his lap, if Aphmau wasn't there- and his parents in the other room- he would've punched Zane in the face. Okay he wouldn'tve; but he'd like to dream.

"Temper, temper." Zane sighed, "Fine. Fine. I'll stop." An evil grin crossed his face, grabbing the serving spoon for the mashed potatoes. "But before I do. Maybe you'd like some mashed potatoes? They're small and cute. Just like you like them."

"ZANE." Garroth stood up, his hands coming down on the table. The whole table shook, if it wasn't so high end, it would've broke in two. He stormed out, slamming the sliding backdoor behind him.

Zane burst out laughing.

"Not. Cool. Zane." Vylad shook his head.

"I- I'm going to check on him." Aphmau stood, giving Zane a disapproving look.

Aphmau walked to the hallway, looking left and right for the clear double-doors that led to the back yard. He slid open the door seeing Garroth in the corner of the yard, facing the fence. His body was tense and he was breathing heavy.

Aphmau swallowed, "Gar- Garroth. Are- are you okay?" He shuffled closer, he wasn't scared so to say, he knew Garroth wouldn't hit him or anything; but he wasn't too fond of being screamed at by someone two times his size.

"Yes. I'm fine." Garroth said through his teeth. 

"Are you sure?" Aphmau stepped forward, "Zane was really getting under your skin, and-"

"That's because Zane knows something I don't want you to know." Garroth closed his eyes breathing deeply. Was he actually about to do this?

Aphmau cocked his head, now in reach of Garroth "What's that?" 

Garroth slowly turn around, looking at the ground "I- I like you." His voice was back to being soft, a light blush on his pale cheeks.

Aphmau laughed, "Garroth, I like you too." 

Garroth sighed forcing himself to look into those sweet honey eyes, "No. Not like that. I mean, I like like you." He felt like a kindergartner saying it like that, but he didn't wanna say he loved him and scare him off.

"H- huh!?-" Aphmau's blushed feeling Garroth take his hand.

Garroth's other hand found it's way to Aphmau's lower back, their lips met, both felt sparks go through their bodies, Aphmau's hand found comfort in resting on Garroth's toned chest.

It was short and sweet with Garroth pulling away once he realized what he did.

"I- I'm so sorry! I have no idea what came over me-!" Aphmau pulled him down meeting their lips again. 

He pulled away blushing, he didn't know why he did it; he just did it! "That- That was my first kiss..."

Garroth swallowed, "I- I'm sorry-"

"I'm glad it was you." Aphmau patted his chest, taking a step back. Garroth's hand fell back to his side; his other still in Aphmau's.

"H- Huh?"

"I like you too, Garroth. It's just-"

"I- I know we don't know each-other very well. But I felt this way when you left the park. I- I remember I felt this way when you ran into me on the first day, and instantly feeling a connection. I- I couldn't describe it. An- and then I found out you're that boy from my childhood? I couldn't get you out of my head." Garroth explained.

"I- I've been thinking a-lot about you too..." Aphmau's face was bright red, his thumb rubbing against the back of Garroth's hand.

"Really?" 

"Ye- yeah... but I still wanna get to know you more." Aphmau giggled. 

Garroth chuckled, "I'm glad, I'm sorry about stealing your first kiss from you. Ca- can you not tell Laurance about that?"

"H- huh? Laurance? Why not?" Laurance was just teasing him the day he asked him to be his boyfriend... right?

Garroth chuckled shaking his head, "He really likes you too."

"HE- HE DOES!?" Aphmau felt his ego sky rocking, the two hottest guys of the Sophomore year liked him! He must be the cutest guy of the Freshmen year! Or they're playing him... probably just playing him.

"Yeah. Wait- I wasn't supposed to tell you that either!" Garroth gently pried his hand away from the warmth of Aphmau's. "Ugh. Great. Good job Garroth! You're just on a roll tonight!" He scolded himself, throwing his hands in the air.

"It- it's fine. Wow... Zane really got under your skin... I- I won't tell Laurance anything. We'll just forget this happened! And- and be friends until... further notice." Aphmau smiled, trying to ignore the thought of pulling Garroth back into another kiss. The feeling of Garroth's lips on his would forever stay. That'll have to be enough.

"Sounds like a plan."

...

"W- well... I- I'm hungry!" Aphmau giggled nervously.

"Same. We should... go in and eat." Garroth smiled, taking Aphmau's hand and walking him inside.

Gene lowered his phone, the pile of boxes he was standing on wobbled eerily. "Well, well, well... Looks like I have everything I need to play you. Little freshmen." He jumped down, sneaking away from the large white house.

Chapter Text

Aphmau scratched Thorgi behind the ears, "I'll see you after school Throgi." He kissed the top of his dogs head; he left the house, staring at his feet. 

"How am I supposed to look Garroth in the face after what happened last night!! We kissed! Kissed!!! And it felt so good!" Aphmau groaned, running his hand through his long hair, tightening the bow holding it up. 

"Hey Aphmau, walking to school today?" The sweet voice of Laurance Zvahl broke Aphmau from his thoughts, as it always did.

Aphmau's bag charms clung together as he whipped around, "Y- yep! Just walking to school! Anyway, it's great to see you!" 

"It's great to see you. You seem more... jumpy; than usual." Laurance was surprised Aphmau didn't take his hand, it's what he always did as they walked to school. 

"I do? Huh, w- well, that's probably because I had a really crazy weekend!" Aphmau broke into nervous laughter.

"Really? Wanna, talk about it?" Laurance asked brushing his hand against the back of Aphmau's.

"No! I- I mean, I'd rather talk about what you did this weekend." Aphmau giggled.

"S- sure!" Laurance finally took Aphmau's hand, seeing as the younger wouldn't do it himself, and talked all about his weekend.

They walked up to the fountain, "Sounds like you had a crazy weekend. Soccer practice sounds brutal."

Laurance hummed leaning against the fountain, "Yeah, but I like it." Aphmau swung their hands. "But, Garroth told me you're into soccer."

"He- he did?" Aphmau rubbed the back of his neck.

"Yeah. You should've told me. I am the captain of the soccer team; you know?" Laurance teased.

"Sor- Sorry! It- It just didn't cross my mind." Aphmau swallowed, "Did- did Garroth tell you anything else..?"

Laurance looked at him suspiciously, "Just that, really. Oh! And that you played soccer at the park with him and his brothers. Next time, invite me. I'd love to come school you."

"You can school me any- nope! No Aphmau. No sir." Aphmau shook himself; chuckling "You know, I'm not that bad myself!"

"Yeah, but you've never gone up against a captain before." Laurance boasted, "Oh- uh... speaking of which, I've gotta get to the field, we have a game this weekend and team's getting first period off." 

"Then you'd better get going. Don't want you to slack off." Aphmau patted him on the chest. 

Laurance smiled, holding his hand, keeping it over his chest "Thanks. We're still on for that match, right?" 

Aphmau giggled, "For sure. See ya Laurance." Laurance smiled, letting go of Aphmau's hand and walking away. "Good luck!" 

"Thanks beautiful." He said as he walked off; smiling proudly, knowing he had left Aphmau a blushing mess.

Aphmau giggled, brushing his hair away from his blushing face, "Oh Laurance..." "I really like him too... Irene! I'm an awful person!!"

"Aww isn't that cute?" A strong arm wrapped over his shoulders from behind. "Laurance really seems to have a thing for you."

"WHA-" Aphmau whipped around, "Oh. It's you." He shrugged off Gene's arm, taking a good three steps back. 

"It's sweet how he waits to walk you to school." Gene teased, leaning forward.

"You're right! It is sweet. You could really learn something from him. You know. About being... kind and... caring." 

"Oh come on! Still mad at me? What did I ever do to you?" Gene whined.

"Nothing- yet. I know you. I know your crowd. I've have, enough of your crowd! I made a promise. And I'm going to keep. It." Aphmau wheeled around, hitting Gene in the chest with his hair. 

"Hm. Well I guess you wouldn't mind me telling Laurance what you're hiding from him."

If Aphmau wasn't currently actually hiding something, he wouldn’t have stopped- he wouldn’t have! "Excuse me?" 

"But if you want nothing to do with me, I'll just be on my way." Gene turned, starting to walk off.

"W- wait..." Aphmau grabbed Gene's sleeve, almost instantaneously letting go and wiping his hand on his shirt. "What do you know?" 

Gene turned to face him, "Meet me by the lockers at the far end of school in fifteen minutes."

"What!? I can't do that! I'll be late for class!" 

"Okay. I guess you don't really care if Laurance finds out your dirty like secret." Gene smirked, seeing his words getting through to his... "little friend".

"I do care!" Aphmau didn't know why he cared, he just... did!

"Then do as I ask. See ya around. Freshman."

Aphmau waited by the lockers at the far end of school, he was leaning on one of the unused ones, his head resting back, and his eyes closed.  

"Where the hell is he? Maybe I can get to class if he hurries up." He grumbled.

"I enjoy taking my time." Gene smirked, walking up to the pouting boy.

Aphmau pushed off the locker, staring Gene in the eye. "I'm here. What did you want to show me?"

"Hey, calm down. What's the rush? We've got some time to get to know each-other."

"Pft. Unlike you. I actually care about my future."

"Oh, I care about my future. You should know that education doesn't guarantee a good future. I'm going to get a good job. Without school." Gene looked around, "Now. Let me-"

Gene's eye caught purple-ish grey werewolf ears, "You. Come to start something?"

Balto's red eyes met Aphmau's, "Not at first." He looked back at Gene.

"Then why don't you keep walking?"

"You should consider doing the same." Balto growled his ears pinning.

"Walking is so two minutes ago, for me." 

"So is that stupid haircut."

Gene's fists clenched, "Back. Off. Or I'll make you regret saying that." 

Balto grabbed Aphmau by the back of his uniform, tossing him down the hall. "Get. Outta. Here."

Aphmau stood, rushing back to Balto, "Excuse me!"

"I'm trying to help." 

"I DON'T NEED YOUR HELP!" Aphmau stomped.

"From the look of things you have no idea what you're getting into."

"Maybe I know exactly what I'm getting into." 

Balto growled, "Now you're just being stubborn." 

"That coming from the guy that, up till now, hasn't even looked my way!" Aphmau and Balto were practicality nose-to-nose now.

"Aw what..? Need my attention 24/7?" Balto teased, "Get. Over. It."

"I'll get over whatever I wanna get over!" 

Balto growled, "You don't wanna hang around this guy."

"Maybe that's exactly what I want! So, why don't you leave us alone, so I can talk to the guy who actually wants to talk to me!" Aphmau puffed.

"Fine. Do what you want. But don't come whining to me with your tail between your legs when shit hits the fan." Balto stormed off. 

"I wouldn't go to him if I was about to die!" Aphmau thought, turning his nose up at the elder.

"Wow! You stood up to the alpha!" Gene chuckled, "I had no idea you were so feisty." "This is going to be fun..."

"Ex Alpha." Aphmau rolled his eyes, "Now. What do you want?"

"I wanted to show you this." He pulled his phone out pulling up the picture of Garroth and Aphmau kissing; and showing it to the younger. 

Aphmau's face nearly went white. "I- Where did you get that!?"

"Man, Garroth is like... Laurance's best friend... Sasha told me she overheard him telling Garroth, just how much he likes you. Such a shame Garroth did this to him. I just wanted to show you this before I showed Laurance." Gene slipped his phone back into his pocket.

"Wha- WHAT!? N- no! Please!" Aphmau grabbed Gene's shirt, damn ready to get on his knees and beg him not to. "Don't..."

Gene smirked down at him, "Well then, let's make a deal. I won't show this to Laurance so long as you don't tell anyone about this... And you become me pawn."

Aphmau let go of the elder's shirt, pushing him back as he did so; not that it achieved anything, Gene hardly felt it. "I-" 

*Bell Rings*

Gene looked up, "That's the late bell. Tell ya what." He looked back down, "We'll finish this conversation later. Meet me and my gang at lunch, outside." He turned to walk away.

"Out- outside!? But- but we're not allowed to-!" 

"I'll be waiting!" Gene yelled down the hall, waving.

"H- he can't be serious. This can't be happening!!" Aphmau turned and ran off to his class.

"Really? Him?" Zenix asked, leaning on one of the lockers around the corner from where Gene and Aphmau were talking. 

"I've got a feeling." Gene chuckled. 

Aphmau snuck outside the back doors, looking right then left before rushing down the stairs, towards the soccer fields.

He watched as the soccer team practiced for their game, Laurance was off on the side lines, breathing heavily and having a wet towel over his broad shoulders.

Aphmau took a moment to gawk at him, before shaking himself and running to the bleachers on the far end of the court.

He emerged from underneath the tall bleachers, shaking the dust from his long curly hair. "I'm here, Gene." 

Gene smiled, giving Zenix an "I told you so" look. "Look at you. Acting like a bad boy already."

"I like this new look on him..." Sasha drawled, looking Aphmau up and down. She sat on one of the flat supporters sticking up from the ground. 

"He's not gonna stand a week." Zenix rolled his eyes shaking a bottle of spray paint.

"I didn't think you would either. But look at you now." Sasha teased, leaning forward; resting her elbows on her knees.

"Shut. Up. Sasha." Zenix squeezed the bottle in his hands, Aphmau walked to hide himself behind Gene- without getting too close.

"Quiet, you two. You're gonna scare away our little fish." Gene turned to Aphmau, "Sorry about that. What was your name again?"

"Seriously? He called me all the way out here without even knowing my name?" Aphmau grit his teeth, "It's Aphmau."

They exchanged looks, after a moment of silence Gene broke it: "I don't like it."

Sasha sighed, leaning back on her hands "Too hard to pronounce." 

"You should give him a nickname." Sasha giggled.

"Excuse me?" 

Gene hummed, "Well; earlier today he stood up to Balto. So he's got claws. Let's call him... Kitty."

"EXCUSE ME!?"

Sasha giggled, "I actually like that. A pet's name." 

"Sasha and Kitty..." Zenix chuckled, staring Aphmau up and down. "I like it. It's got the acronym for SK..." 

"EXCUSE ME!? I AM RIGHT HERE. HOW DARE YOU!!! HOW. DARE! YOU!!! I DON'T APPRECIATE BEING GIVEN A NICKNAME! I AM NOT YOUR PET!!!" Aphmau stomped his foot, making dirt come up.

"Hm? That sounds like the tone of someone who wants me to show Laurance a certain... picture; that would destroy his friendship with his. Best. Friend." Gene smirked.

Aphmau took a deep breath in and out, "What's to stop me from telling Garroth?"

Gene chuckled, "I was hoping you'd ask that. How is it that you always tell your friends you're awful at Werewolf class; yet get an A?"

Aphmau froze. "Th- that- I'm not cheating!! He- he offered!!" 

Gene sighed, "You. The Alpha female. And a low ranking Werewolf... see; that's just- that doesn't sound good. Now does it?"

Aphmau swallowed, not even catching the whole "Alpha female" thing.

"Face it; Kitty. I have the upper-hand here. And I'm going to make you a member of my gang."

Aphmau stammered, "There- there's no way I would ever join you!" 

"Oh? No? Why don't you tell Laurance what happened between you and Garroth then?"

"It's none of his business!"

"Tell that to his face." Gene turned Aphmau around.

Laurance stood at the other end of the bleachers, the end closest to the soccer field. He was looking from Gene to Aphmau in clear confusion.

Aphmau squeaked, trying to rack his brain for something to say.

"Aphmau!" Laurance rushed over, holding Aphmau by the shoulders and looking him up and down.

"Laur- Laurance! Where- where did you come from?" Aphmau knew the answer, he just needed Laurance to talk to him in that soft, dreamy voice so he can regain his barrings.

"Is Gene bothering you?" Laurance asked, glaring at Gene over Aphmau's shoulder.

"Huh? Well, yeah- but not in a bad way!! I- I remembered you said you had that big game coming up and I wanted to watch you play! B- but while I was walking to the bleachers Gene called out to me-" Aphmau rambled in one big breath, Laurance looked at him in concern.

"Come on, Aphmau. Let's go. You don't wanna be around Gene." Laurance wrapped his arm around Aphmau's waist, pulling him away.

Gene grabbed the scruff of Aphmau's uniform, taking him out of Laurance's grip and into his own. "He's actually okay being around us. Tell him, Kitty."

