Archive of Our Own

Cosmo stared out the window of his apartment, cradling a mug filled with hot cocoa in his cold hands, a blanket wrapped around him as he stood by the window

Snow was falling gently outside, the trees around getting covered in a thin layer of white powder. In the distance, buildings were glowing a soft golden hue. It was a beautiful sight among the landscape that was turning whiter by the second.

“Comfy?” Chuckled his roommate.

He glanced back, seeing Sprout cleaning up the kitchen a little, preparing for the guest who was bound to be arriving soon.

“Yeah, I am.” He hummed in response, gaze now locked on his roommate. “How’s the kitchen coming along?”

Sprout huffed. “Amazing, it’s going so fast with all your help.”

“I’m the one who cleaned our entire bedroom!” Cosmo scoffed. “And the living room. And the guest room. And the bathroom. Is it so wrong I take a break?”

“No, it isn’t, you worked hard. Cleaning sucks ass.”

“Your future girlfriend is going to despise you for that.”

Sprout let out a bark of laughter. “Bold of you to assume I’m ever moving out. You’re stuck with me forever, Cos’.”

“Ohhh nooo, what a horrible fate.” He let out a giggle. “So long as you keep cooking most nights, I think I’ll survive.”

“You’re already a good enough cook, anyway.”

“Yeah, but I prefer baking.”

“Fair enough.”

The doorbell to their apartment rang. Cosmo threw down his mug onto the coffee table, racing to the door. Sprout obviously had the same idea, just barely beating him to it. Before his roommate could open it, Cosmo shoved him to the ground and took hold of the handle, swinging it open.

On the other side was Ginger, looking concerned and caught off guard. She let out an airy laugh.

“Hello to you two, too.”

Sprout snickered, standing up and resting his arm atop Cosmo’s head. “Hey, Ginger.”

Cosmo threw off his roommate’s arm, rushing to hug his cousin. “Ginger! It’s been so long! I’m so glad you could make it for the holidays!”

“Yeah, my boss was bitching about it for the past month. He’s kind of a creep around me.” She lowered her voice a little, seeming a tad put off.

Cosmo scowled. “Ew. Just tell him you’re dating Sprout. One picture of him and any guy, or girl, would go running.”

“You’d let me do that?”

Sprout shrugged. “It’s my purpose for existence.”

The three shared a laugh.

“Anyway,” Cosmo took her by her hands, “come in! Come in! It’s freezing outside, I don’t know how you’re surviving without sleeves.”

He pulled her inside, Sprout closing the door for them. Cosmo kicked away the blanket on the floor. It had fallen off of him during his race to the door. So much for making the place look neat and tidy.

“It looks nice,” she noted, “I’d expected you both to be living in some sort of pigsty of some sort.” She smirked at Sprout. “Seems like my cousin’s taking good care of the place.”

“Hey!” Cosmo’s roommate snapped playfully. “I help out too!”

“Sure ya do.” Cosmo teased.

“Stop making me look like an asshole in front of her, Cos. I’m trying to make a good impression.” He whined jokingly.

“It’s fine, this isn’t my first time seeing you.” Ginger flicked her hand dismissively. “Anyway, where should I put my stuff?”

“In the guest room,” Cosmo pointed to the door on the left, “though I’m sure you already remember it.”

Cosmo and Sprout had been living together for a total of three years. They met through a mutual friend, and hit it off instantly. Soon after, Cosmo went through a rough patch, and Sprout invited him to come crash with him for a while as he got his life together. Well, one week turned into a month, which turned into six months, which turned into a year. At some point, Sprout just told Cosmo they co-owned the house now, and Cosmo wasn’t complaining.

“Got it! Just give me a few seconds.” She walked off to the guest room, suitcase rolling on the floor as she did so.

Cosmo picked up the blanket, folding it before putting it on the couch. Sprout went to the kitchen, scouring the fridge.

Ginger came back, sitting at the kitchen island and watching Sprout intently.

“So,” Sprout glanced up at her, “you must be hungry. Cos and I could whip you something up if you want.”

She hummed for a brief moment. “If it isn’t too much of a burden.”

“Not at all!” Sprout pulled out some ingredients to make a simple stir fry dish. “Any allergies?”

“No, I’m fine eating anything.”

Cosmo walked over to the kitchen, helping Sprout with the vegetables. It felt natural to cook alongside him. They did it so often, after all. He’d typically say he’s going to make Sprout do it, only to feel left out and help him anyway. They had a really good friendship, the type where they worked together so well that they were practically a couple.

But they weren’t!

No, they weren’t.

Just a couple of good friends.

Or so he told himself.

“When are we seeing the family again?” Ginger inquired.

“Day after tomorrow. You can spend tomorrow resting off that jet lag,” Cosmo beamed at her.

“Thank God. I’m already exhausted just being here, and I slept half the flight.”

“I’d imagine. If you need anything, Sprout and I will be here to help.”

“Thanks, Cosmo. I appreciate it a lot.”

“Of course!”

The conversation came to an end there. Sounds of the duo’s cooking filled the apartment, the warm smell of homemade food being a nice contrast to the cold outdoors.

While cooking, Cosmo would cast occasional glances at Ginger, seeing the little bits of how she changed.

Her hair was curlier than before, large loose curls that fell to her waist. It was a deep brown, matching her beautifully tanned skin. She’d put on some healthy weight, looking like she’d begun working out a little. He noticed how her revealed arms seemed firmer and less bony, like how she used to be. She still wore dresses and tights. Since as long as he remembered, she always enjoyed embracing her femininity, to the point it had even rubbed off on him. She was currently wearing a red and white striped flowing dress, the colors matching her striped tights. Her gaze was soft, a little more focused on Sprout than Cosmo.

He couldn’t blame her. Cosmo would be lying if he said Sprout wasn’t objectively attractive. He was what any woman would look for, and it was a surprise he hadn’t gotten a girlfriend for as long as Cosmo’s known him. He was tall and fit, with semi-tanned skin and dirty blonde hair that reached just below his shoulders, typically put up in a ponytail. His eyes were a gorgeous green, being what typically caught people’s attention. He had freckles dotting his cheeks, and Cosmo had noticed they spread down to his firm shoulders as well. His shoulders were typically visible, as he liked to don tank-tops most of the time like they lived at the beach or something. On top of being drop dead gorgeous, he also had one of the kindest personalities Cosmo had ever seen. He cared for his friends more deeply than anyone Cosmo’s met ever had. And it was kind of attractive.

Cosmo, on the other hand, wasn’t fit or taller like the other two. He was shorter and somewhat chubby, opting to just take daily walks rather than commit to the gym. His skin was much darker than his cousin’s, and his face was sprinkled with light freckles. His brown-black mixed hair technically reached down to his mid-biceps, but due to shrinkage, it only went to just above his shoulders, the thickness making his hair look like a coiled afro. He typically wore an oversized hoodie that hung below his short shorts, and stockings that went up to his mid-thigh, revealing a little skin if he was angled some ways. He was never too insecure about his looks, though, as he knew that there were more important things to fret over.

For example, he was supposed to be focusing on cooking so that the apartment didn’t burn down. He always struggled with zoning out constantly.

