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On a scalding afternoon, an hour after twelve, two inphernals traversed through Crossroads, intent on unwinding after their phight. A typical day in Crossroads meant that streets were bustling with activity and noise, so peace would be elusive to find no matter where one would go.
But this was no problem to Rocket. Why should he care about strangers eyeing him strangely and whispering belittling statements to each other when he’s holding hands with his partner? In his little world, all that mattered to him was the taller inphernal walking besides him. At least, that’s what he wanted to believe. No matter how hard he tried to avoid thinking about those judgmental thoughts, they always seeped into his mind.
Don’t focus on that. Just enjoy your date.
They were on their way to a carefully chosen restaurant, which, according to Sword, “would be a great place to relax”. Since Rocket wanted this date to follow immediately after the phight, his only preparation was a few spritzes of perfume. No time for fabulous outfits.
“And then I caught him by surprise with this new technique I learnt!” Sword exclaimed, acting out the move with his right hand as though he wielded his gear. Giggling in response, Rocket observed the subtle shift in Sword’s body language while he was busy fighting his inner demons. He noted the way Sword inadvertently squeezed his hand, his eyes narrowing, and how he flashed that stupid smirk Rocket found adorable. Suddenly, all noise drowned out, and all he could focus on was Sword’s presence.
He looks so cute. Damn, Sword really is hands-
Now it was Sword’s turn to notice Rocket staring at him. The admiration made Sword’s stomach somersault, but this was a fine opportunity to tease Rocket nevertheless.
He waved his right hand in front of Rocket. “Whatcha staring at me like that for?” The inquiry broke Rocket’s trance, and he grumbled in response.
Great job, idiot. You shouldve been more subtle.
“You’re so handsome it’s getting on my nerves.” He muttered. Sword catched on to what he says, feeling his face burn and widening his eyes slightly.
“Ahh, well-“ Too flustered to properly respond, Sword’s mind short circuited. “I can’t help you with who you find attractive, Rocket.” The shorter inphernal rolled his eyes.
He tightened his grip on Sword’s hand, who gasped at the sudden discomfort. “Very helpful, partner.”
“I’m sorry! Your compliment caught me off guard!” Sword defended himself, chuckling nervously as he scratched his neck. “You, like, never praise me for how I look.” Of course, he isn’t accustomed to receiving compliments about his appearance. When they were platonic, totally no homo, best friends, Rocket praised every other aspect of Sword.
Amidst all the noise from other inphernals, and the endless crowd on this busy day, comfortable silence fell among Sword and Rocket. Sword’s eyes darted everywhere except at his beloved, whereas the latter gazed at him for a long time.
Rocket initially doubted their relationship’s success. He believed they formed a chemistry unparalleled by any other, and there was no reason to risk losing that. After all, their friendship held way more significance than Rocket would admit, so to lose that would greatly perturb him. There was also his belief that loving another inphernal was to be avoided, and those who did so deserved ridicule. Was this at fault of his growing up on Playground? Definitely. There wasn’t any evidence towards this idea. He held onto it, anyways, out of fear for any repercussions, no matter how improbable.
But a little convincing and Rocket agreed to date his best friend. A move he considered the riskiest he’s ever done, though he’s willing to take that leap of faith. He eventually looked away, smiling to himself.
“I will admit, you look handsome t-” Sword’s attempt to flirt back was interrupted by another inphernal, who jostled into him. They cursed under their breath and glared at the two partners.
“Look in front of you next time, lovebirds.”
The snarky comment earned the inphernal a death stare from Rocket. Suddenly he felt a strong urge to summon his gear and blow that individual to oblivion. There was no plausible reason to justify why they didn’t see the duo in advance. It seemed like they weren’t rushing too! Rocket thought this inphernal secretly desired to ruin their day.
If I see you next time, you’re not returning home unscathed.
“Hey, let’s keep going. Restaurant’s not far from here,” Sword gently squeezed his hand. Rocket sighed and they continued walking.
