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Jabber sat at his desk silently studying, though in a way, not necessarily studying. Just skimming over material. He hardly studied but today he’d figured he’d give it a try. He was a firm believer that if you listen fifty percent of the time in class you’d do fine. It would be a lot easier for him to focus if he didn’t feel Zanka’s eyes staring a hole into his back. “You good?” He spoke up, turning to the next page of his textbook that had hardly been used.
A moment of silence goes by. Zanka debated speaking, still staring at the Junior in front of him. While Jabber was studying for his class, Zanka was studying him. It makes no sense, the junior hardly studies. Yet he has all A’s for some reason. Majoring in biochemistry, which no debate is an extremely hard course. But hell he passes so easily you’d think he was a teacher's pet.
“Why ask?” Zanka mumbles, turning over in his seat on the bed. Grabbing his phone, 11:30 am. Jabber smirked faintly as he leaned back in his chair, stretching his arms. The way Zanka was analyzing him was pretty amusing. He wondered what he could possibly be thinking right now.
His smirk only grew when he heard the other respond in his signature bored tone. Jabber could never get enough of it. Zanka was so monotone and uninterested with everything, yet it made him even more interesting to the junior. Jabber just couldn’t quite put a finger on what it was.
Zanka sighs before sitting up and stretching. “I'm going home.” He says, originally the plan was to stay the night. He just can’t seem to relax himself, he’d been to Jabbers apartment twice, it feels strange being in a space like this. Mostly because it was Jabbers. It was like a teenager sleeping over with her boyfriend for the first time. They had no sort of dynamic like that. So Zanka thought.
Jabber watched as Zanka sat up, already planning on leaving. He couldn’t say he wasn’t disappointed, it had only been a couple hours, but he wasn’t surprised. Just a bit bummed out.
His expression remained unreadable as he closed his textbook, pushing himself up from the chair and turning towards the bed. “You are? Already?” He leans down towards the blue eyed boy. “You can stay Zan-Zan, I want you here.”
Jabbers unusual serene tone made Zanka feel regretful for wanting to up and leave. Every other time, he didn’t feel any kind of regret. It was different now. “You’re studying, don’t wanna distract you.” He doesn’t back away from Jabber. He doesn’t even make an effort to get off the bed either.
Jabber rolled his eyes at the lame excuse. Zanka was always so considerate, it drove him crazy. He leaned down even closer, now inches away from the younger boys face, close enough to feel his breath.
He smirked down at Zanka, he loved the little look of discomfort in his eyes as he invaded his personal space. Jabber brought a hand up to tuck a loose strand of brown hair back.
“You won’t distract me. I can multitask.” His words were barely a whisper. Embracing Zanka’s lips as if they were to escape any second. Jabber's lips were soft against Zanka's, their kiss deepened with a gentle urgency as the Junior slid a hand beneath the younger boy's shirt, fingers tracing the line of his spine. Jabber pulled him closer, craving more contact, and let out a soft sigh against Zanka's mouth.
It was times like this that Jabber felt like he could lose all control, his mind completely consumed by Zanka's presence. The way his body pressed against his own, the intoxicating way he tasted, it was almost maddening.
Jabber's lips were soft against Zanka's, their kiss deepened with a gentle urgency as the Junior slid a hand beneath the younger boy's shirt, fingers tracing the line of his spine. Jabber pulled him closer, craving more contact, and let out a soft sigh against Zanka's mouth.
It was times like this that Jabber felt like he could lose all control, his mind completely consumed by Zanka's presence. The way his body pressed against his own, the intoxicating way he tasted, it was almost maddening.
Zanka felt just as satisfied as Jabber. Zanka would be lying if he didn’t say he enjoyed getting attention. Didn’t matter for what, didn’t matter from who. Praise was his favorite thing. He wouldn’t say it was narcissistic, he was more of a glory hound. To politely put it.
The kiss broke, “I still think I shouldn’t stay the night. I have a quiz tomorrow.” He spoke knowing he’d be begged to stay. Jabber huffed in frustration, pulling away from Zanka and standing up straight. His expression shifted to mild annoyance as the other spoke.
He was right, of course. It was a weekday, they both had classes tomorrow, they had responsibilities. But the way he was so concerned about an exam in the first place, it irritated the Junior. Jabber crossed his arms, glaring down at Zanka. “You really think a quiz is worth leaving over? I haven't seen you in two days.”