Laurance furrowed his brows.

"U- um... yea- yeah! I- I am! Uh, Gene isn't that bad... I mean he's annoying- but harmless."

"What?"

"You heard him. He's actually a really nice guy. I think I'm starting to see the error of my ways." Aphmau broke free of Gene's hold, stumbling over, closer to Laurance.

"... Really?" Laurance cleared his throat. "Well, he is a sweet boy. So- I guess if you're helping Gene; I'm glad to hear that!" Laurance smiled, ignoring the odd feeling in his chest.

Gene hummed, "Yup! In fact, he came over here to tell us to get back inside. I've never been so moved!" He gestured at the other two behind his back.

Sasha looked confused before gasping, "Oh, riiiight; we see the error of our ways..." 

Zenix's arm rested on Aphmau's shoulders, making him jump, "When had he gotten behind me?"

"Oh, hooow could we have been so blind?" 

"Here Kitty." Gene took out a small slip of paper, handing it to Aphmau, "Take my number, text me later- I might need some help with my... homework after school. Go on with Laurance. We'll see you around." Gene smirked.

"Tha- thanks... I guess." Aphmau put the paper in his pocket.

"I can just picture our friendship blossoming." 

Aphmau took Laurance's hand chuckling awkwardly. "Come- come on Laurance!" He ran off, pulling Laurance behind him.

"That's the first time someone has managed to make it through to Gene." Laurance pulled Aphmau into his arms, "You're really amazing."

Aphmau's face went red, "Don't- don't mention it!" He giggled, "N- now let- lets get to class."

Laurance smiled, "Yeah!"

Aphmau waved goodbye to Travis and Vylad, going behind the stairs leading up to the school.

"This is where you wanted to meet me?" He asked, in disgust at the spider webs around them.

"Yeah. I need a favor." Gene drawled, eyeing the parking lot behind Aphmau, where the pick-up line was.

Aphmau groaned, "And what's that?" 

"Meet my mother."

"Huh?" "That's oddly... sweet."

"She's coming to pick me up." 

"Your- your mother!? Why? Wait, that means- Dante's mother too?" Aphmau couldn't believe his ears, he's never met a friends mother before, even his close friend from back home. Not because his friend didn't want him too, but his parents where never home, so he'd had no chance.

"No shit. Dante and I are brothers. Thankfully, Dante's home sick today. So he won't be here to ask questions about you."

"Thankfully!? Irene I hope Dante gets better... I did missed seeing his stupid face today..." "Why do you want me to meet your mother?" 

"My mom knows Sasha and Zenix and she isn't too fond of them- for obvious reasons. I wanna show her I know a "good egg" in school; so she can stop pestering me with her worrying. I'm sick of her saying: "I don't want my son hanging around with "bad eggs"." Gene rolled his eyes straightening his uniform.

"But you are a bad egg! Hell you're the worst egg!"

"Exactly." A red sedan pulled up, the window rolled down as a sweet voice called Gene's name. "There she is." Gene fixed the bow on Aphmau's chest, and tightened the one he had in his hair. "Put on your best goody-two-shoes act; or so help me, this picture will. Find it's way to Laurance." Gene cleared his throat going over to his mother's car.

Aphmau groaned, "Ugh..."

"Hi Gene!" Aphmau walked over, stepping next to Gene.

"Hey mom." Gene smiled, if Aphmau didn't know any better he would call it sweet.

"Oh, and who's this proper-looking little friend of yours?" Gene's mother had beautiful pale skin, shoulder-length blue-lavender hair that fell over her shoulders, and soft teal eyes.

Gene put his hand on Aphmau's shoulder, squeezing down and making Aphmau have to conceal a wince. His elder cousins did this a-lot growing up so he knew how to hide it well. "He's my really good friend, with amazing grades, I've been hanging out with!" 

"It- it's really nice to meet you, Mrs..." Aphmau searched for Dante's last name but it didn't come to him. "Gene's mom! My- my name's Aphmau."

"Aw Gene, honey! He's absolutely adorable!!! I didn't realize you were capable of making friends outside your little "club"." She beamed at Aphmau, making him blush; "He's not..."

"It's a gang Mom... but whatever..." Gene muttered, opening the passenger door and placing his bag in the foot stall.

"Do you need a ride home honey?" She asked, Gene shook his head.

Aphmau smiled "No thank you ma'am. I have a chess meeting to get to! I just wanted to walk Gene to his car."

"Oh, proper and smart!? I'm impressed Gene, I'm so proud of you for hanging around a good crowd!" His mother smiled at her son, Gene returned it. "Now say goodbye to your little friend. We've got mother and son dance lessons to get to!"

Gene sighed, smiling through his teeth. "Thanks. Mom."

"Woah, dance lessons?" Aphmau teased, Gene hugged him, pulling the smaller to his chest.

"Listen to me, Kitty. If you say anything about what she just said, I'll make sure the entire. School. Sees this picture. Just remember who holds the cards here, Kitty." Gene whispered in his ear. Letting go he patted the smaller on the shoulder "See you tomorrow!" He hoped into the car, glaring at him as his mother drove him away.

Aphmau swallowed, "This is bad... real bad."

Chapter Text

Aphmau was drinking from the water fountain, holding his bangs away with his left hand.

He heard eerily familiar footsteps behind him. He's always had really good hearing, his mother said he got it from his werewolf father.

He growled, "Leave. Me. Alone."

"Oh come on. You can't still be mad at me." Gene slung his arm over Aphmau's shoulders, leaning over him. Aphmau blushed, his back was flush against Gene's chest, he felt a heat coming up from his lower regions- he tried to ignore it. "Think about it this way. Isn't "Kitty" a cuter nickname than "Potato?"

"They're both bad!" Aphmau turned around, their chests pressed together and Gene's hands rested on the fountain, on either side of Aphmau's waist. "And I don't appreciate either!!"

Gene smirked, "Aw. It just means people have a special affection for you." He leaned in, their noses brushing. Every-time Aphmau leaned back their waists got closer, and every time Aphmau stood straight he and Gene's noses touched. He placed his hand on Gene's chest, trying to get some distance between them.

At the closeness Aphmau's couldn't help but notice how... handsome Gene was, he felt prominent muscle underneath his touch. Why!? Why did Gene have to get so close!? "So what? You like me?" He hissed.

Gene raised his brow, "Nah. I mean, you're pretty, and have a nice body." He placed his hand on Aphmau's waist, giving it a squeeze. "But you're annoying. I just enjoy toying with people; and you mister. Set yourself up to be the perfect target."

"H- how!?" 

Gene hummed, "Lets see. Well first off, you got caught up with Laurance and Garroth on your first day! Oh and how lucky am I that they both ended up liking you! It's the perfect formula not only to toy with you; but I get the pleasure of seeing them go at each-other if one of them finds out. Secondly, Ivy haaaaates your guts. If she saw this picture of you all over "her man"- well, I'd hate to think what she'd do. Oh not only that, but you seem to have this drive to be top of your class. If that's not perfect I don't know what is."

"How- how do you know about Ivy!?" Aphmau gasped.

"The walls have ears, my dear. Oh, not only that, you turned out to be a feisty one! Seeing how you dealt with Balto. Which means you're going to be a fun one to have in my gang."

"I already told you!" Aphmau finally got out of the elder's grip. "I'm not joining! And you can't force me!"

"Oh, I'm not gonna force you. You're going to join all on your own."

"Yeah. Right..." Aphmau crossed his arms looking away.

*Bell Rings*

"That's the bell. Come on, let's get going."

Aphmau laughed, "To class? Because that sounds like a wonderful plan."

Gene chuckled, "Nope! No, we're skipping school today."

"H- HUH!?"

"You heard me, lets get going."

"No. Way. Go get your little lackeys to skip with you." Aphmau huffed.

"Sasha and Zenix are always waiting outside school." Loud foot-steps echoed down the hall, Aphmau looked up, locking eyes with Balto.

"Mornin." He nodded.

Balto huffed "Whatever..."

"Enjoy your puppies for breakfast?" Aphmau teased, smirking when he saw Balto getting annoyed.

"Very. They were delicious." Balto smirked.

"You're uniforms over your tail." Aphmau giggled, Balto blushed, tucking the back of his shirt into his pants.

"Whatever." He grumbled walking off.

"You're the only one I know that can talk to him like that, and not get beat. You're tougher than you look. Now, follow me." Gene pulled out his phone, "If not, I'll just send this picture right over to Laurance. I'm sure he'd love to see it. It would get him motivated for his upcoming game for sure!"

Gene walked off, Aphmau glanced down the hall, sighing he followed. Gene led him down the stairs and out of the building.

A green haired werewolf stopped short, seeing his crushes- Alpha's seat empty, Balto stared out the window, his ear's down in annoyance.

The green haired werewolf sat in his seat. His blue haired friend turned in her seat, "I'm sure he's just out sick." 

He nodded, sighing.

The red haired boy next to him glanced at the Alpha females seat. His ears went down slightly.

Aphmau and Gene arrived at the park, Aphmau looked around nervously. "I swear. If you get me into anymore trouble, I'll-"

"Relax Kitty. You're just going to get to know Sasha, Zenix, and myself better. Then we'll go out for coffee."

Aphmau's eye lit up, "You drink coffee?"

"Straight black. Like my soul."

Aphmau cringed, "Ugh. Sounds appropriate."

"Relax. You're chillin' with the cool kids now."

"Cool kids? Don't you mean bad? We're skipping school- in a park. How is this cool?"

"Here. Let's make a deal. If you still don't like us by the end of the day, I promise I'll never ask you to skip again."

"Y- you promise?" 

"Promise! I just want you to get to know us outside what rumors you might've heard." Gene slug his arm over Aphmau's shoulders, "We're really not that bad."

Aphmau swallowed, taking a deep breath. "Fine. Deal."

"Wonderful!" Gene walked down the path a bit. "Sasha! Zenix!" He called out.

"We're here." The bored voice of Sasha rang out from under the bridge.

"Could you yell any louder, Gene?" Zenix groaned, he laid on the grass, his eyes closed. "Mother of Irene. I was just about to take a nap."

Gene led Aphmau down the hill, towards the two other students. Aphmau stood a little way, by a large oak tree that created a nice shade for the two Shadow Knights. "Shut up, Zenix." Gene groaned, rolling his eyes.

"You took forever, Gene." Sasha drawled, her long acrylic nails making a tapping noise as she texted. 

"I brought our little pet, with me." Gene smirked, tossing a glance at Aphmau, who clung close to the oak tree.

Sasha sat up, looking over her shoulder, "No way! You actually got him to skip?" She looked around before finding Aphmau's frame close to the trunk of the large tree

"With a little help from our picture, of course." Gene turned away, towards Aphmau. "Now. You two make him feel welcome. I want him to get to know us. See we're not such... bad people. After all, he's going to be joining us very soon."

Zenix's eyes shot open, sitting up "What!?" 

Sasha's eyes lit up, "Really!? He said yes?"

"Not just yet. But you guys know I'm not one to force a, good thing. He's going to join all on his own. But he's got to get to know us first." Gene walked over to Aphmau patting him on the shoulder, "Not to worry. We'll treat you good." He smiled; Aphmau jumped back.

Sasha hummed, "I see."

Zenix jumped back to his feet, "HE CAN'T!!" Aphmau jumped at the loud voice Zenix took. "I BET HE'S NOT HARDCORE ENOUGH!!!" 

"Shut up, Zenix." Gene groaned, rubbing his ear.

Zenix huffed, crossing his arms. Aphmau thought it was kinda cute.

"I swear... Zenix, you have the same temper as that Zane kid."

Aphmau disagreed, "Zane is less... hot headed. He's harmless, just a bit emotional."

"Speaking of which," Sasha continued, "Why don't we let him into our group? Why are we stuck with this lame kitten, here?"

"Do you like me or not!?" Aphmau groaned, "Please stop calling me that."

"Zane's... a... poser. Plus he's no fun. He's so eager to join us, it makes him look pathetic.-"

"Zane is not pathetic." Aphmau growled, looking at his shoes. He knew Zane wouldn't appreciate him saying that. But he couldn't help it.

Gene raised his eyebrow, "Oh? Does our little Kitty have a little something for Zane? Wow. You are all over the place..."

"I don't have anything, but contempt for Zane. But we did grow up together. And I don't appreciate you calling him pathetic." 

Gene clenched his jaw. "Give him a month or two on his own. See how he does, then, maybe, I'll think about it."

Sasha smirked, "Make him work for it, eh?"

Gene shrugged, "What's the point of having a super exclusive group if we just let any emo kid join?"

Sasha rolled her eyes, "We're not emo kids, Gene."

"I'm not talking about us. I'm talking about Zane." Gene sighed.

"Oh. My bad." Sasha went back to her phone, the tapping of her nails continued.

"I'm going to get the stuff." Gene pushed Aphmau towards the other two, "Make Kitty feel at home. I won't be long."

Aphmau looked from Gene to Sasha. "Alright. Just, hurry up!" Sasha yelled at Gene, who was walking off towards the local store, he waved at her. Sasha huffed.

Aphmau reached out, "W- wait!" He dropped his hand. "What- what "stuff" it he getting?" He asked worriedly.

"Stuff for our "art"." Sasha answered, "You'll see."

Aphmau swallowed, "U- uh... I- I don't think I like the sound of that..."

"So." Sasha turned off her phone, putting it in her lap. "What kinda grades do you get?"

"Uh- huh?" Aphmau looked to Sasha, tossing his ponytail over his shoulder, running his fingers through the curls.

"Are you a straight A student? Average? Dumb?" Sasha asked, leaning back on her hands.

"U- uh, well- I'm- I'm a straight A student. U- um I have an A in Werewolf and math class... but an A+ in everything else..." Aphmau nervously sat next to Sasha, his legs under him.

"Hmm..." Sasha looked up, at the sky. "Good to know we aren't letting in an idiot with bad grades..." She closed her eyes, enjoying the breeze that came through. 

Aphmau tucked a strained of his bangs behind his ear, untangling it from the (fake) gold earrings he wore that day. "You- you mean, you guys don't?"

Sasha hummed, "Nah..." She drawled, she sounded tired.

"But- but you skip class almost every-day!" "If not every-day."

Sasha hummed again, "Yeah." She shrugged.

"I- I don't see how that works!"

Sasha sighed, opening her eyes, "We get bad grades because we miss class, and tend not to listen to our teachers; that obviously reflects on our records. It's an attempt from the "man" to control us with these letters we find such validation in." She rolled her eyes, glancing at Aphmau from the corner of her eye.

"Huh. Wow, that's- uh... that's a real mouthful!" Aphmau giggled nervously, rubbing the back of his neck.

Sasha smiled, closing her eyes again, laying down on the soft grass. "Just words, sweetheart. Honestly, Gene, Zenix, and I are very smart when it comes to our studies. We're just bored because nothing challenges us in academics anymore." He waved her hand around, "Hence why we skip our classes. If I'm going to be bored. I don't wanna be bored in the hell-hole we call a school."

"I see..." Aphmau chuckled, "Well that's just stupid." He said while shaking his head.

Sasha cocked her head, turning her full attention to the shorter male; sitting up. "Eh?"

"I- I mean!" Aphmau looked out at the water in-front of them, trying to remind himself to stay calm- like the water. "If nothing else challenges you, then why don't you find ways to challenge yourself? Like, go the extra mile and try to write a report on how the teacher's can improve the way they teach? Or- maybe, help them find a way they can challenge you." 

Sasha stared at Aphmau, watching his curly hair sway in the breeze. His amber eyes reflecting the water, causing a blueish tint over the brown of his eyes. "I think I see why Gene takes such an interest in you."

"Huh?" Aphmau looked at Sasha, amber meeting with vibrant purple. 

Sasha leaned forward, "Come here. Give me your hand." 

Aphmau held his arm to his chest, "W- what? What are you going to do?"

Sasha took his arm, placing his hand into her, slightly larger, one. "I like doing palm readings. Just a small hobby I have."

"You- you aren't going to do anything weird to my hand; are you?" Aphmau asked nervously.

Sasha rolled her eyes, "Calm down... Now, let's see..." She ran her fingers over the lines in Aphmau's palm, "Lots of creativity... a-lot, actually. Hmm... apparently you're pretty open about your emotions and feelings; which is a total lie. Obviously, or you wouldn't be here in the first place. Would you?"