“So rude! I bet that inphernal is so jealous of us that he sabotaged our moment.”
“Rocket, they were probably in a rush and didn't see us.”
Rocket, still sparked wirh ire, scoffed at that seemingly ridiculous excuse. “Didn’t look like it. I’ll blast them to smithereens if they cross our-MY path again.” Sword couldn’t help but chuckle, finding his tantrum adorable.
He raised an eyebrow. “Are you trying to show how strong you are?” Sword received a light shove as a response.
“You already know I’m well built,” Rocket grinned, flexing his real arm’s muscles to his partner—and weirding out any inphernals passing by. Sword simply rolled his eyes, finding it attractive, naturally.
They kept up the playful banter for the remainder of their travel. Rocket was glad they maintained their usual antics. He especially enjoyed the perks that came with their relationship. Those hugs they had post phights? Sword supplemented those with kisses, especially on the lips. The hangouts lasting until midnight? Rocket gladly cuddled with Sword, their combined body warmth fending off the night’s frigid temperatures. Sword in general? Somehow the dork became more affectionate than he already was.
Okay, Rocket deduced that maybeeeee they were a little too… affectionate. A certain thought, eclipsed by his yearning for Sword, lingered in his mind. Refrain from too much public affection… Be covert about this.
Though, I want everyone to know this idiot is taken by me.
“And here we are!” Sword proclaimed. They stood before a humble restaurant, its height paling in comparison to the adjacent buildings towering over it. Variety of potted lush plants embellished the walls’ dull black paint, and, peeking inside, the place didn’t look crowded. A sharp contrast to Crossroads’ congested streets. Rocket thought the place resembled Slingshot’s cafe, just different stylistic choice regarding decoration and whatnot.
“Couldn’t have picked a more romantic place.”
“This is the thanks I receive for my planning?” Sword retorted, frowning.
“Dude. all you had to do was pick a place for us to hang out at,” Rocket pointed out as they walk into the building. A little bell chimed when they entered. Cute.
“You underestimate the difficulty that task can get. Especially with a certain someone.”
Rocket gasped. “Don’t insinuate me being picky!”
Sword, laughing in response, scanned the place before settling on a two-seat table at a corner of the restaurant. “You rejected like nine of my ideas on an appropriate place for eating.” He walked with his partner, still holding hands, to a table besides the windows, isolated from the other inphernals.
At this moment, a brilliant idea came to Sword’s mind. He pulled Rocket’s chair out, bowing down like a knight to his princess. Touched by the chilvarious, yet excessive gesture, Rocket giggled. “My chair is too far away from the table, genius.”
I hope no one saw that. Rocket’s disconcerting thoughts surfaced again, a looming threat to his repose.
Sword, already sitting, scoffed in response. “Can I at least get a thanks for that? You’re so ungrateful,” He pouted, flashing those puppy eyes Rocket found incredibly stupid. And adorable. And attractive. And gorgeous, and stunning and beautiful—he shaked his head and cleared his throat, announcing in a majestic tone.
“Why, dear Sword of mine, I extend my deepest gratitude for offering me your kindness.” Sword chuckled at the sudden formality.
“My pleasure, dear Rocket of mine.”
Their date, as usual, went swimmingly. After all, it would be rather difficult to mess up a date where they just talk and eat food. A rather mundane dinner time, but Rocket treasured every second. He relished the intimate idea of just eating with his partner, which was surprising for an adrenaline junkie. Given how intense the phights can get, Rocket felt exhilaration surge through his body whenever he won. That familiar feeling of his heart pounding, being drenched in sweat, panting as the megaphone boomed over the arena. It all culminated into an inexplicable, yet electrifying emotion. Rocket enjoyed it a lot.
So to say that Rocket preferred THIS feeling, this adoration for Sword, over his adrenaline rushes? That speaks volumes.