Zanka shrugs, the real reason is he knows Enjin has his location. He’d rather die than be asked why he was at some unknown location, and then have to explain he was coming to see Jabber. The two don’t seem like they go together.
“I don’t want to be asked why I’m here. You aren’t worried about Cthoni randomly dropping by and seeing me?” Zanka was curious, what did Jabber really think or their dynamic.
Jabber's eyes narrowed as Zanka spoke, a hint of irritation in his expression. He knew exactly what the other meant, and it pissed him off. It irritated him that Zanka always had to be so secretive.
Jabber let out a scoff. “And what would she do if she saw you here? Huh?” His gaze bore into Zanka's as he leaned down a bit, hands resting on his hips.
The idea that Zanka still felt the need to hide their connection was frustrating. Was he ashamed of him or something?
Zanka knows logically, nothing would happen. There would be zero consequence to their relationship. He didn’t care though, he didn’t want to be perceived that way. He doesn’t know why his walls are so high up, why he’s so on edge.
Zanka scratches his eyebrow with his thumb before speaking. “Tell people, which could cause unnecessary drama. You know things that usually happen when you keep secrets.”
Jabber scoffed at Zanka's reply, rolling his eyes. His patience was wearing thin, but he didn't want to start a full-blown argument. He just wanted Zanka to stop overthinking things and stay.
"Secrets?" Jabber smirked, stepping closer again. "Zan, who gives a shit what people think? Seriously." He tilted his head, studying the younger's expression. "You act like we're doing something illegal."
His fingers traced along Zanka's jaw lightly. "Stay." Just one word, soft, insistent, and laced with something resembling sincerity.
Despite wanting to leave, he figured it wouldn’t hurt to stay. He spent the night, for the first time. Like they were little kids having their first sleepover.
—————
“You’ve never tried this before? it’s so good Zanka try it.” Riyo was devouring some kind of roll. Every food she eats she’s sworn she’s never had it before. Which she probably hasn’t.
“It’s a spring roll, of course I’ve had it. Did you eat the same thing everyday as a child?” Zanka asks with much concern, eyeing the red head with curiosity.
Zanka groaned at hearing the incredibly unbalanced diet. He can’t even imagine leaving that way. His diet was always strictly balanced, even now. Thought now he’s probably only learned to do it from habit. The practice being taught from such a young age.
“You’re gonna get sick,” Eishia’s voice seemingly came from nowhere. Setting her plate down.
Riyo's eyes darted over to Eishia with a small pout, slightly defensive now. "Oh, don't start with me," she said, waving her hand dismissively. "I've survived on this diet for years, and I'm still standing, aren't I? Besides, life is too short to obsess over eating healthy all the time."
Zanka snorts, “Sure.” No point in arguing with her.
“Your uh little boyfriend would agree if he were here. Where is he?” Riyo asks scanning the dining hall.
“Boyfriend?” Zanka parrots sounding bewildered.
Riyo smirked, leaning forward with an exaggerated wiggle of her eyebrows. "Oh please, don't play dumb. You know exactly who I'm talking about, Jabber?" She said his name in a singsong tone, clearly enjoying Zanka's reaction.
"You two were practically glued together last week," she continued, waving her chopsticks teasingly. "And now he's nowhere to be seen? Did loverboy scare him off already?"
Zanka just stared at her, his face blank. "We're not dating." He says causally taking a sip of his drink. Knowing on the inside he was embarrassed. “It’s Tuesday he doesn’t have class.”
Riyo rolled her eyes, clearly not buying it. "Sure, yeah, keep denying it. You're not fooling anyone, Zanka." She leaned back in her seat, a sly grin on her face. "You two have been acting all secretive and mysterious for weeks now. It's obvious something's going on."
Eishia, who had been silently observing the entire conversation, piped up with a quiet chuckle. "Just admit it already."
“There’s nothing to admit,” Zanka protests rolling his eyes. “You two need to mind your own business.”
Riyo gasped dramatically, pressing a hand to her chest as if wounded. "Ouch! That hurts, Zanka. Here I was, just trying to show concern for your mysterious love life."
Eishia snorted, shaking her head. "More like trying to satisfy your nosiness."
Riyo shot her a glare before turning back to Zanka, resting her chin on her palm. "Fine, fine, keep your secrets. But when, not if, this shit blows up in your face, don’t say we didn’t warn you." She grinned, popping another spring roll into her mouth with exaggerated satisfaction.