"I- I guess so..." Aphmau chuckled nervously.

"And then... short... and... shallow..." She muttered, "Are you a magics user?"

"Hm? Not that I'm aware... my grandma was, but I don't think I am." Aphmau looked away, watching as Zenix paced back and forth on the concrete edge of the water. 

"That's weird, because you fate line conflicts with..." Sasha mumbled to herself, "Interesting..."

"Stop holding his hand, Sasha!!" Zenix yelled glaring at Sasha.

"Stop being emo, Zenix!!" 

Zenix growled, "Don't tell me how to live my life!" 

"According to your palm, your life's pretty dull." Sasha rolled her eyes, examining Aphmau's nails. They were long, the points drawn to a sharp tip, the nail itself was thick, looking impossible to cut; they weren’t painted, a slightly lighter brown than his skin. Given his bag- and well, everything else he owned, Sasha thought his nails would be just as loud and unique.

"I don't need a fake palm reader, who learned all her shit off the internet, to tell me how to live my life!" Zenix huffed, turning away.

Sasha sighed, laying back down, "Ignore Zenix. He's just yelling to yell."

Zenix huffed, "I like yelling!" 

"I like it when you, shut. Up!" Sasha groaned.

"Come and make me." Zenix growled.

"Kitty. Be a dear and go make Zenix be quiet for me." Sasha waved her hand towards Zenix. "I wanna take a nap before Gene makes you do initiation thing."

"Huh? Wait, what initiation thing?" Sasha threw her arm over her eyes. "H- hey!! Wake up!" Aphmau shook her slightly, seeing she didn't respond he sighed. "Initiation? I- I haven't agreed to join anything!! I- I have to know what this is." He glanced at Zenix, "Maybe I'll ask... him." 

He walked to the brown haired male, clearing his throat. "U- um... Zenix?"

Zenix turned around, his red eyes meeting Aphmau's, Aphmau never took the time to realize how tall he was; he wasn't the most muscular, but was still handsome. "What do you want?" Zenix growled, "Sasha got you doing her dirty work? Pft. Of course."

"H- huh? N- no! She took a nap. I just wanted to ask you about this initiation that Sasha had said Gene was gonna make me do." Aphmau fiddled his hands. 

Zenix chuckled, "Not to worry your pretty head about that. I'm not gonna spoil the surprise." He smirked, "Just know, if you do it, you'll be super hardcore- in my books."

Aphmau chuckled nervously, "Skipping class isn't hardcore?"

Zenix sat down, his legs over the edge, the tips of his shoes touching the water. "Meh, it's okay. But it's not hard to skip."

"O- oh... but, why are you so angry?"

Zenix huffed, "Why are you so happy?"

"Be- because? It- it's better than being angry?" Aphmau said, unconvincingly.

"Says who?" Zenix huffed.

Aphmau sat down next to him, his legs underneath him. "Says me?" 

"Well then. Aren't you important?" Zenix drawled, leaning back on his hands.

Aphmau leaned forward on his knees, "You are too!!" 

Zenix cocked his eyebrows, "Says who?"

"Say- says me!!" 

Gene walked down the hill, a shopping bag in his hand, he smiled seeing Aphmau and Zenix's argument. Zenix has never like new people. It took him months to ever even look Laurance in the eye. Seeing him be civil to Aphmau was a good thing. "Well, it looks like you're getting to know our little group more."

"He's being weird!" Zenix complained, Gene took a red bull from the bag, handing it to Zenix over his head.

Gene chuckled, "We like weird, don't we?"

Zenix grumbled, opening his can, "I guess..."

"Kitty." Aphmau looked up, "Follow me." Aphmau stood up, following Gene to the wall of the bridge.

"Well, what do you think?" He asked.

"H- huh? Y- you guys seem alright... But I'm not interested in joining. I just wanna finish today, and leave." Aphmau groaned, rubbing the back of his neck.

“That’s too bad...” Gene set down the bag at his feet. “You'll be able to leave soon, and I won’t ask you to skip again, as I said.”

"And you’ll delete the picture!?" Aphmau's eyes lit up, almost making Gene feel bad- almost.

"Who said anything about deleting the picture? I'm gonna keep it! I just said I wasn't going to make you skip school with it again, that's all." 

"Ugh, you!" Aphmau growled, getting closer to Gene.

"Ah ah ah!!" Gene chuckled, "Now, now! Don't get too worked up. You have one more thing to do before I let you go."

"And what's that?"

Gene pulled a bottle of spray paint, "Tag this wall with the Shadow Knight logo."

"What?" Aphmau pushed away the bottle Gene was shoving in his hands.

"You heard me. I want you to vandalize this wall." Zenix came up behind Aphmau, leaning on the wall.

"There's no-way I'm doing that! I'm not a criminal!!!" 

Sasha came up to stand beside Aphmau, officiously cornering him. "You're a criminal as long as you're mine."

Aphmau blushed, "I- I'm not yours!!" He shook himself, "No way I'm doing that!!"

"Well then, I wonder what Laurance is up to..." Gene pulled out his phone.

Aphmau panickly grabbed Gene's wrist, "Wait! No!! If- if I do this... does that mean I'm apart of your group?"

"Nah, it just means you're doing the work of tagging this place for us. Plus, if you do this once, I'll never ask you to tag this place for me again." Gene smirked.

"Give me that." Aphmau snatched the bottle from him.

"Perrrrrfect. Now get to work." Aphmau shook the bottle, starting the circle for the outline of the tag.

Zenix watched him struggle for a while before stepping behind him, grabbing the smaller's hand and guiding him through the movements. Teaching him about color layering and shading. Aphmau would've thought it was sweet, if not for them tagging pubic propriety.

Aphmau backed up, having finished; Zenix huffed.

"Not bad." Gene smiled.

"Looks great." Sasha glanced up, humming at the tag before going back to her phone.

"Maybe you are hardcore enough after all." Zenix hummed, walking to Gene and Sasha's side, viewing it from a little bit of a distance.

"You're free to go home now, Kitty. We're heading to the coffee shop. If you wanted to join us." Gene swung his arm over Aphmau's shoulders. 

"N- no thanks..." Aphmau shrugged his arm off. Rushing back to the main path and going home.

"Yes sir. It's over here..." Aphmau shamefully walked the officer over to the wall he had tagged, his mother following.

"MIJO!" His mother scolded, "Officer I'm so sorry."

"It's alright, honestly... him telling me about it all on his own is a big shock. He won't get into any trouble."

He cleaned the wall quickly. His mother dragged him back home by the ear.

"Mama... we- we need to talk..."

Chapter Text

Aphmau sat his mother down at the table, "Mom... I- I've done something... and it's really bad. First I wanna say how sorry I am. I know I let you down. And I'm sorry. I know your disappointed in me. I know I promised you I'd do better... but the truth is. I did something that could hurt not one person but two..."

He took a deep breath, "I can't tell you exactly what I did. But basically: the leader of this group of... troublemakers. He's holding this... thing above me head and making me do things I don't wanna." He tried to hold back his tears as he explained, "I- I'm just sorry... if I tell anyone he'll release the picture... and if I don't tell anyone they'll make me do worse and worse stuff..."

His mother watched as her son broke down, his head was hung and tears hit the glass of his glasses. "I- I-" Aphmau took a deep breath, "I just don't know what to do." 

His mother swallowed her words. Her son was being blackmailed. A lecher could wait.

"Mijo... that- that can get that kid into real legal trouble. Blackmail is a federal crime."

"I don't want them to get into trouble. I- their kids. I'm just sorry I did, what I did." Aphmau stood up, "I'll go wait in my room until you've decided a punishment for me."

"Aphmau-..."

Aphmau went upstairs to his room, Throgi whined when the door was slammed in his face.

Aphmau's mother got Mrs. Ro'meave onto the phone, "Ziana."

"What's wrong girl?" Mrs. Ro'meave asked, sounding worried.

"Garroth goes to Aphmau's school, right?"

"He does. What's going on?"

"Can you get him?"

Mrs. Ro'meave turned around, "Garroth. Come here."

Garroth instantly stopped short. "Am- am I in trouble?"

"No honey. Sylvanna needs you real quick." Garroth walked over, "He's here. And your on speaker."

"Garroth. Has Aphmau been... different lately?"

"Uhhh." The last thing Garroth wanted was to get Aphmau into trouble so he quickly lied. "Nope-."

"He's not in trouble." His mother sounded so... worried.

Garroth swallowed, "Ok... well. He's skipped two classes- that I've been in, at least. And I didn't see him at school today. I covered for him both times, Laurance walks him to and from school so I know he was here today, but just didn't make it to classes. Laurance mentioned seeing him with this group of trouble makers at our school. But... Aphmau's a good boy. He- he wouldn't be hanging around their type. According to Laurance he was telling them off."

Aphmau's mother told them the whole story in a tired voice. "He won't accept my help. So I wanted to ask your boys to protect him. I know Garroth and my son are close."

"I'll always protect Aphmau." Garroth answered quickly. 

"..." The line went dead silent for a moment, "Than- thank you. Garroth." Her voice broke, the line was overtaken by sobs. Mrs. Ro'meave took it off speaker and tried to reassure her friend, as Garroth stepped into the hall.

"Is Aphmau okay?" Vylad asked, he was waiting by the door. 

Garroth silently stood there for a moment, "Yeah..."

Aphmau sat in his closet, his knees to his chest. "Great... by tomorrow morning Mama will have a long list of chores for me to do, move me back to home-school, and have me never breathe fresh air again." He groaned, feeling really bad for closing the door on Thorgi, but not wanting to get up.

He closed his eyes, resting his head on the wall.

"Mijo..." His mother came into his room, sitting with her back against the closet door.

He didn't answer, "I'm not angry at you Mijo..." Still no answer. She sighed getting to her feet, she left some sweets on his nightstand with a note: "I'm sorry Mijo".

Thorgi sniffed the closet door, laying against it.

Aphmau had fallen asleep, before his mother had even come into his room.

Aphmau awoke the next morning, he quietly got ready for school, and went downstairs. 

"Morning Mijo." His mother said sweetly, his favorite: breakfast tacos, on the table. 

He nodded, ignoring both the breakfast and the lunch on the kitchen table; and heading for the door. "Te amo." He muttered closing the doors behind him.

He saw Laurance waiting by the gate, Aphmau hid behind the bush fence. Running around to the back, he shifted through a gap in the back fence.

”Huh… Maybe I missed him.” Laurance thought, sighing. He knew better than to knock on the door, Aphmau’s mother would have his head, so he sent Aphmau a text.

You:
Sorry, I think I missed you! I’ll see you at school

He didn’t get a response but Aphmau was probably already at school, or was walking there; so he brushed it off.

Sasha, Zenix, and Gene sat at the bleachers, it was around the time everyone was coming into school; they would wait until after homeroom and find Aphmau.

Sasha leaned back, resting her back on the seat behind her. "I still can't believe you got Kitty to skip yesterday." She drawled at Gene.

"Not only that, he tagged a wall too. To be perfectly honest, I wasn't sure you had your head on right when you blackmailed him. But he's a fun one to control." Zenix commented, a can of Red Bull in his hand.

"We don't have full control over him yet." Gene blew on the cup of coffee he had got earlier that morning.

Sasha hummed, "Right, I saw it in his palm." 

"So what?" Zenix asked, taking a drink from his Red Bull.

Zane nudged forward, hiding behind the bleachers. 

"He may be doing what we ask, but he's still fighting us." Zane moved closer, "He hasn't asked to join us. The longer we wait, the harder it’ll be for us to control him. We need to make sure he gives us an answer after school.” He chuckled, “That Kitty will be mine.”

“Who’s Kitty?” Zane wondered, if he could get this “Kitty” to join them, maybe Gene will give him a chance!! 

“Gene!” Zane rushed over to Gene’s side, he stood by the bottom seat, Zenix to his right and Sasha on the seat above them.

“What the—?” Gene looked at the boy, “Where did he come from!?” 

Zenix groaned, “Zane. What did we say about standing near us?”

”Um… not… to?” Zane mumbled.

Zenix smirked, “Exactly. So, back. Off.” He hissed.

Zane turned, walking a few feet away, down the soccer field. “Here?” He asked, turning back to the three.

Zenix rolled his eyes, “Further.” 

Zane walked about 1/4 of the soccer field away, “This good?” 

Gene groaned, “A little more.” 

Zane, now halfway down the soccer field, yelled across to them, “NOW?” 

“Alllllmost.” Sasha drawled.

Zane walked the rest of the way down the field, turning back to see if he was a good distance.

“Perfect! Now, keep that distance for the rest of your life!!” Zenix called down the field, a mischievous smirk on his face.

“What did you say!?” Zane asked, his eyes narrowing.

Gene chuckled, shaking his head, “What a scrub. Come on guys.” He stood up, the other two following.

Zenix snickered as he walked behind Gene, “Poser.”

Aphmau looked around the corner, running to hide behind a pillar. “So far, I’ve managed to avoid: Gene, his gang, Garroth, AND Laurance—. I just—“ He huffed, “I need to figure out what to do. I should tell Laurance. But Garroth might get mad… and I might end their friendship…” Aphmau sighed.

He looked down the hall, the Music Room was at the end. It was better than nothing. He ran into the room, just in time for Gene and Zenix to round the corner.

“I swear I heard something.” Gene hummed looking for places a small boy could hide.

Zenix walked down the hall, looking around, “He’s not answering your texts?” 

“No. Let’s keep looking.” He shook his head, mumbling: “This is unacceptable.” As they walked off.

Aphmau sat in the far corner of the music room, hugging his knees to his chest, finally allowing himself to cry. “This is hopeless… I just want them to leave me alone…” He sobbed.

”Is someone out there?” A voice came from the middle door of the practice rooms on the far wall, the voice sounded familiar, but he ignored it; quieting his sobs in hopes the other would forget about it.

"I know I heard someone.” The voice got closer, the door moved against the latch, as the person in the practicing room sat against the door

Aphmau crawled over to the door, sitting against it in silence for a moment, he sighed, “Oh— okay… someone is here…” He mumbled.

”Are you crying?” The person asked.

Aphmau couldn’t hide his sobs anymore, he buried his head in his knees. “N— no.”

”Come on. I’m not that dumb.” When Aphmau didn’t answer the person sighed, “You can tell me. It’s okay. I won’t tell anyone.”

He didn’t know why, but Aphmau trusted the person. “Okay…” He told the person everything. Every. Thing. Without saying any names of course.

“Woah… I’ll be honest. I didn’t think it’d be that crazy.” The person chuckled awkwardly, “Listen… I— I don’t know how to help you. But I do know that, no matter what you do, everything will be okay. Just- don't let that guy blackmail you anymore. If you let that keep happening he'll take it farther and farther.”

Aphmau pressed the back of his head onto the door, “I— you have a point…” He chuckled, “Sorry to load all of that onto you.” 

The person chuckled, “Nah man. It’s alright.”

"Who are you?”

"…" The silence was deafening before the person laughed, “Aphmau. Don’t tell me you don’t recognize my voice.” The person giggled.

"H— huh?"

"You really should know who you're talking to before you go spilling your guts to them." The person laughed, "It's me. Dante."

Aphmau stood up, "DANTE!?"

Dante chuckled, picking up his guitar "Yep. I practice on my free period. Which. This is." He started playing, "I was serious about everything being okay. Travis really likes you, you're his best friend- after me, of course! And nothing will change that. He'll always be there for you. That's whats so nice about him."

Aphmau chuckled, sliding back down the door. "I know... Travis is such a good guy..." Aphmau felt his face flushing, he covered his face with his hands, "Whats wrong with me..?"

The guitar skirted to a stop, "What do you mean?"

"It's nothing..." Aphmau sighed, dragging his hands down his face.

"We're way past the part where you hide things from me. We're both revealing a part of ourselves we like to keep hidden. After you leave you'll go back to hating me, and I'll go back to trying- and failing, to hit on you."

"Dante. I don't hate you. You're my friend."

"Then why do you treat me so bad? I mean-" Dante sighed, "You end all of our conversions short, always push me away, you clearly don't like me."