Both partners, finished with their food, stared lovingly at each other. Sword rested his head on his hands and smiled at his partner. Rocket mimicked the gesture too, though he looked more smitten. If anyone witnessed this scenery, he would receive teasing for eternity. He could care less, in spite of that. Taboo or not, everyone will know he loves HIS beloved, and Rocket will make damn sure of that.
They ended up, once more, in their peaceful, little world. The fleeting respite was appreciated to immeasurable lengths, especially by Rocket. It’s not every day that he, in all his spirited glory, decided to unwind rather than honor his playground roots and wreak havoc. Sword broke their long silence.
“You’re beautiful.”
A simple praise, yet it never failed to make Rocket blush. He felt butterflies flutter in his stomach.
“That’s a strong word for someone like me,” Rocket replied.
“I think it suits you.”
Rocket covered his face and, fidgeting with his shirt, looked everywhere except in front of him. At least he won’t feel insecure about his appearance. Not if this doofus has anything to say about it.
“Enough of that. You’re smothering me with your sickening praise,” he insisted, earning a laugh from Sword.
As customers began leaving, the lovebirds were among the few remaining. Some of the staff members began stacking up chairs, while others wiped the tables cluttered with leftover meals and drinks. They, however, noticed the lovestruck idiots, and took special care into not disrupting their alone time. The two partners bantered without a care in the world. Sword’s compliments always brought a genuine smile to Rocket’s face, even if he considered them awkward.
Sword’s impulsive decision to sit on a table next to the windows contained a delightful consequence. The sun’s golden rays gleamed on both phighters equally, but Sword observed Rocket’s angelic appearance. His attire basked in the sunlight glowed like bioluminiscent jellyfishes, the colors radiant. Sword fixated on the way the yellows were especially accentuated by the light. He imagined a halo adorned on Rocket’s head, and that his partner undergoed a metamorphosis into a deity he would eternally revere. It’s the way Rocket kept on talking too, not minding the sunrays burning his clothes.
“You’re quite obvious with your staring.” Rocket’s head lazily laid on his hand, trying to look unamused.
“Is there anything wrong with admiring my partner?” Sword, tilting his head, responded. “Besides, you’re one to talk when you were gawking at me earlier.”
Rocket put his hands up in defeat. “Yeahhhh, you caught me. Dead to rights.” He scanned his surroundings, now aware that they’re the only customers left. “We should leave now. Don’t want to keep the staff waiting.”
Sword stood up. He stretched his limbs and sighed in relief. “Mhmmm, it’s past evening anyways. By the time we reach your house, it’ll be dark.”
Rocket nodded before he raised an eyebrow. “I never invited you to stay over at my house.”
“So we had a pleasant date, yet you refuse to let your partner crash at your place?” Sword frowned, crossing his arms. “Unhospitable. What happened to the amiable Rocket?”
“You’re so unbearable. Can you stop?”
“You love it.”
A slight pause.
Yeah. I do, actually. A whole lot. I want you to keep doing that.
“Okay, shut up. Let’s go now,” Rocket said, inviting his partner to hold hands again, to which Sword happily accepted. Hearing the bell chime on their way out, they exited the restaurant.
Now that it was late in the day, the streets aren’t as packed as they were earlier. The only inphernals left were those leaving from work. Rocket tugged on Swords hand, signaling for him to follow. “Home is far from here, so you’re stuck walking with me for a while.”
“You say that like it’s a bad thing.”
“It is when I have to deal with you for like, what? An hour?”
Sword playfully rolled his eyes. “Whatever you say, honey.” That pet name surely does wonders to Rocket.
“I told you to not call me pet names!” Rocket, stomping his foot, glared at the taller phighter.
“Whoopsies. My apologies, dear partner,” Sword replied and smirked at Rocket. The latter pouted in response, refusing to look at Sword.
Why did I agree to date this idiot again? Rocket thought. They began walking towards home.