After another ten minutes or so, the duo was done cooking, and nothing came out charred thankfully! They plated the stir fry for the three of them, sitting at the island together with Cosmo in the centre of them. They didn’t mind the early impromptu dinner, as the two were happy just spending time with Ginger.

She took a bite of the noodles, eyes lighting up. “This is really good! I swear, Cosmo, you’re getting better every year!”

“Thanks!” He couldn’t help but smile widely at the compliment. “Sprout’s been a really good mentor when it comes to that. So far, we’ve only had the fire alarm go off twice this month!”

“It’s the twenty third... that’s, like, once every ten days.” Ginger snorted.

Sprout choked on the noodles briefly, slamming his fist on the counter. “Oh, God-” he coughed loudly, “-you should’ve seen him when I first started letting him cook! The neighbours were so pissed hearing that alarm every day!”

“Hey!”

“What? It’s true! You’re such a good cook, you just gotta focus. Take your ADHD meds here and there.” Sprout elbowed him.

“He’s still not taking them? Cosmo...” Ginger looked pitying for a second.

He disliked that, getting defensive. “It’s fine, I get stuff done anyway. And Sprout’s here most of the time to stop me from destroying the house.”

“I don’t mind. I like playing hero, anyway,” Sprout grinned.

Ginger shrugged, looking away. “Sorry, I just... worry a lot.”

“I’m a grown adult, Ginger. I can handle my ADHD on my own.”

“You’re right. I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright.”

Silence overcame the three, Ginger clearly having lost her appetite. Cosmo wanted to lighten the mood, but couldn’t come up with anything to say. So, after a couple of minutes of awkward silence, Ginger stood up.

“I’m pretty tired. I think I’ll turn in, if that’s alright.” She gave a polite smile.

“Sure,” Cosmo nodded slowly, “take the plate with you. Just in case, you know?”

She seemed to want to disagree with him, but in the end nodded, taking the plate, giving a polite bow, and heading off to the guest room.

Cosmo exhaled, stirring the noodles around on his plate. “I fucked that up...”

“You didn’t do anything wrong.” Sprout wrapped an arm around his roommate, pulling him closer. Cosmo rested his head on Sprout’s shoulder. “You had a long day of cleaning. I think we should go to bed as well. If you want, I can handle the dishes tonight.”

“You’d do that?”

“Of course. What are friends slash roommates for?”

Cosmo chuckled. “Thanks. Just not yet. I’m comfortable.”

Sprout nodded, smiling sweetly down at the other. The two sat in quiet for a little while, just enjoying the closeness. It wasn’t unnatural for them to share moments like that. After all, they’d been living together for three years. It was only normal they’d grow such a close bond.

There wasn’t really a word to describe it. Best friends felt too simple. Brothers felt too weird. Boyfriends didn’t properly describe it. They were just two people living together closely, and both were content with how it was.

It took maybe ten minutes before Cosmo shifted off of Sprout so he could clean up the dishes. He was exhausted after getting so cozy, laying his head atop his arms on the counter, watching Sprout with half-lidded eyes as he cleaned up. His roommate moved calm and quick, cleaning the dishes and loading them swiftly yet precisely.

He finished up soon, taking Cosmo by the hand and leading them to their bedroom. Originally, they had slept separate, but after a year, they both realized that neither enjoyed to sleep alone. So, they just began to share a room, though with separate beds. Then a bed, but on separate sides. Then they just mutually decided to fuck the separate sides and cuddled nightly.

Yet somehow, it never occurred to Cosmo how gay that was.

He crawled into bed, Sprout coming up next to him and spooning him. The warmth of his friend felt amazing in the cold room, making him practically melt.

“So,” murmured Sprout, “seeing the family on Christmas?”

“Mhm, is that alright?”

“Yeah. Not like I got any other plans.”

“When will I meet your family?”

“When we start dating.”

Cosmo snickered softly. “Don’t know if that’s going to happen. You’ve already met mine, anyway.”

“Most of my family doesn’t live in the states. And the ones that do have a myriad of excuses at hand each time I ask them to visit.”

“Damn. Sorry.”

“It’s alright. I like yours, anyway. They treat me like I’m part of the family.”

“My mom likes you a lot.”

Sprout hummed. “Yeah. Your family’s really nice.”

“Yeah?”

“You’re still the best of them, though.”

Cosmo chuckled. “Thank you... Anyway, I’m exhausted. G’night, Sprout...”

“Night, Cos. Love you.”

“Love you, too...”

And with that, he drifted off into sleep.

The next day, Cosmo woke up bright and early. He attempted to sit up, only to find Sprout wrapped around him, holding him down. Most mornings started like this.

Feeling hot and sweaty, he slowly untangled himself from his roommate. The cold air of the room hit him all at once. He shuddered, making his way to the bathroom and turning on the shower.

Getting undressed and stepping inside, he let himself soak in the scalding water for a few minutes before finally doing his hair. It took a while to let the products marinate, but it was always worth it in the end. After a half hour or so, he stepped out, drying himself off and putting in some post-shower leave-in-conditioner. He grinned at his reflection, playing with the coils for a little. If there was one thing he was incredibly proud of, it was his hair.

Exiting the bathroom, he saw Sprout sitting up in bed, rubbing his face. He gazed up at Cosmo, smiling.

“Your hair looks pretty.”

That caused a small blush to spread to his face. “Hehe, thank you. I’m going to go handle breakfast.”

“Do you want me to help?”

“No, you can shower. Don’t worry, I’ll focus, I’m not going to burn anything.”

Sprout chuckled. “Alright, alright. Thanks, Cos.”

“No problem!”

Cosmo exited the bedroom, surprised to find Ginger already making coffee in the kitchen. She was still dressed in her nightwear, hair a barely brushed mess. Both the cousins struggled a lot with frizzy hair in mornings.

She looked up, smiling at him. “Good morning, Cosmo.”

“Morning, Ginger! I was going to make breakfast, what would you like?”

“Anything is fine. I’m not too picky.”

“C’mon, be more confident. We can do a lot of things. We have eggs, fruit, pancakes, waffles, French toast, cereal.” He rummaged through the pantry, looking to see if there was more. The two roommates had a problem of buying literally everything while grocery shopping, telling themselves they’d cook with it later, only to never use it. So, there was a lot of random stuff. Thankfully not expired. Cosmo kept up with that.

“Is... eggs and fruit okay?” She mumbled hesitantly, seeming embarrassed.

“Of course! How do you want your eggs?”

“Whichever way is easiest, thank you.” She took the coffee, bowing her head shyly and sitting at the island, cutting off the conversation before she had to answer for herself.

Since she was a child, she always struggled with speaking for herself. It was something he had tried working on with her, but she still seemed worried if she was being burdensome.

Sighing quietly, he took out a pan, deciding with a French omelette. He’d been working on it for some time now and it took focus to make, so he typically didn’t have time to daydream. He was halfway through cooking it when Ginger piped up.

“You’re roommate’s really cute.” She murmured. He glanced back, seeing a small, embarrassed flush on her cheeks.

He was a little uncertain on how to respond. “Yeah, agreed. Why do you say that?”

“I don’t know, just... I...”

“Do you like him?”

“Maybe...”

His eyes widened. He felt his focus slipping from the eggs, only half stirring them with his thoughts moving to stew over the situation thrust at him.

