Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Carlsbad, New Mexico

“Lance, I think you should've checked the exhaust pipe before we left,” said Keith, eyebrows furrowed as he stares at Lance in the rearview mirror.

“Keith do you think I know what an exhaust pipe is? I barely got my license a month ago, give me a break with all the nerdy crap.” Lance remarked, gripping the steering wheel.

“It's not even nerdy, it's called common sense but go off I guess,” Keith said rolling his eyes and turning his attention away from Lance. “Besides, the engine's been smoking like crazy for the last 20 minutes.”

The car suddenly pulls to a hard stop, jerking both the boys forward, slamming their backs against the seat. “What the fuck Lance!?” Keith yelled.

“Get out now, oh my fucking god, why didn't you tell me earlier?” Lance questioned, frantically unbuckling his seatbelt. Keith shrugs and opens the car door. “Well I thought you noticed, you are the driver ?” Keith's eyes squint as he moves his head in a forward motion. Lance slams the car door and throws his hands up in the air and points at Keith who's on the passenger side of the car, “You disappoint me, Mullet.”

Keith rolls his eyes and flips his hair, “Likewise smartass.” Lance's car makes a crumbling noise as if the car itself has decided to take one for the team and just self-destruct. The smoke from the engine perfumes the air with black condensed oil and Lance is coughing while waving a hole through the smoke to find a fraction of oxygen. He walks through the smoke and looks at Keith.

Keith burst out laughing and starts hitting the car trying to regain his composure. “Lance that tan is really helping your complexion.” Lance chuckles to himself and uses the bottom of his shirt to wipe off the smog plastered on his brown skin. “Shut the hell up porcelain boy, let's get our stuff out the car,” said Lance.

“What for?” questioned Keith.

“Well, we can't keep it here, but if you want your shit to get stolen then be my guest.”

“Shut up!"

“Make me,” scoffed Lance. They both look at each smirking. Keith opens the backseat door and grabs his and Lance's backpack. He shuts the door and throws Lance's bag at him and is surprised that he managed to catch it. Given that Lance is a lanky boy.

“ So... where are we heading to Loverboy?” said Keith, kicking the pebbles and rocks in front of him.

“Uhh, I'm not sure. There's no service out here, fuck you nature. But I think if we just go straight we should eventually run into something.”

“Alright, lead the way, Lance.”

Keith and Lance are walking in silence for roughly 5 minutes before Lance decides to speak up to break the unnecessary silence between them. He clears his throat, “Hey Keith, wanna hear a joke?”

Keith shrugs, “Sure”

Lance starts chuckling, “Okay, so I honestly think alpha males are obsolete. It’s that sigma male grind that’s winning over the ladies.” he deadpanned. 

Keith stops walking and covers his face with his hands and gets thrown into a fit of laughter, Lance following suit. “I thought you meant like a knock-knock joke, Jesus fucking Christ.”

“You laughed so I think it was funny enough,” chuckled Lance, holding his upper arm because Keith decided to punch him.  “Hey, stop abusing me!”

“Hush before I make you experience what real abuse is. Which was no abuse at all,” Keith joked, cackling at his own words towards Lance.

Lance squints and glares at Keith, “Are you gaslighting me?”

Keith slides a piece of his hair behind his ears and gives Lance puppy boy eyes, “Is it working?”

Lance chuckles as he slides his hands down his face, “I do not like you.”

Keith smirks, “Are you sure?”

“Oh my god, fuck off.” Lance retorts with a smile plastered on his face.

They walked for another mile or two just laughing at each other and arguing about the stupidest things like how cereal is technically a soup and how water is wet. Until they hear a car in the distance. Lance looks at Keith, “Okay hear me out, I know hitchhiking is stupid but we've been walking for a while...my legs are about to give out and fall off my body"

“Um, well tough luck. Because we're not hitchhiking like ever,” claimed Keith. A little frustrated that Lance even had the audacity to ask him that.

Before Lance gets a chance to answer, a black jeep with illegally tinted windows and orange dirt splattered all over the doors drives up to the boys, slowly pulling to a stop. The driver rolls down his windows and Keith and Lance look at each other, feeling uneasy. Until the driver's face is shown through the passenger window and a glimpse of relief draws their attention.

“Hey, you're hot!” Lance yelled at the stranger, which earned a slap to the arm and a soft chuckle from the man in the car.

“You guys look like you might need some help,” the man smiles at them.

Keith crosses his arms, not trying to give in to the handsome stranger's suspicious antics. “What’s it to you buster?” Lance interrupts Keith, “Ignore him, he's just on his period. And yes we do need some help. My car broke down a couple of miles back and we're on our way to the gas station. Or really anywhere close, since we have no service. Sooo... if you would be a dear, could we hitch a ride?” Lance's face is flushed and his eyes are gleaming in the foggy atmosphere. Keith taps his shoulder and pulls him away from the car.

"Lance.. we can't just get into some stranger's car, have you lost your mind? I'd rather not be the hunter that gets hunted you cotton-brained man!" exclaimed Keith, waving his arms around like a blow-up doll at a car dealership.

"Tone it down a notch bruv, the man's hot so we should be fine. Plus let's just assume that he does take us hostage, it’s two against one" notified Lance, rolling his eyes at Keith's outburst.

"Bullshit, two twinks against a bara daddy, I don't think so."

The man in the car honks his horn which startles both the boys. “I'm Shiro by the way, a Veteran, so I'm not that dangerous” he laughs at himself. “The nearest gas station is just 10 miles away, that's a pretty long walk if you ask me.”

Lance smiles at Shiro and turns his attention back to Keith. "Listen Mullet, let's just take a chance...what’s the worst that could happen?" Lance said, opening up the passenger door and stepping inside the car. He pats down the empty seat next to him to signify that Keith should just get in and shut up.

"Death, but whatever. It's a good day to die apparently," remarked Keith, slamming the car door.

The nicest people always hide the deepest secrets, so hopefully, Lance and Keith aren't too trusting of their soon-to-be "friend" Mr. Veteran Shiro.

Chapter Text

Carlsbad, New Mexico

“I’m no expert on the concept of time but I swear this is the longest fucking car ride ever. Not to mention the most uncomfortable. I feel like my stomach is going to shit itself. Do you want me to shit myself, Lance?” Keith whispered to Lance.

 “Oh hush up mullet. Okay, it’s a bit uncomfortable but isn’t that the fun part? I feel like a Queen!” said Lance, obnoxiously flipping the inch of hair he has that rest on the back of his neck. This earns a chuckle from both Shiro and Keith.  

“You two seem like you’re having fun,” Shiro interrupted. 

 “Oh, quite the contrary my fellow. You see, my dearest lad has not the ounce of sense to know the basics of well...you know? Stranger Danger.” Keith said in his best British posh accent. Lance didn’t have anything to say to that, neither did Shiro. How could they form words when they’re laughing their tits off? Keith’s body swells with embarrassment.

 “Okay.. but tell me why that accent sounded so fucking good. It was spot on.. oh my god!” exclaimed Lance. “Truly impressive Keith, given that I’ve lived in London before, the natives and locals there sound like complete frauds to you young sir.” Shiro laughs to himself.

 While Lance and Shiro are chatting about God knows what, Keith is lost in thought. ‘I personally think that Shiro’s a good guy. Lance seems to like him. Gross. How did he know my name? I honestly don’t remember telling him. I need to talk to Lance. Shiro’s hiding something. Also why the fuck is Lance so chummy chummy with him?’

 The talking quiets down and the only sound present is the static voices of the people on the radio, the gravel dirt road grinding against the tires, and the soft breaths Lance exhales as he rests his head in the crevice of Keith’s shoulder and chest.

 Shiro clears his throat. “So.. are you and him a thing?”

 Keith jumps at the sudden accusation, “Ah...uh...um…”

 “Haha, it’s fine if you are. I’m not one of those “Let’s kill the queers!” people. In fact, I would actually classify myself as a gay.”

 Shiro looks at Keith and smiles, then turns his attention back on the road. 'Jesus fuck my face feels so hot. I wish Lance would get the hell off of me but at the same time, I want him to stay next to me forever.' Keith thinks to himself. He stares out the window, visually absorbing all the nature of New Mexico. Which is just desert. plant. dirt. rock. and more dirt. So beautiful. “But to answer your question no we’re not a thing,” Keith affirms. The last thing he wants to do is let this stranger get the wrong idea, but maybe he should've had the wrong idea. Maybe that would've protected Lance. 

 “Shame, you guys would be cute together.”

“Yeah he is cue..uh-um- yeah I guess, but now’s not the time,” said Keith.

Shiro smiles at Keith’s facial expression. “Why not?”

 “Lance just isn’t ready. Plus I don’t want to hurt him. I feel like if I make one wrong choice I could damage things forever. I don’t want to screw things up. And I especially don’t want to screw us up.”

 The atmosphere becomes silent again, Shiro ponders to himself. “What if you’re the one that’s not ready?”

 “What?” remarked Keith, kinda upset that Shiro would even say that about him. Specifically to a guy he doesn’t know.

 “You said that you don’t want to hurt Lance, but I think you don’t want him to hurt you. Listen this isn’t my place…”

 “Yeah, it isn’t!” he yelled. 'Literally who the fuck is this guy? What a fucking tool,' he mumbles to himself. 

 “But...but I know exactly what you’re going through and especially know how you feel. Honesty is the best policy. It wouldn’t hurt to tell him how you feel. That’s all that I’m saying.”

 'Shiro surprisingly gives good advice but that still doesn’t mean I trust him. Besides, it might not hurt, but what if it does? Lance is too important to me. I can’t lose him. I don’t want to. I’m fine with us being friends as long as he’s happy. I can’t ruin things for him, it’s not about me.'

“Lance wake up, we’re here,” said Keith shaking Lance to wake him up but he’s not having much luck. “Lance! Wake up, shithead!”

 Lance’s eyes flicker open. 

“Oh so shithead wakes you up huh?” questioned Keith.

 Lance yawns and stretches his arms, lower back, and legs while slowly stepping out of the car. “I was actually awake as soon as the car stopped.” he joked.

“That’s bullshit and you know it,” Keith laughed. “Hey, I can dream can’t I?” said Lance. “By the way where’s Shiro?” He asked rubbing his eyes.

 “Oh..he’s inside getting some gas.”

 “Okay cool, now we have some stuff to do.” Lance laughed, throwing himself onto his buddy. His arms are draped around Keith’s shoulders.

 Keith looks at Lance in his oceanic blue eyes, “Lead the way loverboy.”

Chapter Text

Carlsbad, New Mexico 

“So….what exactly do we need?” Keith asked.

 “Hmm...I don't know, car stuff??” said Lance.

 “Well, no shit!”

 “Listen man. I'm trying my best!” Lance cried, pretending to wipe tears from his eyes.

 “Okay Okay, stop being a baby and man up. It's a dog eat dog world.” Keith exclaimed in his best mentor dad voice.

 Lance sniffles, “But what if I like cats?”

 Keith scoffs, “Pussy.” They both laugh while walking in between the aisles.

 “Why don't we ask Shiro? He seems like a smart dude.” Lance said.

 “Uh I guess...but listen Lance,” Keith whispered, “I don't think we should trust Shiro. I'm picking up weird ju-ju vibes from him.”

 Lance peeks over the aisles to make sure no one is looking or listening in on them. He then turns his attention back to Keith. “Yeah, I totally get what you mean.” He says.

 “Oh, so you feel it too?” hesitated Keith, darting his eyes back and forth.

 “Uh yeah...bad vibes all around dude.”

 Keith rolls his eyes, “You don't believe me do you?”

 “Uh, I didn't say that. I just don't think we should judge this guy so fast. Think of him like a book.”

 “Don't judge a book by its cover?” Keith deadpanned.

 Lance nods his head, “Exactly, but if you're seriously freaked out by him I'll stay skeptical. Just for you.” said Lance, blowing a kiss at Keith causing him to blush. 'Why is Lance so cute?' Keith thinks to himself.

 “We still need to figure out what we need to get for your stupid car,” Keith says.

 Lance is shocked, “She is not stupid! Blue just needs a little bit more help than others.”  

 “If you say so, but I'm not buying it.”

 “Listen, why don't we just ask Shiro, wherever the hell he is- oh hey Shiro we were just looking for you,” Lance said, pressed up against Shiro's bara daddy chest. Keith is not happy but Lance is having the time of his life. Before moving away Lance takes a quick sniff.

 “Did you just smell me?” Shiro asked amused.

 “Maybe I did, maybe I didn't. Who's to say?” Lance laughs, “You smell good, but it's not like I would know or anything.”

 “Thanks, Lance, so what do you guys need? I'm all ears and muscles ” Shiro said, he snickers at his own joke while flexing his arms. Lance giggles and Keith rolls his eyes. 

 “Some car stuff,” Keith said mocking Lance.

 “What kind of car stuff?” asked Shiro, mocking Keith. He stares at him and smirks. Keith rolls his eyes and lets out an exasperated "Hmpf."

 “Uh, something that can fix an overheated car exhaust pipe thingy?” Lance questioned. 

 “Hmm...there's probably something wrong with your radiator fan or you have a coolant leak.”

 “Okay, so how do we fix it?” Keith ask.

