wts special

Your browser lacks required capabilities. Please upgrade it or switch to another to continue.
Loading…
<div class="chapter-number"><span>$A.</span></div> When the phone rings, $A is half asleep. With a groan, $athey lean$a_s over to hit the decline button, but the moment $athey see$a_s the caller ID, $atheyre wide awake. Shooting up in $atheir seat, $atheir fingers quickly press the green button before $athey press$a_es the phone to $atheir ear. "Hello?" $A answers. "Sorry, did I wake you up?" $name replies. $A is a night-owl, but $athey must have not hidden the rasp of $atheir voice well enough. "No, I mean, maybe a little." <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> wince$a_s. Already, $atheyre messing things up. "It's fine though, I don't mind. What's up?" "Oh." $name sounds unsure of $themself, as if this changes things. "Sorry, I'll hang up then. I shouldn't have called. It's not important." A flare of panic rises in $A's stomach. "No, don't. Seriously, it's okay." <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> swallow$a_s, trying to come up with something that will convince $name to stay on the line. "I'm not tired anymore, just talk to me. What's on your mind?" There's a long pause. For a moment, $A wonders if $name will just hang up anyway. That $athey failed to convince $them and will be left alone in the dark, staring at the ceiling wondering why $name had called and whether $they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> alright. But then— "Okay." $A's eyes widen. "Okay?" "Okay, I'll talk to you." Another pause. "But if you get tired at any point, tell me. I don't want to keep you up all night." $A doesn't have the guts to tell $name that $athey'd talk to $them until morning if $athey could, but $athey keep$a_s it to $athemself. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $a_do>>n't want to scare $name off with something so bold. "I'll let you know, don't worry." $A shifts $atheir position in bed so that $atheyre laying on $atheir side, $atheir eyes grazing the clock that stands on $atheir nightstand. "Now, what's on your mind that you're calling me at two in the morning?" \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I had a nightmare." [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.02a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I&rsquo;m overthinking." [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.03a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I guess I&rsquo;m just feeling lonely." [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.04a'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $achoice to "a">>\ "Is it dumb to say that I had a nightmare?" $name asks. The question is barely above a whisper; $their voice is shaky. $A's brow furrows with concern. "Of course not. Why would it be dumb?" "I don't know. I'm not a kid." "And nightmares aren't just for kids. I've called you about them before, remember? I had one last week where some shadowy figure was chasing me and I was running too slow to get away." "And I told you that I'd be there to blast it away next time," $name replies. To $A's relief, the reminder shifted $their tone from nervous to wry. Even if the problem isn't fixed yet, the temporary distraction at least got $name to sound less panicked. "Forever my hero," $A teases. "Count yourself lucky." "I do. That's the only thing that helped me sleep that night," $A admits. That amongst other things, but, of course, it all involves things $athey can't say aloud. $name's voice cocooning $athem in safety, $atheir worries melting away, the firm tone confirming the relationship $athey hold$a_s so dear to $atheir heart. The thought of $name in $their apartment, thinking about $A after hanging up the phone, was what $athey fell asleep to that night. Knowing someone out there was on $atheir side soothed any nerves $athey might have had. "I'm glad." "So let me do the same for you. Talk to me. Do you want to tell me what it was?" <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.05a">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $achoice to "b">>\ This pause is the longest of them all, but $A is patient. Hearing $name's breathing is all the confirmation $athey need$a_s to know that $they <<print $have>>n't hung up. Eventually, $name whispers, "I'm overthinking." $A's heart nearly stops. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> know$a_s all about overthinking. At this point, it's $atheir middle name. "About anything in particular?" $athey ask$a_s gently. There's a rustle and $A thinks that $name shook $their head before realizing this is a call. It only makes $A want to drive over to $their apartment more. $name wouldn't allow $athem, of course, but aside from a stern sentence, there's nothing stopping $athem. The vision has already planted itself in $A's head. It'd take a minute for $athem to pull $athemself out of bed and grab $atheir keys. Another minute for $athem to pull out of the parking garage. Considering the time, the traffic likely isn't too bad, so $athey'd be at $name's apartment in twenty minutes or less. $A has half a mind to pull off $atheir blankets and begin getting ready until $name speaks again. "No, not really. Just… everything, I guess. My mind keeps jumping around." "I can come over if you want." A small laugh comes from the other end of the line. "Don't, it's late." "$name…" "Don't come, $A." <<print $their.toUpperFirst()>> voice is insistent now. "I know you want to help, but it's late. Hearing your voice is enough." $A, who had been ready to protest, slams $atheir mouth shut. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> want$a_s to record that sentence and play it on loop. It doesn't matter how many times $name says $they care$s about $A, each one will make $atheir heart flutter without fail. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.05a">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $achoice to "c">>\ $A hears $name hesitate on the other end of the line, but $athey <<print $a_do>>n't press the issue, knowing $they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> probably finding the words. A million ideas pop up in $atheir head, but $athey <<print $a_are>>n't prepared for what $athey get$a_s. "I don't know," $name admits. "I guess I'm just feeling lonely." $A shoots up in $atheir bed, concerned. "Did something happen?" $name must have heard the movement on $A's side because $they manage$s a hoarse laugh. "No, don't worry. I think it's just the night. The darkness always makes me feel so much more alone." $A chews $atheir lip. <<print $atheyre.toUpperFirst()>> not a stranger to loneliness; it creeps up on $athem before $athey even realize$a_s what's happening. In these moments, it's often $name that comes to $atheir mind first. //I wish $name was here. I wish $name was awake to answer my text. I wish $name wasn't busy so we could talk.// $name is the one person who will forever be by $A's side. Though $athey can try and cure $atheir loneliness with other people, $they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> is often the one who makes $athem feel the most... alive. So, naturally, $A hopes that $athey can do the same for $name. "Do you want me to come over?" Another laugh. This one is much lighter. "No, $A, you can't. It's late and we have work tomorrow." "Doesn't mean I wouldn't do it," $athey counter$a_s. It's hard to tell whether $name realizes how much $athey mean$a_s it. It'd take one minute for $athem to pull $athemself out of bed and grab $atheir keys. One minute for $athem to pull out of the parking garage. Twenty minutes or so to get to $name's apartment, depending on the traffic. It seems so simple. "I know you would," $name assures, "but it's okay. You picked up at 2 AM. That's already more than enough." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.05a">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<if $achoice is "a">>$name doesn't answer for a while. $A lets $them think and gives $them the space, knowing $they probably need$s it. Eventually, $they answer$s, "Maybe tomorrow. Can you just distract me for now?"\ <<elseif $achoice is "b">>"Is there anything I can do from here?" $A asks. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> $a_have to hope $atheir voice sounds normal. "Distract me?"\ <<else>>But that isn't enough. "What else can I do then?" $A urges. "Distract me?"<</if>> "Sure," $A replies. <<print $atheir.toUpperFirst()>> reply is almost instant—too instant. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> cringe$a_s and hope $name is too distracted to notice how quick that was. "What did you want?" "Anything. We have to be up for work tomorrow so something that helps us both fall asleep I guess." //You underestimate how little sleep I'm going to get after this,// $A thinks. But aloud, $athey merely hum$a_s in thought. "Alright, give me a second." A million things race through $A's mind. How do you distract someone on command? <<print $atheyre.toUpperFirst()>> normally good at rambling incoherently, but for some reason, that ability has disappeared. It's not hard to figure out why. $A sees these late-night calls as a treasure. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> know$a_s it means nothing more to $name than calling a friend to talk, but each time $athey see$a_s the ID, a flush of joy rushes through $athem knowing $athey $a_were the one $name reached out to. In $atheir most delirious state, $A sometimes imagines more than $athey probably should. When $athey hear$a_s $atheir ringtone, there are times where $athey'll think maybe this is it, maybe this is the call where $name will confess to having loved $A for years and that $they couldn't hold it in any longer. And then $A, with $atheir heart beating out of $atheir chest and $atheir mind wondering if this is even real, would respond that $athey feel$a_s the same but didn't want to ruin the friendship. That $atheyve been waiting for this moment for what felt like an eternity. <<print $atheyre.toUpperFirst()>> still waiting for it, of course, if it even ends up happening, but imagining how it might go helps sometimes. Emphasis on sometimes. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.06a">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"Okay, so," $A starts, "you know that bakery near IAOS? The one with the fancy lettering and the cute little outdoor seating?" $A hears $name shuffle into a more comfortable position. "Yeah, what about it?" "Well, I got a latte from there recently and I swear to you, I'm never going back to IAOS. It was the best thing I've ever tasted. You're going to laugh at me because obviously a café will be better than Walmart coffee beans—or whatever cheap shit IAOS buys; seriously, you'd think they'd give us better considering how rich they are—but I'm telling you, they've been scamming us. "I don't know how I decided it, but I'm going to try everything on their menu. Everything. Coffee, bakery items—even the matcha latte. It'll probaby taste like grass but I'm doing it. I promise. "I was going to bring it up tomorrow, but I was thinking that maybe you can join me. If you want to, that is. If we do food—their muffins look //so// good—we can split them in half and check them off our list. Or you can just pick out anything you want and I'll pay for it. It'll be my treat." "You really like this place, huh?" There's a hint of amusement in $name's voice. "What syrup are you trying next?" "God, I don't know. I think they had a caramel pecan, so maybe that? Or maybe, damn it, I don't remember what the barista said but it started with a t. It sounded amazing. Basically, whatever catches my eye first is the answer." "Just spin and point," $name teases. "Come with me and I will," $A teases. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.07a">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>$A's face breaks into a wide grin. It's so simple, this banter. They've probably had funnier ones before, but something about this makes $atheir heart warm. It's things like this that remind $athem why $athey $a_have to keep $atheir feelings a secret. It would crush $A if this was taken away from $athem. If a confession changed this, changed this friendship and the love that's currently shared, $athey'd never forgive $athemself. "Does this mean you're coming?" $A asks. $name hums. "Eventually. If I can pull myself out of bed earlier than usual, we can go tomorrow." "They're going to think I'm crazy for coming twice in two days." "Aren't you?" "Hey, you should be glad. I'm the one who picked up at 2 AM." "And I'm grateful for it," $name assures. "Thank you for talking to me." Though $name can't see it, $A smiles anyway. "Anytime." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.08a">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> A long stretch of silence follows. $A can almost feel $name falling asleep on the other line. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> $a_have a vision of draping a blanket over $them and kissing $their forehead goodnight before $athey shake$a_s it off. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $a_do>>n't want to say it, but the question slips out anyway. "Are you going to sleep now?" "I'm going to try." $name shuffles $their position again. "I'll see you at work tomorrow?" "As always." $A can practically feel $name's smile. "Goodnight." "Goodnight," $A echoes. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> wait$a_s until $name is off the line to whisper a final: "Sweet dreams." It's not something compromising, but it feels secret somehow—like every other non-platonic feeling $athey harbour$a_s for $name. $A stays on the phone for a little longer, hearing the soft buzz in $atheir ears. The words are on the tip of $atheir tongue. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> could say everything $athey want$a_s to right here, get it off $atheir chest before $athey $a_have to bury it again. No one would hear it. But $athey <<print $a_do>>n't. Instead, $A hangs up and places $atheir phone on $atheir nightstand. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> roll$a_s over and press$a_es $atheir eyes shut. It's going to have to come out someday, but today isn't that day. $A isn't ready yet. Maybe $athey never will be. Maybe $athey'll suppress $atheir feelings forever and never find out the truth. Or maybe, one day, $athey'll have a sudden burst of courage, blurt the words out and then wait torturously for $name's reply. When it comes to $name, $A's life is a constant of 'maybes.' But there's that one maybe that gives $athem hope. //Maybe $they like$s me too.// <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><div class="chapter-number"><span>Blane.</span></div> It's pouring outside. Thundering, really. If Blane stands here long enough, $bthey $b_have no doubt $bthey'll see lightning in the background. There's no way $btheyre getting out of IAOS now—$bthey'll have to wait the storm out. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> sigh$b_s and press$b_es a hand to $btheir forehead. Normally, $bthey love$b_s stormy weather, but today was the one day $bthey didn't want it. <<print $btheyve.toUpperFirst()>> already stayed later than $bthey usually $b_do. All Blane wants to do now is go home and be reacquainted with $btheir bed, watching tv in the dark or reading a book with the soft light of a lamp hovering over $btheir shoulder. Plan ruined. <<print $btheyre.toUpperFirst()>> about to turn back to their office—might as well get some extra work in if $btheyre going to be stuck here—when $bthey hear$b_s footsteps approach. Blane didn't think anyone else in the department was here. \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Bad day to choose to stay late, huh?" [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.02b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"We&rsquo;re not getting out anytime soon." [ RIVALS ; <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.03b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">The person says nothing. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.04b'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $bchoice to "a">>\ "Bad day to choose to stay late, huh?" the person asks. Blane stiffens at that voice. Normally, $btheyre more alert to these kinds of things. A head tilt and a quick listen to the footsteps and $bthey can usually guess who it is. But $bthey $b_were too distracted this time—and now $btheyre caught off guard. $name. It's always $name. Blane hasn't known how to act around $them lately—it's been driving $bthem crazy. One moment $btheyre guarding $btheir heart and $b_are being rude as usual, and the next, $btheyre feeling guilty for doing so, wanting to apologize. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> $b_do sometimes, but lately, it's been worse. Because recently, $btheyve been catching $bthemself wanting to have normal conversations. To drop the facade $btheyve worked so hard on building. For most people, this shouldn't even be a problem. But for someone with as many trust issues as Blane, the thought scares $bthem. Let someone in once and they'll find their way back in—Blane can't risk that. That privilege is only shared with $N for now. "It'll clear eventually," Blane answers, dragging $bthemself out of $btheir thoughts. $name steps closer and Blane freeze$b_s, suddenly all too aware of $btheir breathing and position. But, of course, $name doesn't pay any mind to this and responds, "But not fast enough." "Have somewhere to be?" Blane asks. Usually, $bthey'd inject that question with some sort of venom, but it's lacking today. "Not necessarily. I just don't like the idea of staying at IAOS this late," $name replies. <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>> glance$s at Blane and it takes everything in $bthem not to look back. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.05b">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $bchoice to "b">>\ <<set $rivals to true>>\ "We're not getting out of here anytime soon," the person comments. Blane tenses at that voice. Normally, $btheyre more alert to these kinds of things. A head tilt and a quick listen to the footsteps and $bthey can usually guess who it is. But $bthey $b_were too distracted this time—and now $btheyre caught off guard. $name. It's always $name. Blane waits for the usual flare of annoyance to emerge in $btheir stomach at knowing $they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> here, and while it comes, it's also accompanied by… something else. Something that $bthey <<print $b_do>>n't want to acknowledge may be true. Shoving it back down, Blane deadpans, "What made you think that?" $name is silent, but it's not hard to guess that $they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> rolling $their eyes. "Guess you're an asshole at this hour too, huh? Do you ever turn it off?" Blane has to hide the frown that threatens to cross $btheir face. Of course it turns off. That's the only ever time $bthey can be $bthemself. But $name doesn't know that—no one does, except maybe $N, though $btheyve never told $nthem directly—so Blane doesn't mention it. "If you didn't want to talk, you didn't have to come up to me." $name scoffs, unconsciously taking a step forward. <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>><<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> level with Blane now, and though there is a sizable amount of space between them, $bthey still$b_s feel like it's nothing at all. It takes everything in $bthem to stay where $bthey $b_are. "And now I'm starting to regret it," $name retorts. There's a short pause before $they complain$s, "If I knew I'd be stuck with you, I would've been gone a long time ago." Blane doesn't take offence at that. In fact, it would have been easier if $name wasn't here. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $b_do>>n't like dealing with… whatever the fuck their emotions are doing right now. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> need$b_s to sort $bthemself out. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.05b">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $bchoice to "c">>\ But despite $btheir arrival, the person says nothing. Instead, $they approach$s Blane silently, footsteps light against the marble tiling, until $they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> standing level with $bthem. The moment $btheir figure comes into view, Blane stiffens. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> should have known. <<print $btheyre.toUpperFirst()>> usually so attentive to these things. A head tilt and a short listen to the footsteps and $bthey'd have figured it out in an instant. Blane doesn't know how $bthey $b_were caught off guard so badly, but considering who it is, $bthey can see$b_s why. $name. It's always $name. Blane wonders if $bthey should say something, but if $bthey did, what would it be? The usual rude remark? A random comment about the both of them being stuck here? A defensive statement about wanting to be alone? <<print $btheyve.toUpperFirst()>> been doing this a lot lately. Blane could be completely stable but one glance at $name and suddenly, $btheyre thrown off guard. <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> mind is a hurricane of thoughts. For better or for worse, $bthey $b_have yet to find the eye of the storm. Some part of $bthem want$b_s to, but the other part is scared. Scared knowing that when $bthey come$b_s to the answer $bthey seek$b_s, $bthey might not like it. Deciding on something neutral, Blane says, "$lastname." $name's eyes are pulled to $bthem. "Rekner." "You're here late." "I could say the same for you." Blane's brow furrows ever so slightly, wondering how long $bthey should play into this charade. "It's quieter at this hour. You can actually hear yourself for once." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.05b">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<if $bchoice is "a">>Swallowing hard, Blane fixates $btheir gaze on the view. A dozen raindrops trickle down the window and $btheir eyes follow one before it falls into the abyss. "It's a lot different here when it's quiet. You can actually hear yourself for once." "Do you like it better then?" $name wonders. At the question, Blane finally meets $their gaze. Though $bthey tried to keep the emotion out of $btheir expression, some of the bleakness must have seeped in because $name's eyebrows immediately furrow. "Infinitely."\ <<elseif $bchoice is "b">>Blane fixates $btheir gaze on the view. A dozen raindrops trickle down the window and $btheir eyes follow one before it falls into the abyss. "You should have. Without you, I'd be able to hear myself better." "You like the sound of your voice that much?" $name scorns. Blane finally meets $their gaze. Though $btheir green eyes are stormy, $bthey feel$b_s a sense of bleakness seep into them—something that $name notices. <<print $btheyre.toUpperFirst()>> pretty sure that's the only reason why $they shut up. "No, I like hearing my thoughts."\ <<else>>"Do you like it better then?" $name wonders. At the question, Blane finally meets $their gaze. Though $bthey tried to keep the emotion out of $btheir expression, some of the bleakness must have seeped in because $name's eyebrows immediately furrow. "Infinitely."<</if>> A stretch of silence follows Blane's answer. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $b_are>>n't sure if $name doesn't know what to make of the honesty or there's just simply nothing else to say. Perhaps both. <<if $rivals is true>>Without a word, Blane hears $name leave. Somewhat surprised, $bthey turn$b_s to the silhouette of $btheir companion a distance away, making $their way to what looks like the kitchen. "Leaving already?" Blane calls. "You bore me," $name responds. Theoretically, the insult should be enough to warn $bthem off, but Blane doesn't listen.\ <<else>>When Blane has almost forgotten that $name is there—almost. <<print $btheyre.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $b_do>>n't think $bthey'd be able to forget if $bthey tried—$name asks $bthem something that catches $bthem off guard. "Did you eat yet?" Blane gives $name a quizzical look. If you count the sandwich $N brought $bthem and forced $bthem to eat—which involved $nthem staring Blane down as $bthey chewed—then no, $bthey <<print $b_have>>n't. "Why?" "Because I'm hungry and I think there're leftovers," $name explains. <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>> make$s it sound so easy, so simple—but nothing is simple when it comes to $name. Still, Blane says nothing as $bthey follow$b_s $name to the kitchen.<</if>> Quite frankly, it's a terrible decision. If $bthey knew what was good for $bthem, $bthey'd stay right where $bthey $b_are—Blane has never been good at doing that. Every decision $bthey make$b_s has been to cause $btheir destruction and this is no exception. <<if $rivals is true>>$name rolls $their eyes when $they see$s Blane followed but say$s nothing as $they look$s over the leftover food. Blane grabs a bowl and ladles a serving of soup, while $name takes a spoonful of rice. <<print $btheyve.toUpperFirst()>> never been more glad that there're two microwaves as $bthey warm$b_s up $btheir food.\ <<else>>$name offers Blane a small smile when $they see$s $bthey followed but say$s nothing as $they look$s over the leftover food. Blane grabs a bowl and ladles a serving of soup, while $name takes a spoonful of rice. Though the atmosphere is much less awkward than Blane thought it might be, $btheyre still grateful for the two microwaves as $bthey warm$b_s up $btheir food.<</if>> $name's fingers tap on the countertop as the appliances hum while Blane keeps $btheir eyes on the window for as long as $bthey can—until $bthey can't anymore. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.06b">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> It's involuntary, the way $btheir gaze slices over to look at $name. <<print $btheyve.toUpperFirst()>> been doing it too often. It's almost like $btheyre attuned to $them. Everywhere $they go, Blane can't help but glance over. At first, it was out of pure observation. Wondering what $name was doing, to feel that familiar sense of annoyance $bthey'd practiced for so long. But at some point, it shifted. Blane started looking for $name. When $bthey walked in a room, $bthey found $bthemself subconsciously searching for $name to see if $they $were there, quickly shaking $bthemself out of it afterward. And then when $bthey'd hear $their voice, Blane's head would immediately turn. It didn't matter what $bthey $b_were doing—$bthey had no choice in the matter. Eyes flitting over $them now, Blane feels a strange tug in $btheir stomach. It's unexplainable, what it is. A mixture of nerves and excitement and confusion and hope all at once. It's not a good feeling. Blane would rather throw up. <<if $rivals is true>>$name catches $bthem staring and raises an eyebrow. "What?"\ <<else>>$name catches $bthem staring and quirks an eyebrow. "What's wrong?" //Everything//.<</if>> Blane is saved from replying when $btheir microwave beeps. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> $b_have to resist sighing in relief as $bthey move$b_s to take the food out; $name's meal is ready not even a moment later. Blane has no intention of staying as $bthey go$b_es to the cabinet to grab a spoon. Being with $name clouds $btheir mind in a way nothing else does. Like $bthey'd thought, coming here was a bad idea. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> can't understand $btheir thoughts when $btheyre in $name's presence—a sensation that is not fun, to say the least. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> turn$b_s, expecting to step aside to allow $name to grab a utensil of $their own, but $they seem$s to have grabbed a fork from the other side of the room because rather than standing, $name has pulled up one of the bar stools. There's one on Blane's side. $name doesn't say anything, but $they <<print $do>>n't have to. <<if $rivals is true>>The look in $name's eyes tells Blane $they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> waiting to see if $bthey'll stay.<<else>>The silent question is in $their eyes. //Are you eating with me?//<</if>> Blane stands there for an agonizingly long time. Rational versus emotional. Mind versus heart. <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> mind is battling between the two options, but eventually, one side wins out—the side that will probably bring $bthem a lot of regret the morning after. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.07b">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> With stiff motions, Blane walks over to the second bar stool and situates $bthemself across from $name. <<if $rivals is true>><<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $b_do>>n't even know why $bthey $b_do it. $name doesn't like Blane and Blane doesn't like $name. This isn't going to be fun.<<else>>The moment $bthey $b_do so, a wave of nerves hits $bthem. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> shouldn't be doing this. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> should leave while $bthey can. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> should—<</if>> <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> eyes meet $name's. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> wait$b_s for $name to say something, but the comment never comes. Instead, $they simply raise$s $their fork to $their mouth and take$s a bite. A moment later, Blane follows suit. Blane didn't think $bthey'd ever be in a position where $bthey'd be eating with $name, but as minutes go by and $bthey begin$b_s to relax, $bthey find$b_s that it's not as bad as $bthey thought. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> could get used to this, and that's the scariest part. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><div class="chapter-number"><span>$K.</span></div> $K has always thought of the water as $ktheir oldest friend. There's something about the element that soothes $kthem. While friends and lovers came and went, the water was always there. In $ktheir childhood, in $ktheir youth when $kthey $k_were learning $ktheir powers, in $ktheir adulthood during $ktheir first heartbreak—and then second. And even when there wasn't a big event, it never left. Moments like these, where $K simply wants to wind down and relax, are just as important as those milestones. $K doesn't sit as $kthey stare$k_s out into the water but simply stand$k_s. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> shoes are half-buried in the sand beside $kthem, taken off after a short pause of contemplation. With a century of thoughts in $ktheir head, it's easy to get overwhelmed. When $kthey first had the problem, $kthey tried doing what mortals do—meditate, write things out in a journal, find some artistic medium to get thoughts down. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> should have known it wouldn't have worked. Why would it? An immortal will never be able to use the same techniques of those whose lifespans rarely reach over one hundred. No one understands $K's pain aside from other immortals, but even then, each one has their own experience. The night after giving up mortal solutions, $K took a stroll down by the beach. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore, the splash of the water and the lull of the tides receding calmed $kthem that night, and it has ever since. The water became $ktheir safe haven, it grounds $kthem somehow. … Except when people ruin it. Apparently even the water isn't enough to mask the soft crunch of sand under foot. $K doesn't bother hide $ktheir annoyance and whirls around, the glare already set in $ktheir features for the person who dares approach $kthem. When $kthey see$k_s who it is, however, that annoyance dissipates, shaping into something more like surprise. "$name." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.02k">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> At the sound of $their name, $name raises an eyebrow. <<print $their.toUpperFirst()>> eyes flick over $K's posture, which is only now beginning to relax. "Who did you think I was?" "A stranger," $K answers. "What are you doing out here? It's late." "I could say the same for you." "I'm thinking." "About?" $K pauses. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> had $ktheir answer a second earlier, but it's not true anymore. Because before, it was nothing. Absolutely nothing. The main reason $K comes here is to clear $ktheir mind—and it worked. That is, up until the moment $kthey saw $name. $K is attuned enough with $ktheir emotions to know what's changing. It's not hard to decipher what going from //$they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> annoying// to //$they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> not the worst company I could have// to //$they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> kind of… good-looking// to //I like being with $them// is. But acknowledging it and acting on it are two different things. And if $kthey <<print $k_do>>n't want to experience the heartbreak $kthey felt the first two times this happened, $kthey'll stay away from any temptation. A short period of love isn't worth the eternal agony. "Things I shouldn't think about," $K responds. $name makes a face at that, but $ktheyre quick to add, "You never answered my question. What are you doing here?" \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I went on a trip and ended here."</div>' 'anniversary01.03k'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I came to think, just like you."</div>' 'anniversary01.04k'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Why? Do you not want me here?" </div>' 'anniversary01.05k'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>$name recognizes the topic change but goes with it, knowing that $K isn't one to budge. "I went on a late-night trip and ended here. Why? You're not the only one who's allowed to be out at this time." "I never said I was." "Good, so you won't mind me standing with you then." There's a challenge in $name's tone, but whatever reaction $they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> trying to raise, $they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> not going to get it. Not the one that $K should be giving, that is. Because rather than the usual roll of $ktheir eyes or a flat look, what appears instead is a sharp pain and a lump in $K's throat. A feeling of excitement that $kthey $k_have to push down. A single butterfly in $ktheir stomach and a bundle of nerves. $K never expects company on nights like these—never wants it, really—but for some reason, $name is an exception. When that happened $kthey <<print $k_do>>n't know. "If I said no, would you leave?" $K asks. "That depends, are you going to say no?" For a long, torturous moment, $K thinks $kthey forget how to speak. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> vocal cords refuse to work and it's only after a hard swallow $k_do $kthey manage, "Stand wherever you want. I'm not the only one who's allowed to be out at this time." $name smiles at the recall. There's a short lull in the conversation before $they ask$s, "Do you come here a lot?" "As often as I need to," $K responds. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> turn$k_s $ktheir gaze to the waves, watching as the next group slowly rolls in. "There'll be times where I'll go every day for a week. Or sometimes, I'll only go once a month. It depends." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.06k">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>$name hesitates, recognizing the topic change but not quite wanting to let go yet. $K isn't one to budge though, so eventually, $they say$s, "I came to think, just like you." "About?" $name meets $K's eyes. "Things I'm not going to tell you." $K almost laughs at that answer. It's one thing to challenge $kthem, but to use $ktheir words against $kthem is a bold move. If $kthey hadn't grown to like $name, $kthey'd be walking away right now. Instead, $kthey continue$k_s the conversation. "What could you possibly have on your mind?" $K asks. "Tell me yours and I'll tell you mine." They both know that $K isn't going to accept the offer, but for a scary moment, $kthey actually consider$k_s it. //I was thinking about my immortality. I was clearing my mind.// ''//I was thinking about you.//'' It'd be so easy just to emit the last thought. $name would never have to know; it wouldn't be lying, merely leaving one piece of the puzzle out. A half-truth, so to say. But for some reason, $kthey can't bring $kthemself to do it. Blame it on the guilt, the single butterfly in $ktheir stomach that $kthey can't seem to get rid of, the lack of coherency $ktheir head has lately when $ktheyre been around $name—$K doesn't know. "Maybe one day," $kthey suggest$k_s. "I'll hold you to that." Expecting the answer, it only takes $name a moment before $they change$s the topic. "Do you come here a lot?" "As often as I need to," $K responds. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> turn$k_s $ktheir gaze to the waves, watching as the next group slowly rolls in. "There'll be times where I'll go every day for a week. Or sometimes, I'll only go once a month. It depends." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.06k">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"Do you not want me here?" $name counters. Evading the question again; $K almost rolls $ktheir eyes. <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>><<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'ve<</if>> been spending too much time with Rylan. "Whether you're here or not doesn't affect me," $K responds. $name stands straighter. There's a glint in $their eye, the spark that leads to the fire that $K has grown to appreciate over the months $ktheyve gotten to know $name. "So, you're saying if I left, you wouldn't miss me?" $they challenge$s. "Would you want me to?" "It doesn't matter what I want. It matters what you'd do." $K shakes $ktheir head. "Don't get your hopes up. It takes a lot for me to miss someone." The double meaning catches $kthem by surprise. It was meant to be a lighthearted remark, but the statement has more truth to it than $kthey meant to reveal. It takes a lot for $K to miss someone because that's how $ktheyve forced $kthemself to work. Any emotion of longing has been buried in $kthem for decades, almost centuries. But while $kthey may try, sometimes things don't stay as buried as you want them to. Like now. Like that single butterfly in $ktheir stomach. Like the alertness $kthey can't seem to shake when $name is in $ktheir presence. Like the hum of happiness $ktheir heart makes when they're together. "Do you come here a lot?" $name asks, jarring $K out of $ktheir thoughts. <<print $ktheyre.toUpperFirst()>> thankful for the interruption. "As often as I need to," $K responds. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> turn$k_s $ktheir gaze to the waves, watching as the next group slowly rolls in. "There'll be times where I'll go every day for a week. Or sometimes, I'll only go once a month. It depends." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.06k">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>$name studies $kthem. Though $K doesn't look, the scrutiny of $their eyes raking across $ktheir features sends a small shiver down $ktheir spine. "You like it a lot, don't you?" "If I hated it, I wouldn't be here." $name ignores the sarcasm. "Why New York then? Why not live somewhere closer to ocean? Lakes like these are nothing compared to something like the Pacific or Atlantic." Yes, why New York? $K doesn't know $kthemself. <<print $ktheyve.toUpperFirst()>> had dozens of homes over the past century in a half, all in different cities. Melbourne, Vancouver, Paris, Vienna—$kthey adored each one. Maybe New York is just another city to put on $ktheir list. "You ask a lot of questions for someone who should be asleep," $K says. "It's Friday. I don't have work tomorrow." Is it Friday already? $K is losing track of time. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> say$k_s nothing and let$k_s the conversation come to an end. Water brushes against the sand in front of $kthem before it falls back into its source. Absently, $K lifts a finger. Blue sparks emerge from $ktheir hands as an illusion takes form, a thousand glittering stars floating in the water. It's risky doing this, but most mortals who see the lights will likely brush it off for a city spectacle—magic is never the first thing on their minds. $K sneaks a glance at $name. The soft glow illuminates $their features, eyes reflecting the blue and outlining the curve of $their noses—$their lips. The moment that registers, $K knows $kthey should look away. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> shouldn't be noticing something like that. Wouldn't usually, if not for… $name speaks before $K can finish the thought. \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"It&rsquo;s beautiful." [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.07k'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I wish I could do that." [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.08k'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"You should use your magic like this more often." [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.09k'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Wow." [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.10k'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"It's beautiful," $name breathes. $K doesn't like the jump $ktheir heart does at hearing the descriptor. Why is it that a word $ktheyve heard more times than $kthey can count suddenly sound so different coming from $name's mouth? Like... it actually means something. "Do you like it?" $K asks. "I wouldn't be saying that if I didn't," $name points out. Recall. <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>> turn$s to meet $K's gaze, the slightest curve of a smile on $their lips. $K swears the expression causes $kthem to momentarily forget how to breathe. God. $K tears $ktheir gaze away from $name and shifts back to the water. <<print $ktheyre.toUpperFirst()>> reluctant to do it, if only for $name's sake, but wave$k_s $ktheir hand to recall $ktheir magic. The lack of lights bathes the scene in darkness once more. <<include 'anniversary01.11k'>>"I wish I could do that," $name whispers. Usually, $K's response would be easy. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>>'d spin the words into something about how mortals think magic is simply pretty illusions and nothing more, how they're naïve to think it comes for free. It's on the tip of $ktheir tongue, a rehearsed response—but then there's that second thought. The one that wants to offer to show $name all that $K can do simply because $they asked $kthem to. God. "You'd confuse the mortals," $K responds. "It'd be worth it." $K tears $ktheir gaze away from $name and shifts back to the water. <<print $ktheyre.toUpperFirst()>> reluctant to do it, if only for $name's sake, but wave$k_s $ktheir hand to recall $ktheir magic. The lack of lights bathes the scene in darkness once more. <<include 'anniversary01.11k'>>"You should use your magic like this more often," $name breathes. $K barely registers the use of the word 'should.' Any other time, the sound of it would result in a beratement for the other person and a flare of annoyance for $K, but $ktheir curiosity is too piqued for $kthem to bother. Curiosity and $ktheir pride for $name's admiration, but $kthey ignore$k_s that last bit. "It does nothing," $K states. "It looks pretty," $name counters. "Not everything has to have some grand purpose. Sometimes beauty if all the use something needs." $K doesn't know how to feel about that. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> tear$k_s $ktheir gaze away from $name and shift$k_s back to the water. <<print $ktheyre.toUpperFirst()>> reluctant to do it, if only for $name's sake, but wave$k_s $ktheir hand to recall $ktheir magic. The lack of lights bathes the scene in darkness once more. <<include 'anniversary01.11k'>>"Wow," $name breathes. How does a single word do so much? A moment earlier, $kthey $k_were fine. Now, $ktheir heart is skipping beats, $ktheir throat is blocked from nerves and $ktheir thoughts are consumed by wanting to hear the word again. To hear the amazement and the pure wonder in $name's voice. God. "Is that a good thing or a bad thing?" $K asks. $name looks amused. "What do you think?" Good, of course, but $K needed something to fill the silence. Any longer with it and $kthey worr$k_y $kthey might have done something stupid. $K tears $ktheir gaze away from $name and shifts back to the water. <<print $ktheyre.toUpperFirst()>> reluctant to do it, if only for $name's sake, but wave$k_s $ktheir hand to recall $ktheir magic. The lack of lights bathes the scene in darkness once more. <<include 'anniversary01.11k'>>"You should get going. You'll catch a cold standing here," $K says. "What about you?" "What about me?" $name knits $their eyebrows. "Are you not leaving?" $K opens $ktheir mouth to respond—then closes it again. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> thoughts are backtracking again. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> head is taking back ideas that $kthey $k_were about to fulfill and is replacing them with something new. Because $K was going to say no. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> $k_were going to say no and explain that $kthey wanted more time alone by the water. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> $k_were going to say no and let $name walk off into the night. But when $kthey tried, $kthey found that $kthey couldn't. Couldn't because… //Ask me to come with you. Ask me to not end the night so early. Tell me you don't care about a cold and that you'll stay with me by the waterside. // "Soon enough," $K answers. "Oh, okay." $name glances towards the street. $K isn't going to say more and they both know it, but as $name looks like $they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> about to leave, $they abruptly turn$s back. "Will you be here next Friday?" <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.12k">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> It's not hard to figure out what the question suggests. There was a point where $kthey'd be disgusted at the insinuation of meeting up again. Where $kthey'd curl $ktheir lip and reply a curt no. But now is not that time. Not anymore. Because instead of doing either of those, $K takes a breath and says, "Same time." The way $name's eyes brighten takes away any regret $K may have had. "I'll see you then," $name promises. <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>> smile$s but <<print $do>>n't wait for a response before walking away. $K is glad for it, because it's only when $their silhouette is barely in view that $kthey whisper$k_s a reply. "I'll be here." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><div class="chapter-number"><span>$N.</span></div> For what feels like the hundredth time today, $N is trying to make sure $ntheir dog isn't being a hazard. Trying. "Radar, calm down!" $nthey exclaim$n_s, but, of course, Radar isn't listening. $N has always wanted an energetic dog, but $nthey <<print $n_do>>n't think $nthey learned what energetic really meant before $nthey met Radar. Walking him is a full-time job in itself and though usually $nthey can handle it, unfortunately for $N, something about today has $ntheir dog especially excited. You'd think after four squirrels he'd be satisfied, but apparently not. $N glances around for the culprit that's caught $ntheir dog's attention but rather than spotting a squirrel, $nthey notice$n_s something else. Someone else. Ah. That makes sense. \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">$N lets go of the leash, letting Radar sprint over to $name.</div>' 'anniversary01.02n'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">$N holds onto the leash as $nthey make$n_s $ntheir way over to $name.</div>' 'anniversary01.03n'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>> After getting a little closer, $N lets go of the leash, letting Radar sprint over to $name. He clears the grassy area with ease and barely gives a bark of hello before practically bouldering $name over, circling $them excitedly. "Radar!" $N hears $name gasp. <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>><<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> surprised, but not enough that $they <<print $do>>n't automatically bend down to pet the dog. "Hi! What are you doing here? On a walk, are you?" "The real question is, when are we not?" $N jokes, catching up to the two. At the sound of $ntheir voice, $name glances up with a smile. "I thought I heard your voice," $they greet$s. <<include "anniversary01.04n">> Knowing $name isn't comfortable with dogs, $N holds onto the leash as $they make$n_s $ntheir way over. When they're close enough in range, the sound of Radar's barking startles $name and causes $them to glance up, $their eyes locking with $N immediately. "I thought I recognized that bark," $name greets. "Did you now? Stands out from the rest, does it?" "That and I thought I heard your voice," $name admits. <<include "anniversary01.04n">>$N smiles, but before $nthey can come up with some—horribly flustered, no doubt—response, Radar barks and pulls on his leash, distracting $N as $nthey tighten $ntheir grip again. "Sorry, I don't know what's gotten into him. He's usually tired by this point." "Looks like he's growing out of that puppy phase," $name suggests. "Oh, joy." $N rolls $ntheir eyes teasingly. Radar hasn't been a puppy for a long time, but he sure as hell likes to act like he is. "What's up with you? Are you on a walk too?" $name presses $their lips together. "You could say that. I was heading to a café to grab a snack. They close at three so I thought I'd pop by before then." <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>> point$s in the direction $N just came from. Oh. $N knows the interaction was bound to be short, but $nthey didn't realize //how// short. It's such a stupid thing to be disappointed by, and yet, $nthey $n_are. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>>'ll see $them at work in two days, but the knowledge doesn't change $ntheir feelings. "That's fun. Do you know what you're going to get?" $N asks. "I don't know. I'll have to see," $name answers. <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>> pause$s for a moment before adding, "Did you want to come? You don't have to, of course, but Radar probably wouldn't mind a longer walk." $N glances down at Radar, who gives $nthem a convincing whine. The word 'walk' seemed to have done it. $N makes a mental note to give Radar double the treats when they get home. "Sure, sounds fun," $N says. "Great! It's ten minutes from here. Shouldn't be too long." <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>> walk$s past $N and for a short moment, $ntheyre frozen. There's nothing to suggest that this is more than platonic, but at this point, it doesn't matter. Every interaction $nthey $n_have with $name sends butterflies through $ntheir stomach; $ntheir nerves enter an all-time high and $ntheir breathing turns stuttered. //Don't act like a fool. Don't say something dumb that you'll regret tomorrow.// Too late. Standing here awkwardly is only the first of things that will be something $nthey (involuntarily) review$n_s tonight. Radar tugs on his leash and $N spurs into motion. It was only a few seconds, but it felt like an embarrassingly long amount of time. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> catch$n_es up with $name with ease. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.05n">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"Okay, remind me again how you got Radar," $name says, shaking $their head. "I have some memory of you telling me, but I don't remember what it is." $N laughs. "Don't worry, I'm not offended. I got Radar about four years ago—before I started working at IAOS. I've always loved dogs, but my last apartment didn't allow pets so when my lease was up, I decided to move to a complex that does." "Do you like your new place better?" "Yeah, but mostly because of Radar. My old apartment, I don't know. It was nice, but it was so... lonely. I think with all the busyness of New York, it's easy to feel that way. Most people don't realize it until it happens to them, but even when surrounded by millions of people, you can feel alone." There's a sudden lump in $N's throat but $nthey shake$n_s $ntheir head, trying to ignore it. "Sorry, I didn't mean for that to turn so dark. Point is, I got Radar partially for the company and partially because it's a childhood dream of mine. We weren't allowed pets growing up, so having Radar means everything to me." $N slows to a stop as Radar sniffs at a nearby set of bushes, $name waiting with them. "Does he help?" "Sorry?" "Does Radar help?" $name clarifies. "With the loneliness." "Yeah, he does." $N chews the inside of $ntheir cheek, wondering if $nthey should say what's on the tip of $ntheir tongue. The only thing $nthey $n_have to lose is $ntheir dignity, right? That in mind, $nthey continue$n_s, "People like you help too." "Me?" $name asks. <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>> sound$s surprised—but $they shouldn't be. Hasn't $N made it clear how much $nthey enjoy$n_s $their company? Isn't it obvious how much $N smiles when $ntheyre with $them, how $name manages to elicit reactions from $N that practically no other person can? "Yeah, I like spending time with you," $N says. "Even on days when I don't want to go into work, getting to talk with you is one of the things that motivates me." $name, who'd temporarily shifted $their gaze to watch Radar, glances at $N with… a look of awe? $N doesn't know. It's hard to decipher when all $nthey can concentrate on is stabilizing $ntheir heartbeat while $nthey wait$n_s painfully for a response. Those seconds are torturous. When $name doesn't respond right away, $N starts to worry $nthey went too far. It's not like $ntheir words were romantic, but maybe it was too much. Maybe $name was merely being friendly and $they <<print $do>>n't see $N as much of a friend as $nthey $n_do. Maybe $N is simply a last resort kind of person, the kind you'd reach out to only if everyone else was busy. Maybe— \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I like spending time with you too." [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.07n'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"You&rsquo;re motivation for me too." [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.08n'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"That&rsquo;s really cute." [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.09n'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"I like spending time with you too," $name says. Any doubt $N has is washed away by the broad smile on $their face—the genuine admiration shimmering in $their eyes. It just about takes $N's breath away. $N swallows. "Oh, good. This would be really awkward if you didn't." <<print $ntheyve.toUpperFirst()>> gotten better with $ntheir self-esteem over the past couple of months, but there's always that lingering worry that someone you care for won't feel the same. A thousand reassurances mean nothing when $N has known people who break promises without a second thought. $name lets out an airy laugh, a sound that immediately buries itself in $N's head and plays on loop. "We wouldn't be here if I didn't, right? Come on, we're almost there." $N is sure every emotion is displayed on $ntheir face right now—$nthey couldn't hide it if $nthey tried—but, with effort, $nthey lightly tug$n_s on Radar's leash and attempt to school $ntheir expression back to neutrality. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.10n">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"You're motivation for me too," $name breathes. $N blinks, at a loss for words. It wasn't like $nthey didn't think $name saying it was a possibility, but thinking them and hearing them are two completely different things. "It's not fun having to be there for 8 AM," $name continues, "but at least I know that while I'm there, I can find you." A pause. "It's better when you're there." $N nearly stops breathing. Whatever functions $nthey thought $nthey had a moment ago? Gone. $N doesn't even care if $name means that in a friendly way, just the knowledge is enough. <<print $ntheir.toUpperFirst()>> heart is pounding in $ntheir chest, $ntheir neck warm from the flush of heating running down $ntheir body. "Come and find me anytime then. I always like talking with you," $N replies. <<print $ntheir.toUpperFirst()>> voice is barely above a whisper; $nthey hope$n_s $name doesn't ask $nthem to repeat it—$nthey could barely manage the words the first time, let alone a second. Luckily, $they <<print $do>>n't. "I'll take you up on that." $name smiles. "Come on, we're almost there." $N takes the second of lightly tugging on Radar's leash to school $ntheir expression into neutrality. No doubt everything was written on $ntheir face, but if $nthey can get it together now, maybe $name will write it off for something else. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.10n">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"That's really cute," $name says. The indecipherable look in $their eyes is gone, replaced by a soft smile and a genuine admiration that makes $N forget how to breathe. Forgets how to do anything, really. "I mean," $name continues, "I really like spending time with you too, but I don't think I could top the way you said it. It was so adorable." "Um, I'll take that as a compliment," $N replies. If $nthey thought the extra second would help $nthem regain the ability to function, $nthey $n_were sorely wrong. 'I'll take that as a compliment'? Seriously? What kind of response is that? <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> wince$n_s and wait$n_s for $name to take back $their words after $ntheir terrible response, but $they merely let$s out a light laugh. "Don't worry, it was," $name assures. "Come on, we're almost there." $N is sure every emotion is displayed on $ntheir face right now—$nthey couldn't hide it if $nthey tried—but, with effort, $nthey lightly tug$n_s on Radar's leash and attempt to school $ntheir expression back to neutrality. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.10n">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> A couple of minutes later, they reach the café. They don't allow dogs, so $N waits outside while $name goes in to order. When asked what $nthey want$n_s, $N merely replies, "Surprise me." The response gains $nthem a playful wrinkle of the nose but $they <<print $do>>n't protest. For a second time today, $N has to thank Radar. Without him, $nthey'd probably be pacing back and forth nervously right now. The distraction of people gushing at $ntheir dog and asking if they can pet him keeps $nthem from thinking about $ntheir mounting anxiety, but still, even apart, $N finds it hard not to look at $name. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>>'d done it the whole way here. Part of it was out of respect, to look at the other person as they talk, but $N won't lie and say $nthey <<print $n_were>>n't admiring $name when $nthey did so. $N considers $nthemself to be someone who prefers personality over looks, but it doesn't matter when it comes to $name—$they $have both. It's a mixture of things. Not even the way $they look$s, but also the way $they speak$s. <<print $their.toUpperFirst()>> sense of humour, $their specific quirks. $N discovers something new with $them every day—$nthey never want$n_s it to end. "I got you a coffee and a muffin," $name declares, coming out of the shop. $N startles, not realizing how much time had passed. "That quick?" "It wasn't busy," $name explains. <<print $their.toUpperFirst()>> eyes light up as $they remember$s something. "Oh, and I got Radar a dog treat. They saw him outside and asked if I knew you so I could give it to him." $N takes the dog treat first and bends down to feed Radar. "How much were my things? I'll pay you back." $nthey ask$n_s, glancing up. $name shakes $their head. "Don't worry about it. It's on me." Radar finishes his snack in record time and $N stands, grabbing $ntheir things from $name with a doubtful look. "Are you sure?" "Yeah, it was practically nothing." "Okay, thanks." $N stands there awkwardly for a moment, wondering if $nthey should say goodbye. The trip is over; their time has come to a close. It was only ever supposed to go this far and yet, $nthey <<print $n_do>>n't want to be the one who officially ends it. $name does it for $nthem. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.11n">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"Are you leaving now? Radar's looks kind of tired," $name notes. $N glances down at $ntheir dog. Having devoured his treat, Radar is now leaned against $N's leg, his energy nearly gone. $N knows him well enough to know he wants to go home. As much as $nthey might want to stay, $nthey won't force Radar into staying out longer just for $ntheir sake. "I think so," $N answers. "It's been a longer day for him. Radar will probably pass out the moment we get inside." "At least you'll get some peace and quiet for a bit," $name teases. $N doesn't know if $ntheyre imagining it, but $they look$s reluctant to leave. "I guess this is it then." "I guess so." "I'll see you Monday?" "Yeah, Monday," $N replies, offering a small smile. $name waits for $N to say more but when $nthey <<print $n_do>>n't, $they start$s to leave. It's only when $they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> raising $their hand for a wave that $N blurts out: "We should do this more often." $name's hand stills. For a short second, there's surprise in $their eyes, but it quickly melts into happiness. "We should. Text me next time so we don't have to randomly meet in the park." $N's heart swells. To anyone else, this may seem minor, but to $nthem, it's a milestone of progress. <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $n_do>>n't mind being just friends for now—forever, even, if $name doesn't end up reciprocating $ntheir feelings. Spending time with $them is enough. "I will," $N answers. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><div class="chapter-number"><span>Rylan.</span></div> At 11 PM, Rylan texted $name asking if $they $were awake. At 11:05 PM, $rthey got a reply asking a wary "why?". At 11:06 PM, Rylan texted "do you want to go out?" and at 11:07 PM, $rthey $r_were told that $name will be down in twenty minutes. And so, that's how at 11:22 PM, Rylan finds $rthemself standing outside of $name's apartment building, watching the doors for $them to come out. In all honesty, $rthey didn't expect $name to say yes. Rylan is a bundle of energy that most can't keep up with. <<print $rtheyre.toUpperFirst()>> always wandering, always exploring, always wanting to go out even when internally $rthey know$r_s $rthey could use a break. But a break means time with $rtheir thoughts and time with $rtheir thoughts means confronting things Rylan tries to actively avoid. And if there's anything Rylan is known for aside from being social, it's avoiding $rtheir feelings. <<print $rtheyre.toUpperFirst()>> practically an expert. Rylan is checking $rtheir phone when $rthey look$r_s up and spot$r_s $name walking towards $rthem. <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>><<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'ve<</if>> made the smart choice to wear a coat tonight, as opposed to Rylan's leather jacket. "This better be good," $name says by way of greeting. Rylan's grin is automatic. "It's me, why wouldn't it be?" "I have my doubts." "Says the $huntertitle who's spending Saturday night in $their apartment—alone." Rylan laughs at the expression on $name's face. Digging into $rtheir pocket, $rthey offer$r_s a peace gesture. "Here, I got you a lollipop." "What flavour?" Though $they ask$s, $they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> already reaching out for the candy. "Only the best," Rylan replies. $name unwraps the lollipop and sticks it in $their mouth, placing the plastic in $their pocket. Rylan, having an extra, pops $rtheir own lollipop before leading $name down the street. "Come on, we're wasting time." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.02r">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>$name settles beside Rylan with a steady pace. Rylan is so used to walking alone that $their presence startles $rthem for a moment, but not before registering how… nice it is. "What's on the agenda? It sounds like you want to do a lot tonight," $name notes. "Did it?" Rylan muses. "What if my only agenda was spending time with you? Then what?" <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> gaze lingers on $name long enough to see $them shake $their head playfully at the easy flirtation before it flicks away again. "But seriously, I don't have anything planned. We can do whatever you want. Your wish is my command." "Is it now?" "Of course. Would I lie to you, darling?" Rylan counters, batting $rtheir eyelashes. This one grants $rthem an eyeroll. "You're being extra flirty tonight." It's hard to tell whether $name thinks that's a good or bad thing. Maybe $they think$s it's neither. After all, Rylan has been flirting with $them since the moment they met. Any flirtatious drawl or look is likely brushed off as $rtheir personality now. That's the point of it. How much fun can $rthey $r_have before $rthey'll eventually have to leave? Rylan's relationship with $name is running on a time limit. When the clock hits zero and Rylan is potentially arrested for $rtheir crimes, everything will be over. Whatever $rtheyre is doing now is simply living out $rtheir potential final moments. Nothing more than that. Absolutely nothing more. "Am I? Maybe I'm just happy that I get to spend time with my favourite human," Rylan suggests. "Just don't tell the others. I don't want them to get upset." $name's eyebrows nearly reach $their hairline. "I'm your favourite now, huh?" "Always have been," Rylan answers easily. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $r_do>>n't turn to see $name's reaction, skipping down the sidewalk. "Come on! You can walk faster than that. I thought you were a hunter!" $name rolls $their eyes again but catches up to Rylan in the matter of a few steps. The moment $they<<if $hunterverb is true>>'s<<else>>'re<</if>> caught up, Rylan puts $rtheir hand out, palm facing upwards. "What's this?" $name questions. "An offer to hold my hand, of course. So you don't get lost." Rylan watches $name's expression turn from quizzical to surprised. It takes a second for the words to process, but when they do, $they… \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">... take$s Rylan&rsquo;s hand. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.03r'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">… shake$s $their head. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'anniversary01.04r'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $holdhands to true>>\ It's ironic, really. Rylan was the one who suggested it but when $name takes $rtheir hand, $rtheyre the one who's caught off guard. Not because $rthey <<print $r_do>>n't like it or anything, because $rthey $r_do, but because… Because $rtheyre not expecting that jolt of electricity down $rtheir spine. The pleasure humming in $rtheir heart. The butterflies that suddenly enter $rtheir stomach. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $r_were>>n't expecting any of it. "No chance of getting lost now, huh?" $name jokes. Is $their voice hoarse or is Rylan just imagining it? "As long as you don't let go," Rylan answers, giving $name's hand a squeeze. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> look$r_s away before $rthey can see$r_s $name's reaction, not sure if $rthey can handle it right now. Not with $rtheir heart doing… whatever the fuck it's doing. Rylan tugs $name's hand lightly as $rthey pull$r_s $them down the street. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $r_do>>n't know where $rtheyre going, but that's part of the fun. As they turn a corner, Rylan spots a public park. Without a word, $rthey begin$r_s to redirect $name there. When $they realize$s what's happening, $they shoot$s Rylan an amused look. "I thought I was calling the shots tonight," $they remind$s $rthem. "After this? Please?" Rylan asks. Something in $rtheir tone must convince $name, because instead of telling $rthem $they want$s to leave, $they stop$s whatever resistance there was and allow$s Rylan to pull $them along to the swing set. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.05r">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>$name shakes $their head. "I think I can manage." "Alright, but if you get lost you can't say I didn't try," Rylan responds. <<print $rtheyre.toUpperFirst()>> not offended by $name's rejection—not everyone loves physical touch as much as $rthey $r_do—but what $rthey feel$r_s instead, however, is something $rthey <<$r_were>>n't expecting. Because in the brief second that Rylan allows $rthemself to sort out $rtheir thoughts, $rthey think$r_s that maybe $rthey wanted to hold $name's hand. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> wanted to initially, of course, but it was mostly out of lighthearted fun. What $rtheyre feeling now is the opposite of that. And when $name said no, Rylan felt… relieved. Relieved at not having to deal with the butterflies in $rtheir stomach that $rthey <<print $r_do>>n't register are there until now. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>>'d been nervous without realizing it. Rylan Villanueva. Nervous. That's not a word $rthey often associate$r_s with $rthemself. But all those thoughts come and go quickly, Rylan brushing them off like a pest on $rtheir shoulder. "Maybe you'll take me up on the offer one day," $rthey tease$r_s. The grin is already forming on $rtheir face. "You sound so sure." "I said maybe. Besides, my hands are lovely." The two continue bantering like that down the entire block. When they turn a corner, Rylan spots a public park. "Last one to the swing set loses!" $rthey declare$r_s. Rylan hears a surprised "what?" from $name before $rtheyre off and running. Even without using $rtheir supernatural speed $name never stood a chance—not with that head start. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.05r">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<if $holdhands is true>>They reach the swing set at the same time. Almost immediately after $rthey sit$r_s down, Rylan's legs are kicking back and forth, trying to get $rthem as high as possible.\ <<else>>By the time Rylan is kicking $rtheir legs in the air, $name is just reaching the swing set. <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>> give$s $rthem a bit of an amused look. "I thought I was calling the shots tonight," $they remind$s $rthem. "After this? Please?" Rylan asks. Something in $rtheir tone must convince $name, because instead of telling $rthem $they want$s to leave, $they merely sit$s down on a swing and begin$s kicking $their legs back and forth like Rylan.<</if>> For a while, the only words coming from the two are teases and taunts. "You can go higher than that!" "Is that all you have, hunter?" "Look what I can do!" Rylan is dizzy and it's not from the swings. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> pride$r_s $rthemself on living $rtheir life to the fullest, but pretending to have fun and actually enjoying $rtheir time are two different things. <<print $rtheyve.toUpperFirst()>> always known it, but $rtheyve spent so long faking smiles that $rthey nearly forgot what it's like to… not. Glancing over at $name, staring at how the soft moonlight hits $their features and how the dim streetlamp traces the outline of $their figure, Rylan almost feels like $rtheyre experiencing something $rthey <<print $r_are>>n't supposed to. <<print $they.toUpperFirst()>> look$s pretty. Beautiful even. The thought is more than $rtheir usual observations. Rylan has given countless shallow compliments, but if $rthey $r_were to say this aloud, $rthey know$r_s it wouldn't be that. Rylan jumps off the swing. "Where are you going?" $name calls. "The jungle gym!" Rylan answers. "What? You didn't think I'd spend all my time on the swings, did you?" <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> give$r_s $name $rtheir signature smile, but it feels wrong. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $r_do>>n't want to lie. Not to $name. Rylan hears a small noise from $name but, like before, $rtheyre off again, climbing the rungs up to the elevated platform without a backward glance. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> sit$r_s onto the railing, admiring the view. It's nothing compared to what $rthey can see from a rooftop, but at least here, $rtheyre not alone. A moment later, $name comes up to join $rthem. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.06r">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"How much coffee did you drink to have this much energy?" $they ask$s. "Would you believe me if I said none?" "No." Rylan glances at $name. Another thought enters the rotation: gorgeous. Funny how much of an impact someone can have on you without even realizing it. Rylan jumps down from the railing and sits on the platform, ignoring the granules of sand littering the black surface. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> debate$r_s $rtheir response for a while, going between making jokes and what's actually on $rtheir mind. In the end, $rthey settle$r_s for the latter. "Can I tell you something?" "Yeah. What is it?" "Half of this isn't real." "What do you mean?" Rylan tilt$r_s $rtheir head back. "Me. Half of what I say and do isn't actually me at all. It's just some act I put on. The energetic side of me? That's only part of the truth. The days I'm the loudest are usually the days I want to be the quietest." <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $r_do>>n't want to see the look of sympathy on $name's face, so $rthey keep$r_s $rtheir gaze averted. "And what about tonight?" $name asks. Rylan hears rustling and a moment later, a weight settling on the platform with $rthem. "How much of you am I seeing?" Rylan's spent so long between blurred lines, not sure where $rthey begin$r_s and where $rtheir persona ends, but one question from $name and the answer is suddenly crystal clear. //More than most. More than anyone has in a long time.// And deep down, $rthey know$r_s it's true. Conscious or not, $rtheir guard comes down with $name. There's a sense of safety here, the kind that makes Rylan want to lay down and fall asleep to the sound of $their voice, knowing that any nightmare $rthey'd usually have wouldn't dare touch $rthem with $name there. If only. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "anniversary01.07r">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> Rylan must have taken too long to answer, because $name suddenly changes the topic. "Rylan, why did you want to hang out tonight?" "Why wouldn't I?" "I don't know. You could have texted anyone else, but you texted me. Why?" Rylan, tired of the sky, finally brings $rtheir gaze to $name. They're closer than $rthey thought they'd be. An adjustment in position and Rylan would be brushing against $name's leg. A reposition of $rtheir hand and they'd be touching. A surge forward and they'd be kissing. The thought sends goosebumps racing down Rylan's arms, a shiver down $rtheir spine—but neither are bad reactions. Because despite their strange relationship, bounty hunter and bounty, $name wouldn't hurt $rthem. Which is why Rylan is so confused. Nothing can come out of this. It'd never work. It's why Rylan was playing the game in the first place. It's what $rthey play$r_s with everyone. Give people enough of you to form a relationship, but never enough so they can hurt you. Don't trust people to love you when all they know is how to do is to hurt you. But $rtheyre losing now. And $rthey <<print $r_do>>n't know what to do about it. "I wasn't lying when I said you're my favourite human," Rylan answers. The words come out slowly. Carefully. As if $rtheyre scared something will break. "I like spending time with you, $name." $name, not hunter. Rylan knows $they recognize$s the shift as much as $rthey $r_do. "Is this half real?" $name whispers. Rylan studies $them. <<print $their.toUpperFirst()>> positioning means that only half of $their face is illuminated—the half that is closer to Rylan. <<if $holdhands is true>>It only takes a moment of hesitation before $rthey reach$r_es out and place$r_s $rtheir hand on top of $name's. The wide-eyed look $rtheyre given in return nearly stops $rtheir heart, but after a hard swallow, $rthey manage$r_s a response.\ <<else>>Maybe that's the universe's way of telling $rthem something, or maybe it means nothing at all—Rylan doesn't know. But the longer $rthey stare$r_s into $name's eyes, the more sure $rthey $r_are of $rtheir answer. The words almost don't come, but in the end, $rthey manage$r_s a response.<</if>> "It always is with you." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><div class="subtitle"><span>the midnight hours: shorts</span></div>\ <center>Before you get started, please fill out some basic information about the ros and your hunter. First, what is your hunter's name and surname? <<textbox "$name" "Name" autofocus>> <<textbox "$lastname" "Surname" autofocus>></center> \ <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "huntercust2">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>Next, what are your hunter's pronouns?</center>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">He/Him.</div>' 'rocust'>><<set $huntergender to "male">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">She/Her.</div>' 'rocust'>><<set $huntergender to "female">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">They/Them.</div>' 'rocust'>><<set $huntergender to "nb">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">None of these.</div>' 'huntercust3'>><<set $huntergender to "custom">><<set $huntertitle to "person">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>Enter your subjective pronoun (ex. he, she, they). <<textbox "$they" "" autofocus>> Enter your objective pronoun (ex. him, her, them). <<textbox "$them" "" autofocus>> Enter your possessive adjective (ex. his, her, their). <<textbox "$their" "" autofocus>> Enter your possessive pronoun (ex. his, hers, theirs). <<textbox "$theirs" "" autofocus>> Enter your reflexive pronoun (ex. himself, herself, themself). <<textbox "$themself" "" autofocus>></center> <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "huntercust4">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>Do your pronouns work best with singular or plural verbs?</center>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Singular (ex. he says, she says).</div>' 'rocust'>><<set $hunterverb to true>><<set $s to "s">><<set $es to "es">><<set $y to "ies">><<set $are to "is">><<set $have to "has">><<set $do to "does">><<set $were to "was">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Plural (ex. they say).</div>' 'rocust'>><<set $hunterverb to false>><<set $s to "">><<set $es to "">><<set $y to "y">><<set $are to "are">><<set $have to "have">><<set $do to "do">><<set $were to "were">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<if $huntergender is "male">>\ <<set $huntertitle to "man">>\ <<set $they to "he">>\ <<set $them to "him">>\ <<set $themself to "himself">>\ <<set $their to "his">>\ <<set $theirs to "his">>\ <<set $s to "s">>\ <<set $es to "es">>\ <<set $y to "ies">>\ <<set $are to "is">>\ <<set $have to "has">>\ <<set $do to "does">>\ <<set $were to "was">>\ <<set $hunterverb to true>>\ <<elseif $huntergender is "female">>\ <<set $huntertitle to "woman">>\ <<set $they to "she">>\ <<set $them to "her">>\ <<set $themself to "herself">>\ <<set $their to "her">>\ <<set $theirs to "hers">>\ <<set $s to "s">>\ <<set $es to "es">>\ <<set $y to "ies">>\ <<set $are to "is">>\ <<set $have to "has">>\ <<set $do to "does">>\ <<set $were to "was">>\ <<set $hunterverb to true>>\ <<elseif $huntergender is "nb">>\ <<set $title to "person">>\ <<set $they to "they">>\ <<set $them to "them">>\ <<set $themself to "themself">>\ <<set $their to "their">>\ <<set $theirs to "theirs">>\ <<set $s to "">>\ <<set $es to "">>\ <<set $y to "y">>\ <<set $are to "are">>\ <<set $have to "have">>\ <<set $do to "do">>\ <<set $were to "were">> <<set $hunterverb to false>>\ <<else>>\ <<set $title to "hunter">><</if>><center>Onto the ros: what genders and pronouns do you wish them to use?</center>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Choose a single gender.</div>' 'rocust2'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Individually select genders for each.</div>' 'rocust3'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Randomize the genders.</div>' 'storyselect'>> <<set $arandom = Math.clamp(random(1, 3), 1, 3)>>\ <<if $arandom is 1>>\ <<set $agender to "male">>\ <<elseif $arandom is 2>>\ <<set $agender to "female">>\ <<else>>\ <<set $agender to "nb">>\ <</if>>\ <<set $brandom = Math.clamp(random(1, 3), 1, 3)>>\ <<if $brandom is 1>>\ <<set $bgender to "male">>\ <<elseif $brandom is 2>>\ <<set $bgender to "female">>\ <<else>>\ <<set $bgender to "nb">>\ <</if>>\ <<set $nrandom = Math.clamp(random(1, 3), 1, 3)>>\ <<if $nrandom is 1>>\ <<set $ngender to "male">>\ <<elseif $nrandom is 2>>\ <<set $ngender to "female">>\ <<else>>\ <<set $ngender to "nb">>\ <</if>>\ <<set $krandom = Math.clamp(random(1, 3), 1, 3)>>\ <<if $krandom is 1>>\ <<set $kgender to "male">>\ <<elseif $krandom is 2>>\ <<set $kgender to "female">>\ <<else>>\ <<set $kgender to "nb">>\ <</if>>\ <<set $rrandom = Math.clamp(random(1, 3), 1, 3)>>\ <<if $rrandom is 1>>\ <<set $rgender to "male">>\ <<elseif $rrandom is 2>>\ <<set $rgender to "female">>\ <<else>>\ <<set $rgender to "nb">>\ <</if>>\ <</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>What gender would you like ros to be?</center>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Male.</div>' 'storyselect'>>\ <<set $agender to "male">>\ <<set $bgender to "male">>\ <<set $ngender to "male">>\ <<set $kgender to "male">>\ <<set $rgender to "male">>\ <</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Female.</div>' 'storyselect'>>\ <<set $agender to "female">>\ <<set $bgender to "female">>\ <<set $ngender to "female">>\ <<set $kgender to "female">>\ <<set $rgender to "female">>\ <</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Non-binary.</div>' 'storyselect'>>\ <<set $agender to "nb">>\ <<set $bgender to "nb">>\ <<set $ngender to "nb">>\ <<set $kgender to "nb">>\ <<set $rgender to "nb">>\ <</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>What gender do you wish A to be?</center>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Male.</div>' 'rocust4'>><<set $agender to "male">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Female.</div>' 'rocust4'>><<set $agender to "female">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Non-binary.</div>' 'rocust4'>><<set $agender to "nb">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>What gender do you wish Blane to be?</center>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Male.</div>' 'rocust5'>><<set $bgender to "male">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Female.</div>' 'rocust5'>><<set $bgender to "female">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Non-binary.</div>' 'rocust5'>><<set $bgender to "nb">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>What gender do you wish N to be?</center>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Male.</div>' 'rocust6'>><<set $ngender to "male">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Female.</div>' 'rocust6'>><<set $ngender to "female">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Non-binary.</div>' 'rocust6'>><<set $ngender to "nb">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>What gender do you wish K to be?</center>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Male.</div>' 'rocust7'>><<set $kgender to "male">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Female.</div>' 'rocust7'>><<set $kgender to "female">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Non-binary.</div>' 'rocust7'>><<set $kgender to "nb">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>what gender do you wish Rylan to be?</center>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Male.</div>' 'storyselect'>><<set $rgender to "male">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Female.</div>' 'storyselect'>><<set $rgender to "female">><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Non-binary.</div>' 'storyselect'>><<set $rgender to "nb">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<if $agender is "male">>\ <<set $A to "Arion">>\ <<set $atitle to "man">>\ <<set $atitle2 to "guy">>\ <<set $athey to "he">>\ <<set $athem to "him">>\ <<set $athemself to "himself">>\ <<set $atheir to "his">>\ <<set $atheirs to "his">>\ <<set $atheyre to "he's">>\ <<set $atheyve to "he's">>\ <<set $a_s to "s">>\ <<set $a_es to "es">>\ <<set $a_y to "ies">>\ <<set $a_are to "is">>\ <<set $a_have to "has">>\ <<set $a_do to "does">>\ <<set $a_were to "was">>\ <<elseif $agender is "female">>\ <<set $A to "Arden">>\ <<set $atitle to "woman">>\ <<set $atitle2 to "girl">>\ <<set $athey to "she">>\ <<set $athem to "her">>\ <<set $athemself to "herself">>\ <<set $atheir to "her">>\ <<set $atheirs to "hers">>\ <<set $atheyre to "she's">>\ <<set $atheyve to "she's">>\ <<set $a_s to "s">>\ <<set $a_es to "es">>\ <<set $a_y to "ies">>\ <<set $a_are to "is">>\ <<set $a_have to "has">>\ <<set $a_do to "does">>\ <<set $a_were to "was">>\ <<else>>\ <<set $A to "Adair">>\ <<set $atitle to "hunter">>\ <<set $atitle2 to "person">>\ <<set $athey to "they">>\ <<set $athem to "them">>\ <<set $athemself to "themself">>\ <<set $atheir to "their">>\ <<set $atheirs to "theirs">>\ <<set $atheyre to "they're">>\ <<set $atheyve to "they've">>\ <<set $a_s to "">>\ <<set $a_es to "">>\ <<set $a_y to "y">>\ <<set $a_are to "are">>\ <<set $a_have to "have">>\ <<set $a_do to "do">>\ <<set $a_were to "were">><</if>>\ <<if $bgender is "male">>\ <<set $btitle to "man">>\ <<set $btitle2 to "guy">>\ <<set $bthey to "he">>\ <<set $bthem to "him">>\ <<set $bthemself to "himself">>\ <<set $btheir to "his">>\ <<set $btheirs to "his">>\ <<set $btheyre to "he's">>\ <<set $btheyve to "he's">>\ <<set $b_s to "s">>\ <<set $b_es to "es">>\ <<set $b_y to "ies">>\ <<set $b_are to "is">>\ <<set $b_have to "has">>\ <<set $b_do to "does">>\ <<set $b_were to "was">>\ <<elseif $bgender is "female">>\ <<set $btitle to "woman">>\ <<set $btitle2 to "girl">>\ <<set $bthey to "she">>\ <<set $bthem to "her">>\ <<set $bthemself to "herself">>\ <<set $btheir to "her">>\ <<set $btheirs to "hers">>\ <<set $btheyre to "she's">>\ <<set $btheyve to "she's">>\ <<set $b_s to "s">>\ <<set $b_es to "es">>\ <<set $b_y to "ies">>\ <<set $b_are to "is">>\ <<set $b_have to "has">>\ <<set $b_do to "does">>\ <<set $b_were to "was">>\ <<else>>\ <<set $btitle to "hunter">>\ <<set $btitle2 to "person">>\ <<set $bthey to "they">>\ <<set $bthem to "them">>\ <<set $bthemself to "themself">>\ <<set $btheir to "their">>\ <<set $btheirs to "theirs">>\ <<set $btheyre to "they're">>\ <<set $btheyve to "they've">>\ <<set $b_s to "">>\ <<set $b_es to "">>\ <<set $b_y to "y">>\ <<set $b_are to "are">>\ <<set $b_have to "have">>\ <<set $b_do to "do">>\ <<set $b_were to "were">><</if>>\ <<if $ngender is "male">>\ <<set $N to "Nikolas">>\ <<set $ntitle to "man">>\ <<set $ntitle2 to "guy">>\ <<set $nthey to "he">>\ <<set $nthem to "him">>\ <<set $nthemself to "himself">>\ <<set $ntheir to "his">>\ <<set $ntheirs to "his">>\ <<set $ntheyre to "he's">>\ <<set $ntheyve to "he's">>\ <<set $n_s to "s">>\ <<set $n_es to "es">>\ <<set $n_y to "ies">>\ <<set $n_are to "is">>\ <<set $n_have to "has">>\ <<set $n_do to "does">>\ <<set $n_were to "was">>\ <<elseif $ngender is "female">>\ <<set $N to "Noele">>\ <<set $ntitle to "woman">>\ <<set $ntitle2 to "girl">>\ <<set $nthey to "she">>\ <<set $nthem to "her">>\ <<set $nthemself to "herself">>\ <<set $ntheir to "her">>\ <<set $ntheirs to "hers">>\ <<set $ntheyre to "she's">>\ <<set $ntheyve to "she's">>\ <<set $n_s to "s">>\ <<set $n_es to "es">>\ <<set $n_y to "ies">>\ <<set $n_are to "is">>\ <<set $n_have to "has">>\ <<set $n_do to "does">>\ <<set $n_were to "was">>\ <<else>>\ <<set $N to "Nolan">>\ <<set $ntitle to "hunter">>\ <<set $ntitle2 to "person">>\ <<set $nthey to "they">>\ <<set $nthem to "them">>\ <<set $nthemself to "themself">>\ <<set $ntheir to "their">>\ <<set $ntheirs to "theirs">>\ <<set $ntheyre to "they're">>\ <<set $ntheyve to "they've">>\ <<set $n_s to "">>\ <<set $n_es to "">>\ <<set $n_y to "y">>\ <<set $n_are to "are">>\ <<set $n_have to "have">>\ <<set $n_do to "do">>\ <<set $n_were to "were">><</if>>\ <<if $kgender is "male">>\ <<set $K to "Kian">>\ <<set $ktitle to "man">>\ <<set $ktitle2 to "guy">>\ <<set $kthey to "he">>\ <<set $kthem to "him">>\ <<set $kthemself to "himself">>\ <<set $ktheir to "his">>\ <<set $ktheirs to "his">>\ <<set $ktheyre to "he's">>\ <<set $ktheyve to "he's">>\ <<set $k_s to "s">>\ <<set $k_es to "es">>\ <<set $k_y to "ies">>\ <<set $k_are to "is">>\ <<set $k_have to "has">>\ <<set $k_do to "does">>\ <<set $k_were to "was">>\ <<elseif $kgender is "female">>\ <<set $K to "Kaia">>\ <<set $ktitle to "woman">>\ <<set $ktitle2 to "girl">>\ <<set $kthey to "she">>\ <<set $kthem to "her">>\ <<set $kthemself to "herself">>\ <<set $ktheir to "her">>\ <<set $ktheirs to "hers">>\ <<set $ktheyre to "she's">>\ <<set $ktheyve to "she's">>\ <<set $k_s to "s">>\ <<set $k_es to "es">>\ <<set $k_y to "ies">>\ <<set $k_are to "is">>\ <<set $k_have to "has">>\ <<set $k_do to "does">>\ <<set $k_were to "was">>\ <<else>>\ <<set $K to "Kai">>\ <<set $ktitle to "warlock">>\ <<set $ktitle2 to "person">>\ <<set $kthey to "they">>\ <<set $kthem to "them">>\ <<set $kthemself to "themself">>\ <<set $ktheir to "their">>\ <<set $ktheirs to "theirs">>\ <<set $ktheyre to "they're">>\ <<set $ktheyve to "they've">>\ <<set $k_s to "">>\ <<set $k_es to "">>\ <<set $k_y to "y">>\ <<set $k_are to "are">>\ <<set $k_have to "have">>\ <<set $k_do to "do">>\ <<set $k_were to "were">><</if>>\ <<if $rgender is "male">>\ <<set $rtitle to "man">>\ <<set $rtitle2 to "guy">>\ <<set $rthey to "he">>\ <<set $rthem to "him">>\ <<set $rthemself to "himself">>\ <<set $rtheir to "his">>\ <<set $rtheirs to "his">>\ <<set $rtheyre to "he's">>\ <<set $rtheyve to "he's">>\ <<set $r_s to "s">>\ <<set $r_es to "es">>\ <<set $r_y to "ies">>\ <<set $r_are to "is">>\ <<set $r_have to "has">>\ <<set $r_do to "does">>\ <<set $r_were to "was">>\ <<elseif $rgender is "female">>\ <<set $rtitle to "woman">>\ <<set $rtitle2 to "girl">>\ <<set $rthey to "she">>\ <<set $rthem to "her">>\ <<set $rthemself to "herself">>\ <<set $rtheir to "her">>\ <<set $rtheirs to "hers">>\ <<set $rtheyre to "she's">>\ <<set $rtheyve to "she's">>\ <<set $r_s to "s">>\ <<set $r_es to "es">>\ <<set $r_y to "ies">>\ <<set $r_are to "is">>\ <<set $r_have to "has">>\ <<set $r_do to "does">>\ <<set $r_were to "was">>\ <<else>>\ <<set $rtitle to "half-vampire">>\ <<set $rtitle2 to "person">>\ <<set $rthey to "they">>\ <<set $rthem to "them">>\ <<set $rthemself to "themself">>\ <<set $rtheir to "their">>\ <<set $rtheirs to "theirs">>\ <<set $rtheyre to "they're">>\ <<set $rtheyve to "they've">>\ <<set $r_s to "">>\ <<set $r_es to "">>\ <<set $r_y to "y">>\ <<set $r_are to "are">>\ <<set $r_have to "have">>\ <<set $r_do to "do">>\ <<set $r_were to "were">><</if>>\ <center>Choose a collection.</center>\ <div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="menubutton">Anniversary Stories [2021]</div>' 'anniversaryselect'>><</link>>\ <<link '<div class="menubutton">Ringing in the New Year</div>' 'newyears'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="menubutton">Under the Mistletoe</div>' 'mistletoeselect'>><</link>>\ </div><center>Choose a story.</center>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Late Night Calls [A Devereux]</div>' 'anniversary01.01a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Rainy Days [Blane Rekner]</div>' 'anniversary01.01b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Pocket Change [N Alves]</div>' 'anniversary01.01n'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Moonlit Tides [K de Vries]</div>' 'anniversary01.01k'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Midnight Spontaneity [Rylan Villanueva]</div>' 'anniversary01.01r'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>Choose a path.</center>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">A Devereux</div>' 'mistletoe.01a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Blane Rekner</div>' 'mistletoe.01b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">N Alves</div>' 'mistletoe.01n'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">K de Vries</div>' 'mistletoe.01k'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Rylan Villanueva</div>' 'mistletoe.01r'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>Before we begin, would you prefer the story to have platonic or romantic undertones?</center>\ \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Platonic.</div>' 'mistletoe.02a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Romantic.</div>' 'mistletoe.02a'>><<set $aromantic to true>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><div class="chapter-number"><span>Under the Mistletoe.</span></div> $A has fought countless bounties and has been in several life-threatening situations, but $athey swear$a_s nothing, //nothing// has made $athem more nervous than this. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> knew it was a bad idea. God, $athey knew it. The moment Rylan pulled out the mistletoe out from behind $rtheir back, $A knew $athey'd be the one caught under it. At the time, $athey $a_were worried $athey'd find $athemself in an awkward situation with Blane or $K. For a moment, $athey thought about being caught under it with you, but $athey pushed it aside because $athey didn't think it would happen. Ha. Hilarious. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> should've known. $A can barely look you in the eyes right now. The mistletoe dangles above your heads, taunting you, laughing at you. Sure, it's just a plant, but it's a plant that has one hell of an implication to it. An implication that makes $A blush straight down to $atheir toes. <<if $aromantic is true>> God, $atheyre so nervous. It doesn't help that you look so good too. The colour of your outfit really brings out your eyes. Is that a cliché thing to say? Probably. $A is dressed up too, but $athey <<print $a_do>>n't look nearly as good as you do right now.<</if>> "Um." Great. A perfect choice of words. <<print $atheyre.toUpperFirst()>> so good at this. You crack a smile. "Are you nervous?" Yes. God yes. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> force$a_s a smile to mirror yours. "No. I mean, Blane and Rylan got caught under it earlier. Nothing happened there." You let out a short laugh. $A's expression softens. Some of $atheir nerves subside. <<print $atheyve.toUpperFirst()>> always enjoyed making you laugh, even if $athey didn't necessarily make a joke there. You're likely just remembering the look on Blane's face when Rylan pointed out what was above $btheir head. The glare $bthey shot should've sent Rylan running, but somehow, Rylan got away with pinching Blane's cheek. Blane refused to leave the living room after that, stating that if $bthey $b_were going to walk past the mistletoe again, it would be on $btheir way out the door. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.03a">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"You say that as if Blane would've let something happen," you respond. "It's not so much about Blane letting something happen, it's about catching $bthem off guard before $bthey realize$b_s what's happening." "Sometimes I think you know Blane too well." "I wouldn't be good at my job if I wasn't able to read other people," $A points out. "And yet, somehow, it's always Blane you're able to read." <<if $aromantic is true>> You smirk and God, does $A thinks it's attractive. The curve of your lips is too tempting. Shit. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> need$a_s to slap $athemself before this gets too out of hand. Before $athey say$a_s something stupid.\ <<else>> You smirk and $A looks away, cheeks flushed. There's no arguing that one. Aside from you, Blane is probably the person $athey know$a_s best. Not by any will of $atheir own, of course, but after bickering with $bthem for so many years, $atheyve (unfortunately) come to memorize some of Blane's tells. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>>'d erase it from $atheir memory if $athey could.<</if>> $A's eyes dart to the mistletoe again. You still haven't said anything. Should $athey? <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> can't tell if you're nervous about this. You certainly don't look as nervous as $athey feel$a_s. <<print $atheir.toUpperFirst()>> palms are sweaty. Dread pools in $atheir stomach and makes a nest there. The fact that you're so casual about all of this makes things… better? Worse? Maybe it's better because you're taking the lead in this conversation. Maybe it's worse because you're not taking it as seriously as $A is, which means $atheyre overreacting. God, $a_are $athey overreacting? Is it really not that big of a deal? Does— \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Hey, it&rsquo;s just me. What&rsquo;s wrong?"</div>' 'mistletoe.04a.a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"What are you overthinking about?"</div>' 'mistletoe.04a.b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"$A? You&rsquo;re zoning out."</div>' 'mistletoe.04a.c'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"Hey, it's just me," you call. Your eyebrows are knit together. You're staring at $athem like you always do when $atheyre too in $atheir head. Like you're trying to understand the root cause so you can fix it. Half the time you do. "What's wrong?" $A swallows thickly. "Nothing." "$A, come on now. I know you're lying." You both know it—it never works on you anyway. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> feel$a_s bad for trying. But $atheyre nervous. <<if $aromantic is true>>This is both $atheir best dream and worst nightmare come true.<<else>><<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $a_do>>n't want you to feel uncomfortable.<</if>> The mistletoe is still swinging happily above. $A wishes $athey felt that carefree about the situation. The damned plant doesn't know the stress it's causing $athem right now. What if it just fell on your heads? Breathe. See, $atheyre only acting like this because $athey <<if $aromantic is true>>like$a_s<<else>>care$a_s about<</if>> you. <<include "mistletoe.05a">>"What are you overthinking about?" you ask. Your voice is soft. The familiarity of it has always been soothing to $athem. When it's effective, it helps remind $athem that $atheyre making things worse than they actually are. On days $atheyre too in $atheir head to recognize that, your voice grounds $athem, if only for a moment. Right now is one of those times. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> palms are still sweaty, $atheir throat still dry, but $athey force$a_s $athemself to breathe. If not for $atheir own sake, then yours. $A swallows thickly. "Nothing." "$A, come on now. You know that's not true." No, but what do you want $athem to say? <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> can't exactly blurt out the truth, that $atheyre hyperventilating about being under the mistletoe with you and $a_are thinking about //how the hell// $atheyre going to get out of this one. Because $athey <<if $aromantic is true>>like$a_s<<else>>care$a_s about<</if>> you. <<include "mistletoe.05a">>"$A? You're zoning out." Oh, $athey $a_are. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> didn't mean to, but it's just… <<print $atheir.toUpperFirst()>> thoughts falter when $athey see$a_s the look on your face. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> worried you. Your eyebrows are scrunched together. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> wish$a_es $athey could smooth it out. That's not what $athey meant to do either. This is a new situation for $athem. Probably for you too, but you're taking it much better than $athey $a_are—at least on the outside. So forgive $athem if $athey zone$a_s out a little—$atheyre trying to figure out what everything means. Because $athey <<if $aromantic is true>>like$a_s<<else>>care$a_s about<</if>> you. <<include "mistletoe.05a">><<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> really $a_do. <<if $aromantic is true>> As a partner and a friend—and possibly more. No, not possibly, $athey like$a_s you a lot. But $atheyre so—\ <<else>>As a partner and a friend—$atheir best friend. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> care$a_s for you a lot. Truly. Which is why $atheyre so—<</if>> "Hey, look at me." $A meets your eyes. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> could listen to you talk for hours and still be comforted by the sound of your voice. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> know$a_s $athey tend$a_s to talk a lot, but $athey always let$a_s you have a turn if you have something to say. You're one of the few people $athey could listen to forever. You look concerned. "What's going on in your head? Seriously. Is it the mistletoe? We can move." "It's not..." "Tell me the truth. Please." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.06a">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> There's a lump in $atheir throat. Will you be offended? If $athey said it was the mistletoe making $athem act weird, would you take it the wrong way? It's not because it's you. If $athey had to pick anyone to be caught under this damn plant with, of course it would be you. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> just <<print $a_do>>n't know if $athey should say something. <<print $atheyre.toUpperFirst()>> really overthinking this, huh? It's just a plant. "Hey, if it makes you feel better, I've been caught under the mistletoe at our work parties before," you tell $athem. There's a small smile on your face. A bit shaky, a bit unsure. It widens when you see the surprise on $atheir face. "Wha— When? You never told me this." You shrug. "Because they weren't a big deal. It happened twice, once with someone from another department and another with a fellow hunter. Someone pointed it out to us and we laughed. The party moved on and nothing came out of it. So if you're worried…" "I'm not—" "$A…" <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> sigh$a_es. "I'm not worried about the mistletoe necessarily. I… I know we don't have to do anything if we don't want to. Rylan's not even here to make fun of us. It's just… I've known you for so long so I— I don't want to—" \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">You hold $atheir face in your hands. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'mistletoe.07a.a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">You kiss $atheir cheek. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'mistletoe.07a.b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">You smile and shake your head.</div>' 'mistletoe.07a.c'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $a_do>>n't see it coming. <<print $atheyve.toUpperFirst()>> always prided $athemself on being able to read you, but this is the one thing $athey couldn't have predicted. It's not even that big of a deal. Is it intimate? Yes. Does it steal $atheir breath away? Yes. But just because $A said yes to those things doesn't mean it's romantic. Still… Your hands are on $atheir cheeks. <<print $atheir.toUpperFirst()>> eyes are wide. <<print $atheir.toUpperFirst()>> lips feel pressed out into a pout. You're not even pressing that hard. Can you feel the heat under your palms? Can you feel $atheir blush? See it peeking out between your fingers? "Oh." You smile. "That shut you up pretty quickly." $A feels $atheir cheeks flush even more. "I— Uh. What are you doing?" You don't respond, brushing $atheir cheeks with your thumbs. Do you think $atheir skin is soft? God, $athey shouldn't have skipped moisturizing last night. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> actually might combust. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $a_do>>n't remember the last time someone touched $athem like this. So gentle. So sweet. Even if it isn't romantic, $athey can't help but long for it. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> feel$a_s $athemself sink into your palms and lean against them. "Does it feel nice?" you whisper. "Yeah." Another smile. "See? You're not ruining anything. We're still us, aren't we? Even with the mistletoe, everything is fine between us. Try to not overthink things for once. Just for tonight, just for the party, don't think too hard about anything." "I—" <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.08a">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> Nothing could've prepared $athem for what you do next. If $athey $a_were given a hundred guesses, $athey <<print $a_do>>n't even think that would be on the list. If it was, it would've been a wildcard. A remark paired with a laugh because there's no way you'd ever do something like that. But you do. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> feel$a_s your lips on $atheir cheek for a split second. Too short. Too long. Your lips are warm. They're soft too. Much softer than $atheirs are, constantly chapped because $athey forget$a_s to do anything about it. Immediately, $athey want$a_s you to do it a second time. Kiss $atheir cheek again. Kiss $atheir forehead. The space between $atheir brows. The corner of $atheir eye. The edge of $atheir lips. Hell, kiss $atheir actual lips. But $atheyre not greedy enough to ask for that. Or bold enough. "Wha—" You smile. There's a hint of amusement there. "That shut you right up. I should try that more often." Oh. <<print $atheir.toUpperFirst()>> brain malfunctions at that. <<print $atheyre.toUpperFirst()>> already shy from the kiss on the cheek, $athey can’t imagine $athey'd fare well the second time. Hell, you could do it a dozen times and $athey still <<print $a_do>>n't think $athey'd be used to it. $A's cheeks flush pink. "Wh— Why did you do that?" "To show you that things are still the same." Your smile softens. "I know you're worried that standing here will change things, or that you feel like you need to do something, but I promise you, I'm not going to look at you differently just because there's a mistletoe here. We're still just us." <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> mouth$a_s the words after you. "Just…" "Of course, I also just wanted to kiss you to see your reaction," you add. $A's cheeks flare up again. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> swear$a_s the heat crawls down $atheir neck and to $atheir toes. <<print $atheir.toUpperFirst()>> stomach gets the worst case of butterflies $atheyve ever felt, beating anything $athey ever felt in $atheir teenage years. "I— Uh— " <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.08a">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> You smile and shake your head. "Ruin anything? $A, you should know by now that nothing's ever going to ruin the friendship we have. You have to stop worrying about that." $A flushes. Easier said than done. But $athey know$a_s you're right. You didn't look at $athem differently when $athey confessed to feeling inadequate. When tears were streaming down $atheir face, when $atheir nose was runny and $athey sounded so congested you couldn't make out what $athey $a_were saying. No. In fact, you held $athem closer and rubbed $atheir back until $athey could breathe again. Because that's the kind of person you are. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> $a_were silly to think standing under the mistletoe would change anything. It would take a lot to change what the two of you have—maybe there's nothing that can. $A shouldn't have doubted it in the first place. "You're right. I'm—" "Sorry? Don't be." "But—" You hold up a hand. "No buts." $A blink in surprise, but after a moment, $atheir face breaks out into a small smile. Yeah, $athey really shouldn't have doubted anything at all. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.08a">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"$name! $A! Are you coming back or what?" Rylan's voice. Of course it had to be $rthem. It was Rylan who put up the mistletoe and Rylan who's now <<if $aromantic is true>>ruining (saving)<<else>>interrupting<</if>> the moment. $A doesn't know if $athey should pull Rylan aside to thank $rthem later or scold $rthem. Or maybe just babble about how amazing and awful the whole experience was. Is. "Come on," you say. "Let's go before Rylan comes looking for us." "Y-Yeah." You smile before walking away, heading back to the living room on your own. Any other time, $athey'd complain about being left behind. This time, $atheyre grateful. <<if $aromantic is true>>Because only when you're out of sight $a_do $athey finally let $athemself touch $atheir cheek. The skin is still hot. God. <<print $atheyre.toUpperFirst()>> screwed.\ <<else>>Because only when you're out of sight $a_do $athey finally let $atheir shoulders drop. One time was enough. If that ever happens again, $athey might actually not survive.<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>Before we begin, would you prefer the story to have platonic or romantic undertones?</center>\ \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Platonic.</div>' 'mistletoe.02b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Romantic.</div>' 'mistletoe.02b'>><<set $bromantic to true>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>Finally, are you playing a rivals to friend/lovers route with Blane?</center>\ \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Yes.</div>' 'mistletoe.03b'>><<set $rivalsholiday to true>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">No.</div>' 'mistletoe.03b'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><div class="chapter-number"><span>Under the Mistletoe.</span></div> Oh. This was not how it was supposed to go. Blane's eyes are wide. Your lips are parted. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> can feel the mistletoe on the door frame, taunting $bthem from above. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> might be a plant lover, but if $bthey could eradicate any plant right now, it would be that damned mistletoe. Of course it was Rylan who strung it up. Everyone had laughed when they pulled it out—and even more when $rthey struggled to hang it up. Despite being so tall, $rthey still had to get a chair to hook it to $N's doorframe. And Blane knows, $bthey know$b_s $bthey <<print $b_do>>n't have to do anything. As much as $A and Rylan would tease $bthem about it, no one is going to force Blane to… kiss you, if $bthey <<print $b_do>>n't want to. Even the thought makes $bthem blush. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> hate$b_s how shy it makes $bthem. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> can feel the heat rushing up $btheir neck and into $btheir cheeks, down through $btheir chest and into the pit of $btheir stomach. <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> eyes dart over to you. Lips parted. Gaze averted. <<if $rivalsholiday is true>>There's a slight furrow to your brows, like you're trying to be mad at the situation but can't. Blane doesn't know how to feel about that. Is that a good thing? Bad?\ <<else>>You look almost… flustered. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $b_do>>n't understand what it means. Is it simply because you were caught under the mistletoe? Or is it because you were caught with //$bthem//?<</if>> You haven't pulled away yet, but neither has Blane. What does that mean? Does it mean anything at all? <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.04b">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"I knew this was a bad idea," Blane grumbles. You're still not looking at $bthem. "It's a tradition. I don't think Rylan thought anyone would actually be caught under it." Like hell $rthey didn't. Blane might not know Rylan as well as you—it took $bthem a while to warm up to Rylan; not because Rylan was a bounty, but because Blane dislikes how $btheyre never able to pinpoint Rylan's true intentions—but $bthey know$b_s $rthem well enough to know that Rylan was definitely betting on this. Luckily, $rthey'd strung it up in the hallway entrance, away from the living room where everyone is gathered. Rylan would have a field day if they saw the two of you standing here and Blane would simply have to die. Forget advancing $btheir career or adopting that pet cat $btheyve always wanted, $bthey'd simply pass away. Blane clears $btheir throat. "It's a lame tradition." <<if $rivalsholiday is true>> "You act like I'm any happier to be here." "Why don't you leave then? No one would ever know." Blane regrets the words the moment $bthey say$b_s it. A scoff. "Says you. If anything, you look more upset about being caught than I am."\ <<else>>"You're just saying that because you're the one who got caught." There's a hint of amusement to your voice, but Blane doesn't feel like $btheyre being mocked. "You did too." "You seem more upset about it than I am."<</if>> “Upset?” No, that's not the word Blane would use. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> wrinkle$b_s $btheir nose. <<print $btheyre.toUpperFirst()>> confused on why $btheir feet haven't moved. Why $bthey want$b_s to see this play out, rather than sprint and hide. Why $btheir body has frozen up and why $bthey feel$b_s simultaneously hot and cold. Only you are capable of making them feel this way, and that's part of why it's so terrible. “Yes, upset. Is that not what the look on your face is?” Blane huffs. “No.” “Then?” Silence. Should $bthey $b_s tell you? Should $bthey make$b_s a comment about how weird this is? Should $bthey scowl and push past you, back into the living room, back to the rest of the group, hiding the flames that fan $btheir face? Should $bthey rip the mistletoe down and mutter about how the place looks stupid with it? Should— \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $rivalsholiday is true>><<link '<div class="choice-item">"You&rsquo;re not… happy about it, are you?"</div>' 'mistletoe.05b.a'>><</link>><</if>> <<if $rivalsholiday is false>><<link '<div class="choice-item">"Are you… happy about it?"</div>' 'mistletoe.05b.b'>><</link>><</if>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"You regret this, don&rsquo;t you?"</div>' 'mistletoe.05b.c'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Then what? Say something."</div>' 'mistletoe.05b.d'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"You're not… happy about it, are you?" you ask. Blane blanches. Happy? Hilarious. As if $bthey could ever be happy over a situation like this. But there's something about the way you asked the question, almost like the thought appalled you. You sounded disturbed that Blane could ever feel that way. Is it disturbing? It's certainly strange. Still, $bthey can't be upset at your tone. A few months ago, $bthey would've already shoved past you. You would've never held a conversation for this long. What did $bthey even leave the living room for? Was it to use the washroom? Or maybe to grab a snack? <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> can't think straight. You must have done something to $bthem. You look expectant. You're still waiting for an answer $bthey cannot give. Say it. Say something, damn it. It shouldn't be that hard to give you an excuse, maybe even something you're expecting, but $bthey just can't. <<include "mistletoe.06b">>"Are you… happy about it?" you ask. Blane blanches. What? Happy? No, that's not the word $bthey'd use either. You look just as confused as $bthey feel$b_s—eyebrows furrowed, a crease forming between them. You're trying to figure $bthem out just the same as $btheyre trying to understand $btheir emotions. <<print $btheyre.toUpperFirst()>> not any closer than you are. Happy? This certainly doesn't feel like happiness, but it's not disgust either. Why did $bthey even leave$b_s the living room in the first place? Was it to use the washroom? Or maybe to grab a snack? <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> can't remember anymore. You're staring at $bthem. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> feel$b_s under pressure. <<include "mistletoe.06b">>"You regret this, don't you?" you ask. Blane sucks in a sharp breath. No. Don't ask that. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> hate$b_s the way you're looking at $bthem, the hidden hurt behind your irises and the stoic front that you use to try to hide it away. Regret? Is that the expression showing on $btheir face? Because it's far from how $bthey feel$b_s. If anything, it's regret that $btheyre //not// feeling regretful about being here with you. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> should. According to all the logic of your relationship, $bthey definitely should. <<include "mistletoe.06b">>"Then what?" you repeat. "Say something." Something. <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> throat is so dry. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> need$b_s water, but $btheir drink is all the way back in the living room. Why did $bthey leave$b_s in the first place? Was it to use the washroom? Or maybe to grab a snack? It's not relevant anymore, not when you're here. You're still waiting for an answer $bthey cannot give. The words are on the tip of $btheir tongue. It shouldn't be that hard to give you an excuse, maybe even something you're expecting, but $bthey just can't. <<include "mistletoe.06b">> It's never been this hard. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> used to look at you and seethe. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> used to scowl at the sound of your voice. It was a trained hatred. A jealousy that $bthey should have never associated with you, but did anyway, simply because you were convenient. Now… "I don't know." <<if $rivalsholiday is true>>You roll your eyes.<<else>>Your eyebrows furrow.<</if>> "Don't know?" "What else do you want me to say?" <<if $rivalsholiday is true>>"An actual answer."<<else>>"That's not an answer."<</if>> Blane winces and looks away. It's just a plant. No one is forcing $bthem to go through with the tradition. Hell, no one is even here to witness that the both of you are standing under it. The longer you stand here, the greater that chance becomes. But $btheir feet are stuck to the ground. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.07b">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<if $rivalsholiday is true>>"Rekner."<<else>>"Blane."<</if>> <<if $bromantic is true>>Where did these feelings come from? When did hatred turn into begrudging respect, turn into confused admiration, turn into… Hot cheeks. A fast-beating heart. Staring across the room when you're not looking. Hiding a flustered expression when you <<if $rivalsholiday is true>>get angry with $bthem.<<else>>address $bthem.<</if>> What happened to that deep-set irritation that $bthey associated with your name? Your face? Now your face is just… //Pretty.//\ <<else>>When did $bthey start feeling like this? When did hatred turn into begrudging respect, turn into subtle admiration, turn into… Embarrassment. Feeling shy. Flustered. Staring at you across the room when you're not looking, trying to figure out what this new relationship of yours is. What happened to that deep-set irritation that $bthey associated with your name? Your face? Now all $bthey feel$b_s when $bthey see$b_s you is confused.<</if>> "Yeah?" "We can pretend this never happened, you know." Blane's head shoots up. "What?" <<if $rivalsholiday is true>>"You're acting strange. If it's just the mistletoe, I can pretend it never happened." "But—" You arch an eyebrow. "But what? Honestly, Rekner, I've never seen you like this. I know our relationship has… changed, over the past few months, but it's unlike you to get so tongue-tied over a plant."\ <<else>>"You're not acting like yourself. If you're worried about the mistletoe, we can pretend it never happened." "Huh? But—" You smile. <<if $bromantic is true>>It's pretty too.<</if>> "It's fine. I'm not offended or anything. I just… I've never seen you like this. It's unlike you to get so tongue-tied over something like this. I know there's a meaning behind it, but at the end of the day, it's just a plant."<</if>> Just a plant. Right. It's just a plant. Isn't that what $btheyve been telling $bthemself? So why is it not getting through to $bthem? <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> brain doesn't want to register it. All $bthey register$b_s is that it's a mistletoe. <<if $bromantic is true>>Mistletoe means kissing. Kissing means confronting whatever the hell is going on with $btheir feelings for you. It scares $bthem.\ <<else>>//Mistletoe.// Things are already complicated between the two of you. The implications aren't making it any better.<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.09b">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"I'm not tongue-tied." <<if $rivalsholiday is true>>"Oh? Then what do you call this?" "It's…"\ <<else>>"You're barely speaking. What would you call it?" "I…"<</if>> "Blane? Are you alright? What's taking you so long?" $N calls. <<print $ntheir.toUpperFirst()>> voice carries through the small apartment. Blane wants to shake in relief. An escape. Something that $btheir brain might actually listen to this time. Move. Leave. Move your fucking feet. <<if $bromantic is true>>//You're <<if $gender is "male">>so handsome.<<elseif $gender is "female">>so pretty.<<else>>gorgeous.<</if>>// You study $bthem. If you stare any longer, you'll probably learn $btheir secret. All the thoughts that are going through their head. All the things $bthey want$b_s to say but can't. You've always been perceptive. It won't be long until you figure out how Blane feels.\ <<else>>You study $bthem. If you stare any longer, you'll probably figure $bthem out. All the thoughts that are going through their head. All the things $bthey want$b_s to say but can't. The things $bthey <<print $b_do>>n't know how to explain. You've always been perceptive.<</if>> Maybe even before Blane does $bthemself. "Coming. Hold on!" Blane shouts back. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> turn$b_s back to you. Wait$b_s for you to say something. To leave. To point out how $bthey $b_were 'saved by the bell,' as the saying goes. But you do none of that. Instead, what you do catches $bthem completely off guard. \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">You cup $btheir cheek. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'mistletoe.10b.a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">You kiss $bthem on the cheek. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'mistletoe.10b.b'>><</link>> <<if $rivalsholiday is true>><<link '<div class="choice-item">You smirk and walk away.</div>' 'mistletoe.10b.c'>><</link>><</if>> <<if $rivalsholiday is false>><<link '<div class="choice-item">You smile and walk away.</div>' 'mistletoe.10b.d'>><</link>><</if>> </div><</nobr>> You reach up and cup $btheir cheek. Blane freezes. Your fingers are splayed out on their skin. They can feel the callouses on your fingertips, courtesy of your jobs. Something like that would turn some people off, but Blane isn't bothered by it. It shows how much dedication you put into being a Hunter. It's admirable. Just as admirable as how bold you are. Blane's eyes lock on yours. Your thumb brushes against their cheek. It's a slow, deliberate motion, almost like you're— Ah. You're giving $bthem time to pull away. But even though $bthey should, $bthey <<print $b_do>>n't want to. <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> breath shudders. It's cold. You're warm. Subconsciously, $bthey feel$b_s $bthemself lean into your touch. Or maybe it's not subconscious at all. Maybe it's what $bthey craved this entire conversation. Neither of you has said anything. Stay. Can we just stay like this? Stay under this damn plant while you hold $btheir face? It's nicer than Blane ever thought it would be. <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> panic has ebbed away, leaving a comfortability $bthey never thought $bthey could feel with you. Unfortunately for Blane, the moment doesn't last forever. Your hand drops. You take a step back. Blane doesn't know what $btheir expression looks like, but you smile at whatever you see. "Merry Christmas, <<if $rivalsholiday is true>>Rekner."<<else>>Blane."<</if>> <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> hand reaches up to touch $btheir cheek as you walk away. It burns. Blane watches your back as you disappear around the corner and wishes you'd come back. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> might be fucked. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> You lean in and kiss $bthem on the cheek. Blane startles. Nearly jumps at the feeling of your lips on $btheir skin. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $b_have>>n't moisturized. It's dry. Do you notice? Do you even care? You've already pulled away, but $bthey feel$b_s frozen. You watch $btheir expression, but $bthey can't muster a single emotion. <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> face is blank. The heat licks at $btheir skin. It's most prominent on $btheir cheek, but $bthey feel$b_s it creeping down $btheir neck, wrapping around $btheir heart and tugging it out of $btheir chest. It soothes the ice that's formed there over time, thawing it beyond room temperature. How is it that you're able to make $bthem feel this way? There's a hint of satisfaction in your eyes. It's the only thing that tells Blane $bthey didn't make this whole thing up. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> want$b_s to touch $btheir cheek so badly, but $bthey <<print $b_do>>n't want to embarrass $bthemself anymore than $bthey already $b_are. "What? Speechless?" you ask. Yes. Very much so. Blane feels $bthemself get hotter at your words. Hot and cold. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> feel$b_s chills all over $btheir body. If you kissed $bthem again, what temperature would you feel? "Shut up." Another smile. "Hmm. Merry Christmas, <<if $rivalsholiday is true>>Rekner."<<else>>Blane."<</if>> And with that, you leave $bthem standing under the mistletoe alone. Only when you're out of sight does Blane finally touch $btheir cheek. God. It burns. If $bthey close $btheir eyes can almost feel your lips on $bthem again. <<print $btheyre.toUpperFirst()>> fucked. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> You just— leave. Granted, you flash $bthem a smirk before you turn away, but Blane was expecting you to say something. Anything. One last remark about the mistletoe. One last jest about how speechless Blane acted that entire interaction. Something. But you just leave. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $b_do>>n't know how to feel about it. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> $b_were saved from having to make a decision about the damned plant, but $btheyre not sure $btheyre satisfied with how it happened. You're a few steps away when suddenly, you turn around. Blane is still standing there, frozen in shock, staring at the smirk that still plays at the edge of your lips. <<print $btheyre.toUpperFirst()>> not expecting it, but $btheyre not expecting the words that come out of your mouth even more. "Oh, and Rekner?" "Yeah?" "Merry Christmas." You disappear around the corner. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> can't help but huff a laugh. Maybe things aren't great with you, but they also aren't so bad with you anymore. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> guess$b_es that is something to be merry about. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> You just— leave. Granted, you flash $bthem a small smile before you turn away, but Blane was expecting you to say something. Anything. One last comment about the mistletoe. One last attempt to get $bthem to say something during the otherwise quiet interaction. Something. But you just leave. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $b_do>>n't know how to feel about it. Sure, you (and $N, $bthey guess$b_es) saved $bthem from having to make a decision, but $btheyre not sure how $bthey feel$b_s leaving the conversation unfinished. Or, the lack of conversation. You're a few steps away when suddenly, you turn around. Blane is still standing there, staring at you and the hallway of lights that silhouette your figure. <<print $btheyre.toUpperFirst()>> not expecting it, but $btheyre not expecting the words that come out of your mouth even more. "Merry Christmas, Blane." You disappear around the corner before $bthey can answer. It takes $bthem a while to register those words. First the shock, then the warmth in $btheir chest. A smile twitches at $btheir lips too. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> almost wish$b_es you were there to witness it. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>Before we begin, would you prefer the story to have platonic or romantic undertones?</center>\ \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Platonic.</div>' 'mistletoe.02k'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Romantic.</div>' 'mistletoe.02k'>><<set $kromantic to true>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><div class="chapter-number"><span>Under the Mistletoe.</span></div> It's taken $K a while to understand what's so special about the holidays. Having lived through a hundred of the same exact celebrations, $kthey find$k_s it hard to believe that //this// is what people get so excited about every year. Nothing changes about it. It's the same trees, same decorations, same music (Mariah Carey, please leave $kthem alone)—what about it makes it something to look forward to? But humans are simple creatures. Sometimes, it's merely the thought of looking forward to something that's exciting. Even if they've seen it a dozen times, simply knowing that the season is approaching can be enough. It's a phenomenon $kthey find$k_s both perplexing and interesting. For a while, $kthey debated that there was another factor to it. Maybe people just like gift-giving. But no, $K has seen too many people stressed out about what to get their loved ones to equate it to that. Perhaps it's the other way around, and people like receiving gifts. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> considered that one for a while before ruling it out. Not because people aren't selfish—because the human race is undoubtably self-centered—but because it made more sense for people to like birthdays if that was the case. Since most people bought gifts for others, cost-wise, it wasn't very beneficial. So yes, maybe it is just what people call the 'holiday spirit.' Maybe it is the same trees and same decorations and same Mariah Carey that people get excited about. For the average person, it happens every twelve months. It's something to countdown to. But for $K, it's another passing event in a lifelong cycle of nothing. You wouldn't approve of this attitude, of course, but you don't have to know. You're often scolding $K for having such a bleak outlook on life, but what you don't know is how much that bleak outlook has lightened since meeting you. Like now. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> watch$k_es you curiously as you stare at the mistletoe hanging above your heads—something Rylan pulled out last minute and taped to $N's doorframe, claiming that "it would be fun." $K isn't dumb—$kthey know$k_s the significance of being caught under it with someone—but it's interesting to see how awestruck you are by it. Or, perhaps that isn't the right word. Dumbfounded? Nervous? <<if $kromantic is true>>Flustered.<<else>>Unsure.<</if>> Is it because of $kthem specifically? Or is it just because you happened to be walking under it at the same time as someone else? If it was $A, would this not be as big of a deal? Maybe you would've noticed it, laughed, then rejoined everyone in the living room without a hitch. Is it $K? <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.03k">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> Your eyes are wide. Your lips parted slightly. There's an innocence to your expression that $K doesn't see often. When you're working, you're all hard lines and duty. Your laughs and smiles soften you, but they don't make you look… young. "Is it that weird?" $K asks. You blink. You look like you were caught red-handed. "No. I… You know what a mistletoe is, right?" "I'm aware. And in case I somehow forgot, Rylan explained it to me after $rthey put it up." $K glances at the plant. It's quite a sparse looking thing. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> wonder$k_s where Rylan even found it. "The question still stands though, is it that weird?" "I said no. It's just… Forget it." "I can hardly do that." "Why not?" "Because even if it doesn't mean much to me, you look bothered by it." <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> eyebrow raises as you glance away again. "What is it? You realize you're not obligated to do anything if you don't want to. Is that why—" "No!" you blurt. Your eyes widen at your outburst, as if you didn't mean to. "No, I… I know that." "Then?" Strangely enough, your expression softens. Your gaze had darted back to $ktheirs after your last answer, not looking as hesitant anymore. You study $kthem as $kthey stud$k_y you. If you'd tell $kthem the exact thing you're thinking, $kthey'd ask. \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Does it not mean anything to you?"</div>' 'mistletoe.04k.a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Do you not feel anything because of it?"</div>' 'mistletoe.04k.b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"You&rsquo;re not bothered by it?"</div>' 'mistletoe.04k.c'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"Does it not… mean anything to you?" you ask. $K frowns. <<print $ktheyre.toUpperFirst()>> not sure what you're referring to, if you're asking about yourself or the mistletoe. Is it the standing under here with you specifically that you're asking about? Or are you asking if the mistletoe itself means anything? There's something on your mind, but despite usually being able to read others well, $K isn't able to decipher it today. <<print $ktheyre.toUpperFirst()>>… "Is it supposed to?" $kthey ask$k_s. <<include "mistletoe.05k">>"Do you not feel anything because of it?" you ask. $K frowns. Feel anything? How so? <<print $ktheyre.toUpperFirst()>> not sure what you're referring to when you say "it." Are you asking because it's you standing there with $kthem? Or are you simply talking about the mistletoe in general? Should $kthey be feeling a certain way about the situation $ktheyre in? A part of $kthem thinks $kthey should, but $kthey <<print $k_do>>n't understand why. It's confusing. <<print $ktheyre.toUpperFirst()>>… "Am I supposed to?" $kthey ask$k_s. <<include "mistletoe.05k">>"You're not bothered by it?" $K frowns. Bothered? By what specifically? By the fact that it's you standing here with $kthem? Or that the two of you are standing under a mistletoe, of which its implication cannot be misunderstood even by the most clueless of people. Should $kthey be bothered? <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> $k_were more focused on your reaction to the whole ordeal than $ktheir own feelings on the matter. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> suppose$k_s you could call $kthem… "Am I supposed to?" $kthey ask$k_s. <<include "mistletoe.05k">> Distracted. By the way your eyes are darting between $kthem and the mistletoe. By your wide eyes and parted lips and the innocent look in your eyes. By your slightly flustered expression and your curious gaze as you try to figure out $K's stance on things. You're distracting. This is something $K figured out recently. When you first met, $kthey barely spared you a second glance. While there were a few times you said something interesting, piquing $K's attention, for the most part, $kthey remained detached. It was only when $kthey became closer with the group did $kthey start paying more attention to you. The moment $kthey realized there was more to you than what you initially revealed, the more $kthey wanted to know. To learn. <<if $kromantic is true>> Recently, $ktheyve found got into the habit of staring at you across the room, partially zoned out as you went about your business or chatted with someone. When $kthey snap$k_s out of it, $kthey can't help but feel$k_s embarrassed. Do you ever catch $kthem doing this? Or is a secret that only $kthey hold$k_s?