It wasn’t the worst thing—for Sprout and Ginger to be together. If anything, it’d just ensure that no matter who Sprout dated, he’d stay in the family, so Cosmo could still be close to him. Then again, the thought of Sprout with someone else stirred feelings inside of him, feelings that weren’t positive. He didn’t know what it was, but a part of him wanted to keep Sprout with himself forever. He’d gone this far with him and only him, after all. None of them had dated anyone since rooming together, and maybe Cosmo had taken that for granted.

“Yeah...?” He felt his breath taken away, the word coming out airier than he’d expected.

“Do you think you could help me get with him? I mean, you know him better than anyone, Cosmo.”

He swallowed, the saliva feeling thicker than normal. A little shaky, he nodded, finishing up the omelette. “Yeah.” His voice had cracked. Clearing his throat and putting on a façade, plated the omelette. “Yeah! I’ll help you! It’s not like he has his eyes out for anyone right now, anyway.”

“You’re the best Cosmo.” She was grinning ear-to-ear.

“I know.” He snickered, clearly playing around. He took some fruit from the fridge, putting berries and chopped up bananas on the side next to the omelette, giving the plate to his cousin.

“Thank you, Cosmo.”

Just then, Sprout entered. He looked surprised as he saw what was on her plate. “I didn’t know you could make omelettes! That’s so cool!”

He shrugged bashfully. “It took a lot of practice. Do you want some?”

“Of course I do, your cooking’s always amazing. I could eat it all day every day.”

“Alright, fatass, sit down.”

Sprout snickered, staring right at Cosmo’s rear. “I have a fat ass?”

Cosmo huffed. “Sit. Down.”

“I never said it was a bad thing!”

“Oh,” Ginger piped up, “do you like people with fuller... you know.”

Sprout hummed. “I don’t really have a preference for anything. Your cousin’s just hot as shit.”

“Sprout, shut your mouth before I shut it for you.” He was blazing hot, face red as hell.

“Do it.”

He glanced back, seeing the flirtatious smirk on his friend’s face. He didn’t respond to that challenge, instead focusing on the eggs. It was difficult to hide how the flirting got to him, despite knowing none of it was real. Moments like these were when he began truly questioning his sexuality.

But he couldn’t now. Because Ginger liked Sprout, so now he was off the table forever.

He finished up the eggs, plating it with the fruits he knew Sprout liked (lots of strawberries, and some oranges, as they were in season) and placing it in front of his roommate.

“Thanks, Cos. It looks really good!” Sprout beamed.

“No problem.” He moved to sit down on the other side of Ginger, as his cousin was now in between the two roommates so she could be next to Sprout.

Cosmo’s friend looked a little confused, but didn’t say anything. At least, not verbally. He leaned back in the stool, getting Cosmo’s attention. Sprout pointed to Cosmo before doing a thumbs up, a questioning expression on his face.

”Yeah, why?” Cosmo mouthed.

”You’re not eating.” Sprout mouthed back.

”What?”

”You’re. Not. Eating.”

Cosmo blinked, confused.

Sprout huffed. “You’re not eating.”

Ginger perked up. “Huh?” She turned to Cosmo. “Oh! Are you alright, Cosmo?”

He suppressed the urge to groan. “I’m fine, just not hungry. It’s not that big a deal, geez. You’re both acting like it’s the end of the world.”

Ginger looked like she wanted to fuss more, but went silent, just turning to her breakfast quietly. Sprout was staring at Cosmo, an unreadable look in his eyes. Thankfully, Ginger was able to grab his roommate’s attention.

“So, Sprout,” she started, “how’ve you been lately?”

“Huh? Oh, uh,” he shrugged, “fine? Work’s been nice, I guess, and I’ve mainly been spending time with Cosmo.”

“What do you do with work?”

“I’m a chef in a nearby restaurant. You should check it out sometime.”

Cosmo chimed in. “Yeah, he’s really good. I don’t usually go, because he’s already here, but sometimes if I want something fancier, I’ll visit. His cooking’s really delictable.”

Sprout snickered at their inside joke, based off a sign at the restaurant. “Yes, it is.”

Ginger nodded, seeming a little clueless but interested, nonetheless. “What do you like to do in your free time, Sprout? Besides hanging out with Cosmo.”

“What is this, twenty questions?” He chuckled. “I guess I’ll go to the gym if I’m bored, sometimes I’ll hang out with my other friends. Though I don’t like most of the friend group, so I typically stay to myself.”

“Cool! It’s a little clear you work out a lot, ahah. You look nice,” she had a small blush on her cheek.

The blush wasn’t reciprocated, but Sprout seemed to be grateful, anyway. “Thanks! I’ve been trying to get Cosmo to come with me, but he always complains everything’s dirty.”

“It is!” Cosmo whined. “Everything’s sweaty and warm and sticky and it smells like garbage in there! Besides, I do enough cardio outside of the gym. You should join me on a walk sometime, mister fitness!”

Sprout glanced outside the window before grimacing. “Yeah, maybe in the summer. I don’t think snow is exactly walking weather.”

Cosmo elbowed Ginger. “You should see him outside in the cold. He’s constantly bitching and moaning about how he’s going to get hypothermia and die. I swear, he could be wearing two coats, five scarves and three pairs of mittens and he’ll still be complaining.”

“I get cold easily!”

Ginger piped up. “Yeah, I get cold easy, too, sometimes.”

Sprout raised an eyebrow. “I would’ve never guessed. Weren’t you walking outside in just a dress and tights?”

She shrugged. “I said sometimes.”

From there, conversation came semi-easily to Sprout and Ginger. It wasn’t as smooth as Sprout and Cosmo’s, but that was likely because they’d been living together for three years and were very accustomed to each other.

Cosmo zoned out, staring at the counter beneath him. He still felt his stomach turning from the confession Ginger made. He didn’t know why it bothered him so much, he should be happy that two of his favorite people were going to get together.

Yet something just made him feel off about all of this.

But he didn’t have enough time to stew on it too much before Sprout made a suggestion.

“It’s a little too cold to really do anything today. Would everyone be fine with just a calm Netflix and chill day?” He glanced over at Cosmo and Ginger.

“That sounds nice.” Ginger smiled softly.

“Sure!” Cosmo agreed.

“I can handle the plates if you want, Cos.” Sprout offered.

“That’s alright! You two get comfy first, I’ll handle them.” He beamed, taking the finished plates from the other two and heading to the sink.

Before he could fully wash them, he felt strong arms wrap around him from behind. He jumped, angling his head up to see Sprout grinning down at him.

“I’m not going until you’re going.”

Cosmo huffed. “What are you, a child? Go get comfortable with Ginger or something.”

Sprout shook his head. “Nope. Waiting for you.”

Cosmo glanced back at Ginger, face red. He could see her uncertainty.

Obviously she wants to sit with him. I’d look like a dick if I stole him all for myself.

“C’mon, Sprout, seriously. Go sit with Ginger.”

“But you’re warmer.”

Ginger piped up. “It’s alright, Cosmo, honestly. I don’t want to be a problem.”

“You’re not a problem, Ginger, don’t say that.” Cosmo scolded. “I’m deadass, Sprout. Come on. Go. I’m not in the mood.”