Zanka just sighed, ignoring the jab. "Whatever."
Meanwhile, across campus, Jabber was leaning against a wall outside the science building, glancing at his phone. No messages from Zanka.
He was a bit curious as Zanka usually texts him that he’s eating in the dining hall. They eat together every now and then. He wondered if Zanka was okay
He pocketed his phone with a scowl, shoving off the wall and heading toward the dining hall, completely unaware of the conversation awaiting him.
The three notice the dread headed man coming towards the table. Instantly it was silent. All for different reasons. Riyo wanted to see her theory become reality, Eishia assumed there would be conflict which made her nervous. And Zanka, he was just internally praying Jabber didn’t say anything stupid.
Jabber spotted Zanka and the girls immediately as he entered the dining area. His gaze flicked over them briefly before making his way over to the table.
He nodded his head at Riyo and Eishia in greeting, though his attention was primarily on Zanka, who seemed strangely tense. And was studiously refusing to meet his eyes.
Taking a seat next to him, Jabber looked back and forth between Zanka and the girls knowingly. "Hey."
“Wassup?” Zanka asks, not knowing what the other was thinking. He never did.
Jabber rolled his eyes at the nonchalant response. Typical Zanka, avoiding any sign of affection in public. He wasn't going to give the girls the satisfaction of getting a reaction.
"Nothing much. Just thought I'd drop by since you didn't text me you were eating." His voice was tinged with subtle annoyance, but he kept his expression neutral as he picked up a fork and stabbed at Zanka’s plate.
Zanka pauses, he completely forgot. He turns to Jabber and gives a ‘my bad’ face. “I forgot to text you, I’m on a bit of a budget right now. Don’t have the money to eat out.” He confirms.
Jabber scoffed but didn’t push it further. He wasn’t going to start some dramatic argument in front of Riyo and Eishia, no matter how much he wanted to taunt Zanka right now.
He leaned back in his chair, folding his arms. "Well, lucky for you, I already ate."
Riyo, who had been watching their interaction with thinly veiled amusement, grinned. "Ohhh, so this is what you guys do? Just silently pout at each other?"
Jabber shot her a glare. "Mind your business, Red."
Zanka sighed. "Both of you, shut up."
Eishia, wisely, stayed out of it and continued eating.
Jabber smirked, nudging Zanka’s leg under the table. Subtle, possessive, and just a little smug. The body language said ‘You’re stuck with me.’
“We can go to the park after I’m done.” Zanka suggests. His way of making up ‘lost time’ or whatever Jabber called it.
Jabber perked up at that, a small glint of satisfaction in his eyes. "The park, hmm?" He raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Sounds good to me."
Riyo's grin widened, clearly enjoying this development way too much. "Aw, you two are so cute with your little secret meetups," she cooed, batting her eyelashes dramatically.
Eishia just shook her head, quietly resuming her lunch.
Zanka glances at Riyo and chuckles in a sarcastic manner. “Thanks,” He huffs before standing up and throwing away his tray. “C’mon.” He motions for Jabber to follow.
Riyo sticks her tongue out at Zanka, unfazed by his sarcasm. Meanwhile, Jabbers smirked, rising to his feet and following Zanka, his eyes trailing up the other boy's figure appreciatively.
"See you ladies later." He winks at the girls before strolling off after Zanka, hands casually shoved in his pockets.
—————
The two were striding side by side, kicking a rock in between the two of them. They came here often as it’s a place where Zanka doesn’t feel it’s.. ‘intimate’ to be with a friend. A so-called friend anyway.
“I really did forget.” He says after the two walked in silence for a while.
Jabber chuckled as Zanka broke the silence, walking in sync with him. "Yeah, sure, sure." He smirked, bumping his shoulder playfully. "I'm starting to think you're avoiding me on purpose."
He was mostly joking, mostly. Jabber knew Zanka wasn't the most affectionate person in public, but still, he craved that attention. And being ignored stung a bit, no matter how hard he tried to brush it off.
Majority of the time, Jabber feels like he’s some random guy Zanka tolerates. And maybe it is like that, but at the very least words should be said. There’s no clear boundary on their relationship, it’s just..them ‘hanging’ out.
“No it’s not like that. I wanna spend time together.” He admits, quietly. Shamefully as well as his head was focused on the pebble being kicked.