The only sounds that could be heard for miles were the chirping of crickets, the breeze of the chilling wind, their footsteps, and those from other inphernals. Fortunately, night brought a cool temperature as the antithesis to noon’s scorching heat. The calm atmosphere Crossroads held at this time far supersedes the chaotic feeling Rocket is all too familiar with throughout the day. It sets the mood for one to be lost in thought, to muse about anything and nothing in particular. Rocket’s mind pondered upon a specific red-horned, cheerful, and fond individual.
Because why wouldn’t he? Rocket can’t help it. Underneath all the boisterous energy, he was also an infatuated inphernal who craved lots of love. At the end of the day, phights were just phights, and the adrenaline rushes, while quite envigorating, didn’t fulfill Rocket’s desires completely. Oblivious to this fact, Rocket yearned for affection to fill that hole within his heart. And who couldn’t be a more compatible partner than his best friend?
By the time they reached home, the moon was visible and stars sparkled in the sky. Perfect for stargazing, but Rocket simply wanted to relax more after the tiring day.
“Sometimes, when I gaze at the sky, I imagine that you’re among the stars, gazing back at me.”
“That’s going on the list of ‘corniest statements you’ve ever said to me’,” Rocket scoffed. I love them, though. He momentarily looked down at the pave way, mustering the courage to say something stupid, then he looked up at him.
“Hey Sword?”
“Yeah? What’s up?”
Rocket smiled.
“I love you.”
Sword smiled wider.
“I love you too.”
He spread his arms wide to invite Rocket for a hug. Thrilled at the prospect of more physical contact, Rocket jumped into his embrace. Warmth enveloped him, driving all his doubts away, as he nuzzled into Sword’s neck. They can stay here until the sun rose, and Rocket wouldn’t mind.
How does he manage to stay so warm even when it’s chilly?
Sword broke the hug, and Rocket immediately wanted to pull him back into his embrace. He’ll have to wait a long few minutes, unfortunately. For now, he smiled at Sword, who blushed at the eye contact.
“Rocket, the wind is kind of freezing me.”
“Right! Sorry.” Rocket, feeling giddy, shoved his hand into his pockets, grabbed the house key, and inserted it into the key lock.
The door creaked as they entered the living room. Rocket, at the comfort of home, felt exhaustion kick in. Need some rest. He walked over, as if driven by instinct, to the sofa at the center and plopped down. Sword followed after, towering over Rocket.
“I’m not sleepy yet. Movie night?”
“Of course you're wide awake,” Rocket grumbled, sitting up. He snatched the remote on the table in front of him. “What do you wanna watch?”
Sword sat close to Rocket and wrapped an arm around his partner. “Whatever you want, dear.”
He exhaled loudly. “For the last time, do not call me that. And second, I knew you were going to say that. Shouldn’t have asked.” Sword could only chuckle nervously in response. Flipping through a couple of titles, Rocket settled on a romance movie between two inphernals. Hopefully this one’s so boring it’ll lull me to sleep.
“Care to explain your movie choice?” Rocket couldn’t see it, but he knew his partner flashed that stupid smirk, the one that when in a teasing mood he always wore. He, too, wrapped an arm around Sword, wanting to feel as much of him as possible.
“I will not explain, thank you very much,” Rocket replied, feigning an angry tone.
Sword looked down at Rocket, and he pressed a gentle kiss to his forehead. Smiling, he reassured: “It’s okay to have a strong interest in romance, Rocket.”
“I chose this movie just so I can ridicule the plot. Romance bores me,” Rocket replied. He hoped that excuse will suffice.
“If you wanted romance so badly, you have me. I’ll gladly reenact any scenes from these movies with you,” Sword suggested coyly.
“Kiss me, then.”
Sword whipped around, facing the now blushing Rocket. He, too, felt his cheeks burn, but soon after he grinned. “As you wish, my love.”