Aphmau blushed harder, he did do that... but not because he hated Dante. He sighed, "That's because- Irene. That's because I like you Dante..."

Dante sat straight up, "But I don't want you to remember that. I'm a mess right now. I have about 3 other crushes right now. I already told two of them I'd think about dating them. It's-" Aphmau took a deep breath. "You deserve someone who'd actually give you a chance."

"So... you treat everyone you... like, like that?"

"No... I treat you like that because of that way you hold yourself. You're playful. I'm... playing back. I suppose. It's the way my mother treated my father growing up. When they were getting along, that is. I've always seen relationships like that romantic."

"..."

"Thanks. For... helping me, and all."

Dante smiled to himself, swallowing, "Yeah... It's no problem. We're... friends. After-all."

Aphmau stood, "Dante."

"Hm?"

"You're really good, at playing the guitar, I mean, maybe you can play for me another time."

Dante chuckled, "For a beauty like you? Anytime."

Aphmau giggled, walking to the door and leaving.

"Well... look who we have here." Gene drawled leaning against the wall at the other end of the hall. "I've been looking everywhere for you." He pushed off the wall, walking over to the younger.

"Gene." Aphmau nodded, pushing past him.

Gene grabbed his arm, pulling him into his arms, "Come on. We're gonna skip again."

Aphmau took a deep breath, "You said that was the last time."

"I... changed my mind. Come one, Sasha and Zenix are waiting for us."

"No."

"Excuse me?"

"No. You can go skip, I won't tell. But I'm not going with you."

Gene hummed, cupping his ear, "You hear that?" Aphmau listened, he didn't hear anything so he shook his head. "That's the sound of Laurance's heart shattering into thousands of pieces."

Aphmau took short deep breaths through his nose, his fists clenching, the pain from his nails digging into his skin kept him from punching Gene with all his might. 

"Gene!" Aphmau froze at the squeaky voice of Zane.

Gene groaned, "Not you again." He pushed him, forcing the younger to the ground. He knew it was childish, but he didn't wanna actually hit the kid. Gene heard Aphmau take a sharp breath.

"Zane!!" He rushed to Zane's side, leaning over him. Zane winced as he pushed himself up.

"Come on Kitty. Let's go." Gene grabbed Aphmau's wrist, but was surprised when the smaller didn't move an inch as he yanked.

"No." Aphmau pulled his wrist away from the other's grip, standing in-front of Zane; almost as if to protect him.

"Excuse me?"

"No. I refuse."

"Are you forgetting what I have?" Gene stepped closer, nose to nose with the younger. But, unlike before, Aphmau didn't back down, or even flinch. He held eye-contact and didn't move.

"I know what you have. I get it. You're big, scary, and mean. But I'm not going to stand here while you push around those who are clearly," He motioned to Zane, who was still wincing. "Weaker then you. I'm not going to stand for it. I'm not your puppet."

Zane watched in a mix of shock and horror. Gene chuckled, "Laurance will-"

"Show him! I deserve whatever anger he has for me! I don't care anymore!! I'm not doing anything you say!" He grabbed Gene's collar, pulling him down slightly. "And don't you ever put your hands on anyone around me again. Or I'll fight you, myself." He clenched his free hand tighter. He let him go, pushing him away.

Gene chuckled through his shock. "Well, well... looks like you're no longer a meek little Kitty Cat." He fixed his collar, and brushed his shirt down, ridding it of wrinkles. "Fine. You win."

Aphmau furrowed his brows, blinking "Huh?"

"You win. I'm letting you go. I don’t wanna play this game any-more." He shrugged, "It's boring when I can't control you."

Aphmau un-clenched his fists, his shoulders dropping. His glasses fell down his nose nearly falling off before he pushed them up. "That's— that's it?" He asked in shock.

Gene smiled, "That's it!" He turned around, waving the younger away. "See you around Kitty. Enjoy class." He turned around the corner, leaving Aphmau and Zane alone.

Aphmau shook himself, turning quickly to Zane and pulling him up onto his feet, with surprising strength. "Are you okay!?" He asked, rubbing the others upper-arms; circling around him, checking for any injures.

Zane shook him away, "Great!! Just fucking great!" Aphmau jumped in shock. "Now you've made me look like a dork in-front of Gene!"

Aphmau giggled, "Oh sweetheart, you did that just fine yourself. He didn't push you very hard." Zane glared at him, Aphmau stopped, "I- I'm sorry. I- I thought you were hurt. I- I didn't wanna just stand there while that dick pushed you around. I'm sorry."

"Of course I was hurt! But I didn't want you help! You stupid-" Zane motioned around him, "Thingy!!"

Aphmau growled, "I am not a "stupid thingy!!" Come 'ere!! and I'll deal with ya myself!!" He ran at the elder, making Zane run off screaming.

Gene came over to the other Shadow Knights, sitting in the student lounge.

Zenix looked behind Gene, searching for the long raven hair of their Kitty. "Where's Kitty?"

"He came at me with his claws." Gene shook his head.

"Hm... So we can't control him anymore, huh?"

"Ah ah," Gene chuckled, "Not quite." He pulled out his phone. "I still have this picture. And as long as I have that, we just have to go about this a different way."

A red haired werewolf came around the corner, walking quickly down the hall he ran into Gene making him lose the grip on his phone, allowing the werewolf to step on it; the sound of the glass shattering made Gene wince. He knew he should've saved the picture to the cloud...

"Ah shit." The werewolf lifted his foot, the phone was nearly broken clean in-half. "Sorry about that." His ears went back slightly.

"You'll pay for that!" Gene snarled.

The werewolves ears went back farther, no longer in pity. "Listen. I can't do that. I said I was sorry!"

Gene took a deep breath, "You're so lucky I'm not in the mood to deal with you right now." 

The werewolf looked him up and down, snorting. He walked off.

Zenix stood up, rolling up his sleeves. "I'm gonna-"

Gene stuck out his arm, "Patience." Zenix looked up at him, in clear confusion. "We'll get him next time."

The red haired werewolf left the building, feeling proud of himself. He knew that guy had something on his phone he was holding over someone else. He had been hearing him and his friends talking about it all week.

He was proud of himself for putting an end to it.

Aphmau, still chasing Zane, ran right in-front of the werewolf, turning- while still running, he yelled: "Sorry!!" Before going back to his chase.

The red haired werewolf watched the raven chase the masked boy all the way down the street. "Huh."

Chapter Text

Aphmau sat in Werewolf Class, boredly blowing his bangs out of his face.

"And that's why you should always be sure to mark your territory." Mr. Gavin, their Werewolf teacher, stated; closing his teachers book as the bell rang.

*Bell rings*

"Alllllright, students. We'll pick up on this lesson next time. Be sure to leave your homework on my desk if you haven't already!" He walked over to the window's facing the soccer field.

He easily broke it, jumping onto the windowsill he faced the class. "And have a great weekend!"

He jumped out.

Aphmau stood from his chair, leaning in-front of the, already packed Balto, to see out the window. Making sure his teacher was alright.

There he was, running down the soccer field, towards the parking-lot.

Balto growled at him. "Oh hush you." Aphmau teased, standing straight.

"Alp- alpha?" The nervous voice of his friend made him turn.

"Daniel!" Daniel, his green haired and eared werewolf friend, his eyes were a bright, semi-dark blue. He was an overall sweet guy.

Daniel held out a piece of paper, Aphmau took it, looking at the name line; he found his own written on it, "Daniel... I told you, you don't need to do my homework. I appreciate it but—"

"I wanted too..." Aphmau looked up, Daniel's tail was going back and forth.

"Danie—" Balto pushed past Aphmau, which made him stop short, "Hey!! You could've easily gotten past me without running me over!!" The room took a collective breath, no matter how often Aphmau yelled at the ex-alpha, no-one could get used to it.

Balto turned, "Sorry. I didn't see you." He teased, his ears going back and his tail wagging.

Aphmau growled, Balto laughed, walking out of the classroom. "That guy-!"

Aphmau took a breath, giggling to himself. "Sorry! As I was saying- I really appreciate this. But I feel bad... like I'm using you-."

Daniel aggressively shook his head. "You aren't-!"

"Daniel's love language is gift giving!" Dottie, a bright blue haired, dark purple eared, friendly werewolf. She's Daniel's best-friend, along with a brown haired, purple eared werewolf named Rylan. Aphmau had been getting closer to their whole trio, although he doesn't talk with Rylan as much as the other two.

Daniel's face went red, "I- Its-" 

Dottie laughed, whacking Daniel on the shoulder, "He just wants to be you're friend." She covered, Daniel was grateful for that. 

Aphmau giggled, "It's alright, I'm the same way. Just, know you don't have to do my homework, in order to talk to me. You can talk to me anytime, Daniel." He patted the taller on the shoulder, slinging his backpack over his shoulder, and went to turn in his homework.

Daniel watched as Aphmau left the classroom, sighing. "You are whipped man!" Rylan snickered.

Dottie whacked him upside the head, something Aphmau often did when the werewolves get into fights. "OW!!" Rylan whined, glaring at Dottie.

"He's in love! Leave him alone!"

"I-" Daniel shook his head as his friends fought.

"Hey."

Aphmau looked around, "Balto?"

"Over here dumbass." Balto was leaning against a locker, hidden between two pillars. 

"Did... did you do your homework?" Balto mumbled, Aphmau stared at him.

"Balto. Are you asking me, a human, for help with your werewolf homework?" 

"No. I'm asking to copy, your homework. I forgot about mine." 

"Aw!! You poor thing..."

A pink haired, black eared Meif'wa came up the stairs, jumping and hiding when she saw Aphmau.

"Too damn bad." Aphmau grinned.

Balto growled, "Useless-"

Aphmau stuck out his tongue, "You're not too useful yourself." 

They went back and forth for a while before Balto left, hitting Aphmau with his uniform jacket as he took it off- getting too hot.

Aphmau squealed, "HEY!" 

The pink haired Meif'wa slowly walked over, she was tall, easily having at-least 4 or 5 inches over Aphmau, "Ex— excuse me... Are— are you Aphmau?"

Aphmau hummed turning around, "Yes, I am- You're that cute Meif'wa girl in my homeroom." He searched his mind, "Kawaii... Chan. Right?" 

Kawaii-Chan beamed, "Yup!! That's me! Kawaii-Chan is sorry to bother Aphmau-Kun but... Kawaii-Chan was wondering- this invitation is for Kawaii-Chan, right?" She pulled out a purple invite, Aphmau paled, "She found it on her desk..."

"That was her desk!? I meant to put it on Nicole's-!!" Aphmau was about to tell her the truth but Kawaii-Chan continued.

"Kawaii-Chan just wanted to thank Aphmau-Kun, Kawaii-Chan has never been to a slumber party!! She's really excited!"

Aphmau softened, "Really?"

"Really!! Oh! This is so exciting!!" Kawaii-Chan jumped up and down, "Kawaii-Chan didn't think Aphmau-Kun noticed her!! Kawaii-Chan doesn't have many friends; so she's excited someone invited her to something!! What kinda sweets should Kawaii-Chan bring?"

Aphmau didn't have the heart to tell Kawaii-Chan the invite wasn't for her, so he just smiled matching the excited Meif'wa's energy. "I'm so happy you're excited!! Don't feel like you need to bring anything- but if you wanna: I love cake, and the friend, who's house we're sleeping at, loves cupcakes. Again you don't need to bring anything." 

Kawaii-Chan's amber eyes lit up, "Cakes are Kawaii-Chan's specialty!!! What flavor should she bring!?"

"I adore red velvet! But! It has to be Werewolf safe!"  

Kawaii-Chan jumped up and down again, clapping, "Perfect!! Kawaii-Chan will be there with the best friendship cake she can make!! See- see you tonight!" She ran off, jumping over the railing to the stairs.

"See you then!!" Aphmau's smile fell, "Katelyn's going to kill me." He swallowed, "That- that's okay! Kawaii-Chan seems nice, I know she'll be a great friend to have!"

Aphmau and his mother stood in-front of Katelyn's house. Aphmau had decided to hold the sleepover there, as Katelyn herself had suggested. He didn't want Thorgi stepping on one of his friends in the middle of the night, or him being up in everyone's business all night, so Katelyn suggested he hold it at her house, and Aphmau agreed.

Aphmau knocked.

A boy with short blue hair answered the door, Aphmau and his mother stood in silence with the boy staring at Aphmau. "U- um..."

"Mijo are you sure this is the right house?" His mother asked, glaring at the blue haired boy.

Aphmau pulled out his phone, "It should be..." He muttered, clearing his throat he addressed the taller boy, "Is- does Katelyn live here?"

The boy nodded, leaving the door slightly a-jar as he left. "You didn't say there would be boys here."

"There's not supposed to be..." Aphmau was supposed to be the only boy. Before he or his mother could say anything more, the door swung open, and a tall, blue haired girl stood in the doorway. 

"Aphmau!!" She pulled Aphmau onto her arms, Aphmau quickly hugged back.

"Sorry we took so long!! My mama insisted on coming so she needed to get ready."

Katelyn waved him off, "IS THAT A BOY I HEAR!?" A gruff male voice yelled, from deep in the house. 

"Dad..." Katelyn shook her head, as what Aphmau assumed was her father pushed his way into the doorway. "I told you, Aphmau’s holding his sleepover here."

A tall muscular man stood behind Katelyn, he had short dark blue hair with a beard to match. The man saw Aphmau and smiled, his worries melting away, "Oh. My bad! My names Eric, my Sugar Pea did say her friend would be coming over!"

"Eric?" Aphmau's mother asked staring at Mr. Windsor.

"S- Sylvanna!?" Mr. Windsor jumped back.

Mr. Windsor pushed past his daughter, pulling Aphmau's mother into his arms.

"Eric!!! It's so great to see you!!" 

Katelyn looked from her father to Aphmau's mother in confusion. "Uh. What's going on?"

"Oh," Aphmau's mother pulled back, addressing her son and his friend. "Mijo, Katelyn, Eric and I are very old friends!" 

Mr. Windsor smiled proudly, "That's right!! We go way back, all the way to high-school. In-fact, if played my cards right, you two might've been siblings!" He laughed.

"HUH!?" Both teens exclaimed, looking at each-other in shock.

Both adults laughed. "I just wanted to make sure my Mijo was in good hands, but I see I don't need to worry about that!" Aphmau's mother giggled.

Mr. Windsor nodded, "Not to worry! You're prince is absolutely safe with us!"

Aphmau huffed, Katelyn chuckled, "Come on, Aphmau. Let's go up to the room." 

"Don't rough house too much! Unless you've gotta show someone who's boss!!" Mr. Windsor yelled after them.

"I know!" Katelyn dragged Aphmau into the house.

"Bye Mom!!" Aphmau yelled back, waving to his mother.

"See you tomorrow Mijo!!" 

Eric turned to Sylvanna, "It is great seeing you again."

Sylvanna crossed her arms, biting her lip in worry.

"Now. What's on your mind?" Eric asked, leaning against the door-frame.

"Huh?" Sylvanna snapped out of her trance, "What do you mean?"

"You've got something on your mind, I know that look." Eric smiled.

Sylvanna sighed, "I- I think my Mijo's had his first kiss without telling me!!" 

Eric gasped, "No way!!"

"Yes way!! He's been acting all blushly and giggling at his phone! More so than before! And there's this- boy who walks him to and from school everyday!! I just can't catch him!!"

"Oh come here!" Eric pulled her into his arms, "I- I think my Sugar Pea's got a boyfriend..."

Sylvanna gasped pulling away, "What!?"

"She's been all dreamy, she's on her phone all the time, and when she comes home at times she has this... glow about her!!"

"I might have an idea."

Everyone was sitting on the floor of Katelyn's floor, in a circle. "So Aphmau, what do you have planned for tonight?" Lucinda asked, leaning back on her hands.

"We- well I was thinking we could watch a movie." Katelyn reached for a bin off old CDs, pushing it over to Aphmau.

He dug through it, pulling out a CD of Midnight. "Have you girls seen Midnight?" He asked holding up the CD.

Everyone nodded, Lucinda giggled, "Aphmau, my darling, what rock have you been living under? You poor thing. Everyone here has seen Midnight."

Aphmau hung his head, quietly placing the CD back. Kawaii-Chan saw her new friends embarrassment: "OHH TEDWARD CULINARY IS SUCH A DREAM BOAT!!" She said happily, she was proud when she saw Aphmau's smile.