Jabber paused mid step at Zanka’s words, his smirk faltering slightly. For someone who usually thrived on confrontation, those soft spoken confessions still caught him off guard.
He reached out, hooking his fingers around Zanka’s wrist to stop him from walking further. "Hey." His voice was lower now, less teasing, more serious. "Look at me."
When Zanka reluctantly lifted his gaze, Jabber searched his expression before sighing.
"Alright. Then say it." A challenge, but a gentle one. "Not just when we're alone. Not just when it's convenient." His grip loosened slightly, thumb brushing against Zanka’s pulse point. "Or I'll start thinking you're embarrassed of me." A smirk, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes.
“We’re not dating Jabber.” Zanka reminds. Not knowing if it was Jabber to hear, or himself.
Jabber's smirk faded completely. He'd been bracing himself for those words, but it still stung. Of course they weren't dating. They were just...whatever they were...hanging out, messing around. But somehow, hearing it said out loud made it more real, more official.
"Right." He nodded, letting go of Zanka's wrist, shoving his hand back in his pocket. There was a strained silence between them before Jabber forced a smirk. "Don't worry, I'm not expecting a ring or anything."
The silence lingers for a bit. Zanka knew they probably hit Jabber hard. Hell the words felt heavy coming off his tongue.
“I didn’t really mean it like that.” He clarifies. Not like there was much to clear up though.
Jabber shrugged nonchalantly, masking his hurt with a forced nonchalance. "What else is there to mean?" He continued walking, kicking at the ground with more force than necessary. "We're just...hanging out. Having fun, right? No strings attached. Simple."
Jabber hated how the words tasted in his mouth.
“What are we supposed to be then?” Zanka groans, he can’t be the bad guy here. “Since I guess I’m just an ass.”
Jabber stopped walking abruptly, turning to face Zanka fully this time. His expression was unreadable for a moment before he scoffed, shaking his head.
"What are we?" He repeated, as if the question itself was ridiculous. "You tell me, Zanka. Because I know what I want, but you?" He gestured vaguely toward him. "You're the one dodging labels like they're fucking landmines."
Jabber's jaw clenched, frustration bubbling up. "Either we're something or we're nothing. But this?" He motioned between them. "This half-assed in-between shit? Nah. Not for me."
Silence, no words for Zanka to say.
———-
Three weeks, nothing between the two had been. That awkward silence still lingering. Zanka has his reasons for not putting a label on things. He doesn’t need to, it’s Jabber for crying out loud. A peculiar Einstein masochist. Sounds shallow, but that’s how Zanka feels. Not because he’s embarrassed of Jabber, but himself. The inferiority he feels when he talks to the man drives him insane. He can’t help but feel jealous of Jabber.
He didn’t need to apologize. He didn’t have to say anything.
On his way to class he noticed Jabber, how could he not, the man stood out. He was chatting with some girl, green eyes black hair. Zanka had seen her before but thought nothing of her. His face though, she was looking at Jabber the way Zanka looks at Jabber. Except it was more..interested and searching. Her eyes seemed to light up. Now that pissed Zanka off.
He quickly stopped himself, they were not even talking to each other anymore. He hurried past the two ignoring the feeling of dread trying to seep into his stomach.
Jabber didn't even notice Zanka passing by, too engrossed in his conversation. He was in the middle of a rant about the chemistry teacher, waving his hands animatedly as he spoke.
The girl, named Aiko, was struggling to contain her amusement. She giggled at a particularly ridiculous impression Jabber was making, her face flushed with laughter. "Oh my god," she managed between breaths, "you're insane."
Jabber just grinned smugly, leaning against a wall. "I'm not insane. I'm just passionate about how much I hate that guy."
Aiko shakes her head with a small smile. “You have no reason to hate him. You have over a hundred in the class.” She sighs. “I’m barely hanging onto my 80.”
Jabber rolled his eyes, folding his arms across his chest. "Yeah, yeah, I get it. I'm smart." He couldn't help but sound a bit boastful. "Doesn't change the fact that the guy is a total prick."
Aiko scoffed playfully, nudging him with her elbow. "You're so full of yourself, you know that?" She smirked.
Jabber smirked right back, shrugging. "I prefer the term 'self assured' thank you very much."
She shrugs, “self assured, self centered. Same thing.” She waves a dismissive hand.
Jabber gasped dramatically, playfully feigning offense. "Same? Oh no, no, no." He shook his head, his smirk returning. "I'll have you know, self assured and self centered are two completely different things. One implies confidence, the other implies arrogance."