“Well if the car is overheated that means the water or antifreeze isn't circulating correctly, so you'll need some Prestone antifreeze coolant. However, if there's a leak you guys might want to call a mechanic.”

 “All Right, Shiro the Hero! You are a lifesaver. Come on Keith, let's go grab that antifreeze stuff.” exclaimed Lance.

 As they were walking away Shiro grabs Lance by the end of his shirt. “Uh sorry about that, but uh after you guys get the antifreeze do you want to grab something to eat? My treat.” Shiro said.

 Lance's eyes widen in excitement, “Of course but I feel bad since you're doing so much for us.”

 “Haha, no worry. It's my pleasure, so how about you Keith? Care to join us?”

 He shrugs, “Why not? It's free food.”

 “Okay cool, it's a date then.” Shiro smiles at us.

 Lance and Keith are taken aback.

 “Did he just say it's a date?” asked Lance.

 “Yeah…”

 So, Lance and Keith purchase the antifreeze, and they look around the store for Shiro. Keith becomes annoyed.

 “Why did he ask us out on a date and not tell us where to meet him? What a fucking tool!”

 Lance rolls his eyes and exasperates, “Calm down there Mullet, we'll find him.”

 They walk around the store calling his name, customers are looking at them weirdly.

 “Uh..hey I'm in here,” Shiro says standing next to a booth down the hall.

“There's a diner in a gas station? That's so weird but convenient,” remarked Lance, completely intrigued.

 Shiro nods and smiles at the boys, “Are you coming, or are you just going to stare at me?”

 Lance and Keith look at each other smiling, they simultaneously shrug their shoulders. “Free food,” Keith says.

 “And a stupid hot man,” Lance adds. Keith laughs to himself, “And a stupid hot man.” They both walk into the diner and take a seat across from Shiro.

 “So, what are you two doing in New Mexico?” asked Shiro.

 Keith and Lance share a quick glance at each other and before Lance is able to answer Shiro's question he's interrupted by Keith.

“How about we make a deal hmm? You talk and then we talk?” Keith offered, with a smug look on his face. He stares down at the man in front of him with arms crossed. Shiro leans back into the booth ready for the challenge, “Deal. So what do you wanna know?”

 Lance practically jumps across the table in excitement, “Tell us everything!"

Chapter Text

Carlsbad, New Mexico

Shiro smiles at the boys sitting across from him, "Well...where should I begin haha. My name's Takashi Shirogane, I'm 26 and a veteran."

"Takashi Shirogane," Lance mused to himself. "That name sounds familiar, oh my god. You were on that Old Spice commercial!" Lance is practically bouncing in his seat. "Keith you know the one...uhh...oh my god..how does it go again?" 

Shiro is laughing at Lance's antics, "To be a man-"

"Is to smell like a man," added Lance. "A man's gotta do what a man does. Old Spice How Big Are Your Balls?" Shiro and Lance said in unison. They both laugh and Keith tries to keep a straight face but it's no use. If they weren't interrupted by the waiter, who knows how long they would be laughing? 

"So how may I help you today gentleman?" Asked the waiter. 

"One black coffee with scrambled eggs, toast, and 3 sausages," ordered Shiro.

"And you?" The waiter looked in Keith's direction. Keith fumbles with his menu and hastily looks at his options. Unable to choose one he just asks for the same thing as Shiro.

"Uh, same thing."

"Alright, and how can I help you gorgeous?" The waiter flirted.

Lance blushes at the compliment while Shiro and Keith are eyeing the waiter with an intent to kill. "Well..that depends..what's good?" Asked Lance, batting his long eyelashes.

"If you're specifically asking about the food here then I must say the waffles, however, if you're asking in general, it would be good to know you. Here's my number."

Lance studies the number and places it in his jacket pocket. "I'll take those waffles with a glass of OJ and maybe if you're free you can charge me extra for a call later?" 

The waiter and Lance laugh at their silliness. "Well...your orders will be right out. See you later handsome, and the rest of the table."

While Lance is lost in his own world Keith and Shiro look thoroughly unamused. "The rest of the table?" Keith reiterates, feeling offended. 

"What a fucking tool," Shiro adds. Keith snickers at Shiro's comment and Lance speaks up. "Hey..you guys good?" Lance asked.

"Uh.. yeah," Keith and Shiro said. 

"Lance, you're not seriously going to call him?" Keith remarked in a harsh tone. Lance shuffles in his seat fumbling with his thumbs, "It would be rude not to."

"I'm just saying...isn't it too early for you to-"

"Too early?" Lance yelled, "What the fuck is that suppose to mean huh?" 

Keith is frustrated and Shiro is uncomfortable with their confrontation. "I'm just looking out for you. For fuck sake Lance, stop being such a whining bitch."  

Lance scoffs and leaves the table, "Don't fucking follow me." 

Keith blows the hair out of his face, sinking down into the booth until his chin is at level with the table. "Fucking drama queen," he mutters under his breath.

"Are you guys always like this?" Questioned Shiro. 

"Not always, he just doesn't listen."

"Are you jealous?"

Keith sits up, "What...of Lance?"

"No, I mean are you jealous that other guys uh flirt with him?" 

"No, well I don't know okay? We're just friends, besides I just don't want to see him get hurt again. Especially not by some fucking tool. It isn't fair." 

"Then why don't you tell him that?"

"I appreciate the advice but you're not my fucking therapist."

"Alright, my bad. Well... if you would excuse me."

Shiro gets up and walks to the bathroom leaving Keith all alone to guard the table. "You're such an asshole," Keith says to himself. As Shiro walks to the bathroom he makes unexpected eye contact with the waiter that took their order. The one that flirted with Lance and made Keith and him argue. He glares at the boy and gestures a gun and pretends to shoot him in the head. He mouths the word, “Bam.” The waiter looks scared and quickly runs off to a different table. When Shiro walks into the bathroom, his eyes fall on the stall with Lance's jacket hanging over it.

He knocks on the door, "Hey you okay bug?"

"Yeah, be out in a minute" and Lance throws up in the toilet. 

"Are you pregnant?" 

Lance laughs, "I wish, but no." The toilet flushes and Lance walks through the door and smiles at Shiro. He walks to the sink to rinse out his mouth and wash his hands. Shiro picks up Lance's jacket and pulls out the phone number the waiter gave him. He crumbles it up and flushes it down the toilet. "So what are you doing here?" Asked Lance, drying his hands.

"Well, I'm a guy so I think I'm legally allowed to be here." Shiro joked.

"Okay smartass."

"I was just checking on you and Keith is mad at me."

"Aww what a sweetheart. And I'm not surprised...he has a temper.. but I hardly know her right?" 

"Yeah, I can tell. Why did you throw up? Are you sure you're not pregnant?" 

Lance's eyes wander around the bathroom, "Nothing serious. Sometimes when I get too overwhelmed I throw up. Gross, I know."

"Oh, that's not fun."

"Yeah. Well...we can't hide in here all day. Our food is going to get cold."

"Maybe you could warm it up with your hotness," humored Shiro.

Lance punches Shiro in the arm as they leave the bathroom. They walk back to the diner and see Keith gazing at the window. Lance crawls back in the booth and hugs Keith as he leans his head on his shoulder.

"I'm sorry."

Without looking at him, Keith runs his fingers through Lance's hair, "Me too."

Shiro can't believe these two are just friends. "Friends my ass." A different waitress walks up to them placing their food on their table. "You two are so cute. You remind me of my nephew and his boyfriend. Well here's your food, please enjoy."

Keith's face is flushed and Lance is suddenly aware of his arms that are draped around Keith's waist. He lets go and quickly grabs his plate of food. "What are you guys waiting for? Let's eat our feelings!"

While they eat, Keith speaks up, "Sorry for acting like an ass Shiro." 

"No worries, how's the food?"

"Pretty good."

"So Mr.Takashi Shirogane, we never got to hear the rest of your story," asked Lance in between bites.

"Oh my bad, well after losing my arm I was forced to retire. So now I travel even though I haven't really been anywhere yet, I'm in the process."

"That's sad but very cool. I would love to travel. Do you miss the army?" asked Lance.

"Well...not really. What I do miss are the memories I made there and the people I met. But life has to move on yanno?."

"Yeah, I get that." 

Shiro slid his empty plate towards the middle of the table. "What about you guys?" 

"I'm Lance McClain and I'm 19. I'm taking a year off because some shit happened and I need a break." 

Lance glances at Keith, pressuring him to speak. "And I'm Keith. I'm 21 and I'm just tagging along."

Lance smiles at Keith and punched him in the arm causing him to smile. "It's summer vacay for us and no one wanted to come with me on my journey."

"Journey? What does that entail?" asked Shiro.

"Anything really I guess. I just want to find my purpose." 

"So what are you doing in New Mexico Shirogane?" Asked Keith.

"After I left the army my parents said that if I didn't have a place to stay I should come down to their summer house. They're overseas right now and said that they weren't going to be needing it." 

"Wow, summer house. Is your family rich?" Lance asked.

"We're comfortable."

Lance and Keith look at each other knowingly. They laugh.

"Only rich people say we're comfortable," Keith joked.

"I can’t believe this. I'm so lucky to be alive right now. What are the chances that little old Lance McClain would meet a veteran who's loaded and isn't an asshole?"

Shiro turns his head to hide his gleaming smile and flushed face away from Keith and Lance. "I will be right back. I gotta go pay for this. Once I get back let's head out?" 

"Sure thing," said Lance, gleaming at Shiro which doesn't make it any easier for the poor man. Lance is just too cute. 

"Thanks man," Keith said, taking one last sip from his black coffee. After Shiro pays the bill they leave the diner. Lance is leaning on Keith as they walk to the car. "Get off me!" remarked Keith, feeling annoyed with how touchy Lance is. Lance whines, "But I'm soooo tired!" 

"Well be tired somewhere else!" Keith yelled pushing Lance off. He pouts and walks up and leans on Shiro instead. The sudden gesture startles Shiro but he eases into it. Keith feels jealous and grabs Lance's hand to make up for throwing him off.

"Someone's jealous" Shiro teased, unlocking the car.

"Haha shut up, I'm just sooo tired," remarked Keith, averting his eyes from Shiro.

They laugh as they get inside the car. The engine starts and Shiro pulls the car out of the gas station. Keith thinks to himself that maybe Shiro isn't so bad. And it wouldn't hurt for him to be more accepting. Lance is overjoyed and isn't sure if he wants to call that guy anymore. There's no need to right? He has Keith and if things work out he has Shiro. Even though Shiro is growing a liking to both Keith and Lance, it's going to hurt him dearly when he kills them. If they weren't so cute. If they weren't so charming and smart. Only if he wasn't in love with them. “I'm not a monster,” Shiro reassures himself. I'm just doing my job. I'm just doing my job. I'm just doing my job.

Chapter Text

Carlsbad, New Mexico

The drive back was weirdly uncomfortable. No one had anything to say and even if you wanted to break the silence how the fuck would you? Shiro's eyes stayed focused on the road while his mind wandered and slipped its way into the abyss of repressed memories. 

Ontario, Canada

"Happy 18th birthday Shiro," cheered his mom.

"I can't believe my son is a grown-up," said his dad.

"Well I'm technically 6," Shiro laughs while his mom hugs him.

"You're so silly. Today is your day, so what do you want to do?" His mom asked.

Little did his parents know that little question would somehow turn into a big disaster. Shiro looks at his parents and smirks, "I just wanna get my hands dirty and have a little fun is all."

Carlsbad, New Mexico

Lance groans as he falls forward hitting his head against the dashboard. Shiro and Keith look at him and laugh. 

"What's wrong?" Shiro asked.

"He's just being a baby," remarked Keith.

Lance shakes his head and mumbles, "Idontknownothingiguess."

"What?" Shiro questioned, amused by Lance's childlike antics.

"He said he's bored," answered Keith, rolling his eyes like it was obvious to decipher what Lance was saying.

"How about we play a game?" Shiro proposed cunningly.

Keith scrunches up his face and Lance jumps up and wipes the slobber off his face and the dashboard.

"Uh...sure," said Keith.

"What game?" asked Lance.

"Let's keep things simple. 2 truths and 1 lie...Lance, you can go first." Shiro said.

"Uh...okay let's see....alright, okay so...My favorite color is blue, I can name every constellation known to man, and I accidentally ate my goldfish in the 3rd grade because I told my mom it was survival of the fittest," Lance said, counting each statement on his fingers.

Keith shakes his head and Shiro laughs to himself.

"Hmm...well according to my super fantastic gut feeling, I have to say the constellation thing is a lie," said Shiro, clearly proud of his answer.

Lance is shocked, "What the fuck! How did you guess that?"

Shiro looks over at Lance and stares at him before directing his attention back on the road in front of him. "The last one seemed too specific to be a lie and nobody lies about their favorite color...that's just weird."

"Wow, your process of elimination skills are impeccable. Middle school teachers are quaking," Keith said. "Alright hotshot, let's see how well you do with mine."

Ontario, Canada

"Stay safe honey and be back before sunrise," announced Shiro's mom. His dad looks at her with utter confusion. "Don't listen to your mother. I want you back here by 3 am or else!" His dad yelled. 

Shiro laughs as he closes the door behind him. He walks around the side of the house to the garage to pick up the bag of stuff he's been collecting since last year. Today was going to change everything, no one messes with Shiro and gets away with it. No one.