Rocket rolled his eyes at the pet name, moving past that and, with a gentle touch, held his beloved’s cheek with his real hand. Sword copied the motion, slowing down so he can caress the lovestruck inphernal. The icy touch sent a chill down Rocket’s spine, a rejuvenating feeling surprisingly, and he leaned into the snuggly touch. He so badly wanted to shove Sword down on the couch, to overly make out with him until he’s left breathless. Such a freaky, charming scenario would be suitable for another day. For now, a gentler approach was more suitable. The couple brought their face closer, their admiration steadfast. Then, slowly, their lips met. Rocket felt as galvanized as an inphernal buzzed by caffeine, and it doubtless was intoxicating in a good way. He yielded to that sensation, a feeling amplified by Sword’s warmth engulfing his body, and closed his eyes, letting the phantom-like blanket comfort him.
Rocket pulled away from the kiss. He couldn’t precisely tell how many seconds has passed, perhaps more than thirty at least. Thats an embarrassingly long time to kiss someone. Speechless, the eager rocketeer could only bring about a smile.
“How’s that for romance?” Sword teased. Rocket’s smile morphed into a pout, and he lightly punched Sword’s shoulder.
“Thanks for ruining the mood, idiot.”
As the movie finished rolling its intro, Rocket, now hit by a wave of drowsiness, watched as the plot unfolded, even if his eyes drooped and he was drifting out of consciousness. Perhaps because he mused about Sword. Again. The idea that he could instead spend more time in bed with his loved one made Rocket joyful, but he couldn’t bring himself to get up. Furthermore, he doesn’t feel like critiquing the movie anymore. Not after that loving kiss.
Mmm I really love Sword…
“Thought you wanted to bash on the movie?”
“Changeee.. of plans. I’m sleepy…. Let’s leave that for another day…., mkay?”
Sword nodded. “If you say so.” Inspired by Rocket’s sudden “I love you” declaration earlier, he too wanted to pull a brave move. Careful as to not displace Rocket too much and ruin his sleepiness, he gently picked him up, and he settled the shorter inphernal on his lap. Rocket didn't audibly react with words. Rather, he happily hummed and allowed Sword to hold him like an oversized teddy bear. Or a fluffy pillow. Well, Rocket wasn't fluffy, but he sure was a great pillow.
Trying to keep Rocket awake, Sword made an effort to point out trivial details about the movie. A comment about blushing, or an oversight in the plot, whatever Sword could think of without coming off as annoying. Rocket didn’t mind one bit. He’d definitely listen to every word from this idiot he calls beloved, no matter how mundane the topic is. It was difficult right now, though, what with him dozing off, then briefly gaining enough consciousness to muster an “mhm”, or a nod. Sword embracing him magnified the sleepiness tenfold, and it wasn’t a surprise that, when the movie ended, Sword heard Rocket’s faint snoring, a surefire sign he drifted off to dreamland.
Would it be wise to fall asleep in this position? Sword thought a better idea consisted of properly tucking Rocket in to bed. With the same gentle touch as before, he lifted Rocket off his lap, then stood up and carried bridal style his sleeping beauty. Great thing Sword was considerably strong, so he easily held Rocket’s weight. Reaching his room, he entered, then tucked Rocket in his bed, ensuring his goggles and prosthetics were off.
Great! Sword hoped Rocket doesn’t care about waking up in his phighting fit. If he does, well.. it’s his fault for falling asleep. Now Sword needed to disrobe and change into a cozy set of clothes. A brilliant idea materialized in Sword’s mind, and he glanced at the wardrobe next to Rocket’s bed.
“He wouldn’t mind this, right?” Sword mumbled to himself, taking a peek at Rocket’s wardrobe. He chose a set of nightcap and nightgown, the set he always wore whenever he slept over at Rocket’s place, quickly undressing and putting on the sleeping garments. He quickly settled into the bed and spooned Rocket. He reflected upon the day’s success, and, smiling to himself, drifted to sleep too.