He leaned closer, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "And I, my dear Aiko, fall into the confident category."
Aiko nods in agreement. “Right aka the asshole category. And don’t act like you’re not. Always rubbing your success in people's faces.” She jokes scoffing.
Jabber chuckled, not at all bothered by the ribbing. "I prefer the term 'boasting.' And it's not my fault if people can't handle the fact that I'm just simply better." His smirk grew wider, clearly enjoying the banter. "Jealousy isn't a good look on you, you know."
Aiko hums sarcastically, squinting her eyes at Jabber. “Where’s your little friend, I bet he’d have a thing or two to say about that.” She crosses her arms.
Jabber's smirk faltered for a brief moment, but he quickly composed himself. "Oh, you mean Zanka?" He leaned against the locker casually, trying to appear nonchalant. "Who knows where the hell that guy is. Probably off sulking somewhere."
“Sulking? The hell happened?” Aiko furrows her eyebrows in confusion, until she gets an idea. “Oh wait let me guess,” She puts her hand under her chin performative like. “You’re unemotionally available and that chased him off.” Her movements theatrical as she explained.
Jabber rolled his eyes, but he couldn't help but chuckle at Aiko's theatrical display. "Oh, very funny. You make it sound like I'm some kind of heartless monster."
But deep down, he knew there was a hint of truth to her words. They usually were. "Unemotionally available, huh? You should've been a psychologist instead of a student. You're good at psychoanalyzing people."
She takes a small bow. As if she had just delivered an amazing performance. “What can I say, you make it obvious.”
Jabber smirked, shaking his head. "Yeah, yeah, keep patting yourself on the back."
Aiko grinned smugly, clearly enjoying herself. "I will, thanks." She tilted her head, studying him. "But seriously though, you gonna fix whatever mess you made with Zanka? Or are you just gonna keep pretending you don't care?"
Jabber hesitated for a moment before shrugging. "Tch. Maybe. If he stops acting like a brat."
Aiko sighed dramatically. "God, you're impossible."
Jabber just chuckled, shoving his hands in his pockets. "Yeah, yeah. I know."
“Not funny dude. What did you do seriously?” Aiko asks a bit more seriously instead of taunting.
Jabber sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. His playful demeanor dropped slightly as he glanced away. "...He said we weren’t dating." His voice was quieter now, lacking its usual bite. "So I told him if we're nothing, then fine. No point pretending."
Aiko blinked, surprised by the sudden shift in tone. "...Oh." She hesitated before patting his shoulder awkwardly. "Damn, Jabber. That's rough."
Jabber scoffed, shaking his head. "Whatever. His loss."
But even as he said it, his usual confidence sounded hollow.
Aiko thinks for a second. “You should apologize.” She states in a matter of factly tone.
Jabber's eyes snapped toward her at the suggestion. "Apologize? What for?" He retorted, crossing his arms defensively. "I didn't do anything wrong."
Aiko raised an eyebrow at him, clearly not buying it. "Jabber, please. Do you even hear yourself? You're both acting like children." She sighs, shaking her head. Knowing very little about the situation she finds it hard to judge either. Or maybe they're both just a bit unstable.
“Just say sorry and see what happens. My best advice, girls do this stuff all the time. I know he’s a dude but maybe saying sorry will make him feel better or something.” She shrugs, this is her best advice. “Or cut things off officially, you guys sound toxic.”
Jabber rolled his eyes, not in the mood for relationship advice. "We're not—" He started indignantly, then stopped himself. Was she right?
His gaze fell to the ground, his expression conflicted. He hated admitting it, but Aiko was probably right. They were a mess.
He let out a sigh, running a hand through his hair exasperatedly. "I just...don't want to come off as weak." He mumbled under his breath.
“And he probably doesn’t want to come off as weak or inferior either. Or whatever you dudes and your toxic masculinity think.” She responds truthfully. She wholeheartedly believes this could work, if he just said ‘sorry’.
Aiko nods in agreement. “I’ll take that L.”
———-
Zanka’s face was shocked to see Jabber had texted him. ‘We gotta talk come outside.’
Zanka sat on the edge of his dorm bed and contemplated. What did Jabber do? Why is he doing this? Didn’t they decide to end things? not officially but still.
Besides his own judgement he walked outside of his dorm room. He should be fine, curfew wasn’t until 12am. He stood, staring not even bothering to speak first.