"Can we not talk about Midnight?" Katelyn groaned, Aphmau pushed the box back to her, mouthing a thank you. "It's such a horrible movie." She said, putting the box back.

Lucinda giggled, "Says the girl that has a poster of it in her closet." She glanced at said closet. 

Katelyn blushed, "LUCINDA!! I SWEAR!" Aphmau covered his mouth, not wanting Katelyn to hear him giggling.

Katelyn sighed, leaning her head back in annoyance, "Aphmau I cannot believe you forgot to invite Nicole. Now I have to deal with Lucinda alone." She groaned.

"Okay girls. Calm down." Teony giggled, she sat at Aphmau's side, making sure Aphmau first sleep-over wouldn't be his last. "I don't want you two fighting. It's little Aphmau's first sleep-over. Let's make it a good one." 

"Sorry... I- I don't really know what happens at sleep-overs..." Aphmau mumbled, playing with his hair.

Lucinda took pity on him, as she always did, "Let's start with a-bit of gossip. You know, just a little way to get know each-other more." 

Teony's eyes lit up, "I LOVE gossip!!!"

Aphmau giggled, "She's simply adorable!" He thought.

"Fine..." Katelyn stood up, walking to her open window, "But let's close this window first." She slammed her window shut, "I don't want any "juicy" secrets getting out."

"Uh, Katelyn..." Aphmau mumbled, watching as Katelyn closed her curtains, "Who's gonna hear us from the window? We're on the second floor." 

"You never know." She sat back down.

A black-haired women fell from a ladder, Sylvanna's walkie-talkie buzzed in.

"Sylvanna!! The bird has fallen out of the nest!!" Zianna groaned, rubbing her lower back.

Sylvanna cocked her head, "What does that mean!?" She asked.

"It means they closed the window!!" 

"Damn it!! Are you serious!?" Sylvanna heard Zianna getting up, brushing herself off.

"That was your plan?" Eric asked, clearly disappointed.

"Do you have a better one?" Sylvanna asked.

Eric smirked, "As a matter of fact, I do. Follow me." 

"Let's talk about Ivy." Lucinda started, "Did you see her all over Garroth the other day?"

Aphmau swallowed ignoring the jealously rising in his stomach.

"She's so pathetic. She always gets under my skin, the way she acts is so-" Katelyn groaned.

"For once I agree with you." Lucinda smiled.

"The way she's say's Garroth's name pisses me off." Aphmau added, "If you love him so much then you'd respect him enough to at least try to say his name right."

Teony and Lucinda shared a knowing look. "B- but Garroth-Kun is a total hottie!!" Kawaii-Chan squealed.

"You can say that again. So is Laurance." Lucinda raised her eyebrows at Aphmau knowingly.

"Their more than hot..." Aphmau mumbled.

"EW!! Teony, can you believe this!?" Katelyn cringed, shaking her head.

Teony shrugged, "They're not my type. But they are cuties. You've gotta admit that, Katelyn."

Katelyn groaned, "Fine. They're not... ugly. I'll give them that." 

"But Nicole's cuter~" Lucinda teased. 

"Oh?" Aphmau raised his eyebrows.

Katelyn blushed, "LUCINDA!!"

Kawaii-Chan's ears went down slightly, "Nicole-Chan? Kawaii-Chan totes sees herself shipping Katelyn-San and Nicole-Chan..!" She tried to act excited but Teony saw her hurt.

Aphmau gasped, "OH MY IRENE YES!!! Nicole and Katelyn are such an OTP!!"

Kawaii-Chan lit up, "You ship too!!?" 

Aphmau nodded happily.

Teony cleared her throat, "Pardon me. But what does a boat have to do with Katelyn and Nicole?"

Kawaii-Chan giggled, "Teony-Senpai! Shipping is when you think two people would be good in a relationship. It's all for fun." 

"Hm. Sounds innocent enough." Katelyn shrugged, Aphmau giggled keeping his thoughts of disagreement to himself.

Kawaii-Chan giggled, "Kawaii-Chan pretty much ships everyone at school!! And she def ships Katelyn-San and Nicole-Chan!" 

Aphmau cocked his head, "Everyone? Huh..." He mumbled.

"Well you don't have to because-" Lucinda was cut off by Katelyn sitting up and glaring at her.

"LUCINDA!! THAT'S NOBODY'S BUSINESS!!!! SHUT! UP!"

"Geez! Fine, fine. But you know, it's not a secret. You make zero effort to hide it at school." Lucinda giggled.

"Wait." Aphmau addressed Kawaii-Chan. "You ship everyone at school, Kawaii-Chan?" 

Kawaii-Chan nodded, "Yep! Kawaii-Chan sure does! Even you, Aphmau-Kun."

"Oh?" Aphmau chuckled, "With who? The trashcan? Or maybe my backpack?"

"Hm? No way! You're a real catch! Kawaii-Chan ships you with that black haired senior!"

"What."

"Black haired senior?" Katelyn looked to the other two, hoping one of them would have an idea of who that was. 

"Anggy?" Teony asked, thinking of a smart, black haired, senior. He was nice, but Teony has never seen them talk.

"Oilver?" Lucinda asked, thinking of a black haired, wizard, senior; there was no way she would let that guy anywhere near Aphmau!

"GENE?" Katelyn froze, Teony looked to Kawaii-Chan.

Kawaii-Chan nodded, "Yeah! Him!"

"NO WAY!!" Katelyn stood, "THAT GUYS THE WORST GUY IN SCHOOL!"

"You can't be serious!" Aphmau whined.

"Kawaii-Chan is totes serious!! She's seen it!! When Gene-Senpai pinned Aphmau-Kun against the water fountain! When Gene-Senpai slung his arm around Aphmau-Kun's waist! Kawaii-Chan could go on and on!"

"There is no-way Aphmau and that guy will never be together!" Teony exclaimed.

"If I see that guy around Aphmau, I'll kill him myself!" Katelyn angrily sat back down.

"Kawaii-Chan just liked what she saw!" Kawaii-Chan held up her hands.

"Ugh... I'd rather be shipped with dream boats... not in a million years will Gene and I have anything other then distaste for each-other."

"Dream boats like Garroth, or Laurance?" Teony teased, if Aphmau should be "shipped" with anyone it should be one of them. 

Aphmau blushed, "Teony!!" He whined, hiding his face.

Sylvanna had her ear pressed to the door, "Eric!" She exclaimed, "I think they're talking about boys!" 

Eric, dressed in a long red wig and an old gold dress, stepped forward, pushing Sylvanna aside, "Let me handle this!"

"What about that cute freshman that follows Aphmau around like a lost puppy?" Lucinda teased.

"Travis is not a lost puppy!" 

"If anyone's a lost puppy it's Aphmau himself." Katelyn teased, Aphmau made an offended sound, 

The door broke open with a loud bang, making everyone jump, Kawaii-Chan jumped across the room in surprise, going into the farthest corner from the door.

"DAD!?" 

"Whatsup ladies!! Sorry I'm late!" Mr. Windsor made his voice high-pitched.

Aphmau laughed, "DAD!!!" Katelyn covered her, face.

"Mr. Windsor?" Aphmau laughed.

"Dad. You're not fooling anyone!" 

Lucinda laughed, "Oh my Irene, Katleyn, your dad's a riot!" 

Mr. Windsor proudly whipped his hair, "Exactly!! Now let's talk about Katelyn. Does, she have a boyfriend?"

"Dad!" Katelyn blushed, shaking her head. "For the last time-"

Lucinda glanced at Katelyn, still laughing, "No, she doesn't. I can assure you, she's a single, lady."

The song "Single Lady" from Beyoncé played from the hallway, Mrs. Romeave came in placing a speaker on Katelyn's desk, "Did someone say "Single Lady"!!?" She asked.

"Mom!? Mrs. Ro'meave!?" Mrs. Ro'meave winked at him, waving him to stand up and come over to her. He slowly agreed, walking to hide behind Mrs. Ro'meave.

"This is my jam!! No boys, just single ladies!" Aphmau didn't feel offended, he just watched as Kawaii-Chan ran over joining the adults in their dancing.

"Dad!" Katelyn watched hopelessly as the other two joining Kawaii-Chan and the adults, she walked over the stand by Aphmau.

"Oh my Irene... I'm so embarrassed!"

Katelyn shook her head, "Same..."

Kawaii-Chan laughed, "This is the bestest sleep-over ever!!"

Aphmau watching the others having fun. "But, ya know what? Everyone's having fun. And your dad's pretty cool."

Katelyn chuckled, "You know what? Yeah. Yeah he is."

Aphmau giggled, holding out his hand to Katelyn, "Wanna dance?"

Katleyn laughed, "Fo' sho'!" 

They joined the dance party, dancing with each-other until Aphmau saw the boy who had answered the boy earlier was curiously watching them from the doorway.

Aphmau smiled, walking over to the boy, "Come on." He took the boy's hand.

"U- uh! I- I shouldn't..."

"Oh hush." Aphmau pulled him into the dance party. "Come on!"

"Decided to join us?" Katelyn asked, smiling.

The boy blushed staring at his and Aphmau's intertwined hands, "I-"

Katelyn chuckled, "Just come and join us."

The boy nodded, nervously following Aphmau's moves, Aphmau giggled.

Chapter Text

"Aphmau-Kun!!!" Aphmau looked up seeing Kawaii-Chan rushing over to him.

"Kawaii-Chan!" 

"Kawaii-Chan wanted to return Aphmau-Kun's book! Kawaii-Chan never got to read it before she watched the movie." Kawaii-Chan gave Aphmau the copy of his book back.

"Thanks! What did you think?" Aphmau asked, slipping the book into his backpack.

Kawaii-Chan nodded, "Much better than the movie!"

Aphmau giggled, "I told ya!!" 

Katelyn flipped her phone off, turning her attention to Kawaii-Chan, "I still can't believe you ship EVERYONE in Midnight."

"Speaking of shipping... Aphmau-Kun," She turned to Aphmau, "Can we talk about Kawaii-chan's ship with you and-"

Aphmau's face went red, "NO! We cannot. We can NEVER talk about that!!" 

"For such a small potato, he's got some spunk!" Dante chuckled, watching Aphmau yell at Kawaii-Chan, his face beat red.

"A spud and a potato are the same thing, Dante." Garroth commented, staring at Aphmau with clear love-struck eyes.

"I said spunk, Garroth." Dante groaned.

"Oh. S- sorry. I wasn't paying attention." Garroth rubbed the back of his neck.

"You alright, Garroth?" Laurance asked, closing his locker.

"Yeah, you're kinda off right now." 

"Huh—? N— no! Really, I'm fine." Garroth forced his eyes away from Aphmau, looking to his friends.

Dante hummed, leaning back against Laurance's locker, "You know what? I don't think you are."

Garroth hummed, looking back at Aphmau.

"Every-time we're around Aphmau lately, you act weird." Dante waved in-front of Garroth's face.

"You can't prove that!" Garroth blushed, shaking his head, trying to get his thought's of Aphmau out of it.

Dante scuffed, "Yes, I can! Remember that one time when we were practicing potions in the library after school?"

*Flashback*

Garroth and Dante stood in the library, Garroth had his school jacket off, his sleeves pulled over his elbows, Dante's tie was off and his shirt was slightly unbuttoned. They stood with a potion-set on the table in-front of them.

Garroth groaned, running his hand through his curly blonde hair, "I have no idea how to mix these potions!"

Dante huffed, "Carefully, that's how!"

A sudden shriek made both boys look up, there was a huge dog in the clearing of the library. Aphmau was on-top of it. "Woah!! Laurance!!!" Aphmau squealed, "You made a giant puppy appear!! You're so awesome!" 

Laurance chuckled, "I'm glad you liked it." 

Garroth turned to the potion-set, "I cant do science smart things too!!" He grabbed a bottle a blue liquid.

"WAIT, GARROTH! THIS ISN'T EVEN SCIENCE!!" Dante panicky tried to stop him.

*Flashback end*

"Or that one time at practice..."

*Flashback*

"Garroth! Can you take it easy on me!?" Dante panted, his hands on his knees.

Garroth laughed, "That's why I've gotta be extra hard on you! You better watch out, or you might catch the ball with your face next time." 

Dante groaned, getting into his throwing position, "This time I'll give it all I've got!"

Garroth readied himself, his attention was grabbed by laughing, "Laurance, that's a great joke!" The voice, he easily recognized as Aphmau's, rang out.

"Garroth! Heads up!" Dante realized just a few seconds too late that Garroth wasn't paying attention.

Garroth looked over.

*Flashback end*

"Oh, and let's not forget-" 

"Okay! Okay. I get it." Garroth cut him off, blushing.

"Why don't you just admit you like him?" Dante asked, rolling his eyes.

"What?" Laurance chuckled, "No, he doesn't."

Garroth nodded, his face beat red, "Dan- Dante! That- that's preposterous! I don't- I don't like him like that!"

Dante chuckled, "Hu-huh, suuuuure. Sorry, but I can see it on your face."

Laurance shook his head, "Dante... Garroth's my best friend. He tells me everything. He and Aphmau were friends as little kids, and just reconnected. So, of course, he gets nervous around him, he just misses being his friend."

Garroth tried to ignore the feeling of guilt rising in his stomach. "Ex- exactly! L- Laur- Laurance knows."

Dante rolled his eyes, "Alright. If you say so. I'm heading to class. Wanna review some notes with me Laurance?"

Laurance nodded, "Yeah. See ya later, Garroth!" 

Dante waved to Garroth as well, "Later, Garroth."

"Later." Garroth waved to them.

"Gar- Garroth? Hey!" Aphmau called, seeing Garroth by the lockers.

Garroth cleared his throat. "I- I was wondering if I could ask you-"

"Hm?" 

"I- I wanted to ask you out on a date." 

Aphmau's face went red, "A- A date? You and me? Alone? On a..."

Garroth chuckled, his face equally as red. "Ye- yeah... I- I'm sorry, I know it's blunt. I wanted to wait a few weeks before I asked you. Especially after what happened between us."

"N- no... I understand... It- it just means- doesn't that mean we're...?"

"N- no! It's just a date! To get to know you better. We- we're not like... going steady or anything. It's just us... hanging out."

"Where- where were you thinking?" 

"There's a festival in town, and I was thinking we could go tomorrow." Garroth rubbed the back of his neck.

Aphmau's eyes lit up, "Really!?" Aphmau grabbed Garroth's hand, "You know- that sounds amazing! I'd love to go with you!"

Garroth's eyes lit up to match, "Gre- great! I'll pick you up tomorrow afternoon, then."

"Oh- okay! Let- let's get to class!" 

Garroth smiled, "Lets."

Aphmau held Garroth's hand, as they walked to their class. "I've never been to a festival before." Aphmau commented.

"Really?" A boy like Aphmau never going to a festival seemed crazy to him.

"I mean, that I remember- at-least..." Aphmau giggled, "Does the festival come around often?"

"Yeah, it come around every year or so. Everyone around the neighborhood goes. I'm surprised you've never heard of it." Garroth leans forward, squeezing Aphmau's hand.

Aphmau put his free hand on his hip, "Well, excuuuuuse me! I just moved back, remember?"

Garroth rubbed the back of his neck, "Oh, right! My bad..."

Garroth pulled into Aphmau's drive, he went up to the door, knocking. 

"Coming!" Aphmau's mother called, she swung the door open smiling at Garroth. "Oh Garroth!"

"Hello Auntie Sylvanna. Is- is Aphmau here?" 

"Of course, I'll go get him. Come on in." Aphmau's mother waved him inside, walking to the foot of the stairs. "MIJO! GARROTH IS HERE!!"

Aphmau ran out of his room, trying not to trip over Thorgi; putting on his (fake) gold earrings as he went. "Garroth!" He ran over and hugged the elder.

"You- you look nice." Garroth blushed.

Aphmau smiled, "Thank you, you do too."

"Let's get going..." Garroth tried to hide his blush, Aphmau giggled, waving goodbye to his mother, and patting Thorgi on the head.

"See you late Mijo!"

Aphmau dragged Garroth into the entrance of the carnival “Cotton candy!!” He squealed, jumping up and down. Garroth chuckled, following as Aphmau ran over to the cotton candy stand.