Sprout, instead of leaving, leaned down and murmured into Cosmo’s ear. “You’ve been off all morning, babe. Are you alright? I can go, but I just want to make sure.”

Babe??

“I’m fine. Just the cold making me feel a little sick. Nothing too bad.” He mumbled back.

Sprout accepted that, stepping back and heading over to the couch. Ginger sat down beside him. Cosmo watched as she awkwardly sat up straight before finally working up the courage and leaning on him. Cosmo’s roommate looked a little confused, but didn’t push her off. He instead grabbed the remote, calling out to Cosmo as he handled the dishes.

“We’ve been meaning to watch Heartstopper, right, Cos?”

“Yeah,” Cosmo replied, “you can start it now. I’ll be over in a second.”

Soon enough, he finished up, sitting down on the other side of Ginger once again as to distance himself from Sprout a little. He knew his friend was a little hurt, but luckily didn’t verbalize anything.

Cosmo tried to focus on the show, he really did, but it was cold on the couch and the blanket he wore offered little warmth. But he wasn’t going to crash the future couple’s moment just because he was a little chilly. So, he just curled up with his knees to his chin, trying to bring some comfort to himself.

He felt Sprout’s eyes on him, boring into the side of his head. Cosmo glanced over, seeing how Sprout looked awkward and uncomfortable with Ginger, obviously much preferring to be with Cosmo.

Or maybe not.

Cosmo was probably just imagining things. He felt like such an asshole for being jealous that his best friend was being loved on. After all, Sprout deserved such love.

So why couldn’t Cosmo just let it happen?

The afternoon passed by. They’d had breakfast around lunch time, as all three loved to sleep in, so they were just spending the entire afternoon binging Heartstopper uninterrupted.

Around six, Sprout decided he’d go make dinner for them. Cosmo had volunteered to help, but Sprout made him sit and spend quality time with his cousin. So, he did. It had been a while since he had a full one-on-one with Ginger.

“So,” she smiled, “what’ve you been doing lately for work?”

“Ah, I help a friend out at a daycare. I’m kind of looking for something more permanent, but I don’t know what I want to do full time yet.” He chuckled awkwardly. “What about you? I know you like creative fields.”

“I do cake designs. There’s a small bakery near where I live, and I’ll help create wedding cakes, birthday cakes, the sort.”

“That’s so cool!”

She blushed bashfully. “Ahah, thanks. How’re kids at the daycare?”

“They can be a lot. Thankfully, my friend’s really good at calming kids. His husband helps out more with activities and such, and he helps them with settling down.”

“His husband- oh!” Her eyes lit up. “Sorry, I didn’t mean-”

“No, it’s okay. Yeah, they got married as soon as it was legal. Some parents are still a little... wary of them, but parents to female kids seem to be grateful there’s “no chance of them being creeps”.” He grimaced.

She nodded in understanding. “I’m glad it was legalized. It must’ve been such a relief for some people to be able to marry the people they love.”

Cosmo nodded. “Agreed.”

“So, this may sound weird, but... are you homosexual? To any extent?” She inquired shyly.

Cosmo didn’t miss the way Sprout’s head shot up from the kitchen, staring intently at his roommate.

“No, I don’t think so.”

“Damn.” Sprout huffed from the kitchen.

Cosmo scoffed, though it ended in a chuckle. Ginger looked between the two with slight suspicion before brushing it off.

“Yeah, same.” She murmured. “Just some friends who are.”

He nodded. “Yeah, most of our friends are gay.”

Ginger nodded. “Anyway, how’s the family been?”

“Eh, same-old same-old. A lot of “when are you going to get a real job?” and “when are you going to get a wife?”. It gets a little irritating after a while.”

“Sorry.”

“It’s fine. Sprout usually gets them off my ass pretty fast.”

“Hell yeah I do!” Sprout chimed in.

“He’s, like, my hero.” Cosmo joked, immediately realizing that sounded a little too romantic. “He’s a really good friend, you know.”

She nodded. “He seems like it. I wish I could visit more often and spend more time with you two.”

“Me too. You’ll have to visit when it’s warmer so we can do more things together!”

“I’ll be sure to!”

Just then, Sprout entered, placing down the three plates on the coffee table. Instead of resuming to sit beside Ginger, he sat on the other side of Cosmo, now having Cosmo in between the three. He flushed, embarrassed. Quickly, he mouthed a “sorry” to Ginger, who seemed to not care in the slightest, flicking her hand dismissively and beaming at Sprout.

“This smells really good,” she complimented.

“Thanks!” He responded, hand slipping down to hold Cosmo’s.

He instantly froze at the contact. Instantly, he pulled away, flushing as he leaned over towards the coffee table and taking a bite of Sprout’s cooking. It was delicious, as always. Maybe he should just move in with Sprout and Ginger when they get married so he could continue enjoying the chef’s amazing cooking.

Sprout seemed a little dejected, but didn’t say anything, eating quietly.

Dinner went by swiftly, conversation being made between Ginger and Cosmo, with Sprout occasionally chiming in. They finished up fast and Ginger looked a little tired.

“I’m going to rest up for tomorrow.” She announced after eating what she could. “The family can be a lot. Goodnight, Sprout. Night, Cosmo.”

“Night!” Cosmo waved goodbye, grinning.

“G’night.” Sprout dipped his head respectfully.

She left to the guest room, leaving the two alone.

Instantly, Sprout turned to Cosmo. “Dude, are you okay? You seem like you’re pushing me away.”

He was a little taken aback. “Yeah, of course I am. I just... don’t want to make it seem like we’re excluding her too much.”

“We can hold hands and still include her, Cos. We both know that’s not the issue. Are you ashamed of me?”

“What? No, of course not! I just... you know...”

“I don’t know.”

“I’m just really stressed about seeing my family tomorrow. You know how my mom is about these things.”

Sprout sighed. “She’s going to think we’re dating. Is it really that bad of a thing if they think we are?”

“Do you want them to think we’re dating?”

“I don’t care.”

“They’re not your family, Sprout. What would your family say if they thought we were dating?”

“They’d call me a fag and tell me to get over it. But your family’s not like that.”

Cosmo stopped, quieting. He’d met Sprout’s parents only once when they were visiting. They weren’t mean people, per se, just... stuck in the past. Sprout never seemed to be allowed to be himself around them. Whether it’s the way he dressed or carried himself, or the friends he had, they could nitpick every single thing.

“I’m sorry.” Cosmo sighed. “Ginger’s just... she went through a breakup not long ago and I don’t want to rub in her face that I’m here living happily with a friend while she’s... you know.”

It wasn’t a total lie. She had experienced a breakup, though she was over it already. The guy had been a massive douche, and she seemed happier to be rid of him.

“Oh.” Sprout looked down. “Sorry, I... didn’t know. That... makes sense.” He gave Cosmo a soft smile. “If there’s anything more I can do to help, just tell me.”

“Alright.” He reached out, taking Sprout’s hand in his own. “We should head off to bed, yeah?”

“We can still cuddle, right?”

He ignored the way that made his heart skip a beat. “Of course.”

Cosmo took the empty plates from the coffee table, cleaning them up quickly and loading the dishwasher. After turning it on for the night, he headed to the bedroom and crawled into bed. Sprout quickly joined him, the two facing each other as they cuddled. Cosmo’s face with buried in Sprout’s chest, their legs wrapped around each other’s.