Jabber stood leaning against the wall opposite Zanka’s dorm, arms crossed, waiting. When the door finally opened and Zanka stepped out, he straightened up slightly, his usual cocky smirk absent for once.
Neither spoke for a moment, tension thick between them. Jabber exhaled sharply through his nose before finally breaking the silence.
"Alright. Look." His voice was gruff, but lacking its usual bite. "I was an asshole."
There it was. Simple. Direct. No excuses.
He didn’t elaborate further, just waited for Zanka’s reaction, eyes locked onto his, uncharacteristically patient.
Zanka was biting back the urge to say some snarky comment. ‘I know’ or ‘I could’ve told you that’. He sighs, the man doesn’t even know why he’s apologizing.
“What exactly are you sorry for?” He asks, raising an eyebrow.
Jabber bristled a bit at the question. He was already feeling uncomfortably vulnerable, and now Zanka was putting him on the spot? A hint of irritation crept into his voice as he responded.
"Are you serious right now?" He scoffed, crossing his arms defensively. "I'm apologizing for being a dick, alright? I know I've been acting like an ass, and I...I don’t know. I just.."
He trailed off, frustration clearly getting the better of him. This whole situation was making him uncomfortable, the apology, the vulnerability.
“Just?” Zanka doesn’t want a half assed apology. He wants the real deal.
Jabber clenched his jaw, the irritation growing. It was typical Zanka, never accepting anything less than perfect. It made him want to punch something.
But instead, he took a deep breath, trying to keep his temper in check. "Why is a sorry not good enough?" He retorted, his voice sharp. "You want me to grovel or something? Beg for forgiveness? Why can't you just accept my damn apology?"
Zanka doesn’t reply. Which was an answer in itself.
Jabber bit back a growl of frustration, his pride screaming at him to just walk away. But something made him stay, something that felt a bit like desperation.
He inhaled sharply, taking a few steps closer to Zanka, his eyes locked onto his. He practically seethed.
He took another step closer, closing the distance between them until they were standing mere inches apart. "Please." His voice dropped to a near-whisper. "Don't do this, baby. I...I need you, alright?"
Zanka’s gaze wanders away unamused. Act as if the apology caught not a single bit of his attention. It was weak. But really he was holding back his smirk. How he loved making Jabber beg like this. Ruining Jabber’s pride but filling his own ego.
Jabber's irritation flared at the unamused expression on Zanka's face. Was he serious? Here he was, swallowing his pride and practically debasing himself, and Zanka was just...standing there. Unimpressed. As if this was some sort of game. It pissed him off.
But there was something else there too, something that felt like satisfaction. Because even as he felt humiliated, there was a part of him that loved seeing Zanka above him like this. He bit his lip, his jaw clenching as he tried again. "Zanka...please."
A glance, that's all Jabber gets is a judgmental stare. No worry behind Zanka’s eyes. He knows he has the upper hand. He’s practically flaunting it. And he doesn’t care clearly.
Jabber felt his patience wearing thin. The way Zanka just stood there, staring him down like he had all the power here, it pissed him off and turned him on all at once. And he was supposed to just play along with it? Bullshit.
His hands clenched into fists, his eyes narrowing as he took a step closer, closing the already thin distance between them. He was practically seething now, his pride bruised, his ego wounded, his blood hot with anger and lust. "Zanka," he growled, his voice dangerously low. "Stop messing around."
“I don’t know Jabber, you just don’t seem sorry.” Zanka finally spoke. But it wasn’t what Jabber wanted to hear.
He had to resist the urge to shove Zanka against the wall and kiss him senseless. God, how he hated how much this was turning him on. A smirk crawled on his face before he spoke. “You want me to get on my knees?”
No response, just a piqued interest. Jabber sighs, “you’re in over your head.” He lowered himself to his knees like it was a chore he’d finally agreed to do. “There,” he said, flatly. “On my knees. Just like you wanted.”
He didn’t look up. Didn’t bow his head either.
“I’m sorry,” he added, the words clipped, like he was paying a debt rather than asking for mercy. “Does that satisfy the terms, or do you want me to stay down longer?”
Zanka hummed thoughtfully, as if weighing the moment. “Yes,” he said, calm and pleased. Then, in an almost kind manner, spoke again. “You can stand up now. I’ve made my point.”