Carlsbad, New Mexico

 "I've been arrested 3 times, I'm missing a toenail, and my parents are dead," Keith said, elbowing Lance in the side with a smirk on his face. "He's totally not going to get this" Keith whispered to Lance.

"You're not making this easy, are you? Give me a minute."

"Take all the time you need," said Keith obviously pleased with himself. Lance scooches over closer to Keith and whispers in his ear, "If he gets this I'm going to go absolutely mental like he doesn't even know about your m-" 

"Shhh before he hears, you dork," Keith said. 

Shiro finally speaks up, "I might be wrong but I don't think both of your parents are dead."

Lance and Keith look at each other simultaneously, "What the actual fuck!?" they both say. Lance is laughing his ass off and Keith is trying to figure out what the hell is going on. His mind is racing. No track. 

"Who's man is this? Are you a psychic? You must be a fucking psychic because there's no way," said Lance.

"Or a stalker, maybe an FBI agent. Something very illegal." Keith said, eyeing him suspiciously.

Shiro shrugs with a smile plastered across his face. He parks the car off to the side of the road right in front of Lance's car. He takes the keys out of the ignition and opens the car door. "We're here or would that surprise you too?"

"Asshole." Keith and Lance said in unison before getting out of the car. 

 Ontario, Canada

After grabbing his bag from the garage, he gets into his dad's truck and takes off. He arrives at the Lux nightclub which is close to empty since it's like 1 p.m. There's a couple of cars parked in front of the building which must belong to the employees. Without wanting to cause a scene in broad daylight Shiro decides to wait till nightfall. He sits in his car that is parked across the street from Lux waiting. Blood boiling by the minute.

Carlsbad, New Mexico

After getting out of the car Shiro opens the trunk and grabs the bottle of antifreeze Keith and Lance purchased earlier.

"Hey Lance, pop open the hood for me bug."

"Sure thing. One second. Keith, can you come here?"

Keith walks over to the driver's side and rests his arm halfway on the top of the car and leans in, "You don't know how to open it do you?"

Lance looks up at Keith and shakes his head, beginning to cry, "Noooooo."

Keith takes his arm off the hood of the car and reaches in between Lance's leg and pulls the handle underneath the steering wheel. His head gets a little too close for Lance's comfort. His cheeks feel warm and he subtly covers his crotch with his hands. Keith gets back up and slaps his hands together as if he did some hard manual labor, "What would you do without me?" Keith chuckles. Lance averts his eyes. It's not a matter of what would he do, it's more of what he wants to do. 

The hood opens with a loud pop. Shiro pulls the hood up with no effort and places the stand in place. "Wow okay, let's see what we got here. It might take minute guys, but uhh the worst-case scenario-"

"Worst case scenario?" Questioned Keith.

"Yeah. If this doesn't work you guys might be stuck out here till tomorrow." Shiro said checking his watch. "It's like 7 right now so maybe sometime in the morning a car service will make its way out here."

"Fuck. Keith, what are we going to do? Literally, everything is going wrong. I can't keep doing this shit." 

Keith rubs circles on Lance's back, "I'm not sure but everything works out eventually right?"

"I hope so," Lance said, voice trailing off. He can't seem to catch a break. 

Shiro's chest feels tight and it hurts to see them like this but honestly, he can't wait to see the looks on their faces when they beg and plead for him. After pouring in the antifreeze, Shiro asked if Keith could start the car. After a few failed attempts, Lance is punching the steering wheel, "Fuck you! I can't believe I trusted you blue...you wretched whoreeee! Goddammit!" Lance gets out of the car and starts pacing. Keith takes his spot and leans back in the seat. "Fuck."

Shiro slams the hood down causing the boys to look his way. "I know this is kind of sudden and probably a little weird but I'm more than willing to give you guys a place to stay for the night. The summer house is only a few minutes away."

Lance stops pacing, "Shiro are you serious? You've already done so much for us. I feel bad."

"Definitely. There's no need to worry about it. I'm honestly glad to help."

"Keith...are you game?" Asked Lance.

"No, but I'd rather not sleep in a car that's stranded in the middle of where ever the fuck we are."

Lance and Keith grab the rest of their bags out of the trunk and throw them in the back of Shiro's car. Once they're all in the car, Shiro drives back onto the main road. Getting in a car with strangers is one thing, but going to their house is just asking for danger. Secondary locations are no joke, and Shiro was well aware of that. Everything was going according to plan. Maybe too according to plan.

Ontario, Canada

It's finally dark outside and cars are pulling into the parking lot of the club and people are lining up at the door. Shiro's alarm goes off and he wakes up, yawns, and stretches his body before getting out. He grabs the pocket knife that's placed in the glove department. He grabbed his keys from the ignition, opens the car door, and walks across the street towards Lux. He's on a mission for revenge.

Shiro gets in line and slowly makes his way to the front. The bouncer looks at his expired ID and lets him in regardless. When Shiro gets inside the club he looks around feeling kind of uneasy but that only makes things more interesting for him. He mingles with girls and boys until he reaches the bar. He sits down and a bartender walks up to him and asked if he wanted anything to drink. Shiro shrugs and the bartender walks off to a more potential customer, somebody worth talking to. Shiro sits at the bar, looking at the different characters who are drinking, smoking, and dancing. He twirls the knife in his hands and stabs the counter a couple of times before he places it back into his pocket. He's becoming frustrated. 'Where is he?'  The bartender that tried to take his order from earlier taps him on the shoulder and Shiro turns around.

"Some guy over there said that this is for you. If you don't want it, I'll happily drink it. Lord knows I need it," the bartender laughs.

Shiro looks at the fizzing that's obviously dissolving in the bottom of the drink. He pulls two straws from the bartender’s apron, "How about we both take a sip and I'll decide who will enjoy it more?"

They both place their straws in the drink and lean in, noses close while their lips are pressed down on the straws. The drink slowly climbs its way up the tube, their eyes locked on each other, the drink finally creates a puddle in their mouths. They swallow at the same time. The taste is sweet but somehow bitter. They both scrunch up their faces and shake their heads as if that’s going to get rid of the taste. Shiro and the bartender both laugh, almost hysterically. 

"Seems like we both like it, but since I can't stay long you can keep on drinking," stated Shiro. "Now where's the lovely man who bought this? We have some unfinished business."

The bartender reaches over Shiro's shoulders and points to the man across the room. His eyes follow the direction until they make eye contact with the man who bought him the drink. Shiro smirks and turns around facing the bartender. He stands up and gives the bartender a peck on his cheek before taking off. The bartender smiles, "Good luck."

Shiro walks off and waves. He then grabs the knife from his pocket. "I fucking found you. You sick fucking bastard."

Chapter Text

Carlsbad, New Mexico 

After unlocking the door, Lance wasted no time before running inside the summer house. Keith walks past Shiro and gives him a look, hoping that he’s able to understand that he too doesn’t understand why Lance is the way that he is. “I guess we’re not in Kansas anymore huh?” Lance questioned as he paces around the living room, touching literally everything. 

Keith walks over to the couch and places their bags on the floor next to it, “We never were!” Lance glares at Keith then shifts his face into a heartwarming smile, “You just love sucking the joy out of life, don’t ya?” Keith smirks, “That’s not all the things I love to suck wink-wink” Lance coughs, “D-Did you just...oh my god you did not just say wink-wink out loud!” Keith laughs and spreads his legs all over the beautiful white couch, “Who’s to say?” Lance walks over to Keith and shoves him off the couch, “You’re such a dork Keith, ahahaha.” 

Detaching himself off of the floor, Keith grabs Lance and throws him over his shoulder, and then tosses him back on the couch, “And you’re an asshole.” Lance falls on the couch occupied with a fit of laughter, “I-I’ll have you know..that...I’m only an asshole if I get bleach on my t-shirt.” Keith falls over and snickers beside Lance’s stomach. 

They’re both lost in their own worlds and don’t notice when Shiro locks the front door. He looks over his shoulder to make sure they’re not paying attention and then drew his attention back to the lock. He places his thumb over the device next to the door and waits for it to scan. Then he enters in a combination of numbers that sets up the indoor security system. Little did they know that a big storm coming was coming.

Ontario, Canada

As Shiro approaches the man who bought him the drink, he frantically fiddles with the knife in his hand, then places it back inside his jacket pocket. “Hey sexy...you bought me a drink?” asked Shiro. The man smirks as he leans back into the booth seat, “Well that depends...how much did you like it?” Shiro crawls over the table and grabs the man by his collar, “Well that depends...how much did you think I liked it?” He slowly slides his hands down the man's chest and then pushes him back into the booth. He climbs off the table and walks back into the crowd of people, he glances over his shoulder, smiles and walks away.

 The man rubs his chest, still feeling the warmth of where Shiro’s hands were. He excuses himself from the table and adjusts his collar before tagging behind Shiro. The man walks through the crowd and opens the door to the men's restroom, he looks around for the boy and bites his lip when he sees him leaning against the wall next to the last stall. “You missed me?” Shiro coaxed.

The man eagerly walked over to Shiro and pushes him into the stall, locking it behind him. Shiro falls to his knees and waits for the man to finish pulling down his pants. The man grabs his penis and shoves it towards Shiro’s mouth. 

“Now now now...you don’t have to be so rude. Besides, you bought me a drink, not dinner. I’ll stick with my hands for now. And I’d rather put my mouth to better uses than sucking you off. For example, how the fuck and I’m supposed to say that I’m going to fucking kill you if your dick is shoved in my mouth huh?” Shiro gets off his knees and pulled the knife from his jacket and aims it at the man's throat in one swift motion. 

“But little 16-year-old me didn’t have the luxury to say that, did he? What a poor baby for getting himself into a situation like that all because he wanted to mess around and have some fun with his friends.”

 The man begins to sweat as his knees buckle beneath him, “Look kid, I’m sorry! Please don’t kill me!”

Shiro slightly grazes the knife against the man's neck, causing his skin to crack, his blood slowly drips. Shiro hysterically cackles out loud, “Y-You want me to not kill you? Oh my god, that is the funniest thing someone has ever said to me. You’re a funny guy. Thanks, but I’d rather not keep you alive. Believe me man, I’m doing you a favor. Because If I don’t kill you now, I’m just gonna find you later and when I find you later you’re gonna wish you were dead.” The man falls to the floor with tears in his eyes, gasping for breath. Shiro crouches next to him and grabs his chin with a hard grip, “Look at me! You’re gonna pay for what you did to me, and once I’m finished I will be the happiest man in the world. Isn’t that just wonderful?” 

The man screams at Shiro, “You’re fucking crazy! Somebody help me!”

Becoming annoyed with his yelling, Shiro stabs the man in the leg which only causes him to scream more which made Shiro even angrier. 

“You don’t get to scream…you sure as hell didn’t let me, so shut up!” Shiro yanks the knife out of the man's leg and proceeds to stab him again and again and again and again until he’s sitting in a puddle of his blood. Shiro places his hands on the floor and plays with the man's blood until it stains his hands. He looks at the man and then up towards the ceiling and laughs to himself. 18 never felt so good.

Carlsbad, New Mexico

After locking the door, Shiro walks into the living room. “You guys make yourself at home and by the looks of it, it seems like you already did. The house is yours so just do whatever, but don’t go into the office. There’s a lot of confidential bullshit that's in there. And the last person I want on my trail is the U.S government. What a bunch of fucking tools.”

 Lance giggles to himself, Keith and Shiro looking at him with mild amusement. “What’s so funny Lance?” asked Shiro. 

“Sorry, I just find it ironic that a vet called his government a fucking tool..haha I just can’t right now. Do you have a bathroom?” Shiro grins and crosses his arms, “Actually no, we just shit on the floor.”

Lance pauses and stares at Shiro, eyes wide with his mouth gaped open.

Keith places his hand over his heart and throws his head back into the couch laughing, “He’s kidding bud, chill out. It’s not that deep.” Lance’s face is flushed and he runs out the living room, “I hate you guys! And besides, some people don’t believe in toilets! I’ll find the bathroom!! I don’t need your help!” 

Shiro and Keith laugh louder which is only taunting Lance as he roams through the hallway. Shiro yells, “The bathroom is at the end of the hallway, third door!” Lance yells back, “I knew that dipshit!”

Keith just rolls his eyes and starts unpacking their bags. “Hey Shiro, do you have an extra room where I can put our shit? I’d rather not dirty up your living space.”

“Uh yeah, it's upstairs, 1st door on the left. Well, it was a pleasure meeting you guys, so don’t hesitate to ask me for anything. If you need me just use the intercom and I’ll come running. Goodnight, Keith."

Keith smiles at Shiro, “Sure thing dude, likewise.” 

Keith picks up the stuff he took out of their bags and brings it with him as he walks up the stairs the lead to the bedroom. “Holy shit, this room is huge.” He exclaims after opening the door. He drops their stuff on the floor, “Don’t mind if I do,” he says to himself before jumping onto the king-sized bed. “Okay, Shiro is definitely sus, but he’s not sus enough for me to want to leave this huge fucking bed..like ever.”

Lance finally finds the bathroom and as he takes off his jacket he remembers the number the waiter gave him at the diner. “Oh shit, I totally forgot I had this...well I thought I had it.” He digs into his pockets and is unable to find the number. “What?” 