<</if>> "I was just asking," you reply. And $K never gave you an answer. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.06k">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> The two of you stare at each other. It's quiet here. $K can still hear Rylan's voice carrying from the living room—$N's apartment isn't particularly big—and the muffled sounds of Christmas music playing in the background. (It's not Mariah Carey this time. Small mercys.) "Does it mean something to you?" $K asks. Your eyebrows furrow. "I…" "I don't want to make you uncomfortable," $kthey continue$k_s, deciphering your hesitance as possible discomfort. "You can go back to the party if you like. We don't have to keep standing here. I know that these kinds of things can be perceived differently by—" "That's— No. If I was uncomfortable, I think you would've figured that out by now." "Then?" You pause, then let out a short laugh. "You're clueless sometimes, huh?" $K frowns. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $k_do>>n't particularly see $kthemself as clueless. As someone who's over 150 years old, $kthey consider $kthemself to be quite knowledgeable, actually. <<print $ktheyve.toUpperFirst()>> lived close to two lifetimes now—to be considered "clueless" or naïve would be inaccurate. At least, in most cases. Because even now, $kthey learn$k_s something new every day. Like the different kinds of laughs you have, depending on how funny you actually find something to be. Or what the furrow in your brow means, how sometimes it's because you're confused and other times because you're frustrated. Or— \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">You tuck a strand of hair behind $ktheir ear. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'mistletoe.07k.a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">You kiss $kthem on the cheek. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'mistletoe.07k.b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Smile. "Forget about it."</div>' 'mistletoe.07k.c'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>$K doesn't like touch. It's not something $kthey learned recently—it's something $ktheyve always known. While Rylan might grab your hand or wrap an arm around your shoulders on a whim, $K prefers to keep $ktheir distance. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> wrinkle$k_s $ktheir nose at public displays of affection or situations where there are celebratory hugs. If it can be avoided, $kthey'll avoid it. So why is everything going against $ktheir rules, right now? $K is supposed to be practical. When you reach out and tuck a strand of hair behind $ktheir ear, $ktheir first thought should be that $kthey need$k_s a haircut, not that $kthey want$k_s you to do it again. Not that you looked vulnerable touching $kthem, that you looked soft and shy, that it was almost… sweet. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> breath hitches. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> heart skips a beat. Both highly illogical reactions, but also ones $kthey can't help. "Merry Christmas, $K," you whisper. God, your voice is just as soft as your expression. Words feel stuck in $ktheir throat. "Wha—" "Forget what I said." Forget? $K feels like you poured water on $ktheir circuits. Nothing is working properly. It takes $kthem a moment to realize that you're referring to the discussion prior to you touching $kthem. What was the question again? Something about the mistletoe? Before $K can decide if you want to ask, you walk away. Amusement plays at the edge of your lips, mocking $kthem as you get further away. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> hate$k_s how useless $kthey $k_were that entire interaction. It's both impressive and frustrating how you disassembled $kthem with one action. You. Touched. <<print $kthem.toUpperFirst()>>. You touched $kthem and $kthey— It takes everything in $kthem to not touch the spot where your fingers brushed $ktheir ear, but when you're out of sight, $kthey $k_do it anyway. Almost as if $kthey couldn't help $kthemself. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>$K considers $kthemself to be a very rational person. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> usually put$k_s $ktheir feelings secondary to the situation at hand, completely removing $kthemself from the equation. It's the sort of thing that some people envy and others despise $kthem for. But at the end of the day, $ktheyre only human. An immortal, yes, but still human. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> still learning this too. Which is why, when you kiss $kthem on the cheek, for once, $ktheir rationality flies out the window. Your lips are soft. They're warm too. They're not chapped nor dry, not too moist or uncomfortable either. <<print $ktheyre.toUpperFirst()>> not even sure why $ktheyre thinking about that. All $kthey know$k_s is that it felt… God, it felt nice. "Merry Christmas, $K." "Wha—" "Forget what I said." You look amused, like you're laughing at an inside joke with yourself. $K had almost forgotten about the prior confusion. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> brain feels like it short-circuited, even though $kthey <<print $k_have>>n't had to replace the panel in decades. It feels like you poured water on $ktheir internal system and $kthey need$k_s to reboot to assess the damage. The damage of you… <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> nearly malfunction$k_s again. You kissed $kthem. You kissed $kthem on the cheek and $kthey need$k_s to run a software check because $kthey didn't hate it. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> feel$k_s hot. There's a strange feeling in $ktheir stomach. Not quite butterflies, but not quite nerves either. But before $K can decide if $kthey want$k_s to say something, you walk away. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> stare$k_s at your retreating form, wondering how much of that interaction $kthey just made up. Only, if $kthey close$k_s $ktheir eyes, $kthey can still feel your lips on $ktheir skin. That's not something $K could've imagined on $ktheir own. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"Forget about it," you tell $kthem. "I can't just—" "$K? Do me a favour for once and just drop it. I promise you, it's nothing important." <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> almost protest$k_s until $kthey see$k_s your expression. Amusement dances in your eyes, tugging at the edge of your lips. You're laughing at $kthem. And while $kthey hate$k_s being the laughing stock, this time, $kthey can tell that it's out of good nature. "Fine." Your smile widens. "See? That wasn't so hard was it?" $K huffs. "Consider it your Christmas gift." You laugh and for a moment, $kthey consider$k_s that as $ktheir gift from you. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>>'d never tell you that, of course, but the fact that $kthey could make you happy enough to laugh is… nice. Maybe $ktheyre not such a Grinch after all. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>Before we begin, would you prefer the story to have platonic or romantic undertones?</center>\ \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Platonic.</div>' 'mistletoe.02n'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Romantic.</div>' 'mistletoe.02n'>><<set $nromantic to true>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><div class="chapter-number"><span>Under the Mistletoe.</span></div> The fact that this happened in $ntheir own apartment is abysmal. But the fact that $N watched it happen—that is, Rylan putting up the mistletoe on $ntheir door frame—laughed at it and thought to $nthemself, 'nothing's going to come out of it,' is even worse. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> wonder$n_s if there's a science behind that. For every time $nthey think$n_s that things are going to be fine, it always ends in disaster. Not that this is a disaster, of course, but if $nthey had been flustered at the start, would $nthey not be so flustered now? Or maybe $ntheyre just bound to be flustered by you forever. $N shuffles awkwardly as $nthey wait$n_s for you to say something. The mistletoe hangs dauntingly above your heads, a sparse little thing, decorated with only a few tuffs and leaves, but still obvious enough as to what it is. Maybe Rylan had sat on it prior to putting it up. Cool your cheeks. Maybe it's not that bad. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> probably would be less nervous had it been someone else. With $A and Blane, $nthey would've laughed it off. $K wouldn't have even entertained it, and Rylan probably would've used the opportunity to flirt, regardless that $rthey <<print $r_do>>n't mean it. But you? You're… different. You're someone that $N wants to impress, despite not needing to. <<if $nromantic is true>>Someone $N wants to be liked by, to be seen as a friend or more, depending on how you feel.<</if>> Sometimes, $nthey think$n_s $nthey can read you. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> can guess what you'll find funny or what your reaction will be to things. Other times, you react the exact opposite to $N's predictions, and $nthey find$n_s $nthemself back at square one all over again. But it's not a bad thing. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $n_do>>n't mind being kept on $ntheir toes. It only makes $nthem want to understand you more. Stay up at night picking apart the pieces that make you well, you. Maybe that's the scientific side of $nthem. Or maybe it just means $nthey find$n_s you intriguing. Either way, $ntheyre just as curious about all of that as $nthey $n_are what your reaction is going to be to this. You clear your throat. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> hold$n_s $ntheir breath. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.03n">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"Well, it was bound to happen to someone, right?" you joke. "Yeah. I'm sorry that it had to be you." "Don't be. I had a feeling it would be." Is that a good sign? Bad? <<print $ntheyre.toUpperFirst()>> having a hard time keeping up. Should $nthey be apologetic that you're stuck here, with no clue how to move forward? Should $nthey make light of the situation and brush it off like it's not a big deal? Or should $nthey actually do something about it?<<if $nromantic is true>> <<print $ntheir.toUpperFirst()>> head is spinning. That's another thing that always happens around you. Maybe this is a forever thing too.<</if>> <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> should say something. <<print $ntheyre.toUpperFirst()>> letting the silence drag on too much. "Uh—" \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I like the decorations."</div>' 'mistletoe.04n.a'>><<set $rivalsholiday to true>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I&rsquo;m glad you offered to host."</div>' 'mistletoe.04n.b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I&rsquo;ve had fun so far."</div>' 'mistletoe.04n.c'>><<set $rivalsholiday to true>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"I like the decorations," you offer. A smile plays on your lips.<<if $nromantic is true>> <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> tr$n_y not to look at it too long.<</if>> "You did a good job." $N falters.<<if $nromantic is true>> <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> can feel heat creeping up $ntheir neck at the compliment.<</if>> "Really? You're not just saying that?" Immediately, $nthey wince$n_s. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> know$n_s it's ridiculous to sound so self conscious, but $nthey truly want$n_s you to like what $nthey worked on. Well, $nthey want$n_s everyone to like it, of course, but especially you. Is that ridiculous? <<if $nromantic is true>> <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> really $n_do feel like a high schooler around you sometimes.<</if>> You shake your head, still smiling. Your eyes are kind. "No, I'm serious, I like what you did. The garland looks really nice. And your tree is gorgeous." <<include "mistletoe.05n">>"I'm glad you offered to host,” you tell $nthem. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> falter$n_s. "Really? You don't prefer it being at $K's?" $N asks. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> tr$n_y to hide the surprise in $ntheir voice and fails. <<if $nromantic is true>><<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> heart skipped a beat at your compliment—$nthey hope$n_s you don't feel obligated to say so.<</if>> It's not like $nthey'd be offended. Sure, $ntheir place might look nice, but $nthey know$n_s $ntheir small apartment can't compare to $K's lavish penthouse. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> decorations are worn with years of use and $ntheir lights flicker occasionally, indicating a broken fuse that $ntheyve yet to find. $K's decorations are more of what they use at shopping malls, with a giant tree and a shimmering wall of lights. $N's are homey. It's no comparison at all. But… "Just because I like going to $K's doesn't mean I don't like it here either," you answer. Your expression is soft, your smile gentle. "I like what you've done with the place. The garland looks really nice. And your tree is gorgeous." <<include "mistletoe.05n">>"I've had fun so far,” you tell $nthem. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> falter$n_s. "Really? You're not just saying that?" $N asks. The moments the words leave $ntheir mouth, $nthey immediately flush$n_es at how insecure $nthey sound$n_s. <<if $nromantic is true>><<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> can feel the heat creeping up $ntheir neck.<</if>> Of course you mean that. You've never been one to lie to $N for the sake of being polite—$nthey highly doubt$n_s you'll start now. Stupid. But another part of $nthem is relieved. Thank God you like the party. Thank God the music wasn't too obnoxious or the food wasn't too your liking, the decorations too overboard or the outfits too festive. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> didn't want the party to finish and everyone be in silent agreement that $K should host your holiday get-togethers indefinitely. Slowly, $ntheir shoulders start to relax. "Of course," you answer. Your smile is kind, almost like you know what's going through $ntheir mind. "It's always fun when we're all together. I know you've been stressed about hosting this year, but I think you did great. I like how you decorated everything. The garland looks really nice. And your tree is gorgeous." <<include "mistletoe.05n">> Right. The tree that is currently in the living room. The living room where everyone else is, of which someone is bound to come looking for one of you eventually. And if that someone happens to be Rylan, $ntheyre never going to hear the end of it. <<print $ntheir.toUpperFirst()>> ears are burning up again at the thought. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> can already hear the endless teasing. $N tries to school $ntheir expression back into neutrality. "Thanks. Radar helped me decorate. And by decorate, I mean he knocked over all my boxes of ornaments and trampled over all the lights. Got himself tangled a few times too." You laugh. "I'm sure that would've been a sight to see. Radar looks cute with the reindeer ears, by the way. I'm surprised you got him to wear it." This time, $N cracks a smile. A genuine one. "I was surprised too. He shook it off about thirty seconds after you walked in though, so I'm glad you got to see it. I might stick them back on for a photo, but he definitely won't be happy about it." "He'll forgive you. Radar adores you." "I hope so. I feed him every day." "And he loves you even more for it." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.06n">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> You're nice. Too nice, sometimes. That's what people usually tell $N. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> hate$n_s how they make it sound like an insult when it's supposed to be a compliment, but $N doesn't mean it like that with you. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> like$n_s how kind you are. It's one of your best qualities. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> glance$n_s over you. "I'm glad you came. I know parties can get a little hectic, even if it's just the six of us, so I'm kind of glad for the peace and quiet for a bit. Even if..." "It was because of that?" You gesture above your heads. At the sparse mistletoe that Rylan might have sat on. Your smile widens into a grin. "I don't mind. It's still nice getting away from it all. " "I'm sorry. I—" "No. Don't be. It's not that big of a deal, I promise." <<if $nromantic is true>>Heat curls at the pit of $ntheir stomach again.<<else>><<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> still can't help but feel guilty.<</if>> "Are you sure? I mean— I know for some people it can be. It's not like…" "Not like what?" you prompt. $N stares at you. You stare back. <<if $nromantic is true>>Your eyes are pretty. It's not the first time $ntheyve thought that, and it won't be the last. It makes $nthem nervous though. It feels like they're asking for an answer that for once, $ntheyre unsure to give. All $ntheir usual surety is gone. All the confidence and charisma reduced to a fluttering feeling in $ntheir stomach $nthey can't quite describe. Or, can't describe as anything other than… If $nthey say$n_s it aloud, will it disappear?\ <<else>>You smile. <<print $ntheyve.toUpperFirst()>> never been someone to fumble over $ntheir words, but the mistletoe must be making $nthem nervous. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> hope you're not uncomfortable. God, that would be the last thing $nthey want$n_s. All $ntheir usual surety is gone. All the confidence and charisma is reduced to a nervousness that hangs on your reassurance.<</if>> <<print $ntheyve.toUpperFirst()>> left you hanging for too long. Say something. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> open$n_s $ntheir mouth to respond, but you beat $nthem to it. \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">You brush your thumb over $ntheir cheek. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'mistletoe.07n.a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">You kiss $nthem on the cheek. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'mistletoe.07n.b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">You hug $nthem.</div>' 'mistletoe.07n.c'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>> One blink. Your hand is at your side. One blink. Your hand is reaching out, cupping $ntheir cheek. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> can't breathe. Is this real? Is this happening? Should $nthey pinch$n_es $nthemself? Should $nthey say something? Your hand is still there. Your thumb brushes over soft skin—//$ntheir// skin. Your eyes are fixated on where you're holding $nthem, a smile playing at the edge of your lips. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> feel$n_s both hot and cold at the same time. Who knew butterflies could feel so much like a fever? <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> always felt nervous around you, but it's never been to this degree. No one's ever touched $nthem like this. It's embarrassing but true. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> might have dated people before, but nothing comes close to how gently you're holding $nthem right now. You look at $nthem like $ntheyre something precious. It makes $nthem want to fall to $ntheir knees. If $nthey asked, would you do it again sometime? "I— Uh—" Your expression softens. "Do you even remember what you were going to say?" "No." <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>>'ll fully admit it. You laugh. "Okay. Whatever it is, I hope you're not too stressed about everything. I had a great time tonight and I'm sure whatever you host next will be just as great. Just trust yourself, yeah? Consider it your Christmas gift to me." "Okay." <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> feel$n_s hot again. There's embarrassment mixed in there somewhere, along with gratitude. But if it's for you, $nthey'll do it. Whatever you ask for, it'll happen because it's for you. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $n_do>>n't exactly know how it happened. One moment you're standing there in front of $nthem, the next, your lips are pressed to $ntheir cheek. Then, another second later, you're back in the position you started, staring at $nthem with a smile. <<print $ntheir.toUpperFirst()>> breath hitches. <<print $ntheir.toUpperFirst()>> heart skips a beat. Did that really happen? Or did $nthey imagine$n_s that? Did you really just kiss $ntheir cheek while standing under a mistletoe? No, it had to have happened. Because even $N's wildest dreams wouldn't have come up with something like that. Not because $nthey <<print $n_do>>n't want to, but because it feels so out of reach. And sure, that's what fantasies are for, but $ntheyve never dared. Maybe $nthey $n_were worried it would jinx $nthem, or that you'd be appalled if you somehow found out. Except, this is reality. This is real life, and you just… <<print $ntheir.toUpperFirst()>> cheek feels warm. Your kiss still lingers. "I don't know what you were going to say, but don't worry about it too much, okay?" you tell $nthem. "If you ever think otherwise, know that I had a great time tonight. Including the time we spent standing under this." You gesture to the mistletoe. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> feel$n_s hot. "I— Uh. Yeah." Your laugh sounds like a song $ntheyve had stuck in $ntheir head. "You're sweet. Merry Christmas, $N." With that, you leave $nthem standing there alone. It takes $nthem a second to process that you're gone, but the moment $nthey $n_do, $nthey reach$n_es up to touch the spot you kissed. It's almost like $nthey can still feel it. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> It's quick. Quicker than $N can process it. One second your arms are around $nthem and the next, they're gone. <<print $ntheyre.toUpperFirst()>> tempted to ask you to do it again, to feel it a second time just to bask in the moment longer, when $nthey see$n_s your face. It kills any words that were on $ntheir tongue. You look soft. You're looking at $nthem like $nthey mean$n_s something to you. And it's not like $nthey doubted that before—$nthey $n_have doubts about many things, but never that—but it's nice to see written so plainly on your face. You mean a lot to $nthem too. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> value$n_s your friendship at the highest level. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $n_do>>n't necessarily have $ntheir friends ranked, but if $nthey did, you'd be up there. "Don't overthink it," you tell $nthem. "I'm really glad that I came tonight. You threw a great party, $N." "Thank you," $N replies. Hopefully, you can see how much $nthey appreciate$n_s this. Appreciate$n_s you. But $nthey <<print $n_do>>n't think $nthey $n_have to worry about that, because, by the look on your face, it's obvious you can. Good. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><center>Before we begin, would you prefer the story to have platonic or romantic undertones?</center>\ \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Platonic.</div>' 'mistletoe.02r'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Romantic.</div>' 'mistletoe.02r'>><<set $rromantic to true>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><div class="chapter-number"><span>Under the Mistletoe.</span></div> Rylan is aware $rthey did this to $rthemself. When $rthey hung the mistletoe on $N's doorframe, $rthey didn't expect that $rthey'd be the one caught under it. If $rthey $r_were, $rthey thought it would be with someone like $A or $K—someone $rthey could laugh it off with or tease. With $A, everything is lighthearted. The two of them hardly take anything seriously. Being under the mistletoe with $athem would've sent them into a fit of laughter that lasted the entire night. And while $K is the complete opposite, $ktheyre the person Rylan has known the longest—it would be amusing regardless of how it ended. But with you… It's different. The mistletoe brushes $rtheir hair, swinging back and forth. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> swallow$r_s nervously. God, $rtheyre never nervous. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> really did it this time. If $rthey <<print $r_do>>n't pull any pranks for the next week, this is why. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> guess$r_es $rtheyre suffering the consequences of $rtheir own actions. "I guess I should've seen this coming," Rylan laughs. The noise comes out slightly strained, but if you notice, you don't say anything. You're too busy staring at the plant above your heads. Swinging. Left. Right. There's a hint of mirth playing on your lips. Rylan isn't sure how genuine it is, or if you're also trying to play it cool. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.03r">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"Well, you're the one who put it up," you answer. "It's probably your karma." "Karma for trying to uphold a Christmas tradition?" "I'm sure $K would agree with me." At that, Rylan lets out a genuine huff of amusement. Right. The look on $K's face when Rylan pulled out the mistletoe was something $rthey wish$r_es $rthey caught on camera. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>>'d been trying to hang it up in $K's penthouse for years—alongside hiding that creepy elf on the shelf—but always got shot down. That's why the moment $N offered to host this year, Rylan had it ready. … God, maybe it is karma after all. "$K hates anything Christmas. Of course $kthey'd agree with you," Rylan replies. "I know. I bet $kthey $k_were relieved when $N said $nthey wanted to host." Your eyes dart around the room, catching on the various decorations $N had strewn about. There's more in the living room, but that's where the main party is and, well, the two of you are… A wave of guilt hits $rthem. You wouldn't be in this situation if it weren't for $rthem. Are you uncomfortable? <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> didn't even consider that $rthey might've done that to you. How selfish. How cruel. How terri— "Are you mad?" Rylan asks. You blink, your gaze flicking back to $rtheirs. "About what?" "That I put that up." \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Why would I be mad?"</div>' 'mistletoe.04r.a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"If I was, you would&rsquo;ve known by now."</div>' 'mistletoe.04r.b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Where&rsquo;s this insecurity coming from?" </div>' 'mistletoe.04r.c'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"Why would I be mad?" you ask. Your eyebrows are furrowed, your lips downturned. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> feel$r_s bad that $rthey made you look that way. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> should've kept $rtheir mouth shut. But $rthey need$r_s to know. Because despite what most people think of $rthem, Rylan needs reassurance. Lives off of it, actually. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> crave$r_s comfort just as much as the next person. A gentle murmur that everything will be okay, or a kiss on the forehead to tell $rthem that there's someone there for $rthem. And while $rtheyre not asking for those from you, $rthey want$r_s to know if you're mad. Even if it's obvious, just this once, $rthey want$r_s to hear the words. "I was just wondering," Rylan says. <<include "mistletoe.05r">>"If I was, you would've known by now," you say. Your eyes look concerned, your lips tilted in a frown. A pang of guilt floods $rthem at the thought that $rthey made you look that way. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> should've kept $rtheir mouth shut. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> should've known you weren't upset. It's obvious when you are. You shut down and stop entertaining $rthem and $rtheir jokes. You shoo $rthem away. Your tone becomes more serious and you snap quicker than usual. <<print $rtheyre.toUpperFirst()>> good at reading those signs. <<print $rtheyve.toUpperFirst()>> seen it enough to know when to back off. You weren't even close to annoyed with $rthem tonight, but $rthey asked anyway. It's probably strange to you. Rylan, who's usually so confident in $rthemself and completely unapologetic, suddenly unsure and hesitant about your feelings. But that's the way $rthey $r_are with you. <<print $rtheyre.toUpperFirst()>> simply just good at hiding it most of the time. You're not mad, right? When Rylan doesn't respond, you tilt your head. "Why do you ask?" "I was just wondering." <<include "mistletoe.05r">>"Where's this insecurity coming from?" you ask. You're smiling again, but there's a touch of concern added to your voice now. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> hate$r_s that $rtheyve done that to you. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> should've kept $rtheir mouth shut. You're the only person $rthey get$r_s nervous in front of. And while half of the time that nervousness isn't visible, that doesn't mean it's not there. Because $rthey compensate$r_s. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> laugh$r_es, make$r_s jokes, get$r_s into your personal space and become overly friendly with you so that everything //looks// natural. But God, do you make $rthem a wreck sometimes. This isn't really insecurity. Even if you had made a disapproving face when $rthey pulled out the mistletoe, $rthey would've done it anyway. No, that's not what this is about. <<print $rtheyre.toUpperFirst()>> asking because $rthey <<print $r_do>>n't want to have upset you. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> may be a troublemaker, but $rthey know$r_s $rtheir limits. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> <<print $r_do>>n't want you to think $rtheyve gone too far. Are you upset that you're stuck here with $rthem? "Nowhere," Rylan answers. "Just wondering." <<include "mistletoe.05r">> You study $rthem. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> take$r_s the opportunity to study you $rthemself. <<if $rromantic is true>> You're pretty. That $rtheyve always known. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> tell$r_s you it all the time, though you don't take $rthem seriously. Not that $rthey blame$r_s you for it, but just because $rthey say$r_s it in a teasing tone doesn't mean $rthey <<print $r_do>>n't mean it. If you let $rthem, $rthey'd stare at you all the time.\ <<else>> Your expression gives nothing away. Even after asking, $rthey still can't put a finger on what you're feeling. You're not upset, sure, but what are you? If you were happy, wouldn't it be more obvious? If you found things funny, wouldn't you be laughing? Or maybe you don't feel anything at all. Maybe $rtheyre the one making it weird.<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "mistletoe.06r">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"Why did you put that up?" you ask. "Why, Hunter, you know the answer to that," Rylan drawls. You shake your head. "No, I don't. Not entirely, anyway." <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> falter$r_s. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>>'d forgotten how good you'd gotten at figuring $them out. That doesn't mean $rthey like$r_s to make things easy for you, though. "Do you need me to spell it out for you?" "Sure. But that doesn't mean you'd tell me the truth, right?" Rylan smiles. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> hate$r_s doing this to you, really, because $rthey know$r_s $rthey wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of a lie every time, but it's almost gotten scary how well you can predict $rthem. Should $rthey feel$r_s flattered that you know $rthem inside and out? Or should $rthey run$r_s away? That's the question $rtheyve been asking $rthemself for months now. "What exactly do you think I'm hiding from you about a mistletoe, Hunter?" "You're avoiding the question." "Don't I always?" You narrow your eyes. "Yes, but it's the holidays. Shouldn't you be nice for once?" <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> laugh$r_s. <<print $rtheyre.toUpperFirst()>> pushing your buttons now, but it's entirely too fun to stop. "Maybe, maybe not. Who knows? Maybe the whole reason I put it up was so that I could get a kiss from you, Hunter." You pause, studying $rthem again. <<print $rtheyre.toUpperFirst()>> joking, of course, but you're looking at $rthem with a thoughtful expression, as if you're actually considering it. <<print $rtheyre.toUpperFirst()>> about to cut in and clarify that $rthey <<print $r_were>>n't serious when you… \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">…cup $rtheir cheek, before pinching it lightly. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'mistletoe.07r.a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">…kiss $rthem on the cheek. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'mistletoe.07r.b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">…flick $rthem on the forehead.</div>' 'mistletoe.07r.c'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>> You reach out to cup $rtheir cheek. <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> breath hitches. Right, this is what it's like to be touched. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> could stay like this forever. Even if, in reality, the moment lasts no longer than a second, $rthey could live an eternity like this. Your palm is warm, your smile is sweet. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> like$r_s the way you're looking at $rthem. And then— You pinch $rthem. Rylan lets out an undignified sound. You laugh, and while Rylan hates when people laugh //at// $rthem, for once, $rthey can make an exception. You look happy, almost proud of yourself, and if that's what keeps the smile on your face, $rthey can allow it. "That's as close of a kiss as you're going to get," you tease. Rylan pouts. Another undignified look, $rthey know$r_s, but $rthey can't help it. "That wasn't fair, Hunter." "I never said I would play fair with you. That's what you get for expecting something like that." "I wasn't expecting it. I merely said that might've been my plan." "Sure, sure." You smile at $rthem, your expression softening. Your hand has dropped back down to your side. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> would never admit it, but $rthey'd let you do it again if it means feeling your touch. "Hunter—" "Merry Christmas, Rylan." Oh. Before $rthey can reply, you brush past $rthem and head back to the living room. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> wonder$r_s what $rthey look like right now. If $rthey had to guess, $rthey probably look$r_s like some sort of lost puppy, or some awestruck statue. What would it have taken for you to hold $rtheir face a little longer? <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> guess$r_es $rthey'll never know$r_s. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> It's quick. It can't have been longer than half a second. Rylan often feels like $rthey watch$r_es the world in slow motion, but $rthey felt your lips on $rtheir cheek for less than a blink of an eye before you pull away, smiling at $rthem like you don't know what you just did. <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> first thought is that $rthey want$r_s more. That $rthey wish$r_es it was longer. <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> second is the inevitable breakdown. Did that really happen? Did you just do that? Rylan's supposed to be the flirt here, not you. If anything, $rthey $r_were supposed to kiss you on the cheek and say that $rthey stole it, rather than you taking it from $rthem. Sure, $rthey joke around, but that doesn't mean $rthey $r_were expecting it. But God, $rthey liked it. It was… nice. More than nice, actually. Your lips were soft. Are soft. The kiss wasn't too wet either, but not dry enough that $rthey couldn't tell that you'd kissed $rthem. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> can still feel your lingering touch. It's one of the only things $rthey can use as proof that this wasn't all in $rtheir head. "There. You wanted a kiss, didn't you?" you ask. Rylan hopes the flush isn't visible on $rtheir cheeks. "That was a dirty move, Hunter." "I never said I play fair. Not with you, at least." You smile. Now that $rthey know$r_s what it feels like, $rthey can't help but stare at the curve of your lips. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> hope$r_s it's not as obvious as it feels. "Aren't you supposed to?" $rthey ask$r_s. "No one ever said that. Merry Christmas, Rylan." Before $rthey can reply, you brush past $rthem and head back to the living room. The moment you disappear around the corner, $rthey reach$r_es up to touch $rtheir cheek. If $rthey close$r_s $rtheir eyes, $rthey can almost reimagine the whole scene again. Merry Christmas indeed. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> Ow. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> feel$r_s a sharp pain on $rtheir forehead. For someone who's supposed to have sharp reflexes, $rthey $r_were awfully slow. It helps that you caught $rthem off guard, otherwise, $rthey would've never let it happen. You grin. "That's all you're getting from me." Rylan huffs. "You're mean, you know that?" "Did you really think I'd give you a kiss of all things?" No, which is what $rthey $r_were going to tell you before you flicked $rthem. But you look cute like this, all happy because you managed to catch $rthem off guard. If it makes you that excited, maybe $rthey can let it happen one or two times more in the future. "I never said that was the actual goal," Rylan retorts. "Was it?" "I'm not telling you that. I have to keep some secrets to myself, Hunter." "Hmm." You glance at $rthem, your expression softening. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> feel$r_s $rtheirs softening too. "Merry Christmas, Rylan. I hope you had a good year." <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> smile$r_s. "I did." And it's true. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Play Again</span></div>' "mistletoeselect">><</link>> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Main Menu</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $balcony to "$A">>\ <div class="chapter-number"><span>$A.</span></div> $A is anything but graceful stepping out onto the balcony. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> slide$a_s the door close with a shudder that disrupts the railings, shuffling $atheir way to me with what seems like the intention to be quiet, despite a failed execution. Points for the effort, I suppose. "Why are you out here?" $athey ask$a_s. "It's freezing." "Hello to you too." I glance over at $athem. "I don't have to worry about you doing anything stupid, do I?" $A grins. <<print $atheir.toUpperFirst()>> hands are on $atheir forearms, rubbing them absently. "You've had to worry about that our entire partnership." "Unfortunately." "Hey! I didn't actually mean that!" <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> huff$a_s out a breath as I turn to hide my smile. "But if you must know, $N made me chug a glass of water before coming out here. I'm not actually as drunk as I seem." I believe it. I've seen $A tipsy on several occasions and $athey almost always play$a_s it up. Alcohol in $atheir system makes $athem more dramatic, perhaps even on a Rylan level. "Just don't lean too far off the railing," I warn. "Aye aye, captain." $A salutes me and then carefully places $atheir elbows on the frosty surface, shivering upon initial contact but then slowly easing into it. "Seriously though, you never answered my question. Why are you out here? I mean, it's pretty but…" I hum. "But?" $A glances at me curiously. "We see snow all the time." "Are you trying to tell me something?" "No, I—" "$A, if you don't want to be here, you can go inside." <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> frown$a_s. It's almost hilarious how much effort the expression takes, dragging $atheir lips down and knitting $atheir eyebrows together intimately. I'd almost call it a pout. "No. No, I want to be here." $A swallows. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> take$a_s $atheir arms back, fiddling with $athem as $athey find$a_s the courage to meet my gaze. When $athey $a_do, $atheir eyes are strikingly clear. "I want to be here with you." \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Who am I to say no to that?" [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'nye.a02'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"If you&rsquo;re sure."</div>' 'nye.a03'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $aromance to true>>\ I can feel my expression soften. Any harsh lines from my worry melt away, replaced by a warmth that $A often brings out. Easy, too easy. Sometimes I wonder if $athey know$a_s what effect $athey $a_have on me. Other times I think that if $athey $a_do know, then $athey <<print $a_do>>n't know how special it is. <<print $atheyre.toUpperFirst()>> definitely not as drunk as $athey seemed to be. That statement is $atheir equivalent of several glasses of water. "Who am I to say no to that?" I respond. $A visibly perks up. "You mean it?" "Of course." $A looks one second away from wrapping me in a hug. Another thing about $A when $atheyre on alcohol: $athey $a_are physically more affectionate. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> refrain$a_s from it, however, forcing $atheir hands down to $atheir sides. "I want to be here with you, $name," $A repeats. <<print $atheir.toUpperFirst()>> voice has gone quiet. "Not just because you're my partner. You know that, right? Tell me you know that." "I know. I know, $A." $A exhales. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> tilt$a_s $atheir head back, staring at the snowflakes as they fall softly on $atheir face. I watch $athem. It's so serene it feels like a fantasy. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "nye.a04">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I can feel my expression soften. <<print $atheyre.toUpperFirst()>> definitely not as drunk as $athey seemed to be. That statement is $atheir equivalent of several glasses of water. "If you're sure," I answer. $A's frown deepens. "Of course I'm sure. Why wouldn't I be sure? Do I strike you as someone who isn't sure of what $athey say$a_s, $name? You know, I'm qui—" "$A," I interrupt. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> stare$a_s at me while I laugh, barely holding it back behind my hand. "You know that's not what I meant. I love having you here with me. I'm not trying to get rid of you." "Oh." I smile. "Maybe you're still a little tipsy." "I— Maybe." <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> chew$a_s $atheir bottom lip. "But even tipsy, I want to be here with you. Not because I need to cool down from the heat of the alcohol. Not just because you're my partner. You know that, right? Tell me you know that." I know. I know, $A." $A exhales. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> tilt$a_s $atheir head back, staring at the snowflakes as they fall softly on $atheir face. I watch $athem. It's so serene it feels like a fantasy. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "nye.a04">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> You want to know something stupid?" $A asks. "It's not stupid." "Yes, it is," $A insists. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> take$a_s a deep breath. "Listen, in the first year of our partnership, my resolution was to keep our friendship for as long as I could. The second year, it was to hold onto it for as long as you'd let me, thinking you'd grow tired of me eventually. By the third, I realized you weren't going anywhere. It took me so long. That's why it's stupid." "You mean a lot to me, $A," I whisper. My eyebrows knit together, concerned by the change in topic. "I'm always going to care about you." $A looks guilty. "Something my anxiety didn't believe at first. But even after the crazy adventure that was Caine's disappearance, you're still here. I think that's proof enough." <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> cough$a_s suddenly. "Kind of cheesy to be saying this on the last day of the year, huh?" Usually, I'd grin and agree with $athem. It's what $A expects to hear, what my initial reaction is—but instead, my expression grows earnest. The joke dies on $A's tongue and though I have the power to revive it, I turn it into something completely different. "It's not," I respond. "I'd rather hear this from you now than never." <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> look$a_s down. "I would have told you eventually." "Which is?" $A mumbles something I don't catch. When $athey notice$a_s my questioning look, $athey shuffle$a_s $atheir feet. A pile of snow forms from $atheir actions. I have the strangest urge to drag $A downstairs to go and make snow angels. "To be decided." "Ah." $A's cheeks flush pink and I laugh at how the colour now matches the tip of $atheir nose. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> open$a_s $atheir mouth to reply—likely defend $athemself—when $atheyre cut off with a violent shiver. What follows immediately is a trio of sneezes. My laugh dies as I wince in between "bless you"'s. <<print $atheyve.toUpperFirst()>> never done well with extreme temperatures—$atheyve probably only lasted this long because $athey wanted to talk to me. \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Offer to warm $athem up. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'nye.a05'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"You need to go inside."</div>' 'nye.a06'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $aromance2 to true>>\ "$A, you're freezing," I chide. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> sniff$a_s, brushing off snowflakes from $atheir bangs. "If you're going to make me go inside, I won't leave unless you're coming with me. I told you, I want to be here. I've survived werewolves and vampires—I can survive the cold." I shake my head, though not without affection. Without thinking, I hold out my palms, gesturing for $A to hold them. <<print $atheir.toUpperFirst()>> eyebrows furrow with confusion, eyes questioning as $athey glance$a_s at me. "What—" "Hold my hands." "$name—" I give $athem what I hope is an encouraging smile. "Hold my hands, $A." Though $athey still seem$a_s reluctant, with my permission, $A places $atheir hands gently into mine, hovering them like butterflies before they touch down on their destination. Familiar callouses, the familiar shape of $atheir hands. I smile and bring $atheir hands closer to my body, covering them as best as I can with my own hands. I watch $A's breathing slow as I rub small circles on $atheir skin. "What are you doing?" <<print $atheir.toUpperFirst()>> voice is hoarse, but gives no indication that $athey want$a_s me to stop. $A's eyes are glued to our hands, a singular finger from both of us intertwined. "Warming you up," I answer. My nonchalant tone reflects nothing of what I'm feeling right now. Thank God $A can't hear heartbeats like Rylan can. "Is it working?" "I—" <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> cut$a_s $athemself off, shaking $atheir head with a chuckle. "Yes, yes it's working. You really know how to make miracles happen, $name." <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> pause$a_s. "Though, it would work better if…" Without warning, $A tugs me closer. A gasp escapes my mouth as I'm drawn to $athem, the grip on my hands tightening as $athey stead$a_y me. <<print $atheir.toUpperFirst()>> hands cover mine, now doing the warming rather than being warmed. "$A—" <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> brush$a_es the back of my hands with $atheir thumb. <<print $atheir.toUpperFirst()>> eyes are glued to our hands. "Is this not so much better?" "I thought I was supposed to be warming you." "I decided to return the favour." $A's eyes flick up to mine. "Is this alright?" More than alright. There's a nervous flutter in my stomach, <<if $touchaverse is true>>but it's not from being touched. Touch with $A is comfortable, having had to be in close contact for years. Scary as it is, in some ways, I'm as aware of $atheir body as I am of my own. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>>'d never do anything to hurt me.\ <<else>>but I want anything but to draw away. Touch with $A is comfortable, having had to be in close contact for years—but these moments still manage to surprise me. Moments of vulnerability and intimacy. Touching because you want to and not because it's part of the job.<</if>> I can feel my mental clock ticking down, but right now, it's just me and $A. Partners from the beginning of our journey with IAOS and partners to the end of it. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.11">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I shake my head. "I'm glad you told me, $A, but you need to go inside." <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> sniff$a_s. "No. No, I told you, I want to be out here with you." "You'll get a cold if you stay out here any longer. Hell, I'll probably get a cold too." I smile again, partially because of $A's insistence and partially to encourage $athem to listen to me. "It's warmer inside, I promise." "You'll come with me?" "Did you think I wouldn't?" $A glances up. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>>'d been shuffling $atheir feet like before, but the motion stops abruptly. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> swallow$a_s and with sudden seriousness, state$a_s, "You're my best friend. I think you always will be. So, don't leave me, okay?" I blink. The alcohol has definitely not left $atheir body. But $A looks so earnest and hopeful for my answer that I can't bring myself to tease $athem about $atheir low tolerance. <<if $touchaverse is true>>I reach out and let our hands brush, my equivalent of squeezing $atheir hand when I don't feel like having too much physical contact.\ <<else>>I reach for $atheir hand and squeeze it tightly.<</if>> "I won't, I promise." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.11">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $balcony to "Blane">>\ <div class="chapter-number"><span>Blane.</span></div> Blane drags $btheir feet as $bthey draw$b_s closer. It makes me smile, knowing $btheyre only doing it for my benefit. As part Fae, $btheir footsteps are often as silent as the breeze itself. "Enjoying the view?" I hum. "Come see for yourself." Blane pauses for a moment but obliges. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> join$b_s me leaned across the railing, leaving a small gap between us. Much smaller than it would've been a year ago, much larger than it could be if I chose. We don't say anything. Blane keeps $btheir eyes trained ahead on the view before us and I, never having turned in the first place, do the same. <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> hand lifts to touch a falling snowflake. Out of the corner of my eye, I watch $bthem stare as it melts on $btheir fingertip. "I like the snow," Blane whispers. I blink. "You do?" Blane brushes off the water from $btheir fingers. "When I moved to London, it was mostly rain. I didn't realize how much I missed seeing snow covering the sidewalks and trees until I was back in New York. I think it's one of the most beautiful sights I've ever seen." "It's pretty at first sight." "Most things are," Blane agrees. There's something in $btheir voice that makes me pause and look at $bthem. <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> expression is as blank as ever, but there's a bright spot in $btheir eyes. A tell-tale sign of affection that I've come to realize is as special as a smile from Blane. "What?" I ask. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> shake$b_s $btheir head. "Nothing." "There is something. What is it?" Blane hesitates, then sighs. "Nothing. It's just— One year ago if you told me I'd be spending New Year's Eve with you, I wouldn't have believed you. I told myself at the beginning of the year that I already let $N in. I couldn't afford to be soft with anyone else." \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Close the gap. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'nye.b02'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Stay where you are.</div>' 'nye.b03'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $bromance to true>>\ Our fingers brush <<if $touchaverse is true>>and it's nice. Pleasant, even. Butterflies dance around in my stomach. I've noticed that with Blane, touch is a rarity. Whereas $A and Rylan will greet people with hugs, Blane will simply stand back and nod. As someone who is not a big fan of touch myself, we balance each other out. It both makes things easier and infinitely harder.\ <<else>>and I feel myself smile. Butterflies dance around in my stomach, exhilarated by the close contact and simultaneously nervous by it. Nervous excitement. Anxious elation. My body is anticipating something that might not happen. With Blane, touch is a rarity. Whereas $A and Rylan will greet people with hugs, Blane will simply stand back and nod. It's a boundary we all respect, though I won't lie and say it doesn't make things harder sometimes.<</if>> I take a step forward. Blane stays where $bthey $b_s. We stare at each other. My gaze is questioning. Blane's gaze is alluring. "And now?" Blane swipes a tongue over $btheir lips. "And now, I'm wondering how many times I've broken that rule. $N, $K and Rylan to some degree, even Devereux in some ways." <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> dip$b_s $btheir chin. "You." Our fingers brush again. Snow falls on Blane's head, blending in with $btheir hair. I feel the strangest urge to brush it away, but I keep my hands to myself. Blane's eyes flick over my figure slowly, soaking me in like it's both the first and last time $bthey'll ever see me. "You really mean it?" I breathe. <<include "nye.b04">> I smile. "Was that your equivalent of a New Year's resolution?" "Somewhat." Blane turns to look at me. "I used to think that resolutions are meant to be broken and promises are meant to be kept. Every January, I told myself to keep my guard up. The colder you are to people, the less likely they are to become close to you. The less likely they are to hurt you." "And now?" "And now, I'm wondering how many times I've broken that rule. $N, $K and Rylan to some degree, even Devereux in some ways." <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> flash$b_es a rare and small smile. "You, though I'd hate for that to boost your ego too much." I laugh. "You really mean it?" <<include "nye.b04">>"Yes." "Blan—" "$lastname," Blane interrupts. "$name." <<if $bromance is true>>My heart just about stops in my chest. It's not the first time Blane has said my first name and it certainly won't be the last. <<print $btheyve.toUpperFirst()>> been getting better at it lately, correcting $bthemself after $bthey spot$b_s the mistake—but it doesn't mean I'm used to it. Before, my surname was a derogatory name $bthey used to address me. Now, it holds no meaning other than being my surname. My first name on the other hand… That's something new. A small blossom of a flower incorrectly thought to be dead.\ <<else>>Whatever words I wanted to say die on my tongue. It's not the first time Blane has said my first name and it certainly won't be the last. <<print $btheyve.toUpperFirst()>> been getting better at it lately, correcting $bthemself after $bthey spot$b_s the mistake—but it doesn't mean I'm used to it. Before, my surname was a derogatory name $bthey used to address me. The meaning hasn't carried onto my first name. The way $bthey say$b_s my first name… It's something new. Some sort of apology, some kind of olive branch.<</if>> Blane's eyes shine with vulnerability. The look on $btheir face is so fragile that I'm afraid that even twitching will break $bthem. I hold my breath. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> hold$b_s $btheirs. Exhale. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "nye.b05">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"I'm glad I broke my promise," Blane whispers. A gush of wind rips through us but $btheir words don't get lost. They stay right with me. Right between us. "I'm glad I was roped into this crazy adventure. I'm glad that it forced you into my life, even if I didn't realize how much of a gift that is at first." Someone shouts from inside. "Ten more minutes!" <<if $bromance is true>>I find myself wishing for time to slow down. Let me stay on this balcony. Let me stay here with Blane, with that look in $btheir eyes and our fingers brushing every so often, with $btheir body leaning towards mine like $bthey mean$b_s it. Ten more minutes of this year. Possibly five more minutes out here. Another five spent inside, cheering as the clock winds down. One minute, one breath. One glance at someone who I never would've thought I had this type of relationship with.\ <<else>>Time moves so quickly. First, a couple of hours. Then, one hour. Now ten minutes. Ten minutes until the year is done. Up to five more minutes out here. Another five spent inside, cheering as the clock winds down. One minute, one breath. One shared smile among a group of people I didn't realize would become such a vital part of my life.<</if>> "Thank you." I snap back to attention. Blane looks at me earnestly, lips twitching with a nervous smile. <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> eyes search mine for an answer, scared one will never come but hopeful that if it does, it'll be worth it. <<if $bromance is true>> When it does.<</if>> //Thank you. Thank you for being in my life.// \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"It means as much to me as it does you." [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'nye.b06'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"You don&rsquo;t have to thank me for anything."</div>' 'nye.b07'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>> Warm. I feel so warm. I can see my breath in the air, feel my fingers beginning to numb and my feet starting to freeze, but all I feel is warm. My face feels hot, my smile so wide that it hurts my cheeks. Blane looks so beautiful. All I can think about is $bthem. "It means as much to me as it does you," I whisper back. Blane's expression melts into silent relief. It's subtle—I wouldn't have noticed if I wasn't staring at $bthem so extensively—but it's there. Always the fear of rejection. Always the fear that $bthey let$b_s down $btheir walls only to be hurt again. "Blane…" The taste of $btheir name is sweet on my tongue. Blane's eyes soften. "You made my year, you know?" Denial is immediate. "No I didn't." "Yes, you did." "I—" "You did." <<if $bromance is true>>Blane takes another step forward. The gap between us closes once more. A footstep previously turns into half of one. My breath hitches and I think $btheirs does too. I can't tell. All I can hear is my heart beating in my ears and the biting wind howling in the background, fuzzy in comparison to the scene before me. Our fingers touch. But rather than letting them brush and fall apart again, Blane lightly takes a hold of mine, pulling it closer to $bthem. I stare at $bthem in awe. <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> gaze is glued to the ground.\ <<else>>Blane takes a step forward. A move to close the gap that I didn't make before. A couple of footsteps turn into a space of one. My breath hitches. I can hear my heart beating in my ears, accompanied by the sounds of the biting wind howling in the background, fuzzy in comparison to the scene before me. Our fingers brush. My breath hitches again. I begin to let my hand fall away again when Blane lightly takes a hold of it, pulling it closer to $bthem. I stare at $bthem in awe. <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> gaze is glued to the ground.<</if>> "I'm sorry it took so long for me to realize how much of a great person you are," Blane says. "I thought I was protecting myself, but I was only prolonging the inevitable. You— You mean a lot to me." I squeeze $btheir hand. "You mean a lot to me too." Blane's eyes dart over my face, drop down to my lips. They follow the curve of my cheekbones and the shape of my eyebrows. Some part of me wonders if $btheyre going to kiss me. Another shouts that if $btheyre not, I should just do it myself. We're concealed by the curtains. No one would know. No one would see us. Just two people on a balcony in the city of New York, standing in the snow as the clock ticks down. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.11">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I shake my head slowly. "You don't have to thank me for anything." "I do. I do, $name." Blane swallows. "Thank you for the patience you have putting up with me. Thank you for giving me a chance even though I'd been nothing but horrible to you. Thank you for helping me realize that being vulnerable doesn't always mean getting hurt." "Blane…" <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> break$b_s into a small smile. "I don't say it often enough, but I'm really grateful for you. I'm sorry it took so long for me to realize how much of a great person you are." "You're great too, Blane," I whisper. "I'm not. You don't need to—" "You are. In your own way." Blane lifts $btheir gaze, having dropped it with my words. <<print $btheir.toUpperFirst()>> eyes shine like real emeralds. It's a wonder that diamonds are more sought after when emeralds can look like this. Beautiful. "Thank you. You mean a lot to me," Blane admits. I mirror $btheir smile. "You mean a lot to me too." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.11">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $balcony to "$N">>\ <div class="chapter-number"><span>$N.</span></div> Even without turning around, I know $N is behind me. Though a quiet presence, I can spot $nthem out of a crowd with little to no hesitation. <<print $ntheyre.toUpperFirst()>> someone I've grown naturally comfortable around, someone who, when taken away, makes my world feel off-kilter. It's strange how people can enter your life so quietly yet make such an impact. $N slides the door shut and makes $ntheir way over to me. Snow crunches underneath $ntheir shoes. "Quite the view, isn't it?" I hum. "Mmm. I can't believe $K gets to see this every day but chooses not go on $ktheir balcony because '$kthey <<print $k_do>>n't want to be spotted by $ktheir neighbours.' Very on brand for $kthem." "Looking from the inside is not the same as standing outside." $N steps up to stand beside me, leaning $ntheir forearms on the railing as $ntheir right hand reaches out to catch the falling snowflakes. "You don't get to do this. Don't get to hear the city beneath you." "I'm pretty sure $K hates the noise." $N shoots me a smile. "Probably. But even $kthey can't argue the magic of standing on a balcony at night with someone you care for. <<print $ktheyre.toUpperFirst()>> a warlock—$kthey know$k_s all about that." I feel my face flush with heat. "That's not the alcohol talking, is it?" "I've barely had a glass," $N promises. "I'm completely sober." <<print $ntheir.toUpperFirst()>> finger draws loops in the snow dusting the railing. "I'm not exactly a drinker, anyway. A couple of sips of champagne is the most I have. It's impressive how much everyone else in there can stomach." <<if $drunk is true>>"And me?" I ask. $N laughs. "And you, if you want to include yourself. I didn't know if I'd be crossing a line." "I'm intoxicated, $N. There's nothing that's going to offend me." "Fair enough."\ <<else>>"I'm pretty sure half the glasses in the sink have had $A's mouth on them at some point." "Ew, don't say that." "It's true!" $N shakes $ntheir head, barely hiding $ntheir laugh. "Maybe, but that doesn't make it any less disgusting. $K is definitely the type to have delicate glasses too. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>>'ll be handwashing for a while." "Not that we contributed much," I point out. "No, not that we did."<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "nye.n02">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I turn back to look out at the city. Someone's apartment lights are electric red in one room. The one below it is neon blue. It's only then that the thought comes to me. I glance at $N again. "I'm surprised you drank at all. You normally just sip water." "I drink on occasion," $N explains. "New Year's Eve is one of the only days I annually indulge in it. I always get nostalgic on this day. On the years that I don't go to a party, I sit in my room and review everything I did and everyone I met." "Sounds terrible." "Only if I had a bad year." <<print $ntheir.toUpperFirst()>> smile is soft. "As crazy as this one was, I met a lot of good people. I already told you as much, didn't I?" \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Becoming close with you was one of my favourite parts of the year." [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'nye.n03'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"You did. That was sweet of you."</div>' 'nye.n04'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I feel my expression soften. A smile tugs on the ends of my lips, my eyes melting into pools of wonder and affection. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> $n_have a way with words. Everything $nthey $n_do, everything $nthey say$n_s—it's always from the bottom of $ntheir heart. Always the truth. "You did," I whisper. "I'm sorry I didn't say anything." $N shrugs slightly. "You don't have to." "But I do. Becoming close with you was one of my favourite parts of the year, $N." My eyebrows furrow, eyes desperately searching $ntheirs so $nthey know$n_s I mean it. "I know we never really talked before, but everything that happened this year, all the shit, all the…" $N's expression is kind. Always so kind. There's a flicker of amusement in $ntheir eyes, but I know it's not out of malice. Never out of malice with $N. "All the?" $nthey prompt$n_s. I swallow. "Everything. All that we said, all that we did, all that we didn't—I'm glad that it brought us closer. Funny, right? I wouldn't have known what a wonderful person you are if Blane hadn't pounded on Caine's office that one time." $N laughs. "That's Blane for you." I roll my eyes. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "nye.n05">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I dip my head. "You did. I'm sorry I didn't say anything." $N shrugs slightly. "You don't have to." "But I do," I insist. "You're sweet, $N. I've learned a lot about you in the past year, traits I didn't even know you possessed." I pause, trying to find the words. Nothing comes close to what I'm feeling. "I'm really glad we became closer this year. It's hard to imagine my life without you now." "Now who's being sweet?" $N teases. "You." "No. Not me this time." $N smiles again and I find myself noticing how beautiful the New York skyline looks reflected on $ntheir face. A rainbow of colours that dance on $ntheir skin. "I'm happy we became closer too. No more rivalry. No more fighting over petty things." I make a skeptical face. "Tell that to Blane." <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> laugh$n_s. "That's between $bthem and $A. Besides, if Blane hadn't pounded on Caine's office that one time, we might not even be here." "I hate that you're right." "I always am." I roll my eyes. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "nye.n05">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> For the first time since $N came out to join me, the two of us fall silent. We stand comfortably, watching blissfully as snow coats the city in a thin layer. One snowflake, five, twenty more. I breathe and my breath comes out in a small puff of smoke. Tomorrow it'll be a nuisance. The roads will be slick with ice, the sidewalks will have a build-up of slush and water, puddles forming in the crevices from the salted snow, but right now, it's beautiful. A blanket of calm over a normally screaming loud city. "You do get very nostalgic on New Year's Eve," I blurt out. $N blinks at the sudden interruption. "Huh?" "I said you were right. You do get nostalgic." "Oh." <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> chuckle$n_s. "I wouldn't lie to you, $name." "I never said you did." $N's smile is soft. "I'm always a little nostalgic, but something about the last day of the year makes you reflect more. There's a reason people compile recaps of all the photos and videos they've taken. Not that I participate in posting a hundred stories on my Instagram, but it's nice to look back." I hum in response. Without realizing it, the two of us have shuffled closer. Close enough to touch if we wanted, distant enough to have space. The curtains cover our bodies; the only sliver of light we have from the inside falls far to my right. It's just us and the city. $N's finger trails the coating of snow on the railing beside us, writing some sort of calligraphy. \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Place your hand on $ntheirs. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'nye.n06'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"For what it&rsquo;s worth, you&rsquo;re in my recap."</div>' 'nye.n07'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I do it before I can second guess myself. I've done a lot of that recently. Watching $N out of the corner my eye, wondering if I should say something but settling on not. Overthinking tends to lead to me doubling back, which is why I don't let myself do it this time. This time, I go for it. I reach out a hand and lightly place it on top of $N's, halting $ntheir writing. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> stiffen$n_s at the sudden touch and I begin to worry I've done something wrong when $nthey suddenly relax$n_es. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> lift$n_s $ntheir gaze to meet mine, eyes hooded. "$name." I swallow. "$N." "Not a fan of writing in the snow?" $nthey tease$n_s. <<print $ntheir.toUpperFirst()>> thumb reaches around my hand so that it's on top. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> stroke$n_s my skin slowly, creating goosebumps down my spine. "It was distracting," I lie. "I suppose." $N's eyes dart back down to our hands. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> shuffle$n_s closer. "Did you at least figure out what I was writing?" I blink, thinking back to $N's finger in the snow. A looping cursive that $nthey pull$n_s off so beautifully. A tall letter, followed by an o and a repeat of two letters, then one more. It dawns on me. "Happy," I respond. "Just the word happy, over and over again." $N's smile tells me I got it right. "Happy New Year. Happy that I'm alive. Happy that I made such a wonderful friend group with you." A pause. "Happy whenever I'm with you." My heart nearly falls out of my chest. "You've said that a lot tonight." "You deserve to hear it often." It's such a simple answer, but it's one that shakes the world beneath my feet. Heat rises to my cheeks and the butterflies in my stomach are threatening to break out. <<print $ntheyre.toUpperFirst()>> beautiful. I like $nthem so much. "I'm happy when I'm around you too," I whisper. $N breaks out into a soft grin. "I'm glad." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.11">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I watch $nthem for a moment, trying to decipher what $ntheyre writing. It's the same word over and over again. A tall letter, followed by an o and a repeat of two letters, then one more. It takes me a while to realize that $ntheyre spelling 'happy.' /Happy. Happy. Happy./ "$N," I call. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> glance$n_s at me. Eyes of molten lava, of comforting brown. They sparkle in the night, reflecting the city below. White stars dance in $ntheir irises. I think to myself how lucky I am that we're friends. "Yeah?" I hesitate. "For what it's worth, you're in my recap." For a brief moment, $N looks confused. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> blink$n_s, nose wrinkling slightly before it hits $nthem. A brilliant smile overtakes $ntheir face. Once shy, now comfortable. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> give$n_s me a look that I doubt $ntheyve shared with many. "Of course it's worth something," $N whispers. "You're in my recap too. I swear it. Both mentally and digitally on my Snapchat." "Oh, God. Do I want to know what you have of me?" "I don't blackmail, I promise." "Blane does." "What my partner does is not my responsibility," $N apologizes. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> see$n_s the look on my face and laugh. The sound floats up to my ears. "Don't worry, I won't let $bthem get a hold of them. There's nothing bad, anything." "There better not be." I pause, my smile dying slightly as my expression grows more serious. After a moment of contemplation, I add, "Thank you. And not just for the photos." $N gives me an affectionate look. "Always." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.11">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $balcony to "$K">>\ <div class="chapter-number"><span>$K.</span></div> I'd be surprised if it was anyone else that joined me. As much as $K says $kthey <<print $k_do>>n't use $ktheir balcony—the thought of being seen so nakedly by $ktheir neighbours is a horrifying thought, apparently—it's still $ktheirs. I expect $kthem to call me back inside, but $kthey stand$k_s in $ktheir doorway for a while, debating something as the wind blows past $kthem. There's a complaint from inside about $K letting in all the cold and only then $k_do $kthey close the door, sliding it shut with a small click. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> eyes fall on the back of my head, lingering for a moment before I hear the shuffle of $ktheir feet moving closer. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> stand$k_s beside me, body pressed against the railing but arms down. I risk a glance over, noticing $ktheir nose is scrunched up as $kthey stare$k_s down at the city. "Most people would kill to have this view," I comment. "Not a fan?" $K hums. "Quite drastic for a wonderfully basic metropolitan sight." "You can't say that. You own a penthouse." "Not for the view," $K counters. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> gaze seems to have caught on a nearby billboard, promoting the newest fragrance from Dior. "I've stayed here longer than I have any other city. Even longer than my birthplace. Sometimes I question it." I frown. "You're considering moving?" "Not considering. I've nearly done it." I'm taken aback. This is news to me. I suddenly have a vision of $K beckoning me back inside so that $kthey can announce $ktheyre moving to London and that this party is the last time we'll ever see $kthem. Would I cry? Rylan certainly would, though perhaps in private. "So you're—" "I'm not moving, $name," $K interrupts. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> meet$k_s my gaze, eyes a steady hazel in a violent sea. "I wouldn't announce that on New Year's Eve. Besides, as much as I despise this city, I have my reasons for staying." My heartrate slows down. Thank God. "Which are?" I ask. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> expression softens. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> take$k_s $ktheir time answering, eyes trailing my face and soaking it in. "Take a wild guess." \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Am I part of those reasons?" [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'nye.k02'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I didn&rsquo;t take you for a cheesy person."</div>' 'nye.k03'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $kromance to true>>\ I swallow. $K doesn't do anything lightly. If $ktheyre looking at me like that, it's because $kthey want$k_s to. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> may blush when asked, but $kthey'll sooner school $ktheir expression into something neutral and give a blunt response than begin stuttering. Rarely $k_do $kthey stutter. Goosebumps prickle my skin where $ktheir gaze lingers. It's settled on my face, hazel eyes boring into mine as $kthey wait$k_s for my answer. "Am I part of those reasons?" I hear myself ask. Some part of my brain registered enough to remember what was asked. The other part of me is currently wondering if Rylan can hear my heartbeat from inside—it thumps in my ears, threatening to explode out of my chest. Would $K know how to put it back in? "$name," $K says. I will never get used to hearing my name on $ktheir tongue, softly spoken like it's so delicate it could shatter. If my name were an object, $K would be cradling it, holding its head, watching so carefully so that it doesn't fall. "Yes?" "What did I say?" I swallow again. My throat is dry. "Take a wild guess." "Was that not obvious enough?" $K questions. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> tone borders the line of amused and affectionate. "Of course you are a reason. You, Rylan, everyone who decided to raid my penthouse tonight—all of you." I can't help but feel disappointed being looped in with everyone else. I try to hide the reaction as best I can, but it must slip out because $K laughs. "It's you most of all, if you must know," $kthey add$k_s. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> eyes are shining like they hold every star in the galaxy. "There are little people I'd admit I'm staying for, but you've somehow made it to the top of the list." "Oh." $K laughs again. "Yes, oh." I duck my head, hiding my face from $kthem. Heat is crawling up my neck, keeping me warm despite the icy chill. Luckily, $K doesn't pry, turning back to glance at the skyline. When I've composed myself enough, I join $kthem. I wonder how many people are at Times Square right now. I wonder how many people are blissfully sleeping as the rest of the world watches on, waiting for it to be their time zone to hit midnight. Something nags at the edge of my brain. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "nye.k04">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I crack a smile. "I didn't take you for a cheesy person." "I'm not." "Then what do you call this?" If I wasn't so accustomed to $K's expressions, I would have missed it. As it is, I catch the slight furrow of $ktheir brow easily. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> ponder$k_s $ktheir response for a moment, always crushing any stray thought that might be blurted from $ktheir mouth. "I'm more sentimental than I was before," $K admits. "I was worse before I became friends with Rylan. Stubborn beyond belief—but of course, $rthey $r_are too." "Probably why $rthey $r_were able to bring you out of your shell," I laugh. $K smiles. "Probably. Then $rthey introduced me to all of you and I thought I might murder $rthem. Hunters. Hunters who wanted to find their boss, someone I hated, no less. I was prepared for this to be another temporary stage of my life." "You make us sound like a nuisance." "You were." There's a sparkle in $ktheir eyes as $kthey speak$k_s, a teasing glint that $kthey would have never shown when we first met. "But it was you that taught me my philosophy was wrong. Being vulnerable—" "—means allowing yourself to get hurt. Until it doesn't," I finish. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> expression softens. "Mmm." We turn our gazes back to the skyline. I wonder how many people are at Times Square right now. I wonder how many people are blissfully sleeping as the rest of the world watches on, waiting for it to be their time zone to hit midnight. Something nags at the edge of my brain. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "nye.k04">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"$K." <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> turn$k_s, dragging $ktheir eyes from somewhere on the far left. Another billboard maybe, I don't check this time. "$name." "This doesn't mean anything to you, does it?" I ask. My eyebrows knit as I begin to catch up with my thoughts. "You're immortal. What year is it doesn't matter. This party, the ball drop, the balloons with the numbers of the new year at every storefront—it doesn't mean anything." Like last time, it takes a while for $kthem to respond. I've gotten used to it, but this time, I feel impatient. "To some degree," $K eventually says. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> words are slow. "It's true the year changing means little to my life. I don't count down my days like everyone else—my age doesn't matter. When the century changed, I was perhaps a little more intrigued, but it meant nothing for me as an individual." I swallow. "Why are you here then?" $K looks amused. "At my own penthouse?" "You know what I mean." <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> smile dies. "Because I've learned that New Year's isn't necessarily about the year changing. It's about who you're with when something monumental happens, and if this is important to all of you, then I want to be a part of it." I can only stare. Luckily, $K doesn't need a response. "You've changed me," $kthey whispers$k_s. Despite the shakiness of $ktheir voice, $kthey hold$k_s my gaze. "Everyone in the group has but most of all, it's been you. I enjoy spending time with you, $name. However limited it may be, I— I…" \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Cup $ktheir face. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'nye.k05'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I know. You don&rsquo;t have to say it."</div>' 'nye.k06'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>> My hand reaches out. Rarely am I so bold with $K, but something about tonight has me pushing aside my second guesses and just… going for it. $K's eyes grow wide as I get closer but $kthey make$k_s no move to push it away, almost willing me forward. I take that as encouragement and place my hand on $ktheir cheek. Smooth. That's my first thought. My second is that $ktheyre warm. Though $ktheir face should be cold from the winter chill, all I feel is heat. The temperature rises the longer I keep my hand there and I feel heat rush up to my cheeks myself when I realize $ktheyre blushing. I'm the first to speak. "$K. I know," I whisper. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> lean$k_s into my palm. A jolt of electricity runs down my spine. I wonder if $kthey felt it too. The tension between us is so thick, it's nearly palpable. "I still need to say it," $K whispers. "I spent decades running away from everyone. So much time wasted hiding from the truth of my immortality. No matter how long I have with you, with everyone, I want to— I—" <<if $kromance is true>>I said that $K rarely ever stutters, but I never said $kthey didn't. I've only ever heard it on two occasions. One, at the height of the worst event to happen to all of us. And two, right now. It says a lot about what $ktheyre feeling.\ <<else>>It's rare that I ever hear $K stutter—I've only ever heard it on two occasions. One, at the height of the worst event to happen to all of us. And two, right now. It says a lot about what $ktheyre feeling.<</if>> My expression softens. "$K…" <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> shut$k_s $ktheir eyes, swaying slightly. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> look$k_s comfortable, at home in $ktheir own skin in a way $kthey so clearly <<print $k_were>>n't when we first met. "I'm happy," $K finally says. You know that, right? I'm happy. Happier than I have been in a long time." <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> rest$k_s $ktheir hand on my own, squeezing tightly before $kthey bring$k_s them both down. I don't protest, too in awe of $kthem to even form a sentence. "I know," I answer. "I'm happy too." $K lets out a contented noise. All I can do is smile at $kthem. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.11">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I shake my head. Hearing $kthem stutter is as painful as it is for $kthem as it is me. $K, always so composed, tripping over $ktheir own words. It's the greatest indication that $kthey truly mean$k_s what $ktheyre saying, though I would have thought that regardless. "I know," I whisper. "I know, $K. You don't have to say it." <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> swallow$k_s, frowning slightly. "But I do." "Not if you don't want to." "$name." <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> voice comes out in a whisper. "I spent decades running. I thought my immortality was a curse and after meeting all of you, for the first time in a long time, I realize it isn't. The least I need to do is let you know that." My expression softens. "I do, $K. I swear I do. And if you can keep practicing the words until it's not so hard for you to say anymore. You've already gotten so far. Think about how far you'll be a year from now." <<if $kromance is true>>"That's so cheesy," $K laughs. The gesture is slightly forced, but $ktheir words are more lighthearted than a moment ago. "Time doesn't mean anything to me, $name. You said it yourself." "Which is why it'll feel like a blink of an eye when you can say the words outright."\ <<else>>"Now who's being cheesy," $K laughs. The gesture is slightly forced, but $ktheir words are more lighthearted than a moment ago. "Oh, shut up."<</if>> <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> laugh$k_s again and it's such a refreshing noise, I swear it blocks out every other car horn and shout in the city right now. When $ktheyre done, $K smiles at me. "Thank you." I smile back. "Of course." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.11">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $balcony to "Rylan">>\ <div class="chapter-number"><span>Rylan.</span></div> There's s something about Rylan that I have never been able to figure out. How $rthey demand$r_s attention walking into a room without saying anything. How even when $rtheyre standing still, there's an urge to look at $rthem. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> $r_have a presence I have never understood. $K has that energy sometimes, but $kthey respond$k_s to it by glaring at everyone in sight. Rylan basks in it, each pair of eyes some sort of powerup for $rthem. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> fucking glow$r_s. It's why when the door to the balcony opens, I know immediately who it is. Rylan's eyes are piercing, landing on me and boring into the back of my skull. It's not painful. No, I've come to learn $rtheir presence like an extension of my own body. Sometimes, it feels empty when it's not there and only when Rylan appears that I realize why. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> could use $rtheir vampiric speed to walk up to me, but Rylan takes $rtheir time, spacing out $rtheir steps like $rtheyre counting them. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> settle$r_s beside me with a reasonable gap between us. "Not cold, Hunter?" I smile at the nickname. "Last day of the year and you're still calling me that?" "You should be grateful. Four hunters but you're //the// Hunter," Rylan argues. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> grin$r_s, a signature expression. "Do you want me to call you by your name that badly?" "Considering my ID photo doesn't say 'Hunter' on it…" "$name." I blink. It's not that I haven't heard my name on $rtheir tongue before. It first happened when $rthey $r_were panicked. Another time, when $rthey $r_were trying to show me $rthey $r_were serious about something. As time went on, Rylan used people's nicknames less and less, alternating between that and their real name. But nicknames are a Rylan classic. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> come$r_s up with $rthem as easy as $rthey breath$r_es. It's a trait unique to $rthem in our friend group—one that none of us ever expect $rthem to drop. The rarity of $rthem using my name when I asked $rthem to… I don't remember the last time that happened. I don't know if $rtheyve obliged many times at all, unless the other person was visibly upset, of course. I close my mouth. "Rylan." <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> laugh$r_s at my expression. "I thought I broke you just then." "I was just… surprised." "Surprised, huh?" Rylan sobers up, $rtheir smile dying as it turns into something akin to worry. "I know I like to use nicknames for you all, but it's not because I dislike your names or anything." <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> voice grows quiet. "I really like your name, actually. I've always thought it was really nice." \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I think the same about yours. Rylan Villanueva." [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'nye.r02'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I&rsquo;ll be sure to tell my parents."</div>' 'nye.r03'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Thank you. I chose it myself."</div>' 'nye.r04'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>> It's such a simple compliment. I can imagine a child saying the same thing. That same innocent tone, those same wide eyes that prove to me the authenticity of a child's words, because children almost always tell the truth. Rylan is not a child and yet, $rthey stand$r_s beside me with that same genuine expression. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> deflect$r_s and $rthey lie$r_s and $r_have been improving on that habit since we all became closer, but $rthey <<print $r_are>>n't lying about this. Never about other people. Never about me. "I think the same about yours," I admit. "Rylan Villanueva. Villanueva. It's a—" "Long surname?" Rylan supplies. I shoot $rthem a look. "I was going to say it's pretty." "Pretty as the person who has it?" Rylan grins when $rthey see$r_s my expression—and even wider when I don't deny it. I feel heat rushing to my cheeks. Despite the biting cold, all I feel is warm. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> look$r_s me up and down, making sure I notice. Even if I didn't, I'd surely feel the goosebumps trailing up my body. "You're too cocky," I manage. "You already knew that." "Doesn't mean I like it." "You do," Rylan quips. Somehow, $rtheir smirk looks almost genuine. "You like it almost as much as you like me. Though if we're talking about pretty people—" <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> eyes lock on mine "—I don't think it's me we should be talking about." Months of $rthem flirting with me and I still can't control how much it affects me. I turn away to hide my expression and Rylan lets out a soft noise, clearly enjoying my reaction. After a moment of me not responding, $rthey shift$r_s $rtheir attention back to the view. <<print $rtheyre.toUpperFirst()>> able to move on so quickly it's almost a talent. I only join $rthem when I feel less flustered. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "nye.r05">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I crack a smile. "I'll be sure to tell my parents." "Your parents, huh? They have good taste," Rylan quips. <<if $touchaverse is true>><<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> grin$r_s, moving $rtheir eyebrows up and down.\ <<else>><<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> lean$r_s towards me affectionately, though we still never touch.<</if>> "And, of course, if they have good taste, you do too. I'm only friends with people who have an appreciation of culture, after all." "Culture." "Of course. Names are culture. They define a lot of who we are and later represent what we said and did." Rylan tilts $rtheir head, expression melting. "That's why I think your name suits you. Whenever I hear $name, you're the first person I think of." "You're the first Rylan I think of too." "I'm honoured. I'm the only Rylan you know, after all. I'd be shocked otherwise." "Don't make assumptions," I scold. "It's true, isn't it?" I don't respond but Rylan doesn't seem offended. Instead, I hear $rthem begin to hum to $rthemself, turning back to look at the view. <<print $rtheyre.toUpperFirst()>> able to occupy $rthemself so easily it's almost a talent. Shaking my head, I join $rthem. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "nye.r05">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I crack a smile. "Thank you. I chose it myself." "See, I knew you had good taste," Rylan quips. <<if $touchaverse is true>><<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> grin$r_s, moving $rtheir eyebrows up and down.\ <<else>><<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> lean$r_s towards me affectionately, though we still never touch.<</if>> "And, of course, if they have good taste, you do too. I'm only friends with people who have an appreciation of culture, after all." "Culture, huh?" "Of course. Names are culture. They define a lot of who we are and later represent what we said and did." Rylan tilts $rtheir head, expression melting. "That's why I think your name suits you. You couldn't have chosen anything better." "Thank you. That whole speech was quite wise of you." "Oh, you know. Just spouting bullshit as usual. Did some of it sound factual?" I raise an eyebrow. "The fact that you used the word factual says enough." "… I can't tell if that's an insult." I don't respond but Rylan doesn't seem bothered. Instead, I hear $rthem begin to hum to $rthemself, turning back to look at the view. <<print $rtheyre.toUpperFirst()>> able to occupy $rthemself so easily it's almost a talent. Shaking my head, I join $rthem. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "nye.r05">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> New York is supposedly the city that never sleeps—tonight, I've never seen the saying ring so true. Apartments glow in the distance, a sprinkle of rooms with LED lights among a common cozy yellow. I wonder how many people are waiting for the ball to drop. I wonder how many people are hoping for a better year. "What was your favourite part of this year?" That silence didn't last long. "Hmm?" Rylan clears $rtheir throat. "Favourite part of the year. That's what people do, right? Reminisce on everything that happened? And then they make resolutions so that they don't repeat the shitty parts." "You sound like you've never done this before," I tease. Rylan traces something in the snow. <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> finger pulls down on the light coating of dust on the railing, drawing a straight line. "I haven't, really. My parents had their own habits and the clan always just screamed when the clock hit midnight." "Oh, Rylan, I—" "It's not serious. I just thought I'd switch it up. See what I've been missing." Rylan glances up, staring at a starless sky. The light pollution of New York ruins the sight, but $rthey seem$r_s to enjoy what $rthey see$r_s nonetheless. "I can go first if you want." I smile, awkwardness fading. "Shouldn't I be setting the example?" "When have I ever done something traditionally? Now, let's see. Breaking into your apartment was fun. Gathering the group to find Caine? A blast. Infiltrating //Crimson Rouge?// Not so much." <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> tap$r_s $rtheir chin in thought. "Hmm, am I forgetting something?" Neither of us has moved since Rylan joined me on the balcony. There's still that gap between us. Still that space that we have not breached out of respect for each other's boundaries. But Rylan has always been a physical person. They show $rtheir love for others through hugs and touches, regardless of the level of affection $rthey hold$r_s. Our eyes meet. I gauge the space between us. \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Take a step forward. [ <i class="fa fa-heart"></i> ]</div>' 'nye.r06'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I would sure hope so."</div>' 'nye.r07'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $rromance to true>>\ I don't let myself second guess my decision. One breath, one push of my muscles to take one step forward. Suddenly, I'm up against Rylan's body. Our arms brush, fabric between them but with a heat that makes it feel like nothing. Rylan's hands are still down by $rtheir sides. The one closest to me brushes against my leg. Once, twice. <<if $touchaverse is true>>I suck in a breath, but the reaction is not so much from discomfort than it is from surprise. Pleasure, in some ways. Not for the first time, I find myself thinking how unfair it is that Rylan can hear such a small noise—in addition to hearing my heartbeat speed up.\ <<else>>I suck in a breath, both surprised but pleased by the small touch. Rylan surely heard it the reaction—the wind isn't loud enough to overpower $rtheir sensitive hearing—but I wonder if my heartbeat is somehow louder. Not for the first time, I find myself thinking how unfair it is that $rthey can hear such a thing.<</if>> "I don't know. Are you forgetting something?" I ask. Rylan hums again. "Something? Or…" Without warning, $rthey loop$r_s one of $rtheir fingers around mine, intertwining our hands loosely. <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> hand finds its way around mine, squeezing it tight when it manages to find its way to the top. I can feel the calluses on $rtheir palm. Months of being on the run $r_have worn $rthem down and years of being in a clan have scarcely contributed to smooth skin. But $rtheir hand is like mine. A patchwork of victories and losses and proof that $rthey <<print $r_have>>n't had it easy. It makes me like $rthem so much more. "Or?" I prompt. Rylan melts. "You know I wouldn't have forgotten to include you." <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> voice is abnormally soft, a sound reserved only for the people $rthey care$r_s for most, $rthey once told me. The butterflies rattle around in my stomach. "I love that I made so many new friends this year, but it was meeting you that is my favourite part of the year. Feeling us get closer, breaking the rules of our hunter-bounty relationship, hearing your heart skip a beat when it sees me sometimes." Rylan's finger caresses me as I groan. "I hate that you can hear that." <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> smile$r_s. "If you could hear mine, you would hear the same thing." I stare at $rthem. "Really?" Rylan nods. "Really." We're practically standing on top of each other. The curtains are closed behind us. Voices echo in the background—everyone's distracted. What if, what if? I could, $rthey could. We could do anything and no one would have to know. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.11">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I arch an eyebrow, staying where I am. If I get any closer, Rylan will surely try to pull me into a hug. The chances of us falling on $K's balcony from the enthusiasm of that action is something I don't feel like risking. "I would sure hope so," I drawl. Rylan laughs. "I'm only joking. I promise I haven't forgotten you." "I'd be very offended if you did." "I wouldn't." <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> sober$r_s. "I would never. I love that I made so many new friends this year, but it was meeting you that is my favourite part of the year." I pause, whatever words I was about to say dying on my tongue. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> look$r_s so earnest, so genuine that $rtheir words cannot be anything but true. Favourite part of the year. Out of 365 days and over a thousand memories, Rylan said meeting me was $rtheir favourite part of the year. Some part of me can't help but flush at the compliment. The other part of me, and the one that wins out, grins so widely that it hurts. "Really?" I ask. "Really." "Meeting you was my favourite part too," I whisper. For how cheesy the words are, the look on Rylan's face is worth it. <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> smile is a mixture of adoration and gratitude. I don't know if I've ever seen that expression on $rthem before. I'm determined to make it happen more often. "I'm happy to hear it." <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.11">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><div class="chapter-number"><span>New Year Special.</span></div> It wasn't supposed to be a big thing. One night, $K casually mentioned that $kthey $k_were thinking of hosting a get-together at their place for the New Year. No gift exchange, no cooking elaborate meals and dressing up in fancy hundred-dollar outfits—just everyone in one place, watching the fireworks from their penthouse balcony as the previous year came to a close and the new one was ushered in. $K's fatal mistake, however, was mentioning this in front of Rylan. If $kthey had told anyone else, no one would have batted an eye. We make impromptu visits to $K's all the time. <<print $ktheyve.toUpperFirst()>> long gotten used to opening their door with a flat "Again?" before letting us in with a sigh. And while Rylan does the same thing (sometimes by just showing up on $ktheir balcony, which, I have yet to figure out how $rthey $r_do), $rtheyre a lot more… passionate, about parties. It was supposed to be a get-together, but the word is synonymous with party for Rylan. Which is why, when I arrive at $K's door and am greeted by $N, my only response is my jaw on the floor. It's not particularly impressive. I've seen IAOS gone crazier with their holiday parties, decking the ceiling with streamers and every table in sight with those terrifying Elf on the Shelf figures ($A screamed when $athey opened $atheir drawer one year and found one staring back at $athem) but for someone who was expecting nothing, this is quite the sight. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.01">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> The room is bathed in dim lighting, silver sparklers glowing in the corners with a touch of $K's signature blue magic for lighting. Balloons are blown up and littered on the floor in an assortment of white and navy. The walls seem to glow with flakes of real silver. "What—" "Rylan came by before all of us and insisted on decorating," $N explains. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> look$n_s amused by my awe, leaning on the doorframe casually. "You don't say." "$name!" I turn at the sound of my name, the familiar sight of $A waving greeting me. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> hold$a_s a glass in $atheir hand. Champagne, if I had to guess. From the sparkle in $atheir eyes, it's definitely some sort of alcohol. I excuse myself as $N shuts the door, making my way over. The moment I'm close enough, $A… \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">… beams at me. [Touch Averse]</div>' 'newyears.02a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">… goes in for a hug.</div>' 'newyears.02b'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $touchaverse to true>>\ $A beams at me, eyes sparkling with joy. "Welcome to the party." I arch an eyebrow. "I didn't realize it was one to begin with." "That's Rylan's fault," Blane says. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> stand$b_s on $A's right with a drink $bthemself, though $bthey seem$b_s to have taken a liking to red wine in contrast to $A's champagne. To be fair, $K does have a stellar collection of wine. "So I've been told." "Do you like it?" $A asks me. I hum. "It was a shock, to say the least." $A jabs $atheir spare arm in Blane's direction. "Rekner over here loved it. You should have seen the look on $btheir face when $bthey walked in. It's the most emotion I've seen from $bthem in a while. Nearly a smile and everything!" Blane holds up $btheir middle finger in response. <<include "newyears.03">>$A, still holding $atheir glass, pulls me into a hug with $atheir free arm. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> smell$a_s of a mixture of $atheir signature fragrance and cookies, which $K baked for all of us earlier. A tray sits on the kitchen counter. I laugh. "You just saw me." "And I've told you a dozen times that seeing you at work is completely different from seeing you outside of it," $A remarks. "Besides, who's to say I can't miss you in the hours in between?" "Me," Blane deadpans. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> stand$b_s on $A's right with a drink $bthemself, though $bthey seem$b_s to have taken a liking to red wine in contrast to $A's champagne. To be fair, $K does have a stellar collection of wine. $A rolls $atheir eyes. "You just like to ruin the mood." "When the mood is as sickening as this? Of course." $A's only response is to stick out $atheir tongue. <<include "newyears.03">> I roll my eyes at the two of them. There was a time where I would have said nothing would ever change the relationship between $A and Blane. That they'd always bicker and hate each other simply for breathing and swear whenever the other was as much as mentioned. Turns out, that's nothing a couple of near-death experiences, a whirlwind of an adventure into the depths of the supernatural world and a good mystery can't solve. What came out of that was a group of six misfits turned partners turned friends with a bond that feels thicker than any other one I've had. A family, almost. Though perhaps $A and Blane can be considered frenemies. For all their tolerance of each other now, they do still bite more than any of the other group members. Still talking with $A, Blane slides $btheir gaze to me for the briefest of seconds. A smile twitches at $btheir lips. Funny how things change. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.04">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"You made it!" Rylan's voice comes from behind me. I turn around just in time to catch $rtheir lightning quick speed, one moment at the kitchen picking up a cookie and the next, right beside me. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> grin$r_s, offering the snack to me. I take it, if only because I skipped dinner. "Why wouldn't I have?" I ask. Rylan shrugs. "Traffic, snowstorms, you got plowed down by an elephant in the middle of New York because the zoo was broken into and half of the animals held captive there escaped. Actually, I don't know if that'd be such a bad thing. Think about it, all those—" <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> cut$r_s $rthemself off after seeing the look on my face. "What?" Rylan blinks. "Cookie not good?" \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Nothing, nothing. Keep going."</div>' 'newyears.05a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Never change, Rylan."</div>' 'newyears.05b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Squint. "How much have you had to drink already?"</div>' 'newyears.05c'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I didn&rsquo;t say that."</div>' 'newyears.05d'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"It&rsquo;s terrible."</div>' 'newyears.05e'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I smile. "Nothing, nothing. Keep going." Rylan squints at me. "You're being suspicious." "What do I have to be suspicious of?" "Of lying. About your cookie," Rylan answers. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> squint$r_s at me again, then at the cookie, then back at me. As playful as $rtheyre being, some part of $rthem might not be joking. "Actually, now that I think about it, how do we know you're not an imposter?" $A rolls $atheir eyes. "We're not playing video games, Rylan." "You should be grateful. I beat your ass every time we play Mario Kart." "Do not." "Do too." "Fuck Rainbow Road, okay?" Though an inch shorter, $rthey loop$r_s an arm around $A's shoulders with a laugh, leaning into $athem comfortably. $A holds the half-vampire upright with a playful reluctance. Blane, on the other hand, wrinkles $btheir nose at the public display. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.06">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I simply shake my head. "Never change, Rylan." <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> break$r_s out into a grin. "Of course not. Who else would you have to annoy you?" Rylan pauses and passes a side glance towards my partner. "$A is naturally annoying, $athey <<print $a_do>>n't count." $A gawks. "And you are?" "Selectively annoying." "That makes it so much worse," Blane mutters. "Your gain, Rekner!" Rylan cheers. "Congratulations." Though an inch shorter, $rthey loop$r_s an arm around $A's shoulders, leaning into $athem comfortably with a laugh. $A holds the half-vampire upright with an eye roll. It does little to defer from the smile on $atheir lips. Blane, on the other hand, wrinkles $btheir nose at the public display. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.06">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $askrylandrink to true>>\ I squint at $rthem. "Say, how much have you had to drink already?" "Hmm?" Rylan raises $rtheir eyes to the ceiling, avoiding my gaze playfully. "I don't know. Not that much, I think. Hey, $A. How many drinks have I had? One before you got here, one when you came, a shot when you were in the bathroom—" "Oh God," I mumble. "I think you've answered your own question," $A says, giving Rylan a pointed look. "No. No, I need you to help me count the rest of them." <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> frown$r_s. "Let's see, there's the one I'm drinking right now, the shot I just took in the kitchen, the—" Even Blane looks concerned at this point. "You sound like an alcoholic," $A deadpans. "Maybe that's what I want you to think." Though an inch shorter, Rylan loops an arm around $A's shoulders, leaning into $athem comfortably with a laugh. $A holds the half-vampire upright with an eyeroll. It does little to defer from the smile on $atheir lips. Blane, on the other hand, wrinkles $btheir nose at the public display. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.06">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I shake my head. "I didn't say that." Rylan squints at me. "Well, that look is definitely saying something. $A, you’ve known $name for longer than I have. What's that look on $their face? It's the zoo, wasn't it? Was it too much? I swear it's a possibility, nothing is impossible you know. You live in a world wi—" "I don't think it was the zoo," $A interrupts. "Then?" $A glances at me. "I don't know." "What do you mean I don't know?" "It means I don't know." "You do." "Maybe. But I'm not going to tell you." Rylan groans and $A laughs, dropping the joke and wrapping $atheir arm around the half-vampire, pulling $rthem in for a hug. Though $rthey pretend$r_s to resist at first, Rylan gives in easily. Blane, for $btheir part, looks at the two and wrinkles $btheir nose at the public display. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.06">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I arch an eyebrow. "It's terrible." Rylan's eyes widen mockingly. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> glance$r_s at the kitchen conspicuously, exaggerating the motions more than they need to. "Shh. Don't say that. $K worked all night on those cookies." "Really now?" "I'm telling $kthem," $A jokes. Rylan jumps. "No. No, you can't do that!" "Why not?" "Because—" <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> wave$r_s $rtheir arms around, glancing at Blane desperately. "Help me, please. It's not even a bad cookie. You've had it, haven't you? They're ganging up on me this is so unfair." "You're on your own," Blane deadpans. Rylan groans and $A laughs, dropping the joke and wrapping $atheir arm around the half-vampire, pulling $rthem in for a hug. Though $rthey pretend$r_s to resist at first, Rylan gives in easily. Blane, for $btheir part, looks at the two and wrinkles $btheir nose at the public display. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.06">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"What have you done, Rylan? My partner looks ready to throw up," $N's voice calls. We turn to see $nthem walking up with $K, who, of course, is nursing a glass of wine. <<print $ktheir.toUpperFirst()>> eyes dart over $A and Rylan with amusement, having long gotten used to their antics. Rylan's eyes grow wide with false innocence. "I've done nothing. I swear it on my life!" "All twenty-something years of it," $K muses. "Such a wonder." "Hey! Not everyone is as old as you." "And I thank God for it every night. If I'd been stuck with you for a century, I would have long gone mad." Rylan pretends to faint and $A nearly fails to catch $rthem. The moment $atheyre sure Rylan's not going to hit $rtheir head, $A lets go, forcing Rylan support $rthemself, the half-vampire glaring at the lack of help. $A looks at $rthem pointedly in return. "Stop doing that." "It's a trust fall! Watch!" Rylan rushes over to $N and falls backwards. Despite $ntheir wide eyes, $N manages to catch Rylan relatively easily and, much to Rylan's pleasure, $nthey even hold$n_s $rthem until $rthey right$r_s $rthemself. Back on $rtheir feet, Rylan turns and gives $N a wide-eyed look. "You, $N, are my new best friend." $N laughs. "You're welcome." "It's like I'm watching a marriage proposal," $A mutters. Blane and $K choke on their wine simultaneously. Rylan, with the idea now planted in $rtheir head, races off to find one of $K's many spare rings. $N is too busy laughing to accept the proposal, prompting Rylan to ask $K for $ktheir hand instead. We all burst out laughing at the look on $K's face. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.07">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> The night goes on. More shit happens. $A and Rylan scream in favour of having a karaoke party, in which they sing almost every Disney song to exist. Blane joins them for to sing "When Will My Life Begin" and nearly dies laughing at their terrible rendition of "I See The Light." $N takes a video of the whole thing. $K hides behind a door waiting for Rylan to come back from the bathroom. <<print $kthey.toUpperFirst()>> manage$r_s to get a small blink from Rylan, but the real scare happens to $A, who jumps even though $athey $a_were in on the plan. During dinner, Blane picks out carrots from $btheir meal and places it carefully on $N's plate. When $A takes the last sausage, Blane says $bthey want$b_s a piece, despite being vegetarian. $A is so surprised that it falls right off $atheir fork. $K has a cough attack when $ktheir food goes down the wrong pipe and guzzles down so much wine, we all stop and stare. Rylan tries to propose to $N again, this time with a potato. $A reaches over and eats it before $N can answer. It's all very typical. Half an hour before midnight, we all lay on $K's floor. A combination of the events of the night and the food we all stuffed ourselves with has tired us out, with even Rylan reaching the bottom of $rtheir seemingly endless amount of energy. $A hiccups. "Rekner, are you drunk?" Blane shifts to look at $athem. "No, but you are." "I'm tipsy!" $A argues. "I bet my alcohol tolerance is higher than yours." "We've tested this, it isn't." "Shut up." $A shifts to turn to me, swallowing down another hiccup. "Hey, $name, are you drunk?" \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"You know my alcohol tolerance is low. Of course I am."</div>' 'newyears.08a'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"I drank more than you. What do you think?"</div>' 'newyears.08b'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"Just tipsy."</div>' 'newyears.08c'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">"You know I don&rsquo;t drink. You must be really drunk."</div>' 'newyears.08d'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $drunk to true>>\ I shoot $athem a wide grin. "You know my alcohol tolerance is low. Of course I am." My words come out slurred, but they're clear enough for $A to understand. At least, I think. The look $athey give$a_s me in return is the kind that people should run from. Good things never come from a pair of drunk best friends. "Someone get them both some water," $N calls. "Water, water. Order up," Rylan sings. <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> voice comes somewhere on my left. <<if $askrylandrink is true>><<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> probably drank more than I did, but $rtheir fast metabolism seems to have already begun to nullify the effects.\ <<else>>If I recall, $rthey drank a good amount too, but $rtheir fast metabolism seems to have already begun to nullify the effects.<</if>> "No," $A whines. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> draw$a_s out the vowel as $athey speak$a_s. "No water. I like being like this. Feels like I'm floating." "You'll be floating to the ICU if you drink anymore," Blane mutters. Out of the corner of my eye, I think I catch $N crack a smile. <<print $nthey.toUpperFirst()>> clear$n_s $ntheir throat. "Both of you, no more drinks for the rest of the night. We need you to survive to the next year at least." "That saying doesn't work when everyone in this room has been stabbed at least once," $A counters. "Speak for yourself," $K huffs. I turn my head to face the window, only half paying attention to the conversation around me. Snow falls from the sky and onto $K's balcony, littering the surface with sparkles. It reflects the lights from the buildings nearby, the always glowing life of New York City. I blink, making sure I'm seeing things right before sitting straight up. It's snowing. It's snowing on New Year's Eve. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.09">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<set $drunk to true>>\ I choke out a laugh. "I drank more than you. What do you think?" $A squints at me. "Did you? I think I drank more than you." <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> shift$a_s to look at Rylan. "Say, Rylan. Who do you think drank more: me or $name?" "You." "It's not a competition," $N sighs, voice barely heard over $A's shout of triumph. I simply roll my eyes and let my partner have the victory. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> get$a_s extremely competitive when $atheyre drunk. "It is," $A insists. $N sighs again. "I'm getting you water." "Water, water. Order up," Rylan sings. <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> voice comes somewhere on my left. <<if $askrylandrink is true>><<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> probably drank more than I did, but $rtheir fast metabolism seems to have already begun to nullify the effects.\ <<else>>If I recall, $rthey drank a good amount too, but $rtheir fast metabolism seems to have already begun to nullify the effects.<</if>> "But I'm winning!" $A whines. "Water will make me sober." "And if you throw up on my carpet, the consequences will be far worse than losing this imaginary competition of yours," $K warns. "You're no fun." "Whose party are you at right now?" Now it's Rylan's turn to shout. "Ha! So you admit it's a party!" I turn my head to face the window, only half paying attention to the conversation around me. Snow falls from the sky and onto $K's balcony, littering the surface with sparkles. It reflects the lights from the buildings nearby, the always glowing life of New York City. I blink, making sure I'm seeing things right before sitting straight up. It's snowing. It's snowing on New Year's Eve. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.09">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I shake my head. The result leaves me only slightly dizzy. "Just tipsy." "Right. Me too, me two. Me three," $A giggles. "Good grief," Blane mutters. $N sighs and rubs $ntheir forehead. "We should get $athem some water." "Water, water. Order up," Rylan sings. <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> voice comes somewhere on my left. <<if $askrylandrink is true>><<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> probably drank more than I did, but $rtheir fast metabolism seems to have already begun to nullify the effects.\ <<else>>If I recall, $rthey drank a good amount too, but $rtheir fast metabolism seems to have already begun to nullify the effects.<</if>> "I swear if you throw up on my carpet, Devereux," $K warns. $A rolls $athemself over. "I won't, I won't. I'm drunker than I seem." <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> hiccup$a_s again and $K grimaces, eyes flickering to $ktheir floor briefly. "Ask me a math question. I have the entire multiplication table memorized." "Fine. What's seven times eight?" Blane asks. "Fifty-four." "Wrong. It's fifty-six." "What? You're wrong. Rylan, tell $bthem $btheyre wrong." Rylan looks amused. "You really think my Filipino parents are going to let that slide? I've had the multiplication table memorized since before I went to kindergarten, Blondie. It's fifty-six." "You're lying!" I turn my head to face the window, only half paying attention to the conversation around me. Snow falls from the sky and onto $K's balcony, littering the surface with sparkles. It reflects the lights from the buildings nearby, the always glowing life of New York City. I blink, making sure I'm seeing things right before sitting straight up. It's snowing. It's snowing on New Year's Eve. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.09">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> I give $athem a wry smile. "You know I don't drink $A. You must be drunker than I thought." "We should get $athem some water," $N suggests. "Water, water. Order up," Rylan sings. <<print $rtheir.toUpperFirst()>> voice comes somewhere on my left. <<if $askrylandrink is true>><<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> probably drank more than I did, but $rtheir fast metabolism seems to have already begun to nullify the effects.\ <<else>>If I recall, $rthey drank a good amount too, but $rtheir fast metabolism seems to have already begun to nullify the effects.<</if>> "Too much liquid," $A whines. "I feel sick." "Don't you dare throw up on my carpet, Devereux," $K warns. $N hums. "If you throw up before midnight, you can enter the new year with the taste of vomit." $A groans again. Having grabbed a pillow from one of $K's couches, $athey press$a_es it to $atheir face. Something along the lines of "I thought you were supposed to be on my side" filters through the cotton. I turn just in time to catch $N's smirk. "Congratulations, $N. You managed to stop Devereux from throwing up at the expense of our disgust," Blane drawls. "Worthy cause, don't you think?" "No." I turn my head to face the window, only half paying attention to the conversation around me. Snow falls from the sky and onto $K's balcony, littering the surface with sparkles. It reflects the lights from the buildings nearby, the always glowing life of New York City. I blink, making sure I'm seeing things right before sitting straight up. It's snowing. It's snowing on New Year's Eve. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.09">><</link>> </div><</nobr>>"$name? What is it?" Rylan's voice. I'm up before I even realize what I'm doing. I don't know if I responded to Rylan's question but, at the moment, it doesn't matter. I just want to see the sight up close. <<if $drunk is true>>Whatever dizziness I had earlier from drinking has disappeared, allowing me to easily slip into a pair of nearby shoes and step outside.\ <<else>>Sliding into a pair of shoes left near the door of the balcony, I open the lock and step out.<</if>> "What $are $they doing?" "I think it's the snow." "That's sweet." If something is said afterwards, don't hear the rest of it. Sliding the door shut, I turn around and press against the railing, staring down at the life below. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.10">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> Bright lights, cars honking and crowds of people cheering at various countdowns across the city. The smell of something cold, the feeling of something warm in my chest. New York sees snow every winter. I've lived here long enough to see it perhaps hundreds of times, cursing when it slows down traffic or hides ice on the sidewalks, causing me to slip on more than one occasion. Still, for how annoying it can be, I will never not think the initial snowfall is beautiful. There's something magical about standing here. Maybe it's the food, maybe it's the people in the penthouse behind me, maybe it's the fact that I survived so much shit this year and feel grateful that I'm still alive to see more—I don't know. It could be all three. Whatever it is, I take it all in like it's the last time. Behind me, I hear the muffled voice of someone shouting. A second later, the balcony door slides open and I feel someone join me. I don't have to turn to know who it is. \ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Of course it&rsquo;d be $A who joins me.</div>' 'nye.a01'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">Only Blane&rsquo;s footsteps could make no noise.</div>' 'nye.b01'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">$N&rsquo;s presence is a comfort that I&rsquo;ve come to memorize.</div>' 'nye.n01'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">I&rsquo;m not surprised it&rsquo;s $K. Im on their balcony, after all.</div>' 'nye.k01'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">No one has as much presence as Rylan.</div>' 'nye.r01'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>> Someone raps on the glass. <<if $balcony is "$A">>"Oi, you two," Rylan calls. "I'm sure you're having a wonderful partner bonding moment and all, but you'll freeze to death if you stay out any longer. Please don't make me spend the first few minutes of the new year wrapping you guys up in body bags."\ <<else>>"Oi, you two," $A calls. "You'll freeze to death if you stay out there any longer. Wrap it up, we only have a couple of minutes left of the year and I don't want to be spending the first few of the next wrapping you guys up in body bags."<</if>> <<if (($balcony is "$A") and ($aromance2 is true))>>$A makes a face. <<print $athey.toUpperFirst()>> shoot$a_s me a look that says going inside is the last thing $athey want$a_s to do, but the moment is ruined. Even if we wanted to go back to our conversation, the intimacy of it is gone. Giving $athem a sympathetic look in return, I allow $A to pass me as we make our way back inside, the two of us brushing snow off our clothes.\ <<elseif $balcony is "$A">>$A makes a face. I know from experience that $athey lose$a_s motivation when $atheyre told to do something, rather than taking the initiative to do it $athemself, but Rylan's right—we will freeze. Thankfully, $athey seem$a_s to come to that conclusion too. Nodding my head towards the window, I allow $A to pass me as we make our way back inside, the two of us brushing snow off our clothes.\ <<elseif $balcony is "Blane">>Blane rolls $btheir eyes, shooting me a look. Our private moment is ruined. Even if we wanted to go back to our conversation, the intimacy of it is gone. <<print $bthey.toUpperFirst()>> allow$b_s me to pass $bthem as we make our way back inside, brushing off snow from our clothes.\ <<elseif $balcony is "$N">>$N shoots me a sympathetic look. I can tell the last thing $nthey want$n_s to do is to go back inside, but $A's right—it's cold and it's nearly midnight. We were going to be told to come inside sooner or later. I give $nthem a look that tells $nthem I feel the same and receive a smile in return. Next year. $N lets me pass $nthem as we make our way back inside, the two of us brushing snow off our clothes as we adjust to the temperature change.\ <<elseif $balcony is "$K">>$K and I exchange a look, realizing that $A is right but also acknowledging that neither of us want to go inside. Not yet. But it's cold and it's wet and nearly midnight so we begrudgingly comply, walking side by side as we enter the penthouse again.\ <<elseif (($balcony is "Rylan") and ($rromance is true))>>Rylan takes one look at me and nearly bursts out laughing. Even if $rthey want to stay out here as long as I do, $rthey'll never pass up an opportunity to make fun of another's expression. Sobering at my half-hearted glare, $rthey give$r_s me an apologetic look and let me pass $rthem as we make out way back inside. We dust the snow off our clothes as we adjust to the temperature change.\ <<else>>I wrinkle my nose at the interruption. As much as I hate to admit it, $A's—it's cold and nearly midnight. We've spent long enough on the balcony. Rylan shoots me a sympathetic look when $rthey catch$r_es my eye but seem$r_s to be on the same page. <<print $rthey.toUpperFirst()>> let$r_s me go ahead of $rthem as we make our way back inside, the two of us brushing snow off our clothes as we adjust to the temperature change.<</if>> The moment we take our shoes off, we're pushed into the center of the group as they crowd against the TV. The lighting has dimmed, the music has been cut. All of us hold our breaths as the timer counts down. Three minutes. Two minutes. We were out there longer than I thought. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "newyears.12">><</link>> </div><</nobr>> Voices blur together. One voice talks about all the crazy shit we did this year. Another talks about the absurdity of being here at all. The last mentions how grateful they are for becoming friends with all of us, even if we're a bit of a mess sometimes. The world comes back into focus. I look up and lock eyes with <<if $balcony is "$A">>$A.<<elseif $balcony is "Blane">>Blane.<<elseif $balcony is "$N">>$N.<<elseif $balcony is "$K">>$K.<<else>>Rylan.<</if>>We smile at each other and in that instance, it truly feels like we're the only people in the world. The ball drops. We cheer with the rest of New York City as the month turns from December to January. As the date turns from the thirty-first to the first. As a whole new page turns in our novel. With $A and Rylan screaming, $N laughing and Blane and $K smiling at it all, for a rare moment, I feel like I have no worries in the world. It's just us. <<nobr>><div class="choicetable"> <<link '<div class="nextbutton"><span>Next</span></div>' "storyselect">><</link>> </div><</nobr>><<link '<i class="fa fa-long-arrow-left" aria-hidden="true"></i>'>> <<run Engine.backward()>> <</link>><<button '<i class="fa fa-navicon" aria-hidden="true"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("mobile navigation", "mobilenav"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("mobile navigation").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>> <</button>><span class="menucontinue"><<link 'saves'>> <<script>>UI.saves()<</script>><</link>></span>\ <span class="menucontinue"><<link 'settings'>><<script>>UI.settings()<</script>><</link>></span><<widget "fair_minus">><<fair_plus $args[0] -$args[1]>><</widget>> <<widget "opposed_stat">><<nobr>> <div class="statBar"> <div style="float:right">&nbsp;$args[1] <<= 100-$args[2]>>%&nbsp;</div> <<= '<div class="statLeftBg" style="width:'+$args[2]+'%">&nbsp;</div>'>> <div>&nbsp;$args[0] $args[2]%</div> </div> <</nobr>><</widget>> <<widget "percent_stat">><<nobr>> <div class="percentBar"> <<= '<div class="percentLeftBg" style="width:'+$args[0]+'%">&nbsp;</div>'>> <div class="percentBarText">$args[1] $args[0]%</div> </div> <</nobr>><</widget>><div class="ch-title">settings</div> <<nobr>><b>font style</b> <<listbox "$mainfont" autoselect>> <<option "sans-serif" 1>> <<option "serif" 2>> <<option "dyslexic-friendly" 3>> <</listbox>><</nobr>> <<nobr>><b>font size</b> <<listbox "$fontsize" autoselect>> <<option "default" 1>> <<option "small" 2>> <<option "large" 3>> <</listbox>><</nobr>> <b>ui mode</b> <<link 'toggle'>><<toggleclass "html" "lightmode">><</link>> <b>content warnings</b> <<link 'enable'>> <<set $contentwarnings = true>> <<run Engine.show()>><</link>> / <<link 'disable'>> <<set $contentwarnings = false>> <<run Engine.show()>><</link>> <b>dialogue tags</b> <<link 'enable'>> <<set $dialogtags = true>> <<run Engine.show()>><</link>> / <<link 'disable'>> <<set $dialogtags = false>> <<run Engine.show()>><</link>> <b>codex notifcations</b> <<link 'enable'>> <<set $codexnotifs = true>> <<run Engine.show()>><</link>> / <<link 'disable'>> <<set $codexnotifs = false>> <<run Engine.show()>><</link>><<link '<div class="menu-item"><b>00.</b> go back</div>'>><<run Engine.backward()>><</link>> <<link '<div class="menu-item"><b>01.</b> saves</div>'>><<script>>UI.saves()<</script>><</link>> <<link '<div class="menu-item"><b>02.</b> settings</div>'>><<script>>UI.settings()<</script>><</link>><!-- <script src="https://code.jquery.com/jquery-3.3.1.min.js"></script> --> <div id="container"> <div id="sr-mobilesidebar"></div> <div id="sr-mobileback"></div> <div id="header"> <span id="menu-flex"> <div class="menu-flex"> </div> </span> </div> <div id="story"> <div id="passages"> <span id="location-text"></span> <span id="chapter-text"></span> </div> </div> </div> </script>$locationtext$chaptertitle<!-- storyinterface doesn't let you code variables in, so this is how u cheat the system --> <<replace ".menu-flex">><<include "menu-flex">><</replace>> <<replace "#sr-mobileback">><<include "mobile back">><</replace>> <<replace "#sr-mobilesidebar">><<include "mobile sidebar">><</replace>><!-- a little script to boop longer passages back up to the top when going to new pages --> <script>var myDiv = document.getElementById('passages'); myDiv.scrollTop = 0;</script>/* ------------------------ GENERAL ------------------------ */ <<set $gamechapter to "chapter">> <<set $locationtext to "location">> <<set $password to "">> /* ------------------------ HUNTER ------------------------ */ <<set $name to "">> <<set $lastname to "">> <<set $huntertitle to "">> <<set $huntergender to "">> <<set $they to "">> <<set $them to "">> <<set $their to "">> <<set $theirs to "">> <<set $themself to "">> <<set $s to "">> <<set $es to "">> <<set $y to "">> <<set $are to "">> <<set $have to "">> <<set $do to "">> <<set $were to "">> <<set $hunterverb to false>> /* ------------------------ ROS ------------------------ */ <<set $A to "A">> <<set $N to "N">> <<set $K to "K">> \* ----- A DEVEREUX ------ *\ <<set $atitle to "">> <<set $agender to "">> <<set $athey to "they">> <<set $athem to "">> <<set $athemself to "themself">> <<set $atheir to "their">> <<set $atheirs to "">> <<set $atheyre to "">> <<set $atheyve to "">> <<set $a_s to "">> <<set $a_es to "">> <<set $a_are to "are">> <<set $a_have to "">> <<set $a_do to "do">> <<set $a_were to "">> $arandom = ["male", "female", "nb"] \* ----- BLANE REKNER ----- *\ <<set $btitle to "">> <<set $bgender to "">> <<set $bthey to "">> <<set $bthem to "">> <<set $bthemself to "">> <<set $btheir to "">> <<set $btheirs to "">> <<set $btheyre to "">> <<set $btheyve to "">> <<set $b_s to "">> <<set $b_es to "">> <<set $b_are to "">> <<set $b_have to "">> <<set $b_do to "">> <<set $b_were to "">> $brandom = ["male", "female", "nb"] \* ------- N ALVES ------- *\ <<set $ntitle to "">> <<set $ngender to "">> <<set $nthey to "">> <<set $nthem to "">> <<set $nthemself to "">> <<set $ntheir to "">> <<set $ntheirs to "">> <<set $ntheyre to "">> <<set $ntheyve to "">> <<set $n_s to "">> <<set $n_es to "">> <<set $n_are to "">> <<set $n_have to "">> <<set $n_do to "">> <<set $n_were to "">> $nrandom = ["male", "female", "nb"] \* ----- K DE VRIES ----- *\ <<set $ktitle to "">> <<set $kgender to "">> <<set $kthey to "">> <<set $kthem to "">> <<set $kthemself to "">> <<set $ktheir to "">> <<set $ktheirs to "">> <<set $ktheyre to "">> <<set $ktheyve to "">> <<set $k_s to "">> <<set $k_es to "">> <<set $k_are to "">> <<set $k_have to "">> <<set $k_do to "">> <<set $k_were to "">>> $krandom = ["male", "female", "nb"] \* --- RYLAN VILLANUEVA --- *\ <<set $rtitle to "">> <<set $rgender to "">> <<set $rthey to "">> <<set $rthem to "">> <<set $rthemself to "">> <<set $rtheir to "">> <<set $rtheirs to "">> <<set $rtheyre to "">> <<set $rtheyve to "">> <<set $r_s to "">> <<set $r_es to "">> <<set $r_are to "">> <<set $r_have to "">> <<set $r_do to "">> <<set $r_were to "">> $rrandom = ["male", "female", "nb"] /* ------------------------ ANNIVERSARY 01 ------------------------ */ <<set $achoice to "">> <<set $bchoice to "">> <<set $rivals to false>> <<set $holdhands to false>> /* ------------------------ NEW YEARS ------------------------ */ <<set $touchaverse to false>> <<set $askrylandrink to false>> <<set $drunk to false>> <<set $balcony to "">> <<set $aromance to false>> <<set $aromance2 to false>> <<set $bromance to false>> <<set $kromance to false>> <<set $rromance to false>> /* ------------------------ CHRISTMAS ------------------------ */ <<set $aromantic to false>> <<set $bromantic to false>> <<set $rivalsholiday to false>> <<set $nromantic to false>> <<set $kromantic to false>> <<set $rromantic to false>>