Jabber scoffed, standing up and brushing himself off with deliberate casualness, like he hadn’t just bent on command. "Yeah, yeah, whatever." His voice was gruff, but there was no real bite to it.
He hesitated for a second before shoving his hands into his pockets and glancing away. "...We good?" He muttered, still refusing to make direct eye contact.
Pride was still bruised, but some twisted part of him didn’t actually mind losing. not if it was to Zanka.
Zanka gave a light chuckle. “Go home Jabber.” He says, shaking his head. Turning to go back up to his dorm.
Jabber scowled at the dismissal, his pride prickling again. But he didn’t push it.
Instead, he watched Zanka walk away for a second before calling after him, voice rough but lacking its usual hostility. "That’s not an answer."
And with that, he turned on his heel and stalked off into the night. annoyed, humiliated, and yet...weirdly satisfied. At least he was in Zanka’s good graces again.
God, he was whipped.
———
The dining hall was loud as usual. Conversation at every table. Failing grades, passing a class, parties being hosted. Everyone always had something to speak of.
“I just don’t understand why Hiro would date Dani, she’s sweet and all but, my god.” Riyo was gossiping about some couple. Not like Zanka would know. Most days he goes to class and goes straight to his dorm to hide away.
“I think she’s nice.” Eishia says with a shrug.
Zanka barely paid attention to Riyo and Eishia's gossip, picking at his food with disinterest. His mind kept drifting back to Jabber. How he'd kneeled so easily for him, how that stupid smirk had faltered when Zanka dismissed him.
But then his thoughts were interrupted by Riyo suddenly leaning forward, her eyes widening as she pointed toward the cafeteria entrance.
"Oh shit," she hissed, grinning wildly.
Zanka glanced up, and immediately regretted it.
Jabber was walking in, but not alone. Aiko was beside him, laughing at something he'd said, her hand casually brushing his arm.
Zanka's grip tightened on his fork.
Eishia glanced between Zanka and Jabber, her expression shifting to concern. "...You okay?"
Zanka forced himself to look away, jaw clenched. "Peachy."
Riyo, meanwhile, looked like Christmas had come early. "This," she whispered dramatically, "is delicious."
Jabber hadn't noticed Zanka yet. Too busy leaning down to murmur something that made Aiko giggle again.
Zanka stood abruptly, tray in hand. "I'm leaving."
Eishia frowned. "You barely ate—"
"Not hungry."
And with that, he strode off. Ignoring Riyo's amused gaze burning into his back.
Jabber had noticed Zanka storming out. A bit of concern wandered into the back of his mind. He hoped the boy was okay and nothing was wrong.
Zanka had seen the girl before. Never knew her name or how her and Jabber knew of each other. But it’s Jabber so of course Zanka jumps to the worst possible conclusion. They have to be seeing each other.
The tears begin to form before Zanka could even think about it. He bit his lip, hard. That didn’t help with the tears but it distracts him from the hurtful feeling in his chest.
Jabber watched Zanka go, eyes following him out of the dining hall. A look of confusion on his face. He thought about asking Riyo or Eishia but he figured that would do no good.
He felt a hand waving in front of his face, bringing him back to the present. He looked at Aiko, who was giving him a quizzical look. "..What?"
“You were zoned out, what happened?” She looked over at where Jabber's gaze was occupied. “Are you high?” She whispers assuming he was just seeing things.
Jabber rolled his eyes at the assumption. "No, I'm not high," he muttered, still distracted. His fingers tapped against the table absently before he abruptly pushed his chair back.
"I gotta go."
Aiko blinked. "Uh...okay?"
But Jabber was already weaving through the tables, ignoring the curious glances thrown his way. He didn’t even know why he was chasing after Zanka. Only that the sight of him storming out had set off some instinct he couldn’t ignore.
He caught up to him just outside the building, grabbing his wrist before he could disappear completely. "Zanka." His voice was firm, but lacking its usual bite.
Zanka didn’t turn around, shoulders stiff.
Jabber exhaled sharply through his nose, tugging him back slightly. "C’mon there’s no way you’re gonna ignore me right now."
When Zanka finally turned, Jabber’s smirk faltered at the sight of his damp lashes and bleeding lip.
"...The hell’s wrong with you?" His voice was quieter now, less mocking. “You get into a fight?”
Zanka didn’t realize how his teeth were basically piercing his bottom lip. “What? No, what are you talking about.” He sighs, why is Jabber even talking to him right now.