The cashier smiled at the young boy’s excitement, “Hey there sweetie! Would you like some cotton candy?”

“Two please!”

The cashier handed over two cotton candies. “Here ya go!” 

“Thanks!” Aphmau gave Garroth his and slid some money onto the stand, Garroth took the money back, replacing it with his own.

“You really have a sweet tooth, huh?”

Aphmau giggled, “Don’t you?”

Garroth hummed, “For cute things…” He mumbled under his breath.

Aphmau hummed, looking up at Garroth, “What was that?” 

Garroth’s face flushed, “Noth— nothing!”

“You sure? I swore I heard—“

Garroth placed his hand on Aphmau’s hip, “Look— look over there!” He distracted, seeing a person with a canvas.

“Huh? At what—“ Aphmau’s eye lit up, seeing the face painting stand, “FACE PAINTING!!” 

“Uh— yes that too, but— but I was talking about the caricatures.” 

Aphmau blushed, rubbing the back of his neck, “Oh, uh, yeah that. Face— face painting is for little kids anyway.” He nervously laughed.

“Wanna go get our face’s painted?” Garroth asked, Aphmau felt butterfly’s in his stomach.

”Are— are you sure? That— that kinda stuff is pretty childish… what if someone from school sees you?”

Garroth chuckled, “Who cares? As long as I’m with you, I don’t mind.”

Aphmau’s face flushed bright red. “Your such a romantic…”

Garroth rubbed the back of his neck, “I try.”

They went to stand in line at the face painting, it didn’t take long until it was their turn. The painter found the sight of the teenagers in her stand cute.

”Oooo Garroth let’s get matching ones!” 

“Sure.” Garroth smiled. Aphmau choose small stars, to go on their cheeks. 

“There you go! You two look super cute.” The painter smiled.

Aphmau held out some money, “Thank you!”

Garroth pulled out his money, handing it to the painter, with a “little” tip added, “Let me.” He smiled at Aphmau, pushing his hand back.

”Are you sure?” Garroth smiled, nodding.

“Wanna get a portrait?” Garrother motioned over to the caricatures.

“Together?” Aphmau asked, looking at his face paint in his phone camera.

Garroth wrapped his arm around Aphmau’s waist. “Of course.” 

Aphmau blushed, “Yeah… let’s go.”

They walked to the line, Garroth groaned, “Man, this line is long…”

“Hmmmm… We can come back if you’d like.” 

Garroth hummed, looking around over Aphmau’s head, “We could… hmm— La— La—“

Aphmau furrowed his brows, “Are you alright?”

Garroth swallowed, tilting his head towards a tall brunette near a bench a little ways away, “Laurence is here.” He mumbled.

Aphmau whipped around, “Where? Oh, hey! There his is!!” Aphmau waved to the taller male, “LAURANCE!! OVER HERE!!” 

Garroth jumped, covering Aphmau’s mouth, “Aph!!” 

Aphmau hummed, “Huh?”

“Shh.” Garroth slowly removed his hand.

Aphmau followed his lead, hushing his voice to a whisper, “What’s wrong?” 

“He doesn’t know we’re on a date.” Garroth said guiltily.

“What!? Seriously?” Aphmau whispered, glancing at Laurence, who was now coming their way.

“Please, don’t let him know…”

“Don’t worry! I won’t.” 

“Hey, Aphmau!” Laurance’s voice made Aphmau jump, turning around to face him.

“Laurance! Hi!” Aphmau giggled.

"I didn't expect to see you and... Garroth; here." Laurance gave Garroth a curious look, making him look down in shame.

"Same! I didn't even know about this until Garroth mentioned it." Aphmau giggled.

"Ah, I see. So... you two are here, together?" Laurance asked, glancing at Garroth.

"Garroth invited me!" Aphmau giggled, "It's my first time coming to a festival! It's so fun!" He nearly jumped up and down.

"Ye- yeah! Just- just as friends, of course; nothing more." Garroth awkwardly laughed.

Laurance nodded, "Cool. I see you two are waiting for caricatures. When you're done, we should go through the carnival together!" 

"Sounds wonderful!" Aphmau cheered, not noticing Garroth's unhappy face.

"Whoo-hoo..." Garroth mumbled, lightly kicking the rocks that made up the gravel under his feet.

"Awesome! See you guys later then!" Laurance waved and walked off.

Aphmau happily waved back before turning back to Garroth, "Why didn't you tell Laurance we were on a date?" 

"I was about to ask you that same thing." Garroth teased.

Aphmau blushed sighing, "No-one really needs to know... We aren't going," He motioned around himself, "Steady or- or anything... we- we're just seeing if we like each-other." He finished, tucking a strand of his bangs behind his ear.

Garroth smiled, ignoring the slight sting to that comment. "Right."

"I've really got to go to the bathroom. U- um-" 

Garroth smiled, "It's behind that Photo Booth." He pointed to a near-by Photo Booth, "You go on ahead, I'll hold our place."

"Thanks! I'll be right back!" Aphmau rushed off to the bathroom.

Aphmau was walking out of the bathroom, tossing the paper towel, he was drying his hands with, into the trash-can.

"Hey, Aph." Laurance was leaning next to the curtain entrance of the Photo Booth.

Aphmau slightly jumped, "Hey Laurance! What's up?"

"Wanna get a picture with me?" He asked, nodding towards the curtain of the Photo Booth.

Aphmau smiled, "Yeah! For sure!"  

They took a few shoots, all of which were normal. Then on the last one Laurance took Aphmau's jaw into his hand, pressing his lips against his own.

Aphmau's face went bright red. "Laur- Laurance... What- what was that about?"

"I've..." Laurance cleared his throat, "Always liked you... A-lot. When I saw you and Garroth back there, for some reason. I- I got the idea that maybe... you two were on a date..."

Aphmau placed his hand on Laurance's toned chest. "I- I really like you too... but I'm not ready for anything serious at the moment." They were only staying for a few years... he didn't want to start anything serious then leave in the middle of the night and leave his lover heartbroken... He should really stop watching Soap Opera's with him mom...

"I completely understand. I'm sorry about kissing you... I really should've asked first."

Aphmau pressed his lips against the taller's, "Now we're even." He stood going heading back to Garroth, Laurance following, trying to hide his blush.

A young adult man stood where the end of the line was when Aphmau left, holding a canvas out so his friend could see.

"Dude, that artist is terrible." 

The other guy leaned forward, "Why do artists always get my nose wrong!? This is just-"

Aphmau and Laurance walked past, Aphmau gave one of the guys a pat on the shoulder and the money it cost to get a portrait. 

Aphmau eyes caught a blonde color he would know anywhere, because it made this weird glare in his glasses he had never seen before, and because it was Garroth's beautiful curly blonde hair. "Huh?"

"That looks like-" Laurance stepped closer, leaning over Aphmau.

"There's no way..."

"Garroth!?" Garroth was bent, ever so slightly, towards the canvas, a paint brush in his left hand, holding the canvas still with the other.

Garroth looked up, a large smile appearing on his face, Aphmau smiled back, "What are you doing?"

"Well, I was waiting in line when..."

~Flashback~

An older lady (like maybe 30/40), with long light brown hair, was patting herself, clearly looking for something. "Help! Help! Somebody stole my purse!"

The Artist stopped short in cleaning his brushes, "I can help you identify the man! Would you describe him for me."

"Oh, perfect!" The lady searched her mind for the face of who stole her purse. "Now let me just..."

The artist gripped his paint brush, "UGH!" He suddenly screamed, dropping it, "My drawing hand... it just spontaneously broke a bone!"

"Huh!?" The lady turned to the line in a dramatic fashion. "Oh-no! Isn't there any artist who can draw the man who stole my purse?"

Garroth came seemingly out of no-where. "I can!" He walked behind the canvas, grabbing the brush in his left hand.

With furious strokes of his brush he turned his canvas, showing the woman a beautiful identical drawing of the prep.

A young Police Man, walked back over, "Well, thanks to this brilliant sketch, we knew exactly who the culprit was!" The Police Man set one of his hands on Garroth's should, "You've saved the day, young man."

Garroth nodded smiling.

"Wow, he's so good... I want him to draw me!" A person from the line said.

"No me!" Another person said.

~Flashback End~

"Alright, Garrroth... What really happened?" Laurance rolled his eyes, a deadpan look on his handsome face.

Garroth chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck.

~Flashback~

The artist's phone beeped loudly, breaking his focus. "Whoops, lunch break. Sorry, folks."

The crowd groaned. Shaking their heads in disappointment.

A tall middle-aged man walked over to Garroth. "Hey. I'll give you $20 if you draw me and my pal." He pointed behind him to a equally older man.

"$20!? Deal!" Garroth happily took the money, going over to the canvas.

~Flashback Ends~

"And now people want my horrible drawings, for some reason." Garroth sighed.

Aphmau laughed, clenching his stomach as he doubled over.

"I think everyone discovered your art." Laurance chuckled.

"I know, right?" Garroth smiled brightly.

"No, I mean, the line is gone." Laurance chuckled, motioning towards where the line was.

Garroth turned, "Aww... man."

Aphmau giggled, "Well, at-least you're getting better."

"Thanks. Wanna see me draw Laurance?"

"Sure! Just as long as I can draw you too!" Aphmau giggled.

"Hey! I want in on this too. I'll draw Aph."

Garroth grinned, "I got this."

"Watch this." Laurance grabbed another pencil, handing the last one to Aphmau.

"Move over!"

The group scribbled away. After a few minutes, they stepped back.

"Not bad." Laurance hummed, looking at his drawing.

"Looks good." Garroth nodded.

Aphmau giggled, "I think we've all improved!"

Laurance turned to the others, "You guys wanna get something to eat?"

"Sure!"

"Let's go!"

"Let's get funnel cake." Laurance chuckled.

"Oh! I love funnel cake!"

"I know."

Chapter Text

“Oh, this is so exciting! I love the annual sports festival!” Teony cheered, stretching her arms over her head. “Aren’t you excited, Katelyn?”

”Of course, I am! I’m gonna OWN, the Juniors at volleyball this year!” Katelyn cackled, a competitive fire in her eyes.

Teony giggled, “Didn’t we lose to them last year?” 

“Exactly. They were the only class we lost to, and that’s because I had won all the events prior! I was too exhausted to play.” Katelyn grumbled.

”That’s why, this year, I hope you learned your lesson.” 

“Oh. I have!” 

“Good. I’m glad. Now you know that you have to—“

”I’ve been training all year so I can carry the team on my own!” Katelyn snapped the elastic of her black knee-pads. 

“Katelyn! That’s not the lesson!” Teony sighed, shaking her head. “The lesson is: teamwork!” 

“Huh?” Katelyn cocked her head, “Oh, yeah, that.” She stood, shrugging her shoulders. “Now. LET’S GO CRUSH SOME CLASSES!!!” She ran towards the Volleyball net.

”Katelyn! Wait up!” Teony went to run after her, pausing, she turned to Aphmau and Kawaii-Chan who still sat on the bench. “Good luck you two!”

Katelyn stopped too, turning and yelling over the other students talking around her, “Pray you guys don’t have us as an opponent! I won’t go easy on you just because we’re friends!” 

Kawaii-Chan turned to Aphmau, who was sat next to her, putting on his ankle braces. His mother wouldn’t let him participate without them, his ankles were weak, ever since his accident, and he often rolled them now-in-days.

”Aphmau-Kun doesn’t think we’ll have Katelyn-San as an opponent, does he?” Kawaii-Chan would prefer to watch Katlyn from the side-lines, not face-to-face. She couldn’t handle that…

”I’m not worried at all. Katelyn isn’t the only one who’s good at sports, ya know?” Aphmau chuckled.

”Is Aphmau-Kun good at sports too?” 

“I was a cross country champion in track in middle school.” 

“Real— really!?” 

“Yeah. I’m not bad at soccer, basketball, and baseball either. I might not be as good as Katelyn, but I’m still excited to go up against her, if we get matched up with their class, that is.” Aphmau smiled, “Just, stick with me, Kawaii-Chan. We’ll give ‘em a run for their money.” 

From across the field Aphmau heard an all too familiar yelp. “YOW! Help me..!”

“WHAT THE!? Why were you in the bushes DIRECTLY behind me!? I thought you were some kinda stalker, kid!” Katelyn demanded, recognizing the white hairy freshman as Aphmau’s close friend, he would be mad if Katelyn were to beat his “Not Alone Buddy”; so she stopped herself.

”I think he might’ve been staring at your—“ 

If Travis was being honest, he wasn’t looking at Katelyn… He was looking at Aphmau. He was stretching his legs on the bench, offering a… view… Travis couldn’t pry his eyes from.

Dante jumped from the bushes, “We’ve been discovered, Travis! RUN!” He ran away.

”Huh? Travis?” Travis looked up at the sound of Aphmau’s voice, he sheepishly smiled at him from across the field.

“What is he doing over there..?” 

Balto walked over, running into Aphmau’s shoulder, pushing him aside. “Gah!” Aphmau stumbled, landing roughly on the ground.

”Excuse you!” 

Balto hummed, turning around.

”Do you have manners!?” Aphmau huffed. 

“I wouldn’t need them if stupid humans watched where they’re standing.” 

“Will you stop calling me that!?” 

“Make me.” 

Aphmau cracked his knuckles, Kawaii-Chan grabbed him by the stomach, picking him up off the ground. “Get over here!” He clawed at the air.

“You really think you can go up against a werewolf?” Balto chuckled at the humans attempts. “I’ll spare you the embarrassment.” 

“UGHHHH!” Aphmau huffed, Kawaii-Chan slowly let him go, “I’VE HAD IT WITH THAT GUY!” He walked over to a stray soccer ball near-by. 

“Wh— what is Aphmau-Kun doing..?” Kawaii-Chan hesitantly asked. 

“I’m gonna show that JERK what a human can do!” Aphmau ran at the soccer ball, kicking it with all his might.

The ball flew through the air, hitting Balto in the back of head. 

The field froze, growing eerily silent. Gasps and murmurs erupted.

A red headed werewolf, stepped forward, ready to step in.

Balto stopped, his ears pinning. “What was that? A mosquito?” He teased.

“It was this mosquito, you estúpido (idiot)!” 

“You really wanna take me on?” Balto growled, his tail fluffing out.

”Right here! Right now!” Aphmau grinned, stepping forward.

Balto chuckled, “Fine.”

“Come at me!” 

“If you’re really worth my time, then we’ll face off in the events.” Balto turned, walking away.

”Are you serious!? Get your ass back here!” Kawaii-Chan ran forward, grabbing her friend by the middle, again. “¡Ven aquí y enfréntate a mí, perro! (Get over here and face me you dog!)” He thrashed and cursed in Kawaii-Chan’s arms. 

Garroth ran over, a worried look on his handsome face. “Aphmau, are you okay!?”

”NO! That dick thinks he can just walk all over me and get away with it!!!” Garroth stepped in-front of Aphmau, blocking his view of the werewolf.

Aphmau looked up, calming at once, “Garroth? Hey!” He smiled. Kawaii-Chan cocked her head, slowly placing Aphmau down.

”Stay away from that guy. I’ve heard he’s nothing but trouble.” Garroth glared at the older werewolf, over his shoulder.

”You don’t have to tell me twice. He’s in my Werewolf Class.” Aphmau rolled his eyes, pushing his braid from over his shoulder back down his back.

”I see. I— Wait. You’re a werewolf?” How didn’t he know? He knew some werewolves could hide their ears and tail, but he thought he would’ve remembered him having them when they were little kids.

”Huh?” Aphmau giggled, “Oh Garroth, no! I’m not a werewolf. I thought I told you the story!” 

Garroth raised an eyebrow, “I’m sorry. If you did, I don’t remember.” 

Aphmau waved him off, “No problem! Well, on my first day, my registration was all messed up. I had Werewolf 101 as my last class—“

Ivy watched from across the field, glaring at the lack of space between Garroth and the freshman. 

Garroth was clearly intently listening to every word coming out of Aphmau’s mouth. His cheeks were slightly red, and it was clear nothing could prey his attention away from the boy in-front of him. 

“Ugh. Who does that freshman think he is!? I thought I told him to stay away from Garroth!” Ivy growled, what was that freshmen doing all over her man!? 