He let out a sigh of contentment, stomach dropping as he realized one day he wouldn’t have this anymore. One day, Sprout and Ginger were going to be together, and she was going to have this. Cosmo would finally be forced to find a wife of his own and still, he would probably be unsatisfied.

Was it so bad all he wanted was Sprout...?

Yes, he told himself, it was. Because Ginger deserved him more. She deserved the world, and if she wanted Sprout in it, she deserved to have that.

“Sprout...?” He murmured.

“Yeah...?”

“If... When you get a partner, do you promise you won’t leave me?”

Sprout tensed up momentarily before shifting away slightly, just enough to look Cosmo in the eyes. “Cos, that’s never going to happen. I won’t leave you.”

“I just... sorry... don’t want anything to really change.”

“Then it won’t. Because you’re an idiot if you think I’m ever leaving you.” He chuckled softly, hand tracing along Cosmo’s cheek before holding the side of his face.

A soft blush spread to where Sprout was touching. He let out a small breath of relief.

“Thank you...”

“Of course. Love you, Cos.”

He didn't know how to respond to that. Sure, they said it to each other a lot, nightly in fact, but today it just felt less... platonic? He must be imagining things.

He mumbled out something that sounded like an “I love you, too”, before pressing himself back up against Sprout and quickly falling asleep.

“Got your stuff?” Cosmo called to Sprout from the kitchen, the other fixing his outfit in their bedroom.

“Yeah, just give me a moment!” Sprout yelled back.

Ginger was already waiting by the entrance door, wearing a jacket over her dress and thin gloves. She was clutching a satchel pulled across her chest, the color matching the jacket.

Cosmo wasn’t wearing any extra layers, as he didn’t plan on heading outside. While the tights were probably going to provide little warmth to his legs, the house was likely going to be warm and stuffy from all the extra people.

Sprout entered the main area, wearing one of Cosmo’s sweatshirts and a scarf alongside bellbottoms. He was looking at something on his phone, face red and holding a contemplative look.

“Everything alright?” Cosmo inquired.

Sprout jumped, surprising the two cousins. “Yeah, yeah, I’m fine. Just texting Astro.”

Cosmo nodded. Ginger cocked her head to the side.

“Who?”

“The guy who owns the daycare I told you about, you know, with his husband.”

“Oh!”

The conversation ended there as the three exited the apartment. It was three in the afternoon and freezing. That was to be expected during winter, though. Still, it was always a pain to deal with. Not the cold, but Sprout

“It’s freezing as shit out here,” whined his roommate.

Cosmo tutted teasingly. “Maybe you should’ve worn warmer pants.”

“How are you not shivering your ass off? You’re just in tights and a sweatshirt!”

“Don’t forget shorts.”

“Yeah, are the booty-shorts providing you warmth? Is that your secret?”

“Maybe. Though my ass is already hot enough as is.”

“Damn right it is.”

He flushed. “You didn’t have to agree! Creep...”

Sprout snickered. “What? I’m just noticing.”

He shoved his friend, Sprout cackling loudly. Ginger looked over at the two, snickering quietly. They made it to the car, Sprout sitting in the driver's seat and instantly turning on the seat warmer. Cosmo didn’t touch it for his seat, dealing with the cold against the skin on his thighs. It made him feel weirdly superior to Sprout. Ginger was sat in the back, sitting on Cosmo’s side. It was likely so she could look at Sprout.

Cosmo wasn’t judging. He’d be doing the same thing if he were her. Not... because he’s gay. Just... if he did like Sprout... he’d want to constantly look at him.

His brain needed to shut the hell up.

The car ride felt incredibly long, despite only being twenty minutes. His face was warm as he snuck glances at his roommate. God, why was it the second Ginger said she liked Sprout he suddenly began to catch feelings for him?

Whatever. He knew from experience suppressing the feelings could become disastrous. So maybe he could find a way to just let them exist quietly and... not be so big a deal that he breaks down sobbing when Sprout and Ginger inevitably become a thing.

Arriving at the house, he was snapped away from his stewing over Sprout. It was the house he had been raised in, where he spent all his childhood living. He remembered holidays as a kid. They had always been so loud and overstimulating, leading to many meltdowns in his earlier years. Over time, he finally decided to try spending time with family. Holidays were where he got so close with Ginger. The family liked to joke that they were practically twins, the way they did everything together and were inseparable when together.

She really helped him grow. And he owed her a lot.

There were many cars parked outside. It was clearly a full house. But that wasn’t so bad. Ever since befriending Sprout, he’d found incredibly comfort in the other. Sprout seemed experienced with overstimulation, and had easy ways to help Cosmo calm down. Whether it be taking charge and excusing the two, or somehow always having noise cancelling headphones on him, he was seriously a lifesaver.

The door was unlocked when they reached it. Instantly, the three were thrust into a whole other world, this one warm and noisy, a contrast to the frigid and silent outdoors.

“Ginger! Cosmo!” A voice screeched in excitement. Over bounded a plump, tan woman clutching a wine glass. She was clearly already a little over tipsy. “It’s been so long, you look so beautiful, sweetie!” She pinched Ginger’s cheek, Cosmo’s cousin flinching away.

“Ahah... thanks, mom...” Ginger murmured. Cosmo’s aunt brought Ginger to the side, giggling and chatting and catching up.

In came Cosmo’s mom, looking exhausted. “She’s such a doll when she’s not drinking her ass off.” She chuckled. “Hey, baby, how are you?”

“Good, thank you.” Cosmo smiled politely, immensely grateful his mother detested drinking.

“I see you brought Sprout again! It’s nice to see you!” She brought him in for a hug.

Sprout seemed surprised, glancing over at Cosmo in confusion. He wasn’t used to such affection. “Uhm, nice to see you again, too, ma’am.” He laughed nervously.

“Oh, please, call me Chiffon. I’m glad you’re here a second year! I was honestly expecting one of you to get a girlfriend and move out.” She chuckled. “I swear, I’m going to die before Cosmo here gets a girl.”

Cosmo flushed, shrugging. “Just haven’t been looking.”

“It’s alright, hun, I don’t really care. Do what makes you happy. Though my mami is definitely going to chew you out.” His mother rolled her eyes. “It’s really none of her business. If she gets too pushy, come get me, okay?”

“Okay.”

“Good! Now go have fun, play some games, eat some food. Do whatever. Love you baby.” She gave him a peck on the cheek before heading off to scold her sister who was still bombarding Ginger.

“So...” Sprout looked around. “What do you want to do?”

Cosmo shrugged weakly, already a little overwhelmed. “I don’t really want to see much of my family, yet. I’d rather deal with them at dinner.”

“Do you not like them?”

“I do! It’s just... a lot sometimes. Ginger’s really the only extended family I get along well with.”

“Well...” Sprout smirked mischievously. “We could... go up to see your childhood bedroom. You promised me you’d let me see it this year.”

He flushed. “Fudge... I forgot about that, ahah...”

“C’mon, show me! Pleeeaaase, Cos?”

Staring into Sprout’s pleading eyes, he found himself putting up no fight. “Fine...” he huffed. “But if I find you making fun of me, I will kick your ass.”

“Deal! Lead the way, baby.”