Jabber raised an eyebrow, unconvinced. "You look like you're two seconds from bursting into tears."
His eyes wandered over Zanka's features, searching for the source of the bleeding. When they settled on his bottom lip, he let out a scoff. "God damn Zan, I know we fight but I don’t even rough you up like this.” He says continuing to examine the wound.
Zanka took a hand up to his lip and grazed it lightly. Looking at his fingers slightly blood stained he sighed. “I bit my lip.” He answered causally.
Jabber gave him a flat look. "Uh-huh, you bit your lip?” His voice carried a note of skepticism.
He reached out, grabbing Zanka's chin firmly and tilting it up to examine the wound more closely.
"Looks like it's still bleeding," he said bluntly, his thumb gently tracing the sore area around the split skin.
Zanka wanted to find comfort in the touch but failed to. After remembering why he was so pissed.
“Dont.” He swats Jabber's hand away.
Jabber dropped his hand obediently, his expression shifting to one of slight annoyance. "Don't what? Touch you?"
He scoffed faintly, shoving his hands in his pockets. "Zanka, what is your problem?"
“My problem?” He groans, “Leave me alone and go talk to your friend.” He quips.
Jabber rolled his eyes, his irritation growing. "You're pissed at me because of Aiko? Are you serious?"
He stepped closer, closing the distance between them. His voice low, "I was just talking to her, idiot. It's not a big deal."
The way Jabber was being dense made Zanka visibly irritated. This is the second time he’s seen them talking. She always looks so thrilled to talk to Jabber. Makes his blood boil more than it should.
“Not even that you’re an asshole. You always randomly show up around campus with her when we argue.” His annoyance was getting the best of him.
Jealous? His jaw tightened. “Not jealous,” he pauses. “I just don’t like that it looks like I’m being replaced.” He huffs.
Zanka's words sent a sharp spike of satisfaction through Jabber's chest. His smirk widened, leaning in slightly more, their chests almost touching now. "Replaced?" His voice was soft, almost mocking. "Oh, so that's what this is about?"
He tilted his head, eyes narrowing slightly. His expression danced between smugly satisfied to condescendingly amused. "You think I can so easily find someone to replace you?" He paused, his gaze boring into Zanka's with an intensity he hadn't expected. "How delusional can you be, babe?"
Zanka glances to the ground in silence, he’s disappointed. Not that his theory was wrong, but that his insecurities are so deeply rooted. Half the time he doesn’t even realize what the hell he's thinking.
He blames Jabber. He makes Zanka think irrationally and act without a plan.
Jabber studied Zanka intently, watching the emotions play out across his face. He could practically see the gears turning in his head, trying to find a response that would save Zanka from the humiliation of admitting he’s...jealous. And he was reveling in it.
He leaned in even closer, his voice a low whisper. "You're pathetic, you know that? Being jealous because I happened to be talking to another girl. Like I'm your property or something."
Zanka internally rolls his eyes at Jabber's comment. ‘Property’, if Jabber was his he wouldn’t be running around like a chicken with its head cut off.
“Be my boyfriend.” He blurts quietly.
Jabber blinked at the sudden declaration. For once, he was caught off guard. His smirk wavered, and he took a half step back, processing the words.
"...What?"
His usual bravado was gone, replaced by genuine surprise. Zanka had always avoided labels, dodged commitment. Andnow he was the one saying it?
A slow smirk curled his lips again,but this time, it was softer. More real. "Didn’t realize I was that good on my knees."
Zanka sighs heavily. “Just say yes or no .”
Jabber chuckled softly. His smirk still lingered, but it was more playful now. "And if I say no?" He teased, raising an eyebrow.
But he was just testing the waters. Seeing how far Zanka was willing to go.
Inside he was jumping around like a giddy school girl. The thought of being Zanka’s boyfriend? Hell yeah.
Zanka thinks for a moment and shrugs. “Probably gonna punch you.” He answers sarcastically.
Jabber laughed, actually laughed, his shoulders shaking slightly. "I guess we don’t want that." His voice was teasing, but his grin was unmistakably affectionate.
Then, in one swift motion, he closed the distance between them, hands cupping Zanka’s face gently, though his smirk was still firmly in place. "But fine. Yes."
He leaned in, pressing their foreheads together briefly. "Guess you got me."
And just like that, the tension between them shifted like something finally clicking into place.
Jabber Wonger was officially his.
And he was very okay with that.