“You definitely did, Ivy. Oh, that reminds me. I overheard a rumor, from Gene, he saw Aphmau, and Garroth, at the festival over the weekend; alone.”

“WHAT!? There’s no way! That’s just Gene trying to get under my skin!” Ivy bit her lip, “I thought he was on our side…” 

“Either-way. He’s over there, talking to Garroth, alone. Don’t you think you should do something?” Lily, Ivy’s cousin, asked.

”Hmph! Watch me win him over with my charm!” Ivy flipped her hair.

“Then there was this one lesson we had about marking territory, and that jerk just decided to—“ Aphmau was rambling on about everything Balto had done to annoy him over the past few months.

Ivy strode over, “Garroth… Darling! There you are~!” She said in her most… suggestive tone. At least that’s what Aphmau thought it was.

Garroth turned, “Ivy! It’s great to see you.” Ivy wasn’t Garroth’s favorite person, but she was still his friend. He didn’t like how she had cut Aphmau off, it was probably an accident, though it still left a bitter taste in his mouth.

Ivy turned to Aphmau, humming as if she had just noticed him. “Why are you talking to this freshman, Garroth?”

Garroth tried to think Ivy didn’t mean the comment in a bad way, so he just turned to Aphmau, “Aphmau, have you met Ivy? She’s a good friend of mine.” 

“Yes. I’ve been his friend since we were freshmen.” Ivy boasted.

Aphmau cocked an eyebrow, glancing her up and down. He hummed, “So, you and Garroth had known each-other for a long time…”

“Why yes! Yes we have!” Ivy grabbed Garroth’s muscular arm.

Garroth chuckled, backing away from Ivy, closer to Aphmau. “Yes, Ivy is a sweet girl. Oh, but Ivy, Aphmau here has been my friend since we were little.”

“HE HAS!?” Ivy cleared her throat, “I mean, o— oh, that’s so cute!” She gritted through her teeth. 

“Hah,” Garroth chuckled, “Isn’t it?” Aphmau beamed.

”It sure… is.” Ivy glared at Aphmau, though the boy didn’t seem to care as he just smiled at her.

Aphmau giggled, “Speaking of which, Garroth, where’s Laurance?” He asked, standing on his tip-toes to look over the heads of the other students.

”Ah, he’s already competing against the Junior class in the soccer event.” Garroth hummed, pointing to the two groups of students playing an intense game of soccer in the right field.

“Jeez… so, the matches have already started, huh?” Aphmau was starting to get a little nervous. The other students were so much bigger, and stronger than him; it made him feel like he was in a field of giants.

”Speaking of which, Garroth, we should be heading over to warm up with some stretches!” Ivy suggested, saying Garroth’s name in a way that made Aphmau’s blood boil.

Garroth chuckled sheepishly, “Ivy, my name is pronounced Gar-roth…”

“I know, Garroth (Gay-r-ith)! But we really should go!” 

Garroth sighed, shaking his head, “Right.” He turned back to Aphmau with a smile, “See you later, Aphmau. Good luck.”

Aphmau giggled, pulling Garroth into a quick hug, “You too!” 

Garroth nodded, walking over to his class.

Ivy turned, with a glare. “Get close to him again, freshman, see what happens!”

Aphmau chuckled, “Tell that to our mothers— and Garroth.” Ivy growled, “Aw… what are you going to do? Slap me again?” Aphmau straightened, “Go on, your ‘boyfriends’ waiting.” He walked off, chuckling.

“Aphmau! Hey!” Travis waved, walking over to his Not-Alone-Buddy.

”Travis! Hey!” Aphmau beamed, walking over to Travis, “There you are!”

”Good luck! I’ll be cheering you on!” Travis smiled, running his hand through his hair. 

“Huh? You’re not gonna be competing?” Aphmau cocked his head.

”Nope. I’m gonna be keeping score on the volleyball court.” Travis motioned to the stand next to the volleyball court, where the score-board was.

”What!? How did you get out of participating!?” Aphmau asked, grabbing Travis by the shoulders, leaning closer to the other.

”Dan— Dante is a judge, and he needed he— help on the volley— volleyball court…” Travis chuckled nervously.

Aphmau hummed, giving the other a knowing look. “Wha— what?”

”Is this so you can watch the girls play?” 

“Wha— what!? I— I have no idea what you’re talking ab— about!” 

Aphmau hummed, “Okay… But just know, I can see right through you.” He winked.

Travis held up his hands, “What! No— I’m not gonna try to mark the girls scores wrong so they’ll yell at me!” He laughed sheepishly, “Don’t be silly!”

”TRAVIS!” Dante yelled, waving his friend over. 

“Whoops! I— I’ve gotta go, the first game is starting. Good luck!” He ran off, waving to Aphmau over his shoulder.

“Same to you, Travis!!” Aphmau waved him off.

”Aphmau! Our class got its first opponent!” Vylad waved his Not-Alone-Buddy over.

Aphmau walked over, “Who—“ He was interrupted by a loud voice over the speaker, his ears rang with the volume, making him wince.

”For our 3rd event, head over to the soccer field; for Freshman Class A VS Senior Class A!! Good luck!” 

“Senior Class A? That means…” Aphmau met eyes with Balto, who was standing on the other side of the field. The freshman giggled.

”This’ll be fun.” Balto scuffed.

The people in the stands were cheering. Watching the fast-paced game unfolding on the field.

Aphmau, just small enough to slip under his opponents arms, and leg, kicked the ball down the court, passing it to Vylad, who made the shot.

Together they were some kinda dream-team.

The whistle blew as Vylad made the last shot, winning the game.

”What a close match! The winner is Freshman Class A! The MVPs of this match are: Balto, from Senior Class A, and Aphmau and Vylad from Freshman Class A! Man I can’t wait to see what else goes on in the tournaments!! Such a heated rivalry!” 

Aphmau panted, turning to Balto with a triumphant expression. “What’s wrong? Can’t keep up with a human?” He boasted.

Balto’s ears pinned, “The games aren’t over yet!”

Aphmau laughed, “Didn’t know you were a sore loser!” 

“I haven’t lost yet. It’s a team sport, remember? You’re just short enough to get past me.”

”EH!? Don’t call me short!” 

Balto grinned, “Short.”

Aphmau gritted his teeth, clenching his fist. 

A loud thud, cut through the tense air between Balto and Aphmau.

”This judge is BOGUS! He’s clearly blind!” Katelyn screamed.

”I think he’s dead, after you hit him with that volleyball, Katelyn.” Teony was bent over the passed out freshmen, concern on her face.

”He deserves it!” Katelyn huffed, her breathing coming in fast, drenched in sweat.

Teony shook her head, “Come on little freshman… I’m taking you to the nurse…”

Aphmau sighed, “Travis…” He watched as Teony carried away his friend, planning on visiting him as soon as he could.

”Aphmau-Kun and Vylad-Kun were amazing out there!” Kawaii-Chan ran over, Aphmau’s water bottle in her hand.

”Thanks Kawaii-Chan! Did you find out who we’re up against next?” He asked, unscrewing the cap on his water bottle, dumping the cold water over his head. 

“Yup! It’s the Junior Class in volleyball, then, if we win that, we go up against the last class in the finals for our block!”

Aphmau nodded, handing Kawaii-Chan back his empty water-bottle. 

“Alright! Let’s do this!” 

The game was fairly easy, only one player of the Junior team was playing. So Aphmau and Kawaii-Chan easily scored their win. 

“And Freshmen Class A wins the Volleyball game!” The Announcer’s voice echoed through the field, the people living in the near-by houses forced to also be updated about a game, they didn’t know, or care about.

The ginger Junior, pushed up his glasses, panting he turned to Sasha, who was sitting in the sand, on her phone. “Sasha, you didn’t even try…” He whined.

”I told you not to put me in…” She drawled, texting Gene about every move Aphmau made. He wanted to be updated, as he was as far away from the school as he could. “I don’t wanna conform to this competition.” She stood, brushing the sand from her skirt.

Aphmau giggle high-fiving Kawaii-Chan, Vylad hated sand and he wasn’t good at Volleyball anyway, and Volleyball was the only sport Kawaii-Chan enjoyed and was good at. “Nice serve, Kawaii-Chan!” 

“Yay!!” Kawaii-Chan giggled.

”UGH!” Katelyn’s voice made Kawaii-Chan turn faster than Aphmau had ever seen her turn.“It’s not fair!! I could’ve won that last round, if not for that heat exhaustion!!” Katelyn whined, Teony was next to her, pressing an ice pack to the back of her (Katelyn’s) neck.

”That’s what you get for pushing yourself so hard, in these competitions!” Teony scolded, sounding an awful lot like Aphmau’s mother.

“And the last competition for the day! It’s Senior Class A VS Freshman Class A!! It’s a tight one out there, students. Who will win for block 1!? Come down to the racing track to find out!!” 

Aphmau’s honey eyes lit up, like his life was saved. “Perfect!” Aphmau ran off.

Balto smirked, “Perfect.” He wasn’t going to run to the race track like he saw Aphmau doing, he was going to save his energy.

The race started, Balto and Aphmau were lined up for the last part of the race. Vylad and a Senior were neck-and-neck, Vylad longed himself towards Aphmau shoving the Plastic baton into Aphmau’s small hand.

There was almost a collective gasp when Aphmau started running, he was much faster than anyone expected, Balto was almost nervous as he jogged behind him, he wouldn’t be able to beat Aphmau fairly. He would have to pray on Aphmau’s soft heart.

Aphmau glanced back, expecting Balto to be on his heels. He slowed to a stop in confusion. “Huh?” He turned towards the werewolf. “What are you doing?” 

“Running.” Balto shrugged, stopping as well.

”You’re not even trying!” Aphmau argued, he knew how fast werewolves were, he grew up in a werewolf house after-all, he was faster than most werewolves, but just barely. Balto was several paces behind him, jogging.

”Yes, I am.” Balto scratched his ear. 

“I don’t know why you’re trying to throw the race.” Aphmau stepped forward, “But, I don’t need your pity.”

”Don’t you wanna look cool in-front of your friends?” Balto asked, motioning towards Aphmau’s confused looking friends. 

“Not one bit. Especially if it means winning like this.” Aphmau stood firm, losing would be less embarrassing, than winning by pity.

Balto grinned, chuckling, “Okay then.” And with the speed only a pure-blooded werewolf could muster, he ran past the finishing line.

”What the!?” Aphmau blinked in shock, and confusion.

Balto turned grinning, “I cannot believe you fell for that!” He walked off, still laughing.

Aphmau gritted his teeth, baring the fangs, he had inherited from his father. “Ugh!” He tried to lunch himself at the retreating werewolf.

Garroth ran back over, blocking Aphmau with his body. “Let me at him!!” He grabbed Garroth’s arm, his long claws digging into Garroth’s skin, “I’ll rip him apart!”  

“Aphmau. Stop. It’s over!” Garroth felt Aphmau’s restraint to not hurt him, if he did get to Balto, Garroth believed he actually could rip the werewolf apart. 

“He tricked me!!” Aphmau pointed towards where Balto had gone, looking up at Garroth with a pleading look.

”I’m not sure, what happened there, but you both ran a great match. Until the end, that is…” Garroth chuckled, nervously.

Aphmau loosened his grip, smiling, “Thanks Garroth.” He wrapped his arms around Garroth’s neck, pulling him into a hug.

Garroth blushed, his hands hovering over Aphmau’s waist, before he met eyes with Katelyn who was glaring holes into his skull, so he just hugged Aphmau back with his arms behind the younger’s back. “Your— your welcome.” 

Ivy glared at the two, Aphmau just wouldn’t get the hint! So she would do something worse, if slapping the Freshmen wasn’t enough, maybe something else would work…” 

Aphmau was in a stall of the boy’s washroom, the last of the students had just left the showers, leaving him alone, finally. “Everyone’s gone.” He sighed in relief, “I’d better head out too.”

He walked down the corridor, shuffling through his bag, making sure he hadn’t forgotten anything.

The faint sound of crying came from the boys locker room. It sounded feminine in nature, leaving him confused and worried. “It sounds like someone’s crying…” He pushed one of the doors open, nervously peaking around, “Uh.. Hello? Is— is anyone in there? Are— are you hurt?”

The large door closed behind him, he looked around in confusion. No-one was there, he shrugged, he must have heard wrong.

When he turned he was met with Ivy, she was so close, forcing him to stumble backwards. 

Ivy grabbed his uniform shirt in both of her hands, and with remarkable strength he shoved him into the locker one of her minions was holding open.

She slammed the door closed, smirking at the click that met the lock had secured into the latch. 

“Hah! I can’t believe you fell for that!” Ivy turned to her cousin, who was the one to make the believable sobbing sounds. “Good job, Lily!” 

Lily smiled in thanks. 

“Eh!?” Aphmau pushed on the door, making it slam against the latch. “What are you doing!? Please don’t do this! Shove me in another one! This is Zenix’s locker! I don’t wanna face him once he finds me in here!!” 

Ivy didn’t even know whose locker it was, how did Aphmau? Whatever, it was better that it was Zenix’s. 

“Hope you enjoy being stuck in a locker! You stupid potato! Ha!” Ivy laughed, proud of her evil plan, Aphmau didn’t have the room to try and force the door down, these lockers were smaller than the normal every-day lockers. Which he has accidentally locked himself in…

“I told you to stay away from Garroth!” Ivy slammed her fist against the door, making Aphmau jump back into the shelf holding Zenix’s gym-bag. Making his smell stronger.

It made Aphmau dizzy (I feel like I’m writing omegaverse… I’m cringing at myself.), Zenix’s scent wasn’t unpleasant. It was strong, a mix of cinnamon and some kind of spice that made Aphmau’s nose itchy. 

Ivy huffed, “C’mon girls!” The sound of footsteps fading made Aphmau do something he swore he’d never do again.

”Wait!! You can’t leave me here!!” The door closed, making Aphmau’s stomach drop. “They can’t be serious…” Only silence answered him. “This is awful… I might be stuck in here all-night!! And my phone’s in my bag…” He had dropped it in his attempts to get away from Ivy, it laid on the floor just a few feet away.

“Great… just great… I can’t for help or anything!”

Aphmau leaned against the door, trying to get the spicy cinnamon smell out of his nose. He stood there long enough for him to think up what punishment his mother would give him in the morning, trying to ignore the aching in his legs.

”Grab your things. We need to get outta here.” Gene’s voice followed the sound of the door opening.

”Yeah, yeah I get it… It’s really embarrassing walking around like this…” The sound of Zenix’s voice coming closer made Aphmau stumble back, trying to find a way to hide himself.

The sound of the lock being fidgeted with made Aphmau swallow. Zenix was going to kill him…

Zenix finally got the lock of his locker open. He opened the door, only to be shoved to the ground a second later.

Aphmau laid on his chest in shock for a second, before sitting up, now sitting on Zenix’s stomach, his hand rested on Zenix’s, very bare, chest.

“What the!?” Zenix stared up at him in confusion, “Kitty?”

”Could you not call me that right now?” Aphmau mumbled, pushing himself to his feet. 

“What the hell were you doing in my locker!?” Zenix asked, using the bench to help himself up.

”I— I—“ Aphmau stumbled over his words, picking up his bag from the ground. “That doesn’t matter! Thanks for getting me outta there…” He mumbled, “I’ve— I’ve gotta go! B— bye!” He ran past Gene, out of the doors, and straight home, hoping his mother wouldn’t notice his tardiness. 

Zenix and Gene stood in shock for another moment, before Zenix shook himself. “He’s so weird…” He muttered, pulling a clean shirt from his bag, leaving his dirty clothes for a different day. 

Gene stared after him, cursing Zenix for Aphmau being in his locker, and not Gene’s. “Whatever. Let’s go.”

Chapter Text

Aphmau sat in his Biology class, he hated this class. Mainly because Zenix sat next to him.

Most of the time it wasn't a problem, since Zenix skipped school; but he made sure to show up at least once every week or so, just so he didn't have to repeat the year.

And, of course, the day Zenix decided to show his face, was the day, after Aphmau saw him shirtless.

Aphmau was scanning the flyer for the Bake Sale happening the next day, several of his classmates where holding identical flyers, chatting excitedly.