“Never call me that again.”

“Got it!”

Cosmo began walking up the stairs, hand brushing along the familiar railing. He used to love the texture of the weathered wood as a kid.

His door was right by the stairs. He opened it, peering inside. Everything was just where he left it when he moved out permanently. His mom really did have a hard time letting go of things. That was one thing he inherited from her.

“Woah...” Sprout breathed. “You really liked space.”

“Hm? Oh, yeah, I had a slight obsession.” He chuckled.

The room was fairly big, though not master bedroom big. It had blue walls, light carpeted flooring and a popcorn ceiling. The walls had a bunch of space posters on them, some being NASA and others just being cool designs he found from various places over time. The bed was full of black and blue blankets, stuffies from shows he used to watch neatly tucked into the corner by the wall. The thin arctic blue curtains were closed, the outside light filtering in as that color.

Sprout moved around, going from Cosmo’s desk littered with miscellaneous objects to his wardrobe to rummaging through his closet. He seemed fascinated by everything there.

Cosmo sat on the bed, just watching his friend.

A loud gasp from Sprout brought mild fear to him.

“No. Way! Yearbooks?!”

Cosmo cringed. “Ugh, no, don’t look through those!”

“You stacked them all together; it’s like you were asking for someone to binge them.”

“It’s not a show, dumbass.”

“It is to me.”

He stepped away from the closet, carrying the thirteen books in his hands. He plopped them down on the bed, starting with kindergarten. A little bit of flipping showed what Cosmo looked like back then. He had his hair in small dreads and had pink beads hanging in the front. His grin was crooked and he looked like a mess. Or that’s how Cosmo saw it.

“Dude, you were ADORABLE!” Sprout exclaimed.

“I was not adorable.”

“You totally were! Still are, by the way. Oh my god, you need to get beads!”

“No thanks, I never liked having my hair constrained in dreadlocks, anyway.”

“I think you’d look cute with them.”

Cosmo grimaced. “Not worth the pain.”

“Fair enough.”

Sprout went through the rest, pausing at fifth grade.

“Shit, Shelly was in your class?”

Cosmo looked over Sprout’s shoulder, thinking for a moment.

“Yeah, I think she moved in around there or something. I don’t think we really became friends until middle school, though.”

Shelly had pigtails and braces in fifth grade, her smile gigantic on her tiny face. Cosmo always admired her for her happy personality.

“Is that how you met Astro, too? Through school?”

“Nah, that was because of Shelly. She introduced me to a lot of people.”

“Oh, yeah, didn’t she introduce us?” Sprout glanced back at Cosmo, smile a little softer now.

“Four years ago, she did. Then I moved in with you.”

“And my life’s been better ever since.”

“Ahah, sure it has.”

Sprout continued on, cooing and laughing at Cosmo’s past self. The two eventually settled near the backboard of the bed, Cosmo resting his head on his friend’s shoulder as they looked through them. In all honesty, he’d forgotten what most of them looked like. It had been a while since he touched them.

After finishing his senior year yearbook, Sprout set it down, laying his head atop Cosmo’s. The two sat there for a few seconds, basking calmly in each other’s presence. Cosmo eventually got comfortable enough, closing his eyes and feeling his breathing slow.

That was soon interrupted, though, by Sprout piping up anxiously.

“Uhm, Cos?”

“Mhm...?”

“There’s... ah... something I’ve been wanting to tell you for a... little bit now.”

Cosmo opened his eyes, watching how Sprout avoided eye contact while biting his lip nervously, face flushed. Realizing he was probably going to say something important, he sat up, giving Sprout his full attention.

“What is it?”

“Okay... so...” Sprout took a breath. “We’ve been friends for a while now.”

“Four years.”

“Yeah. And these past four years have been some of the best of my life. I feel like we click in a way I never felt with anybody else. And I just really want to tell you something that might break our friendship permanently.” He let out a choked laugh, blinking rapidly.

Cosmo reached out in concern, placing his hand atop Sprout’s. “Take your time.”

“Okay, yeah, uhm... okay. I... I love you, Cosmo. Not in a “you’re my bro” way or “we’re best friends” way, but in a deep, passionate way. I just feel like I can be myself with you and you really get me. And I’ve felt this way for a good two years now. Every time I imagine you getting a girlfriend or just moving out it feels... empty. And... if you really wanted me to, I could force myself to move on, but I really don’t think I could ever fully stop loving you.”

Cosmo felt his mind get foggy and heart skip a few consecutive beats. His first reaction was an overwhelming sense of joy and love, making him want to fling himself atop Sprout and laugh until he cried. He wanted to confess he’d been feeling the same way, and he thought that Sprout was the only one in the world he could ever love. He wanted to kiss him again and again until it was established they were both madly in love with each other.

“Do you like him?”

“Maybe...”

“Do you think you could help me get with him? I mean, you know him better than anyone, Cosmo.”

No...

He couldn’t...

He couldn’t just go behind Ginger’s back like that! That would be horrible.

If she liked Sprout, that meant he was off the table permanently. No matter how much Cosmo yearned for him.

His mouth moved before his mind could even fully process the situation.

“I’m straight, Sprout.”

Sprout blinked, obviously a little caught off guard. The two just stared at each other, the moment feeling like a dream.

Or a nightmare.

“Oh... that... right, that makes sense. I’m sorry, Cosmo.” Sprout laughed, the sound strained. Cosmo caught the way he blinked briskly, turning his head away as he kept a tight smile. “I’m so sorry for making things awkward.”

“It’s fine...”

“Please, I don’t want this to ruin our friendship. I do really value you as a friend, promise. I haven’t just been friends with you just to date you.”

“I know...”

“Are you okay?”

Was he okay?

No...

“Yes...”

“Okay... Do you want to go downstairs? I get if you feel awkward around me.”

Downstairs...

Loud. Too loud. Not right now.

He just barely shook his head.

“Do you want me to leave?”

Did he?

On one hand, he would probably break down sobbing if Sprout left. On the other hand, it was best for Ginger if he sent Sprout downstairs to converse with her. Maybe it would get Sprout’s mind off Cosmo and onto her.

Not finding any preference, he just stared at Sprout, the words of ”I don’t mind either way” being too much to muster out.

“I’ll just... go... I’m sorry, Cosmo.”

Sprout instantly stood up, practically racing out of there. The door was left open behind him, the sound of hearty conversation filtering in. He felt too weak to close it, instead laying down in bed and clutching the comforter.

And crying.

And crying.

And crying.

He didn’t know how long he spent up there, or how much time was spent crying, but he knew by the end of it he was over his small shut down. He got up, taking his phone out of his pocket and checking the time.

An hour had passed.

Sighing, he put it back away, heading to the upstairs bathroom and cleaning his face. It was a red, dry mess. His hair was a mess, too, having gotten way too frizzy from God knows what.

He washed his face thoroughly before trying his best to smooth out his hair and make himself not look like a mess.

Cosmo blinked slowly at his reflection before deciding it was fine and heading downstairs. Instantly he saw Ginger having a one-sided conversation with Sprout, evident by the way he was staring down at a full glass of wine and tracing the rim of it with a finger. He glanced up at Cosmo as he walked down, eyes widening for a second before looking back down, seeming panicked.

God, he doesn’t deserve this... Cosmo sighed inwardly.