He turns his jacket pockets inside out and shakes it. “I’m so confused..what the hell happened?” After he flushes the toilet, Lance is hit with a sudden realization. “Oh...my..fucking...god! He did not! I gotta tell Keith right now. He was totally right about Shiro. That dude definitely has some weird ju-ju vibes.” After drying his hands, he leaves the bathroom and bumps into Shiro’s broad chest. “Ah fuck...oh uh hey Shiro? We gotta stop meeting like this...Wassup?”

Shiro giggles, “I was just making sure you found the forsaken bathroom”

Lance jitters under the gaze of the man in front of him, “Y-yeah...I told you I’ll find it, now if you would excuse me.” He begins to run down the hall but doesn’t get far since a large hand grabbed him by the shoulder, jerking him back. Lance freezes and slowly turns his body to face the man that grabbed him. 

“Oh shit, my bad. Didn't mean to grab you like that. Are you okay?”

Lance nervously shakes his head and rubs the spot where he was grabbed. Shiro tries to reach out to console Lance but he quickly backs away from the oncoming touch. 

“Uh...sorry, bad habit. I’m not scared of you or anything..it’s just that...uhhh.” Lance’s voice trails off. Shiro looks at Lance’s pained face and there’s a knot that swells up in the pit of his stomach. Who hurt him? 

“It’s okay, don’t worry about it. I just wanted to say that Keith is upstairs in the 1st bedroom on the left. Sorry.” 

Lance averts his eyes, “Thanks,” and walks away from Shiro shivering. 

Even though Shiro has a job to do, and he’s trained to not let his emotions control him. Seeing Lance act like that just because of a sudden touch, threw him off. He knows that look. He knows that look well. Feeling himself become overwhelmed with anger, Shiro heads towards the office to clear his head. A poor boy like Lance deserves a break, but he can’t pick favorites. They both have to go and they will. If it's the last thing he does. Shiro can’t afford to mess up again. He already lost so much. He walks inside the office and locks the door. He plops himself on the desk chair and mutters the word, “Adam.”

Chapter Text

 Carlsbad, New Mexico

After the strange encounter with Shiro that left Lance feeling all shaken up and confused, he made his way to the bedroom Keith was residing in. After walking up the stairs and staring at the overly large and quite antique-ish-looking door, Lance took a long and deep breath and barged into the room like nothing had happened. Like he was perfectly okay. He always had issues showing his true feelings even in his most desperate of times, and that's probably the reason why he’s never able to ask for help, and it’s probably the reason why no one bothers to help him. 

Lance barged into the room like a barbarian sending every nerve in Keith’s body into panic mode, “Ahhhh what in the fucking hell! Lance! I swear to god I’m going to kill you….you fucking prick!”

Lance laughs to himself and jumps onto the king-sized bed right next to Keith, “You’re gonna kill me? Pfft..only in your wet dreams.”

“my...WHAT?” spluttered Keith, his face increasing in temperature, obviously taken aback.

“I said what I said, you’re a growing boy, I doubt you have normal dreams,” Lance insisted, crawling his way underneath the covers like a dog trying to find a comfortable spot. Keith was utterly flabbergasted, “I-I-I.”

“Take your time,” Lance gloated. Keith rolls his eyes and throws his hands in the air as he climbs off the bed. “I’m not doing this with you, what’s wrong? You’re obviously not okay..” his voice trailed off, worry settling in the pit of his stomach. Lance takes another long and deep breath and buries himself under the covers to give himself more time to ease his nerves. He hates being called out, but what he hates the most is Keith calling him out. He’s the only person besides Hunk that’s able to see right through him and it's a pain to deal with every time. He mumbles to himself, ‘leave me alone.’ Keith bites his lip and leaves the bedroom, slamming the door behind him. Lance flinches at the loud noise that ricochets off the walls in the bedroom. He punches himself repeatedly in the head, "You’re such a fucking idiot."

After leaving the room, Keith is shaking in frustration.

“God I’m literally such an asshole...he just didn’t want to talk. But noooooo, I had to slam the door. I need to do better-”

“Oh, Keith, wassup?” said Shiro, slowly walking up the stairs. “I heard the door slam and just wanted to see if everything was okay...are you okay?”

Keith takes a few steps towards Shiro, “Yeah? I just realized that I’m the problem,” he explained, lowering his head in disappointment. Shiro takes a step further to close the gap between them and pats Keith on his shoulders. “Listen, I’ve been there...why don’t we talk in the kitchen for a bit and I’ll show you how to make an ‘I’m sorry I’m such an asshole babe, maybe this meal I made for you will tarnish all the bad memories of me’ meal. Keith’s eyes widened in amusement and curiosity, “Really?” Shiro cackles out loud, “No, but maybe an ‘I’m sorry’ and some hot tea might be the next best thing”. Keith glares at Shiro with his eyebrows furrowed, slowly softening his stern face into a smile, “Guess we need to make two teas then.”

“How come?” asked Shiro.

“Because you’re a fuckin tool and I would like an apology for making me listen to another one of your dumb jokes that are hidden gems for improving someone's mood.” Shiro looks longingly at Keith before walking down the stairs, “This tea isn’t going to make itself, tool or not, I still need someone to handle me.” Keith scoffs and follows him down the stairs.

Ontario, Canada

Shiro will never forgive what that man did to him and it was apparently clear after stocking up for supplies and stalking the man for the last two years. Most people would’ve reported the situation or if not keep it to themself and silently suffer until the time “felt right,” but he didn’t have the patience for that. He knew the justice system wasn’t going to help him, not in the way he wanted. Shiro wanted that man dead, he wanted him to feel true terror. He wanted to look into those eyes and watch his life dissipate. That is what justice is. That is how you get your comeuppance. No amount of jail time was going to satisfy Shiro’s needs. But Shiro couldn’t just wait until his 18th birthday to deliver the final blow, he was feeling way too ansty. First, he had to find where the man lived and stoke him out for a bit. He had to take things slow. It started with slashing his tires. But that didn’t feel good enough, in fact, it wasn't good enough. Growing up in a home with a war veteran for a dad, Shiro had no issues with blood and actually grew accustomed to it. His dad taught him everything he knows, how to hunt, fight, use a knife. He was basically a little soldier. And although his dad thought this was the best move as a father, he couldn’t have been more wrong. Growing up, his son had always been such a sweet and problematic kid. In and out of schools, going from therapist to therapist. Shiro would play nice in the beginning until you did something he didn’t like, then you had to pay for your misdeeds. His father thought that maybe teaching his son to be a “man” might give him some sort of nobility, a sense of foundation, something he could take and use to grow as a human being. However, the only thing that happened was that it made him even more dangerous.

Letting air out of tires only brought him to a sub-level of pleasure, not to mention it was a very juvenile approach to things. If he wanted to experience true euphoria he had to dig deeper than that and which he did. During his days of stalking Mr. Zarukon, he noticed that his wife brought home a new puppy. ‘Oh how cute...what a shame,’ Shiro thought to himself. What a shame indeed. He took detailed notes on the routine of Mr. and Mrs. Zarukon and decided that a heavy thunderstorm would be the perfect opportunity to wreak havoc. You can’t hear the harsh smoldering screams of a dog in a thunderstorm. In fact, you wouldn’t be able to hear anything at all, how convenient. There are possibilities of outages and highway wrecks, no officer will be coming to your suburban home in the middle of the night because there’s a possibility of an intruder in the house...no one is going to care.

After waiting for his parents to sleep, Shiro snuck out of the house through the backdoor and made his way to the Zarukon family. It took about an hour and a half longer than normal given the circumstances of the environment, but it was too late to back out now. And it wasn’t like he was willing to give up anyways, he had too much riding on making this assignment full proof. Like his father always told him, “A good soldier always gets the job done, no matter what.”

Carlsbad, New Mexico

“Adam,” he mutters to himself, he can’t help but wonder where everything went wrong. Of course, losing someone you love is hard, that’s not the problem. The problem is trying to figure out a future without them. Little things such as seeing his glasses on the nightstand and worrying about him needing them and coming to the realization that he won’t ever need them. Dead people can’t see. Or washing out his favorite mug so he doesn’t complain about it being dirty. Dead people don’t care about the unclean. He could list all the little things in the world that would remind him of his love, the taste of his lips, the faint smell on his clothes, and the warmth of his hugs. But as Shiro sits in his office chair reminiscing about the past he hears an obnoxious and overbearing slam from upstairs. He gets up from his chair and stretches his lower back before leaving the room to check up on the boys. He walks down the hall and then slowly up the stairs until he makes eye contact with Keith, who seems to be talking to himself. “Oh Keith, wassup?”

After convincing Keith to come to the kitchen with him to prepare some make-up tea, Shiro feels a little on edge. He’s not sure if it's because he’s alone with Keith or the fact that he still has no idea as to why Lance acted the way he did after accidentally grabbing him. Well, he had an idea why but he also didn’t want to presume anything. They finally make it to the kitchen and Keith sits down at the bar sulking while Shiro rummages through the cabinets looking for cups and tea bags. “I’m not going to force you to talk but I do have a couple of questions in regards to Lance,” Shiro brought up. This immediately pulls Keith out of his thoughts, “Uh...sure... go ahead. But it would benefit you more to ask Lance himself?” Shiro walks over to the sink with the tea kettle in his hand, “I know, but I’m trying to give him space…” he fills up the kettle and turns the stove on, “We bumped into each other in the hallway and I spooked him.”

Keith gets up from the bar and walks over to Shiro, leaning his body against the counter, “Spooked?” Shiro exhales while crossing his arms, “Yeah..spooked. He was heading towards the room and I think I grabbed him too hard and it was obvious that he was uncomfortable. I apologized but I still feel bad,” he signed. Keith stares at Shiro, a little too long for comfort, “Well...you and I are in the same boat bud. Lance is a tricky thing. But I wouldn’t dwell on it, he’s still going through some stuff so it’s not really your fault.”

“Uhm...what kind of stuff?” Shiro perplexed.

“Uh..well...like I said, you would do better just asking Lance,” Keith needled. “It’s not my place to say, and even if it were, I’m not really comfortable talking about it myself, especially not to a stranger...no offense.”

Keith’s remarks threw Shiro into a bind he wasn’t expecting to be in and he was doing his best to keep his composure. Through gritted teeth he forces a smile, “No offense taken, I can tell you really respect Lance.” There’s a light whistle sound that escapes from the kettle and Shiro quickly turns off the stove and moves the kettle to a different burner. He grabs the cups and pours the water in and shortly after the tea bags. No words are spoken between the two men. A truly unbearing silence. Keith feels uneasy and he can’t pinpoint why. While Shiro reaches for a spoon, a scream is heard from upstairs. They look at each other simultaneously, faces smothered with worry, “Lance!”

Ontario, Canada

Shiro was freezing and soaking wet after walking through the thunderstorm for hours and although his body felt lifeless, the thought of making Mr. Zarukon pay was titillating him. The blood in his body was traveling to a place where it wasn’t needed, but it was very much welcomed. A cocky smile forms on his face, ‘This is going to be very exciting in more ways than one.’ He approaches the house and slips through the side fence, upon reaching the back door he decides that going in with a bang would suffice his needs more. And how lucky he was when thunder-struck at the same time he punched through the glass door. The glass shattered and fell to the floor leaving some pieces sketched into the knuckles on his fist. He winches at the pain, ‘Maybe that was a little too much bang.' He pulls the glass shards out and wipes the blood on the inside of his jacket. As he was walking through the door, a patter was heard from a distance. A small short-haired chihuahua casually walks up to the man who was standing by the back door. They both stare at each other, unsure of who’s gonna make the first move. Will the dog decide to bark to alert her owners? Or will the man decide to put it through misery? It was neither. An unexpected turn of events took the first step.

Mrs. Zarukon was standing wide-eyed on the top of the stairs. He knew this wasn’t part of the plan but he had to do something. “I came here to kill your dog, but now I guess I have to kill you too. What’s that thing they say in movies?...oh! You’ve seen too much,” he jested. A look of complete horror washed Mrs. Zarukon’s face and before she even had the chance to scream, Shiro swiftly ran up the stairs and stabbed her right in the vocal cords. As she was gurgling blood, he gently laid her down, staring into her brown eyes while combing his fingers through her dark brown hair. “I hope you forgive me because a beautiful woman like you didn’t deserve to die such a horrible gruesome death. Well, not exactly gruesome because I only stabbed you in the throat, so actually you are quite lucky because If I had enough time, I probably would’ve painted a beautiful picture using your insides,” Shiro deadpanned.

Tears were streaming down her face and all she could do was cry and wonder, "Why me?” Shiro closed her eyes while he let himself off the floor. Despite the events that took place their dog still didn’t make a sound and that amused Shiro. He walked down the stairs in an untimely manner, “You know dog, I actually came here to wreck your shit because I felt like that would’ve been a very evil thing to do, but I think I’m going to take you home with me.” The dog cocked her head to the side and Shiro let out a laugh. “I’m definitely taking you home with me, but I have to leave a little present for Daddy.”