The doors opened, Zenix shrugged in, yawning openly. He tossed his bag onto the ground next to his seat, sitting next to Aphmau, turning so he was facing away from the younger.

Aphmau's face flushed, putting the flyer into his backpack. He glanced at the dark haired boy next to him. He couldn't stop remembering how Zenix's slightly toned chest felt under his hand.

Zenix glanced over, humming, "What?"

"I— I'm just surprised you showed up." Aphmau shrugged.

Zenix smirked, "Aw, Kitty, were you thinking about me?" He teased lazily. 

"Not really. I'm just surprised Gene let you come."

"He's here too, if you wanna see him." Zenix leaned back in his chair, smirking at the younger knowingly.

"Why would I wanna see him? I like it better when you skip..." Aphmau turned away, staring over his classmates sitting at the table next to the window, watching as a little song bird flew to her nest, which sat on the windowsill.

Zenix snickered, having already frogotten about the previous day. 

A red haired werewolf, watched the two interact, he hummed, "He's a feisty one..." He smirked, "I wonder..."

Aphmau stood sore after a long hour of sitting in an uncomfortable plastic chair.

Zenix stood, stretching his arms over his head. 

The raven haired Freshmen slung his bag over his shoulder, his charms clanged together, as the purple bag hit Zenix in the side.

It didn't hurt, Zenix looked down, watching as the younger walked off, his nose in the air.

Zenix huffed, "I still don't see what Gene sees in him." He thought, picking up his own bag, and lazily texting Gene and Sasha that his class was done.

"Hey, Sweetheart." The red haired werewolf, approached his Alpha. "Where are you off too?"

"Sweetheart?" Aphmau turned, looking confused. "Hey, you're that guy from my Werewolf class!" Aphmau recognized him, his red hair and purple ears were unremarkable. "Ryder was it?" 

"That's right... I— I wanted to get to know you." 

Aphmau hummed, "You seem nice... But— I'm going to have to decline for now. I— I'm really sorry... Any other day would be fine, but— but right now, I'm kinda in a rush. Maybe later?" 

“Sounds good. I’ll see you around, cutie.” Ryder winked, letting the Freshmen walk off.

“Bye!!” Aphmau waved to the werewolf, walking down the hall. 

Ryder laughed triumphantly.

Balto glared at the younger werewolf, his eyes seemed a deeper red than normal.

Ryder felt like the back of his head was on fire, he looked around, meeting eyes with his former Alpha. 

Balto pinned his ears, before turning and walking away.

Aphmau was sitting on top of the bleachers waiting for someone. He sighed, “I wonder where he could be…”

*Ding*

The sound of his phone going off made him jump, he looked at the illuminated screen.

”Ugh. What the—” He read the text.

Gene:
”Hey Kitty.”

“Gene?” Aphmau grumbled, "What does he want?"

You:
"I thought I told you to lose my number."

Aphmau typed aggressively, his nails loudly tapping against his screen. "Seriously... I want nothing to do with him.

Gene:
"Kinda hard to do, since I still want to be friends. You know?"

You:
"What!?"

Gene:
"Maybe we can hang out sometime?"
"Like a date?"

You:
"I have ZERO interest in EVER seeing you again."

"Who does he think he is?" Aphmau grumbled under his breath, "Especially after what he did!" 

Gene:
"Look. I'll level with ya. I don't have the pic. anymore."

Aphmau stared at his screen, his glasses falling down his nose. He pushed them up, quickly typing his response.

You:
"You got rid of it?"

Gene seemed to erase and re-write his text for a while, before his final text was sent.

Gene:
"You could say that."

Aphmau felt like crying in relief, he smiled. Maybe he and Gene could move on.

You:
"Thank you Gene."

Gene:
"No hard feelings, right?"

Aphmau hummed. Before he could write a reply, Gene responded.

Gene: 
"Let's try to catch up sometime, Kitty.😘"

Aphmau's cheeks lit up, "I don't like the way he's saying that..." 

You:
"Uh, no thank you... I might be thankful for you deleting that picture, but I remember your the one who took it in the first place."

Aphmau heard Gene reply but didn't check it. He huffed, "Might have to change my number. I honestly want nothing to with that guy..." He angrily muttered.

Aphmau looked up, seeing Laurance scanning the fields, near the stairs.

”Laurance! Hey!” Aphmau called, waving enthusiastically.

Laurance sighed in relief, walking over to Aphmau. “Hey Aphmau. I’m so glad to see you here.” He watched as Aphmau carefully stepped down the bleachers. 

“Heh!” Aphmau giggled.

Laurance instantly held out his hand when Aphmau’s foot touched the bottom step (seat?). He took the elders hand, landing on his feet on the grassy ground.

”Well, you asked me to come here after all!” Aphmau smiled, sitting on the bottom step/seat of the bleachers, patting the spot next to him. “You wanted to talk to me about something?”

”Yeah, I did.” Laurance sat next to his Freshmen friend. “Well, kinda…” Laurance rubbed his hands together, nervous. “I saw you the other day in the Sports Festival. You were amazing!” 

Aphmau beamed, “Thanks! I saw you too! You were on fire!” He happily praised, “I’m disappointed we didn’t get to play against each-other… I would’ve schooled you at soccer!” 

“Ha! In your dreams!” Laurance chuckled, “Though you could definitely beat me at track. I’ve never seen anyone run so fast.”

Laurance took a breath, now or never, he supposed. “In any case… I— I wanted to talk to you about… about the kiss we had…”

Aphmau squeaked, “H— huh!?”

Laurance was blushing almost as much as Aphmau himself was. He swallowed, rubbing the back of his neck. “I— I wanted to know if you, like… liked it… I— I guess…”

 “Are— are you asking to do it again..?” Aphmau swallowed, feeling light headed.

”I mean… if you want to, we can…” Laurance wanted to shoot his shot. Aphmau wasn’t his first kiss, but it was never-the-less life changing. He couldn’t stop thinking about it.

”I— I mean…” Aphmau licked his lips, “Ca— can we?”

Laurance smiled, “Please.”

Aphmau slowly leaned forward, gently pressing his lips to Laurance’s.

Laurance hummed, placing a gentle hand on the back of Aphmau’s head.

Aphmau nervously lifted his hand, shakingly placing it on Laurance’s chest

Laurance wrapped his arm around Aphmau’s waist, ready to place him onto his lap.

Aphmau heard leaves rustling and hurriedly patted Laurance on the chest, pushing himself away.

Laurance grumbled. “What’s wrong?“

Aphmau placed a finger to his bruised lips.

”Haha! Nicole, you’re so funny!” Aphmau recognized that voice anywhere. 

Laurance and Aphmau shared a look.

”That sounds like Katelyn.” Aphmau whispered, whipping drool from the corner of his mouth. “I’m gonna check it out.” He stood, straightening his clothes while walking to the end of the bleachers, nearest the parking lot.

Laurance sighed, not caring to straighten his clothes, he hoped to get right back to what they were doing.

”Your smiles so cute, Katelyn.” A long red haired girl chuckled. Aphmau recognized her voice but couldn’t place it.

”Nic— Nicole… stop. I’m blushing…” Katelyn mumbled, covering the bottom of her face. 

“Katelyn.” The girl stepped forward, pulling Katelyn’s hand from her face. “You’re gorgeous when you blush.”

“Irene, Nicole…” Katelyn mumbled, licking her lips.

The girl, Nicole, smiled, reaching her other hand to hold Katelyn’s face, “Katelyn, can I kiss you?” 

Katelyn blushed, glancing around before setting her eyes back on Nicole. “Only once. I’ve gotta get going.” 

Nicole smiled, leaning forward to press her lips against Katelyn’s.

Aphmau gasped, as if he and Laurance weren’t doing the same thing just moments ago. “Oh, no, she didn’t!” 

“Oh, yes, she did!” Laurance cackled, “I knew they were dating!”

Aphmau pressed his hand to Laurance’s mouth, “Laurance! Shush! They’ll hear us!” 

“Who’ll hear what?” 

“Jeffory and Kat—“ Aphmau turned, stopping in his tracks when he was met with, “Telyn’s dad…”

Laurance looked from the couple to the adult in-front of them.

Mr. Windsor chuckled fondly, “You know you can call me Eric, little Aphmau.”

Aphmau smiled sheepishly. “Thank you, Mr. Eric. Excuse me, but what are you doing here?”

”Well. I’ve been waitin’ for Katelyn, to take her home. But I guess she’s caught up in her Volleyball meetin’.” Mr. Eric shrugged.

“Oh, she got caught up in something, alright…” Laurance muttered under his breath. 

“LAURANCE!” Aphmau yelled, glaring at Laurance. 

“So, I just decided to wait out here for her, seein’ as my Sugar Pea will probably be comin’ out here when she’s done.” Mr. Eric ran his hand through his short blue hair. “I can’t stand waitin’ in the car for so long…”

Aphmau smiled and nodded politely. “Shoot. This is bad. Mr. Eric doesn’t know about Katelyn being gay, or Nicole! And she doesn’t want him knowing! Do I tell him the truth? I mean… I couldn’t do that to Katelyn… I know, if I was her I wouldn’t want anyone telling my Mama.” His thought spiraled.

“So. What were you two starin’ at behind these bleachers?” Mr. Eric peaked over the two teenager’s.

”Oh. Well, Kate—“ Laurance was cut off by Aphmau grabbing his arm, his nails digging into his skin.

”Laurance! Don’t!” Aphmau pleaded with big eyes.

Laurance swallowed, “I… can’t talk about it.” He sighed, looking away from Mr. Eric, and Aphmau.

Mr. Eric looked confused, and skeptical. “Why not?”

Laurance turned to Aphmau. “Uh… Be… cause… because…”

Mr. Eric laughed, “Aphmau, you’re sweatin’ like you’re hidin’ a box of adorable, fluffy kittens!! Hahahahaha— Is there a box of cute, adorable,, fluffy kittens back there?” He suddenly turned serious.

”No!”

“Yes!”

Aphmau and Laurance shared a look.

”Yes?”

“No?”

Aphmau and Laurance said again, looking at each-other in confusion.

”Ooh! Let me take a look! I just love fluffy kittens!!” Mr. Eric gently pushed the teenagers apart, looking around the corner.

Aphmau reached out, grabbing Mr. Eric’s sleeve. “Mr. Eric no!” 

“What the—“ Mr. Eric was meet with nothing. “Aww man! You two got my hopes up for a second there.”

Aphmau and Laurance sigh a breath of relief. “Thank Irene… wait. Where’d they go?”

“One of my boys is allergic to cats, so we can’t have none. Whenever I see a little kitty-cat I’ve just gotta pet it.” Mr. Eric sighed, rubbing the back of his neck.

”Aw… I’m the same way, I’m sure you know about my mama’s allergy of cats.” Aphmau chuckled.

Mr. Eric nodded, “I do. I heard you got a dog though.”

”I do! His name’s Thorgi. My mama got me him after we moved here, he’s for my anxiety and allergy.” Aphmau smiled, talking about his dog made him feel more at ease.

”Oh yeah, I heard about that. You’re allergic to chocolate, right?”

Aphmau hummed, nodding, “Yeah, he comes with me to diners and stuff just in case I have a reaction. He’s trained to go get someone if something happens.”

Mr. Eric hummed, “Really? That’s amazing. He was trained to be a police dog right?” 

“Yeah, that’s why he knows how to alert others.” Aphmau giggled. 

“You’re allergic to chocolate?” Laurance asked, taking Aphmau’s hand into his own.

”Hm? Oh yeah, it’s pretty bad. I didn’t tell you?” Aphmau asked, leaning so his side was pressed against Laurance’s.

Mr. Eric smiled knowingly at the two teenagers in-front of him. But his mind wondered back to his daughter. “It taking longer than usual…” He wondered aloud.

Aphmau turned back to him, “Maybe I should go check on her?” He suggested.

Aphmau saw Katelyn on the sidewalk by the parking-lot, she was talking with Nicole. He nudged Laurance, nodding towards the two girls. Laurance looked over, nodding back.

“Huh? I’m an idiot! She’s probably waitin’ for me by the car! I’d better be gettin’ back!” He was free for the rest of the day.

But his son’s were waiting at home. Casey, being the second oldest, was watching his 6 younger brothers. Casey was amazing, but he didn’t know how to be authoritative, and his younger brother’s sometimes took advantage of it.

”I’d better get back!” Mr. Eric turned, where Katelyn and her girlfriend were still in sight. 

Laurance and Aphmau shared a panicked look. “Uh— Um— Wait! I have to, erm…” Aphmau looked at Laurance for ideas.

Laurance nodded his head back, “Cats. Something about cats.” He clearly meant to say. 

“Show you my impression of a… cat?” Aphmau glanced at Laurance.

Laurance felt bad Aphmau had to do this, but that was a main reason why he loved him. He was so loyal, and kind, and, well, Aphmau’s an angel.

”Um… I really don’t care—“ Mr. Eric felt bad, Aphmau was the child of his high-school sweetheart. He looked like her duplicate.

But he had to be honest, and try to save his son, from the murder of his own brothers.

“It— it’ll only take a second. Um… please?” Aphmau jerked his head at Laurance, telling him to go warn Katelyn while he had Mr. Eric distracted. “I’ve been working on it for my… uh… Theater Class! In fact, that’s why I’m out here with Laurance!” 

Laurance froze in his attempts to sneak away, thankfully he hadn’t gotten far, so it didn’t make Mr. Eric suspicious. He smiled, “Yep. And it was amazing, and adorable.”

Aphmau squeaked blushing as he hurriedly got Mr. Eric’s attention back to himself. “I was too shy to show it to anyone else… but I really need to try and show it to other people… so— so can I show you?”

Laurance kinda wanted to see this, but also had this odd urge to follow Aphmau’s request. And maybe if he did it, Aphmau would give him another kiss… it was worth a shot.

Eric felt bad. Aphmau’s eyes were filled with stars (that were in reality tears of embarrassment), he couldn’t say no. “Oh— fine. I got a minute. Let’s see it.”

Aphmau couldn’t see Laurance anymore. So he deemed it safe. He sighed, committing himself to his role. “Meow.” He pressed his lips together, getting onto the ground. “Meow!” He crawled in a small circle meowing.

He sat back on his heels, he and the blue haired man sat in an awkward silence. “Meow?” His mother would be hearing about this… 

“Wow… uh…”

Aphmau could almost hear Laurance’s laughter. He was so happy he wasn’t here.

Eric cleared his throat, “Well. That was a great. A great impression of a dying cat.”

Aphmau stood, wiping the grass stains from his pants. “What?”

Laurance snuck around the corner, sneaking behind Aphmau to stand next to him again. And by some miracle, Eric didn’t notice. 

“If you’re goin’ to do a cat impression, you really got to be the cat. Observe.” Eric cleared his throat, getting onto the ground.

Laurance leaned forward, whispering to Aphmau, “What. Is. Happening?”

”You don’t wanna know. And I won’t be telling you.” Aphmau watched the show in-front of them. 

“Meow!” Eric started crawling around like Aphmau did.

Aphmau tried his best to watch with a straight face, as Eric did for him, but it was not working. 

With one last meow the man jumped back to his feet. Looking proud. “You see how it’s done!? Meow! Oh yeah.” He boasted.

Aphmau started clapping, appreciating the man’s determination. “Wow. That was… beautiful, Mr. Eric.” 

Laurance was hunched over, covering his mouth to hide his laughter.

Eric proudly huffed, “Thanks. I used to sing back in the day. In any case. I need to head back to the car. See you kids around!” He happily waved off the teenagers, heading back to the parking lot.

”Did you tell Katelyn?” Aphmau asked.

Laurance hummed, clearing his throat. “Yup. She wanted me to thank you. So, thank you.” He bowed teasingly.

Aphmau blushed, “Um… may— maybe you can thank me another way..?”

Laurance smirked, wrapping his arms around Aphmau’s waist. “What kind of way?”

”Maybe taking me to the new bakery down the street?” Aphmau blushed.

”Are you asking me out on a date?” Laurance teased.

Aphmau looked down, “No… I’m asking you, to take me out on a date… maybe…”

Laurance chuckled, “I would love to accept your invitation, to take you, out on a date.”

Aphmau giggled, standing on his tip-toes to kiss Laurance on the cheek. “Come on Romeo.”