He headed to the kitchen, about to get wine or something before seeing his mother standing over the sink, cleaning up some dishes. She glanced back at him, quickly drying her hands off.

“Sugar, are you alright? You were upstairs a while.” She approached him, cradling his face gently.

“I’m okay. I didn’t sleep well last night. Fell asleep, ahah.” A flimsy lie, but it’d do for now.

She nodded slowly. “Okay. We’re going to have dinner now soon, yeah? Why don’t you go take a seat with Ginger and your friend.”

“M’kay...” He forced a smile, hesitating before exiting the kitchen and entering the dining room.

Sprout and Ginger had already moved there in the short amount of time he spent saying hello to his mom. Ugh, and he wasn’t able to get alcohol. If he did, she would instantly be on his ass about it.

Going over his seating choices, he saw the only one that wasn’t near rowdy or drunk people was by Sprout.

Great...

He awkwardly shuffled over, mumbling an “excuse me” as he sat down. Sprout froze visibly, staring down at the table. Cosmo looked down as well, neither of them knowing what to say or do.

Some of the family, mainly Ginger’s close relatives, put their hands together to say grace. Cosmo’s mom never raised him religious, so he didn’t join in. Sprout didn’t either, just glancing around the room in discomfort.

Finally, after the long-winded thanks was finished, everyone was allowed to eat. Cosmo stared at the food, instantly feeling sick. That wasn’t usually something he felt, since typically he would stress-eat, but just couldn’t bring himself to take a bite of anything.

Dinner was long, longer than it usually was. He just stared down at his plate the entire time, the only thing being on it some mashed potatoes his mom insisted he eat.

He didn’t eat it.

Finally, after a few hours, it was over. People were finished and satisfied, those with young kids on their way out.

Ginger could see the tension between Sprout and Cosmo. Of course she could.

“I think we should go home, yeah?” She suggested.

Neither of them fought her on it. They all said goodbye to close family before going to the car, the silence deafening.

Nobody spoke, not even Ginger, who hadn’t a clue of what had happened.

He loves me... he loves me, and God, am I overjoyed, but this can’t happen...

The car ride was tense, Cosmo’s hand fiddling with the cuff of his stockings, feeling like he was on fire despite the near subzero temperatures accompanying the winter at night. His surroundings passed by in a hazy blur, eyes unfocused. His head felt light, the meltdown and shutdown completely draining him.

When they arrived home, he didn’t bother saying goodnight to Ginger or waiting for Sprout. He instead headed off to their shared bedroom, laying down on the bed and burying his face into the pillow.

A minute later, Sprout entered, voice small and hesitant.

“Do you want me to sleep on the couch...?”

Cosmo sat up, face twitching and eyes brimming with water threatening to spill out.

“Oh, Cos...” Sprout breathed out, approaching him. Tentatively, he brought up his thumb to wipe away the tears. “I’m so sorry, I know I shouldn’t have said anything.”

“It’s not...” he choked out. “It’s not that.”

Sprout was looking at him with such care and affection, acting like Cosmo was the most important person in the world. He was such a doting friend.

“I... I shouldn’t be saying this...” he inhaled shakily before just spitting out what he’d been wanting to scream since Ginger told him. “Ginger likes you. She... she told me she likes you, and I... I don’t want to be a dick... I mean, it’d make me look like such a douche if she just told me she liked someone and then two days later I’m like “hey, I’m dating him”, ahah...” the laugh came out as more of a sob.

His roommate looked like he hadn’t a clue what to say. He just stayed crouched on the floor beside the bed, hand on Cosmo’s cheek.

“And, uhm...” Cosmo continued, shaking violently. “I lied. About being straight. I just... didn’t know what to say... I mean, we’re so close, it’s not like I can say I don’t like you like that...”

“So, what are you...?”

“I don’t know. Never really, ah, thought about it or put a label to it. I’ve liked girls before, so being queer is kind of... new, I guess...”

Sprout nodded in understanding. “Can I tell you something, Cos?”

“Yeah, of course...”

“I’m gay. Fully, one hundred percent, undeniably gay. Even if I didn’t love you, things wouldn’t work out between Ginger and I.”

“I... feel like I should’ve known that.”

“It’s not like I really go around with an LGBT flag everywhere I go screaming my sexuality to the world, though no hate to people who do. I guess, uh, growing up with homophobic parents helps you conceal that part of yourself well, heh...” Sprout moved to sit beside Cosmo, hand holding his roommate’s.

“I’m sorry, Sprout.”

“It’s fine, really. At least I’m not, like, suppressing it. If I were, I’d probably convince myself into liking Ginger just because she was related to you.”

Cosmo rested his head on Sprout’s strong shoulder, breathing slowing and tears drying up. He intertwined their fingers, thumb brushing against the back of Sprout’s hand.

“So... what should I do...? I don’t want to be a dick and jump in to take someone she loves, you know?”

“Does she even love me?”

“Yeah, she said she-”

“But she doesn’t know me. She knows how I look, sure, but we haven’t really gotten to talk a lot. Besides, her personality doesn’t really... vibe with mine. She’s too shy and timid and I need someone more my level.”

Cosmo hesitated. “That... makes sense...”

“I think it would be best if you talked things over with her tomorrow, one on one. Because, if I’m being honest, I think it’d be really great if I could finally have you to myself, heh.”

Cosmo snickered, blushing. “Sprout...”

“I’m serious! You’re adorable, funny, handsome, charming- it's a shocker I was able to keep myself away from you for so long.”

“You sicko.”

“Not like that! I just... I really love you, Cos. And no matter what happens with Ginger, or what she says, I’m not going to stop loving you, okay?”

A small smile graced Cosmo’s face. “Yeah, yeah, okay. I’m exhausted, though.”

“That’s fair. Can you drink some water before going to bed? I can get you a snack or something, too.”

“I’m fine, I don’t need anything.”

“You’re probably dehydrated. And you didn’t eat dinner, either.”

“I’m still not really hungry...”

“Water?”

He sighed. “Fine, I’ll drink something.”

“Got it!”

Instantly, Sprout sprang up and bolted to the kitchen. That got a chuckle out of Cosmo. He was one of the most caring people in existence. It was a wonder Cosmo hadn’t fallen head-over-heels sooner.

His roommate re-entered the room holding a glass of water, handing it to Cosmo.

“Thank you, my knight.” He teased, taking the glass and having a few sips.

“You’re welcome, princess.”

He choked on the water, spitting some out onto the ground. The two burst out laughing, Cosmo setting down the glass. He took a second to just watch Sprout, grin turning into a small, loving smile.

He wasn’t going to confess his love, not yet. He wanted Ginger’s consent for that. But in all honesty... no matter what she said, he knew he was going to be with Sprout.

“Alright, alright,” Sprout let out a few more chuckles before jumping onto the bed and pulling Sprout down with him.

“ACK--!”

“We’re going to sleep now. And you owe me cuddles for making me scared as hell earlier.”

“Ugh, such a terrible thing to owe.” He rolled his eyes dramatically.

“Mhm, sure is.” Sprout held Cosmo close, heart beat audible to the small spoon. It was calming. “I love you, Cos.”

“You told me that a lot today.”

“And I mean it every time.”