Carlsbad, New Mexico

“You’re such a fucking idiot,” he says to himself. No matter how hard they try, they can’t seem to find common ground. Lance knows it’s not Keith's fault, and he’s learned to not always blame himself, but that’s a hard thing to do when bad things seem to keep happening to you alone. How can you keep an optimistic and louder-than-life personality when everything around you is saying you shouldn’t be like that? “I should’ve told him what was bothering, he was just being nice,” Lance admitted to himself. He climbs from underneath the covers since it was becoming hard to breathe and sits up on the bed, pressing his back against the rustic headboard. He can hear faint voices outside the door but he doesn’t bother to listen. Lance rests his head in between his arms and closes his eyes. Letting the worry drift away, leaving room for new ones to grow. Shiro grabbing him like that in the hallway earlier really tripped him out. He thought he was finally feeling better but apparently, that wasn’t the case. Just once you think that it’s all right, it’s all wrong. Despite trying to calm his nerves and focus on anything else, his mind just wouldn’t let him no matter how hard he tried. And eventually, he got tired of trying. His eyes shut at a leisurely pace while his breath fell into a steady rhythm. He’s sound asleep.

New York City

Before the spontaneous trip to Carlsbad, New Mexico; Lance was a student at New York University. He was majoring in Film and Biochemistry which was totally absurd to his friends and family. But he didn’t care, he told himself, “If I’m going to school for something hard, I should at least go for something fun as well.” The first couple of months as a Freshman were going better than he had planned but nothing exciting happened. All he did was go to school, work, home, and the cycle would start all over again. Until he noticed a new student sitting in his undesignated chair at the beginning of his film class. “Uhm...I know we’re not fifth graders but you’re in my spot,” he insisted. The man looked up at Lance and immediately apologized, “Sorry, I just got back from being out of town and took the closest spot near the door.” Lance crossed his arms, “Damn bro that’s crazy, but I don’t remember asking.”

The person who was sitting in his chair looked at Lance to see if he was kidding or not, but his facial expression didn’t change. After the man moved, Lance sat down and started digging through his bag for his journal. Instead of sitting at a different table, the man decided to sit next to Lance. He put his stuff down and cleared his throat to draw Lance’s attention. But Lance was not interested, so he did it again but this time at a louder octave. Lance groaned and turned around in his chair so that he was facing the man sitting next to him, “Can I help you Mr. I like to clear my throat loud as hell?” The man next to him laughed so loud, the few students in the room stopped talking and looked over at the boys who were sitting across the room. Lance immediately felt embarrassed and despite him loving to be the center of attention, this was not it. In response, he slapped the man next to him in the arm, “Shut up oh my god. The pretentious assholes are judging us.”

It took a minute for the man to stop laughing because Lance telling him to be quiet only made him laugh more. “I’m sorry...you just humor me is all. I’m Lotor by the way,” he stated, offering his hand to Lance. He took it with a firm grip before squeezing it as hard as he could, “The name’s Lance and if you embarrass me again I will kill you.” After letting go of the handshake, Lotor massages his hand, “You have a nice grip for someone of your stature.” Lance cocked his head to the side in utter shock, “My stature?” Lotor? That's your name, right? I’m gonna need you to stay far away from me.” Lotor grins at Lance with amusement, “Or what? You’re going to kill me? I hate to break it to you loverboy, I can't die. I’m just built different.”

Lance covers his mouth trying to muffle his laugh but it’s no use, they escape with ease. “You’re built different?” he chuckled. Lotor nods his head in agreement, “Yes, mentally and quite physically,” he added. Which was completely true. Although Lance didn’t say anything before, Lotor was about as handsome as they come. A true Tall, Dark, and Handsome if you will. His hair was this long silky white that didn’t even seem remotely real, but it was. The way he carried himself was almost godly, he looked like he was brimming with confidence but not in an arrogant way. He knew his worth but didn’t feel like he was more worthy than other people. However, the thing Lance didn’t know about Lotor was that everything he did although it seemed genuine, was a calculated thing to gain the attention of someone who didn’t seem to fall under his aura.

Lance’s warm laughter finally dialed down, “I’m going to be honest with you Lotor, I was picking a fight with you. And I hate to admit this, but you won. So is there anything you would like to know or want from me in exchange since I was being an asshole?” Lotor brought his hand to his chin and was silent for a while then he spoke up in a definitive tone, “I want to take you out on a date.” Lance choked on his spit, “Uhh..umm...m-me? On a date with you? You’re fucking with me.”

“Not yet…” Lotor giggled. Lance punched him in the arm, “You’re disgusting, however... if you’re paying then don’t mind if I do. I’m what the kids call... poor,” flicking finger guns towards Lotor. He fingers guns Lance back, “Guess it’s a date.”

“I guess it is,” said Lance. Before Lotor was able to respond, their Professor Coran walked through the door guns a-blazing, quite literally. “Okay class, these are not real guns! But let’s pretend that they are. Give me a serious scenario that involves gun violence that isn’t related to school shootings, gangs, or police brutality.” The whole class starts talking amongst themselves and then they’re immediately interrupted by their professor again, “Time! Now raise your hand if you have an idea. The best one is gonna be what our next assignment will be based on, so please don’t let it be stupid. And if it is, please let it be funny. That’s all I ask for.”

The professor scans the room for any volunteer hands but at last, he sees none, maybe the whole assignment thing might’ve scared his students. But an unfamiliar face draws his attention, “You there, Storm. What’s your idea? You have five seconds.” Lotor points to himself and the teacher nods, “A funny slash stupid idea would be a war type movie but all the soldiers have t-shirt guns and my serious idea would be a father killing his son because he got in the way of the bullet that was going to hit his sister and mom.” The class grew cold and not a single sound was made. The professor stares at Lotor before speaking up, “Marvelous! Now, if anyone can top that then be my guest, or if not this will be our baseline for our upcoming assignment.”

Lance looked around the room before answering, “I think I can top Mr. Snowball here’s idea.” Their professor grinned and Lotor scoffed. “Be my guest McClain,” the professor offered. Lance sat up and leaned on the table in front of him, “Okay check it. You and your best friend get caught up in some sort of like underground bullshit yanno? However, the love of your life has been kidnapped and the only way to save them is to shoot your best friend. And yes, the obvious answer would be to save your best friend right? Who cares about love? But get this, your best friend is in excruciating pain and he’s dying by the minute, literally pleading for you to kill him. So...you have to honor your best bros' wishes right? Or do you ignore his dying wish and let your significant other die and then later lose your best friend, leaving you completely alone in a world full of strangers?” Everyone in the class was at a complete loss and there were some faint sniffles heard in the background.

“Wooh...Jesus Christ McClain. I asked for an idea, not a sob story,” the professor signed. “Well thank you Mr. McClain and?...”

“Lotor.”

“Lotor. Thank you young gentleman for the ideas!” He clapped his hands, “Now, the assignment for the next couple of weeks is to take either of those options and make them come to life. Any medium is fine, just get the job done. You got it?” The class shakes their heads, “Yes sir.”

“Alright, now scram. But if you have any questions, no matter how minuscule, I’ll answer them. Have a nice day class.” The class grew octaves in sound as the students were fixing their bags and mumbling about their next assignment, wondering how the fuck they plan on filming a story centered around guns in a public area. Lotor watches Lance pack up his things. “Sooo..” he dragged. “You watch Banana Fish?” Lance's eyes filled with tears immediately, “Yes... oh my god. I’m still in pain. Wait...how do you know Banana Fish?” Lotor smiled and stuck a finger under his nose, “I’m a nerd.” Lance looks at him with furrowed brows, “You say that as if it’s a thing to brag about.”

“Hell yeah, I get mad if people don’t know that I’m a nerd. I’m more than just this handsome face and hair loverboy.”

“Well thank god for that...I was actually worried about our topic of discussion for our date. The last thing I wanna talk about is sports blegh or god forbid we cater to small talk.”

“That makes two of us, what class do you have next?” Lotor asked.

“This is my last class for today. Lucky right? You?”

“Must be nice, I have Business and Administration next which is a total drag.”

“Oh my god, not you being a business major...cringe.”

Lotor playfully punches Lance in the arm as they were walking out of class together, “Cringe? I think what’s cringe is referencing Banana Fish to the professor as your magically I can top Mr. Snowballs here’s idea. You’re a fucking tool I swear to god.”

Lance chuckles, “You sound like my friend...his thing is calling people tools. I don’t understand.”

“Sounds like a good friend,” Lotor responds.

“Yeah...he is,” Lance said with a heartfelt smile on his face. Maybe Lance didn’t realize this himself but it was quite obvious from the way he looked talking about Keith. There were some sort of romantic feelings behind it. Seeing that look on Lance’s face made Lotor jealous, despite only just meeting him. Lance was about to speak up to ask for Lotor's phone number but he was cut off. “Hey, do you like Keith or something?”

This question threw him completely off guard and he actually didn’t have a concrete answer for that and even if he did it wasn’t Lotor’s business to know anyway, but for some odd reason, Lance felt obligated to let him know that that wasn’t the case. He didn’t want Lotor to get the wrong idea especially since this might be his first relationship with a guy. “Uh...no it’s nothing like that, sorry. We’re just friends I swear.”

Lotor grinned at Lance, utterly amused at how flustered he became over a single question and it was cool that he wasn't dating Keith or whatever. But his main focus was how easy it was to see Lance lose his cool like that and actually fall under his influence. Lotor giggles, “Hey man I was just kidding. It’s all good. Before I leave, what’s your phone number?”

Lance nervously laughs in response to Lotor’s statement, although still feeling uncomfortable and on edge, he types his phone number into Lotor’s phone and they call it a day.

“It was a pleasure meeting you loverboy, see you soon!” Lotor said, waving goodbye as he walked down the corridor.

“Yeah...see you soon,” he responded.

Despite everything that happened, Lance couldn’t help but smile. A cute boy got his phone number and he thought to himself that college life was finally going to pick up. Which it was, but maybe not in the way he had hoped. Being 18 was technically an adult, but Lance McClain had so much to learn. There's so much he should’ve taken precautions on. Maybe if his mom told him more about guys instead of insisting on him to date girls because that would make her happy, Lance would know what a healthy relationship is like. Lance would know that no means no. He would’ve known how to be strong enough to protect himself. He would’ve known how to ask for help.

Ontario, Canada

The present Shiro was going to leave for "Daddy" was a very innocent housewarming gift. He reaches into his backpack and slides on his pair of gloves before setting up his "design" all the while Mr. Zarukon’s dog watches him with curiosity written all over her face. He finished his grand set up which was a little tea party. There was a white intricate lace placed on the kitchen table with two childlike teacups, but one was filled to the brim with wine while the other had Mrs. Zarukon’s blood. He also had tiny plates with little snacks and the eyes and ears of Mrs. Zarukon. Shiro’s original plan was to kill the dog and use its body for the tea party set up but why waste a perfect opportunity? Having to drain Mrs. Zarukon’s blood was no easy feat, for starters she weighed significantly more than a dog and he couldn’t hang her up upside down like a bat to drain her blood more effectively. But luckily for him, he brought a couple of syringes. As for the dismantling of her eyes and ears, that didn’t take long as he thought it would. Kudos to him for bringing such a sharp knife. While scooping out her eyes he had a moment of hesitation, but it wasn’t because of his horrendous acts.

He was trying to decide if he should scoop out the entire eyeball and leave all the nasty dangly stuff on it or should he cut it off? After cleaning the eyeballs and setting them up on the plates he writes a note explaining the unfortunate situation, ‘Dear Zarukon, I hope this message finds you well. You have two options and if I were you, I would tread lightly. One cup consists of wine, a drink most adults would appreciate. However, the other cup has a liquid that is very taboo. Also sorry about your wife, that was truly an accident. But fret not, I took precious time out of my day to make sure that she was used well. See you soon. xoxo.” Shiro reads over his note one last time before placing it down in the middle of the cups. He disposes of any evidence that could trace back to him no matter how minuscule it might seem. He wanted the kitchen to look almost too clean and that he did. Shiro thought about leaving Mrs. Zarukon on top of the stairs but if her husband came down and saw that he would immediately call the police and that would risk his chances of him missing out on the beautiful tea party.

So, Shiro walked up the stairs and dragged Mrs. Zarukon towards the living room. He threw her on the couch and set her straight up in a way that it looked like she was watching tv. He does a final sweep through the areas of the house and cleaned up any leftover blood while completely eliminating the smell of cleaning products. A skill his mother taught him which actually came in handy. Before leaving through the back door, the thunderstorm finally calmed down. The rain ceased to cascade, and the brassy threat of the thunder was dead silent. A tranquil feeling washed over Shiro and he never felt happier. This job was a complete success, minus that one thing that happened but he was able to look past that tiny mistake. His father always told him, “Mistakes are meant to be made as long as the final product was better than before.” Upon leaving, a soft whimper was made from the dog. She tried to follow him out the door but he stopped her. “Listen dog, I know I said I was taking you with me, but I have nowhere to put you and my parents would kill me if I brought home a pet. Also, the threat of anyone finding out that you don’t actually belong to me, but mostly the parent thing,” he apologized while rubbing her head. He gives her one last pat before sneaking out the back door through the fence. While Shiro was cleaning up the scene he debated if fixing the back door was necessary but decided against it for two reasons. One, thunderstorms break windows, that’s a fact; and two, it would just increase the worry on Mr. Zarukon.

He wakes up in the morning and can’t find his wife, no big deal right? She could just be in the bathroom, but when he calls her name and she doesn’t answer thus leaving him to feel a little bit worried. So, he climbs out of bed and knocks on the bathroom door before entering expecting to see his wife, but at last, she’s not there. Now, his panic starts to rise but this time at a higher level. He’s yelling her name but no answer and he walks down the stairs and sees the back door busted wide open. Glass is everywhere but his wife is still nowhere to be found. Now, he’s officially panicking. Until he walks down the stairs and glances at the tea party from across the room, ‘She must’ve made breakfast,’ he thinks to himself. Panic seems to dial back down a bit, but that doesn’t explain the broken glass. Mr. Zarukon is now in the living room staring at the back of her head, worry ceases to exist. “Honerva, you scared the shit out of me. You should’ve woken me up if you saw all the glass on the floor. What if you hurt yourself?” he emphasized, reaching his hand out to rub her head. The moment his hands touched his wife, her body slumped over and fell to the floor. He rushes over to her and immediately jumps back in horror. Tears stream down his face looking at his wife and can’t help but wonder, “Why me? Why her?”

This thought brought pleasure to Shiro’s body and of course, he can’t just fix the window, it was an important piece for his idea of justice. Since the storm stopped, it didn’t take as long for him to get home and he was surprised he made it back before sunrise. After throwing his stuff in the closet he climbs into bed and releases a deep breath he didn’t know he was holding. He wasn’t sure if it was anxiety or the adrenaline of possibly getting away with murder but his body wouldn’t stop shaking and despite trying to fight back the tears he just couldn’t. Through muffled sobs he closes his eyes and falls to sleep, “I’m going to make him pay, it’s not fair. It’s not fair. It’s not fair.”

Carlsbad, New Mexico

Lance is a deep sleeper. No matter how loud of a noise you make, nothing will wake up that man. His mom always got onto him for sleeping that deep because it’s very dangerous. “What if someone kidnaps you? They could steal the whole house and leave you here without you even knowing.” No matter how many times she nagged he always told her it wasn’t his fault, “It’s not like I’m doing on purpose.” And this was the one time he actually decided to listen to his mom. Although sleeping, he felt very uneasy and it wasn’t just because of the situation in regards to Shiro and Keith. It was like his subconscious knew something didn’t add up. He slowly opened his eyes and what he saw immediately woke him up. Lance screamed bloody murder and jumped out of the bed so fast he ended up tripping over himself and the blankets he was wrapped up in. While screaming, he was frantically getting himself off the floor and as far away as possible from the bed. He reached for the door but it opened from the outside and he fell right in between Keith and Shiro. “Lance!” they say in unison.

“What the hell happened?” asked Keith.

“You were screaming bloody murder and we heard you from the kitchen,” added Shiro. Lance still didn’t answer them and pulled himself up from the floor. “First of...thanks for the help.”

“Uh..” Shiro and Keith responded, quite embarrassed for being called out. Lance dusted his clothes and walked completely away from the door and down the stairs. “I’m not staying in there, like ever. Keith, please grab my things.”

“Uh...sure thing,” he responded, still confused about the situation.

Shiro and Keith walk into the room and see that it’s a complete mess. There's a messed up bed, the nightstand is knocked over, feathers all over the room. “You have feathered pillows? You rich rich.” Keith joked. Shiro laughs, “Please, feather pillows aren’t even that expensive and besides, this is my parents' house, so they're rich rich.”

“You're rich rich by association smartass and what the hell happened in here?” asked Keith, walking around the room picking up the mess Lance left. Shiro walks over to the bed and cackles, “Keith, you might want to take a look at this.” He walks over to the man standing next to the bed and laughs alongside him. “It’s just a scorpion Lance, not the Wicked Witch of the West!” he yelled. In response, Lance yells from the living room, “No shit, she’s way worse but that doesn’t mean I just automatically love scorpions asshole!”

“Wicked Witch of the West?” Shiro asked, picking up the scorpion by the tail.

“Don’t tell Lance that I told you this but you know how people are scared of debt and the boogeyman? Well...Lance is a special case. His childhood fear was the Wicked Witch of the West. He said he got weird juju vibes from her which is whatever, but his sister would terrorize him with that every Halloween. And I have to give credit to her, that takes some dedication.”

“That is the funniest shit...the Wicked Witch of the West? Jesus Christ,” he replied, still holding the scorpion in his hand.

“Right? I’m gonna go check up on that scaredy-cat who trashed your room, sorry. I’ll clean it up later.”

“It’s all good, it’s just feathers. Tell Lance that I’m sorry I didn’t warn him in advance that I had a pet scorpion.”

“A what? You’re kidding...why?”

“Aren’t they cute?” he gleamed while shaking the scorpion in front of Keith’s face. He shook his head, “Uhh..to each their own I guess? But are you sure about the mess?”

They walk out of the room and Shiro closes the door behind him,” Yeah, I’m positive. I’ll meet you guys in the kitchen after I put this dude back in his cage.”

“Okay sure.” Keith finished, walking down the stairs towards the living room. While Shiro is putting his pet back in his cage, the boys are in the living room chatting about Shiro’s weird pet while Keith is making fun of Lance for screaming that loud. Once the banter comes to an end, an awkward tension arises. “So- '' they say at the same time, a nervous laugh escapes their lips. Lance speaks up first, “Sorry about earlier, I know you were just worried about me and I-”

He’s cut off my Keith, “Don’t apologize, I had to be all macho man and start slamming doors. Fuck..I don’t even live here and besides what if my godly strength broke the door?” he joked, trying to lighten the mood.

“As if, you’re as strong as a fishing pole. Sturdy at the bottom but once you reach the top it's all wobbly.” Taking offense to Lance’s words Keith pops his knuckles and snickers, “If you want to arm wrestle just say that. No need to hurt a man’s pride.” And in response, Lance cracks his necks and winds up his right arm as they do in the cartoons, “I can’t hurt something you don’t have mullet.”

The boys engage in a quite intense arm-wrestling competition, all rules off the table. And although Lance is obviously losing, he doesn’t back down and that just makes Keith try harder. After Lance miraculously gets the upper hand, quite literally they were interrupted by Shiro, “Hey, the make-up tea is here!” The sudden noise disturbs Lance’s focus and a smack echoes through the room, “Fuck! God Damn you, Shiro! I almost won.”

Shiro is looking back and forth between the two boys sitting on the floor, “S-sorry?” he says, placing the teas on the coffee table. Lance grabs the tea and blows on it, “This better be some good make-up tea or I’m suing for tampering with evidence.”

Keith scoffs and grabs his tea, “I think you mean infringement of privacy ditto.”

“I will kill you,” Lance deadpans. He takes a long sip of his tea and smiles at Shiro, “You just saved yourself from a lawsuit buster.” Shiro pretends to wipe sweat from his forehead, “Whooo, thank god. After the sue of 07’ life has been kinda hard for me.” They all laughed at his response and Shiro felt quite good about it. “Are you gonna sit down Mr.Funny man?” asked Lance.

“Oh, no. I don’t want to intrude. Besides, I have some business to take care of so you guys just have fun. Oh! I cleaned up the feathers, don’t worry about it, Keith. But Lance if you don’t feel comfortable staying in the room, there’s another one downstairs right in front of the bathroom. And my room is right next to that so if you guys need anything else, you know where to find me.” Shiro disclosed.

“Cool, well thanks for having us and not being a psycho killer.” Keith joked, drinking his tea.

“Yeah haha, it would be a shame if you were. But honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised because-”

“Hot people are always crazy!” Keith and Lance said, laughing uncontrollably.

Shiro nose exhales at their remarks, “It would be a shame.” He leaves the boys alone in the living room and for the first time in forever, he actually felt nervous. He knows that they’re just kidding and probably doesn’t actually suspect him, but that’s probably worse. ‘What if this was their way in telling me that they know, seeing how I would react to accusations disguised as humor?’ Maybe it was, maybe it wasn’t, but only time could tell. Shiro reaches his bedroom door and slaps his cheeks before walking in, “Calm down.”

With his anxiety on the rise, the only thing he could do was hope for the best, but Shiro had every right to be worried. Although it seemed like Keith was the one who was skeptical of him, he eventually opened up. Whereas Lance was acting like a trooper throughout the whole situation. Was that just the way he was, or was he acting like that on purpose?

Keith and Lance finished their tea, leaving their cups in the sink. “Are you going to sleep with me?” asked Keith, immediately regretting his choice of words. “Not like that, but are you staying in the same room?”

Lance turns his head, to hide his flushed face, “Uh, I think I’m gonna sleep downstairs, I know the threat is gone, but If I go in that room I will be up all night worrying yanno?” he mouthed, feeling bad that he turned Keith down. Although he was actually looking forward to being in the same bed as Keith, he just couldn’t do it. ‘Fuck scorpions, all my homies hate scorpions,’ he says to himself. Looking defeated Keith replies, “Oh, well it’s all good. No worries. If you need anything just call me okay?” And with that, they both leave for their rooms and call it a night.

Despite being totally eager to get into a strangers car and even going to the extent of staying in their house was completely insane. But Lance knew that he wasn’t as dumb and oblivious as people made him up to be. Right away he knew something was off about Shiro. Maybe because it’s normal to feel nervous around strangers but he knew it was much deeper than that. Although he didn’t have any proof, he knew Shiro stole the number he got from the waiter. Although that doesn’t necessarily make someone out to be a psycho killer, Lance knew the “Don’t worry, you can trust me I’m nice,” guy a little too well. He went through it with his ex-boyfriend Lotor, and he refuses to go through it again. Especially since he’s not alone this time. Messing with him is one thing, but don’t go messing with his friends.

While walking to his bedroom, Lance hears a faint moaning sound coming from the room next to him. He abruptly stops in his tracks and slowly places his ear on the door. The moan is heard again and he quickly covers his mouth. He looks around the hallway to make sure no one was going to sneak up on him and places his ear against the door. “mmm..fuck,” the man in the room mumbles. Lance's mouth falls wide open and he steadily backs away from the door, hands gently placed over his groin. After backing up towards the wall he notices that this was in fact Shiro’s room and that just made things worse for him. The swelling in his pants grew to be very uncomfortable and had about three options. One, rush to the bathroom and take care of himself. Two, rush to his room and take care of himself or option three which was just completely insane since Lance thinks Shiro is some sort of psycho killer. Option three, go into Shiro’s room and ask for a favor? Lance’s thoughts were running all over the place and he was doing his damndest to not knock at that man's door, but his urges outweighed his logic. And besides, maybe Shiro wasn’t as bad as he’s making him up to be. And with that, Lance felt that he convinced himself enough to go forward with the worst possible choice. Option three.

He carefully walks over to Shiro’s door and knocks, “Hey Shiro, can I come in?”

Ontario, Canada

Inside Lux Club

While laying in the blood of the man he just murdered, Shiro comes to the realization that he never told him that he “accidentally” killed his wife. He can’t believe such a crucial slot of information slipped his mind, I guess emotions do triumph over thinking clearly. He had blood all over his clothes and he left all his supplies in this dad’s car. ‘I’m the dumbest man.’ he says to himself. He didn’t have the time to run to the car and bring his stuff in nor did he really care. It’s a gay bar, there’s bound to be a little blood here and there. So the only thing he really needed to do was clean up as much blood off his clothes as he can and try to slip through the back. Luckily for him, he was inside a club and not the dressing rooms of a Forever 21. If you want to be caught for murder, just kill someone in the brightest place in the world. He opens the stall door and peeks around to see if anyone else was in the bathroom, there was no one. He steps over Mr. Zarukon and scoffs. He finishes washing his clothes to the best of his abilities and leaves the bathroom with wet clothes that are stuck to his skin. His body shakes due to the change in temperature and he’s rubbing the sides of his arms to generate heat. He looks around the bar and spots the back exit and before he’s able to make a run for it, the man from the counter, the one with who he shared a drink with stopped him. “Hey boo! I can see that you're all...wet?” He glances Shiro up and down. “Are you okay honey?” he asked.

“Y-yeah...you know how it is,” Shiro responds, trying to shift the conversation. The man laughs at Shiro’s remark, “You know if you don’t wanna get caught, you best would try to leave where you came from.”

Shiro is taken aback, “What do you mean caught?”

“Listen doll, I’m not stupid but I’m also not a snitch so you better do what I say. I don’t even have enough fingers or toes to count the number of people who slipped through the back door and ended up going to prison. We use the bathroom here for two things, pissin’ and killin,’” the bartender confessed with a little too much pep. “And although you’re soaking wet, it doesn’t smell like piss...so I can only assume the only available option huh?”

At this point Shiro is unsure what to do, is this guy fucking with him? Should he not listen and escape through the back or go out the front to avoid getting caught? Shiro stays quiet, carefully choosing his next words. He was about to speak up before he was interrupted by the bartender, “My name’s Matt kid, and if it would make you feel better I’ll leave with you through the front.” Shiro shakes his head yes. The bartender reaches into his back pocket,  pulling out his badge all the while Shiro tries to make a run for it, but he’s quickly grabbed by the neck with an overbearing grip. Matt laughs at Shiro’s pesky attempt to escape, “Shiro, calm down. You’re not in trouble. But you will be if you leave through that back door. Now listen to me very closely because I’m only going to say this once. I work for the FBI and I’ve been on this case for a while. Mr. Zarukon? We’ve been trying to pin down that dude for a while for obvious reasons. But you just made my job a whole lot easier but also now I have to clean up your mess. You can either run through that back door and I turn you in, sending you to big boy jail because what you did in there was not self-defense. Or, and this might appeal to you. We can leave through the front and I take you back to the station to get you all cleaned up and you work for me?”