“Ahah, thanks, Sprout. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight, Cosmo.”

Cosmo was sat on the couch, hands clasped together before him and leg bouncing anxiously.

He’d been waiting for an hour. Sprout insisted he could stay with him until Ginger entered, but Cosmo shook his head firmly and promised he’d rather have time alone to think about what he wanted to say. Despite having sat for so long, he still did nothing but stew anxiously.

When she entered, he shot up, whipping around swiftly and staring at her with wide eyes, akin to a deer caught in headlights.

She flinched in surprise. “Cosmo! I wasn’t expecting you to be here. Is... everything alright?”

“We need to talk.” His words stumbled out messily, though were clear.

She nodded slowly, taking a seat on the club chair by the couch. Her posture was perfect, hands resting calmly in her lap. He was the exact opposite, a hunched over shaky mess.

“What’s going on, Cosmo?”

“Okay...” he started. “I... this... you know how you like Sprout?”

She hummed for a second. “I guess. Why?”

“He, ah... something... at the Christmas event...” He was trembling, voice wavering tremendously.

“He said something during the event?”

“Y-yes-”

“Is that why you were so on edge? Oh, Cosmo, I hope he wasn’t being cruel.”

“No! Not at all!” He waved his hands swiftly in a “no way” manner. “He just... we... he...”

She was patient and calm, letting him get his words out without interruption. He stumbled a little for a few seconds before finally blurting out what he’d feared to tell her.

“He said he loves me.” His voice cracked, Cosmo covering his mouth in embarrassment, both because of the crack and because of the situation.

He couldn’t bear to look her in the eye, shutting his tightly and feeling his face grow hot. His lip trembled slightly, speaking feeling like an impossible task that he pushed through, anyway.

“I’m so, so sorry, Ginger. I know the timing is shit because you just said you liked him and I promise I’m not trying to be a dickhead and steal the guy you told me you liked. I... I think I might like him back,” a complete lie. Cosmo knew he loved him back, “but I’m not going to date him if you don’t want me to because that’d be a vile thing to do to you. I really am sorry, I feel like such a douche and I don’t deserve any forgiveness because this seriously was a breach of trust and I-”

“Breathe, Cosmo, breathe.” She finally cut in.

He opened her eyes, seeing she’d silently moved closer to kneel down before him. She placed her hands atop his, loosening his tight and clammy grip on his stockings. There wasn’t an ounce of sadness or anger in her eyes, just a calm care and concern for her cousin. He went silent, sniffling and wiping his cheek awkwardly against his shoulders, as his hands were taken at the moment.

“Cosmo, I really don’t care, okay? It was to be expected, anyway, ahah.” She let out a small laugh.

“What...?”

“I mean, I should’ve already assumed. It’s kind of obvious he likes you.”

“No- I- I never- he never-”

“Seriously, nobody stares at a friend’s ass as much as he does to yours.” She snickered softly.

Cosmo’s face was burning hot.

She continued in a more serious manner. “I’m sorry I made you think I’d be mad. I do agree, it would technically be a dick move, but not in this situation. If I was infatuated with him and knew he was the one, maybe I’d be a little upset, but in all honesty... I think I just...” She looked down awkwardly. “Made myself feel that way about him because it was the... straight thing to do...?”

“What do you mean?”

“I...” She bit her lip momentarily. “Think I might... be lesbian?”

Both of them went silent for a few seconds. Cosmo smiled faintly.

“Yeah?”

She nodded. “Yeah...”

“Is there a girl...?”

Ginger blushed ever so slightly. “There’s a... friend. I think you’ve met her before. Bobette?”

“Oh, of course I remember her. You’d never stop gushing about her when you first met. It’s a wonder neither of us put the pieces together sooner.”

“Ahah, yeah... She’s... kind of the person I had in mind when we were talking about gay relationships...”

“She lesbian?”

“Bisexual.”

“Ahah, I think I might be, too.” He chuckled softly. “I’m really happy for you, Ginger.”

“I’m happy for you, too. I swear, you better not have rejected Sprout. He’s the best boyfriend you could ever have. If you ever try dating someone else, I will physically strangle you.”

He let out a bark of laughter, caught off guard by that statement. “I didn’t reject him, promise! But I didn’t exactly accept his love, either...”

“Cosmo! Why not?”

“I wanted your permission first!”

“Well, full steam ahead! Go get yourself a man! You haven’t dated in so long! I guess it makes sense, since he’s probably all that you’ve ever wanted and nobody will ever compare, huh?” She teased, a playful glint in her eyes.

“Ugh, I swear, when you bring Bobette over for holidays I am so getting you back.”

“As if! I’ll have nothing to be embarrassed over.”

“Wait till I find your yearbook photos.”

“She’d probably gush over them and call me adorable, ahah.” Ginger squeezed his hands tightly. “But seriously, I love you, Cosmo. You’re my favorite cousin. I want you to be happy, and I don’t even care if it meant I’d have to be like Angelica Schuyler.”

He giggled. “Yeah, yeah, okay. I love you, too, Ginger.”

“I’m going to go home early, I think. There’s another open spot for the flight. I, ah, kinda think it’d be fun to spend some of the holidays with Bobette.”

“She’s not busy?”

“Tough family situation.”

“You should’ve brought her!”

“Ugh, my dad would be all over me. I think he already knew I was gay before I did.”

“Probably. But if you want to go home, do it. I think New Years would be a good time to confess, yeah? Start the year off strong?”

She hummed. “I’ll think about it. I’m going to go book a flight. You better go to Sprout right now and tell him you love him, though. I swear to God, I will beat your ass.”

“Ahah, sure you would.”

“Don’t test me.”

“Alright, alright. Thanks, Ginger.”

“Of course.”

With that, he stood up and headed to the bedroom. Sprout was sitting on the bed, looking at something on his phone. He perked up upon seeing Cosmo, seeming excited yet anxious. Cosmo walked over to the bed, keeping a stern, serious expression on his face.

“What’d she say?”

Instantly, Cosmo grabbed him by the collar and pressed their lips together tightly. Sprout didn’t waste a second, wrapping his arms around the other and bringing himself into Cosmo’s lap. It was brief but passionate, a perfect first kiss in Cosmo’s opinion.

“I love you, Sprout.” Cosmo finally told him, this time meaning it more than he ever had before. His heart was practically bursting with joy.

Sprout’s eyes were brimming with tears, a large, dumb smile on his handsome face. “I love you, too, Cos.”

The two spent the next hour or so basking in each other’s presence, giggling and chatting and planning how their relationship would go. It all felt so easy, like they were experienced in this with each other.

Ginger had gone home the next day, giving a sweet goodbye at the airport to Cosmo and whispering a something into Sprout’s ear Cosmo didn’t pick up. By the sound of it, it was likely a threat to make him promise to treat Cosmo well. He was grateful his cousin cared for him so deeply, but it was a little embarrassing.

The two held hands the entire car ride back, the feeling one they both knew well, yet so much more meaningful. Arriving back, Sprout made his love for Cosmo abundantly clear, peppering him with kisses and murmuring words of affection.

And this time, Cosmo didn’t brush them off, didn’t reject them, didn’t tell him to stop.

He just giggled along, telling Sprout he loved him.

Because he did.

And now, he wouldn’t have to hide it ever again.