Matt releases his grip on the boy and waits for him to respond. Shiro stares Matt in the eyes to make sure that he wasn’t lying because he won’t hesitate to stab the dude right in the middle of the club and book it. But he ultimately decides against it. “ Fine, we can leave together, but I’m not going to work for you.” he pouts.

Matt wraps an arm around Shiro and gives him a peck on the cheek, “Well of course not, you’re gonna be working for the government.”

Shiro quickly looks at the man who’s walking him to the front in total disbelief. This night could have ended in a multitude of ways and Shiro wasn't expecting being recruited for the army a thing that would happen. First off, he literally murdered someone in the bathroom but since Matt already knew who he was, it wouldn’t surprise Shiro if he happened to know about the incident with Mrs. Zarukon two years ago. But despite being a totally absurd turn of events, he couldn’t stop grinning from ear to ear. His dad would be so proud of him for following in his footsteps and this might be the thing to patch things up between them. Although his dad was being nice to him on his birthday that was just a ruse so that he wouldn’t get scolded by his wife. After all, Shiro was still a problem child who couldn’t keep away from trouble and sometimes his dad would get a little too fed up with it. But now? He has the chance of redeeming himself. Little soldier boy, come marching home. 

Chapter Text

Carlsbad, New Mexico

Despite everything that happened with Lance’s car breaking down and then breaking step one in the Idiot’s Common Sense handbook: Don’t Get Into Cars with Strangers even if they're hot. Keith admits to himself that he’s having a good time. Lance asking him to go on a spontaneous road-trip was definitely something he never considered would make for a good time. Not that staying days or even weeks alone with Lance was supposed to be unbearable, he just didn’t trust himself enough to do it. Lance was still grieving over his break-up with Lotor. Even if he wanted people to think he wasn’t. And Keith didn’t think it would be fair if he took advantage of that. He wouldn’t deliberately prey on his feelings, but where do you draw the line from friendly support and trying to show that you’re better than his ex? Realistically, you can't. So for Keith, it was just better to avoid Lance altogether. They didn’t talk for weeks prior to the road trip, so Lance asking to go out of town with him was completely out of the blue. Especially since his go-to’s are Hunk and Pidge. Luckily for him, Keith racked up a year's worth of vacation days. He was able to drop everything for Lance despite his best interest. And look at them now. Drinking make-up tea in a stranger's vacation home and winning an arm-wrestling match. I guess capitalism does pay off. 

Keith and Lance finished their tea and walked to the kitchen to place their cups in the sink. Keith reaches out towards Lance and ruffles his hair from behind. He warms into the touch and instinctively turns around and smiles at Keith. 

“What is it?” Lance questioned. 

“Are you going to sleep with me?” asked Keith, immediately regretting his choice of words. “Not like that, but are you staying in the same room?” 

Lance turns his head to hide his flushed face, “Uh….I think I’m gonna sleep downstairs. I know the threat is gone, but If I go in that room I will be up all night worrying yanno?” he mouthed, feeling bad that he turned Keith down because he was actually looking forward to the sleepover. Ever since the trip, they've just been slumming it out in his car and taking ho-baths at the nearest gas stations to save money. The look of defeat washes over Keith's face but he quickly gains his composure. “Oh..well it’s all good. No worries. If you need anything just call me okay?” he replies. 

Lance gives Keith a quick smile, “Yeah, forsure. Goodnight Mullet. Don’t let the scorpions bite.” 

Keith scoffs, “Sure thing...if you hear me scream bloody murder just know that they got me.”

 “Asshole,” Lance joked. Walking down the hall towards the bedroom next to Shiro. 

Keith stops halfway up the stairs and looks over the railing at Lance, “Goodnight loverboy.” 

Lance laughs to himself and flips Keith off. 

Keith closes the bedroom door and longingly looks at the king-sized mattress. “So...we meet again. What’s a king bed without a queen?” he says to himself before jumping into it. He takes a deep breath and slowly closes his eyes. He’s sound asleep. For the first time in forever, he’s actually excited to wake up for the next day. 

New York City 

Meeting Lotor was an unexpected surprise which sounds redundant, but that just proves how insane their interaction was. Lance’s college life was falling into a tedious routine and Lotor not only showing up to his film class but also asking him out on a date was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Lance was ecstatic, so much that he even showed up to work early. Something he never does. He’s been there so long he actually shows up late on purpose. He does whatever he can to get fired but his boss never lets him go. So showing up early for once threw his boss Zethrid off-guard. She heard the bell chime as Lance skipped through the door grinning ear to ear.

“Well, well, well...if it isn’t loverboy himself,” Zethrid amused as she was organizing the clearance clothing rack. Lance walks over to Zethrid and bows, “It is I Loverboy, what an honor to be graced by your presence my liege.” She laughs out loud, “Lance you’re too silly. You know you're an hour and a half early right?” 

Ezor walks out the back room carrying a box of hangers, “That stupid grin on your face says he didn’t even notice.” 

Across the room, Acxa yells, “So who’s the lucky guy McClain?” 

Lance looks around the room at his coworkers and boss who seem to be doing everything in their power but mind their business. His smile is then replaced by an exasperated groan, “For your information, I do know I’m early and his name is Lotor.” 

“Oh nice, what anime is he from?” asked Ezor. Lance places his hand on his chest, utterly offended by the statement. “Anime? guys, he’s a real person...this time.” Acxa walks across the room toward Zethrid and Ezor, “By real you mean fleshy and has human organs?” 

“As opposed to pixels and lines on paper?" Zethrid added. 

Lance throws his arms in the air and walks to the employee locker room, “You guys are terrible people, but he does have human organs this time also we definitely have a real in-person date.” 

“Not a real in-person date...ladies I think loverboy found himself a real boy,” Acxa laughs, alongside Zethrid and Ezor. 

Lance walks into the employee locker room and slams the door. His voice is muffled but they can hear him yelling about how much he hates working here. 

“It’s so funny when he gets mad,” said Acxa. “Lance, since you’re here early you might as well clock in.” He walks out of the locker room with his work uniform on which is just a button-down shirt with a vest and dress pants. “You don’t think I know that Acxa? That’s the problem…” 

“You could just quit if you hate it here so much,” said Zethrid. Lance rolls his eyes, “You know I can’t do that. Although I hate you guys, I do consider you my second family. Also, I’m already broke. If I quit, I’ll be poor.” 

“Aww..he hates us. That’s so cute” Acxa mocked. “I will kill you,” Lance added, flipping her off from across the room. 

While hanging up clothes Ezor asks, “Okay, but seriously, who is Lotor tho? If he’s real-”

“He is,” Lance confirms. 

Ezor laughs to herself, “Explain then.” 

Lance props himself up on the checkout counter before jumping right off as Zethrid gives him the death stare. He awkwardly smiles and sits on the booth next to the front door. “Okay so first of all, Lotor is real. Mans was sitting in my spot during my film class and we kinda got into an argument.” 

“So you picked a fight with him?” asked Acxa.

“Yes I did, but that’s besides the point. Soooo, we got into it and turns out, dude is actually funny. And by funny, I mean he can match my energy. But what really got me, besides his gorgeous face and hair, is that he’s a total nerd. Like my level of nerd...which is insane right? But anyways after class, he asked for my number and that eventually led to a date.” Lance expressed, swaying back and forth in the booth unable to keep still. 

While he was rambling about his encounter with Lotor, he failed to mention the circumstance that took place after class. The girls never found out about how weird Lotor was about Lance’s relationship with his friend Keith. How did Lotor even know him in the first place? Lance didn’t want to spark any concerns without at least confirming the situation for himself. But maybe if he said something about it, his coworkers would have been able to help him. Or at least warn him that stuff like that is completely not okay, especially if you just met. But alas, Lance was still a kid and he didn’t think it was that big of a deal. 

Ontario, Canada

Teenagers are nature’s rebels. And 16-year-old Takashi Shirogane made sure of that. Despite transferring in and out of school and going from therapist to therapist for bad behaviour during his preschool and elementary years. You would think that Shiro might have learned something or at least changed the error of his ways. His parents and school administrators were fools to think so, but can you blame them? By the time Shirogane reached 16, he was a very accomplished manipulator. He knew all the trigger words to keep himself out of trouble and was a master at imitating human emotions. Although he had trouble feeling emotions himself. He could rationalize and even pinpoint what caused a certain reaction out of him, but he never actually experienced that emotion. Having a crush or even the chemical reaction of love was definitely not on his top 10 things I need to feel before I die list. Until he bumped into an upperclassman named Adam. Shiro knew for a fact that he wasn’t in love with Adam, but looking back on his youth and eventually dating him only to lose him during his time in the military. He could only admit that his younger self was head over heels for Adam, even if he refused to believe it. Back then, Shiro was fascinated with how Adam could see straight through his facade. Which would be embarrassing for most people, but to him, it felt like their own little secret. It was something the only two of them knew about. Adam understood him. And that’s all people want is for someone to see them for who they truly are and accept them for as they are. 

Shiro was skipping school again with his lackeys Kinkade and Regis. He calls them that, but those are honestly his two best friends. They met in 6th grade and they’ve been hanging out ever since. They snuck out the side doors that were next to the cafeteria as they usually do, but this time they bump into Adam, Nadia, and Curtis. Quite literally, Kinkade was running out of the door and smacked right into the person behind them. 

“Yo...what the fuck,” Kinkade yelled, stumbling over his feet then landing on the cold concrete floor. His body made a loud smack sound and was followed up by a louder thunk as his head hit the door they just walked out of. He didn’t even get a chance to register what knocked him flat on his ass.  All he heard was Shiro and Regis cackling at him. Kinkade mocked their laughs at first before joining in to laugh at his own clumsiness. As he was getting up he grabbed onto an outstretched hand, no inclination as to who it was. 

 “Dude...I’m so sorry. Are you okay? How’s your head?” asked Curtis, trying to hold back his laughter. “I’m-...Listen-...It wasn’t on purpose I swear...I’m laughing because I’m nervous not because you busted your head open on the do-” Curtis couldn’t even complete his sentence before his obnoxious laugh took over. He let go of Kinkade's hand so he could wrap his arms around his body to forcefully stop laughing. Curtis was hunched over like a hyena and he physically couldn’t stop himself. Every time he tried it would come rushing back tenfold. It got louder as he watched Kinkade fall back on the ground again after losing his balance since Curtis let go of his hand. At this point, Kinkade was getting fed up and the two of them started bickering. 

“Ha..ha…so not only you give me a concussion but then you laugh at my pain? Bruh...you got me all types of fucked up man,” Kinkade said. This time he decided to pick himself up off of the ground. Instantly learning a life lesson about what hands you should trust with your life. Mental note, not Curtis. Ever. 

Curtis dragged his hands down his face while he was chuckling at Kinkade, “Bro...it’s not that deep. I said it wasn’t on purpose.” 

Kinkade’s mouth dropped open at the sheer audacity of Curtis's statement, “Not on purpose? Nah.. you gotta be messing with me right now b. Because this ain’t about no purpose...I’m over that. What’s got me pressed is that I trusted you and you actually let me down. I can’t believe this.” He looks at Shiro who shakes his head at him, “Nuh-uh...not my fight bro.” After being rejected he glances over at Regis who does the same thing. Kinkade groans, “I can’t believe this is my life right now. Surrounded by bullies.” Shiro walks over Kinkade and wraps his arm around his shoulder, “Kinny, if you think this is bullying, try going to therapy.” Kinkade rolls his eyes and tries to push Shiro off of him but that only makes his grip tighter. He lowers his head as a sign for surrendering, “So who are you guys?”

Curtis finally stands up straight after gathering himself, “I’m Curtis and this is my girlfriend Nadia and her boyfriend Adam.” Kinkade, Regis, and Shiro look at each other to see if this was really happening. Shiro was about to say something before a thunk was struck against the head of Curtis. 

“Nads, I was kidding,” Curtis pouted while rubbing the sore spot. She flicked him in the ear, “I am not Adam’s girlfriend!” She announced, feeling offended Curtis would he say that. 

“Oh...so that’s the issue you have with that statement?” Adam huffed. 

“Yes it is, Curtis is a sweetheart,” said Nadia, pulling Curtis into a tight hug.

“More like a demon,” added Kinkade. 

“Whatever,” Nadia said, sticking her tongue out at Kinkade. He flips her off and mouths demon. Adam, Shiro, and Regis snicker at their interaction. 

“Okay, well I’m Shiro. This cutie I’m holding is Kinkade, aka Kinny. And Short-round over there is Regis. You guys wanna come with us? 6th period is like halfway done anyways,” he said.

Adam looks over at Curtis and Nadia, who then nods in confirmation. “Yeah sure, we honestly weren’t going to class anyways. We have 6th period off.” 

“Cool, well... we aren’t coming back for 7th so are you still game tho?” Shiro asked, trying to size up Adam. Although Curtis and Nadia did most of the talking and they both seem to get along with Kinkade and Regis. Shiro could tell that Adam was the undesignated head of the group. Adam smiled at Shiro, completely aware of the nature of his question. 

“Shiro was it? Yeah... if you’re asking us to skip class then yeah we’re game. Also, we’re seniors so I think we’ve been doing this a bit longer than you have. If you guys were really about it, it’s much easier to sneak out through the band hall doors. Yeah, the security guard's post is there, but are they ever in there? Absolutely not.” he ribbed. Shiro stared at him completely baffled by his response. He laughs to himself, “So do you guys drive, or is that something else I should be really on about?” 

Nadia chuckles to herself, “Adam this kid is like a mini-you, but yeah we do drive. How else do you think we got here? Walking? Bus? Cringe.” 

Regis and Kinkade laugh at her response and look at Shiro to see what their next plan of action was. Shiro unclamps himself from Kinkade and pops his knuckles, “Well...what’s the move, Adam?” 

“Let’s see...where do you wanna go Regis?” he asked, noticing how little the kid spoke. He wonders how he even became friends with Kinkade and Shiro. Poor kid, he thinks to himself. 

Regis shrugs his shoulders as he walks up to Shiro, standing very close to him. Shiro pulls Regis into a half hug and then lets him go. Regis laughs, finally warming up. “Uh...you guys like nerf guns?” 

“Nerf guns?” Adam, Nadia, and Curtis say in unison. 

“Y-yeah...we can stop at my house and like pack up. Then we hit the mall and go crazy yanno? Since there’s six of us, we can have teams, yanno?” he mumbles. 

“Yanno?...that sounds kinda lit...first person to get kicked out a store buys us food,” Curtis added. 

“Oh...you are so on funny man,” said Kinkade. 

“Funny man is a compliment ditto,” Curtis chimed. 

“You are begging me to kill you right now huh?” added Kinkade, running over to Curtis. Nadia steps in front of Curtis to shield him from the hormonal teen. Kinkade immediately stops in his tracks and pretends to be terrified, “Why do I hear boss music?” They all start cackling. Adam claps his hands to draw everyone’s attention, “Alright...shall we?” 

“We shall,” they say in unison before bowing at the same time. They look at each other and fall into a fit of laughter. They walk to Adam’s car and climb in. Regis, Kinkade, Nadia, and Curtis jammed in the backseat of his black jeep. While Shiro and Adam are in the front. He turns on the ignition and drives out of the school parking lot. “Reggie, I’m gonna need some directions bud. I’m a senior not a psychic.”

“O-okay,” Regis replies. 

Feeling bold, Shiro fumbles with the radio. Nadia and Curtis gasp in the backseat. No one touches Adam's radio...he’s very anal about that. But little to their surprise, he doesn’t freak out. He either likes this kid or is definitely going to kill him later. Nadia and Curtis were betting on the later part. 

“Are you going to pick a song or is this a way for you to drive me mental?” Adam suggested, glancing at Shiro’s long fingers that were fiddling between stations. 

Shiro smirks before leaving the radio on a rock music station, “If I’m driving you mental now just wait until you get to know me.” 

“Who says I’m going to do that?” Adam prodded. 

“Says the dude who’s driving us to my friend's house so we can play tag with nerf guns.” 

“Fair point.”

“Tell me something I don’t know.”

“I don’t know your phone number.” Adam coaxed. 

Faints ooh’s were heard in the background of the loud rock music. Shiro turns around in his seat and gives the people in the back a stare to shut up. They willingly comply. 

“You’re asking a sophomore for his number? Down bad I see.” Shiro jokes. 

“Down bad? Possibly, but I honestly think we should definitely talk after this. It’s not like we see each other in school.” 

“Turn right,” Regis shouts from the backseat. Being crushed by Nadia and Curtis as Adam makes a sharp turn. 

“That is very true,” Shiro says before looking at the window trying to hide his flushed face. It didn’t do him any good because his hair was in a low bun so that meant his ears were visible. Visible enough for Adam to see them flush. “Cute,” he said under his breath, but loud enough for Shiro to hear it. A soft “Shut up weirdo,” was muttered right after. 

For the first time in his life, Shiro actually felt flustered by someone. Maybe it could be the teenage hormones, but all Shiro knew was that Adam was someone dangerous. He was very put off by how well Adam’s friends got along with his. It’s like they all knew each other for years, which was obviously not the case. They all just met. For the first time in forever, Shiro actually felt something instead of analyzed it. Maybe skipping school isn’t so bad as people make it out to be. 

They finally reach Regis’s house. They climb out of the car and all walk inside. To his surprise, Regis’s parents are home and their eyes dart across all the highschool kids walking into their house. A wave of hello's echoed around the room.

“Uh hey...so these are my friends Adam, his girlfriend Nadia, and her boyfriend Curtis,” he says, which earns a light punch in the arm from Nadia, and giggles from the rest of the group. His parents look horrified but they ease into a smile. “Well then, Nadia seems to be enjoying herself,” his mom adds. The group of kids groan with disgust. 

“Anyways.. omg. We’re going to pick up some nerf guns and head out!” Kinkade says, doing his best to change the subject. 

“Okay, well have fun kiddos.” Regis’s parents say. 

The highschoolers rush into Regis’s room, they grab the nerfs guns and head out in a matter of minutes. Regis kissed his mom on the cheek before closing the door behind him. 

“I honestly thought Shiro and Kinkade were his only friends,” his mom says. 

As they rush into the car, this time changing their seat order. Nadia is driving with Kinkade as the passenger while Adam, Shiro, Curtis, and Regis are jammed in the back. 

“This man is too thick...Nadia you asshole!” Adam yells in reference to Curtis who has him bunched up to the door. 

“So...you think I’m thick?” Curtis flirts, rubbing his hand up and down Adam’s thigh. Nadia shakes her head and turns on the car. “Crazy how I’m always being introduced as the girlfriend when Adam is clearly Curtis’s boyfriend.” 

Kinkade changes the radio to a pop music station, “They should just fuck already.” 

“You think so too huh?” Nadia asks, driving out Regis’s neighborhood towards the mall. 

“Most definitely,” Kinkade replies.

On the drive to the mall, Nadia and Kinkade are playing Carpool Karaoke while the guys in the back are arguing over the hottest smurf. In the end, they decided it’s Papa Smurf, but Adam is still bitter about settling for an old man. They reach the mall and load up their nerf guns. They split into teams of two. Regis and Curtis, Nadia and Kinkade, and finally Adam and Shiro. The game itself was already going to cause a lot of trouble. “A group of POC kids shoot up a mall’ was a headline waiting to happen. But the main concern was Adam and Shiro. They were going to have a lot of “alone” time and being at the mall was not the move. They’re aware it’s a mission they’re on but come on? The mall is a prepubescent date spot for anyone 17 and under. Once they were paired up the teams, they had 2 minutes to find a hiding spot before the game started. The rules were simple, If you get kicked out of a store you lose. And you also lose if you run out of foam bullets. They set their times and took off running at opposite ends of the mall. 

Carlsbad, New Mexico

Feeling bent out of shape with the on the nose jokes Keith and Lance were making about Shiro being a psycho killer. He had no option but to calm himself down. He’s usually able to keep his outburst in control, but ever since he lost Adam 6 months ago he’s been spiraling. Shiro always had his issues, but he wasn’t a killer. Minus that one time. He wasn’t the typical “I gut open animals for fun when I was a kid” kind of psychos either. He was just always angry at the world and rightfully so. His home life was less than perfect with his dad using him as his personal punching bag. Shiro’s mom was a sweet old lady but she couldn’t do much to stop her husband. Scratch that. It’s not that she couldn’t, she just would never intervene. She thought the “punishments'' would straighten him up, but all it did was cause more emotional scars than physical ones. Shiro was doing okay despite his living situation, but he was doing better ever since he met Adam. He still used people to either get out of trouble or just take things he wanted, but being with Adam made him approach it more as a game than a way of life.

Then after a while, he stopped doing it all together and started to enjoy high school life without a facade. He was finally opening up to his authentic self. Hanging out day after day with his friends Kinkade, Regis, Adam, Nadia, and Curtis was all he needed. However, Shiro quickly realized that once life gets good it’s just bound to crumble all over again. Nothing ever lasts. Shiro always wonders if things would’ve turned out differently if he and friends didn’t try and sneak into Lux Club that day. What if they all just hung out at Regis’s house instead? Maybe if he left when Curtis was throwing all up over the place? What about when Adam tried to pull him away from the bar but he had to have one last sip? Not a day goes by that Shiro doesn’t replay that night. After the incident that happened, something took over. Everything about him was falling apart and one day he looked in the mirror and couldn’t recognize himself. That’s when he decided to kill Mrs. Zarukon. Everything about that night just felt right to him, like he finally found the missing piece of the puzzle. But tonight, even after following through with his plan of getting Keith and Lance in his house. Something was still missing. Why is it so hard for him to be happy?

Shiro reaches his bedroom door and slaps his cheeks before walking in, “Calm down,” he says to himself.

He sits on his bed and pulls out the nightstand draw, revealing polaroids of Adam. But below that were hundreds of cutouts of Lance and Keith’s faces. Pictures he took of them 5 months ago during his trip to New York. He bumped into them on the street one day and he’s been obsessed ever since. They reminded him so much of himself and Adam, he couldn’t help himself. He wanted them so much. Shiro opens the draw below the first one and picks up a roll of scotch tape. He breaks off four pieces and taps the heads of Keith and Lance onto a polaroid of him and Adam back when they were in high school. Feeling suddenly aroused at his new creation, he had no choice but to relieve himself right then and there. His hand and growing erection were trembling with anticipation. He hastily unzipped pants, kicking them from around his feet all while looking tentatively at the polaroid with Keith and Lance’s face on it. 

Shiro slowly starts rubbing the fabric, the only thing keeping his erection in place. Swift up and down movements had his body shivering. He brings the picture to his lips and gently places a kiss on their faces as his hand reaches inside his underwear to get a more intense feel. A more intimate feel. Teasing himself through his underwear wasn’t evoking enough pleasure. He then fondles his balls and works his way up the shaft. Precum oozes as he speeds up the pace of his jerking. A moan escapes his lips, “Mmm...fuck.” He’s almost close but he can’t finish yet. He stands up and places the polaroid on the bed. He leans his erection slightly over the picture and quickly beats himself off. He cums all over the polaroid, their faces completely covered with Shiro’s discharge. Before he’s able to admire the mess he made, a knock is heard from the door.

 “Hey Shiro, can I come in?” asked Lance. The area near his zipper was becoming way too uncomfortable and at this point, he wished that he went to his room instead. Pretending that he didn’t hear anything. But noooo, he just had to knock. Fun Fact, horny and curiosity don’t mix well. Shiro stands stiff as a log before throwing his blanket with the cum-covered polaroid into the closet. “Y-yeah, of course! Give me like 2 seconds!” Shiro yelled, fixing his room up to appear like he wasn’t doing something incredibly weird. He just had to “calm” himself down. He looks around the room one more time before opening the door. Shiro thinks he cleaned up pretty well but from the single lamp sitting next to the bed since he threw the nightstand in the closet. And the queen-sized bed with nothing but pillows on it since he threw the blanket and sheets into the closet as well. I guess the room was cleaned up. Suspicious looking for sure, but his main concern was getting all the incriminating evidence out of harm’s way. 

Shiro opens up the door to his bedroom and sees Lance grinning at him. Holding back a laugh, Lance asked where Shiro’s pants were. He looks down to see if Lance was messing with him and alas he was not. 

“In my defense, I am in my bedroom. If anything you’re the weird one for wearing pants,” he spilled, leaning against the doorframe. Lance watches his movements and smirks, “So... is the erection a part of the bedroom vibes, or are you just happy to see me?” 

Shiro covers his face, completely embarrassed which only made Lance tease him more. “Who knew a big guy like you would get embwarrassed over a wittle erwection? Aww.” Lance cooed. Shiro’s ears at this point were bright as can be, he couldn’t believe he was getting teased by a college kid. Without realizing it, Lance reached up towards Shiro’s ears, noticing the change in hue. With a big grin across his face, he covered them and said, “Now nobody can see them hehe..nothing to worry about big guy.” Shiro didn’t know what took over him, but at that moment the only thing he wanted to do was kiss him. Every devious thought escaped him all at once. Being here in this moment with a guy like Lance telling him it’s going to be okay felt so right and wrong on so many levels. He’s not Adam and nobody will be able to replace him, but it’s been a long 6 months without his lover..man, and this was the first time Shiro felt anything other than contempt. One little kiss wouldn’t hurt. It just couldn't. 

That night changed a lot of things for Shiro and Lance who were playing a dangerous game of rebound. As for Keith who was fast asleep upstairs without a care in the world, he was happy to finally be sleeping in a bed. Still a little disappointed that he missed out on a token “there’s only one-bed” moment. He was completely slumped in his king-bed fit for a queen. Sometimes once you think that it’s alright, it’s all wrong.

Chapter Text

New York City 一 Santiago de Cuba

Lance’s mom decided to have a family vacation back in their home country Cuba during the summer of Lance’s junior year. She said that this was the only time he was allowed to do anything "crazy" before senior year started because he had to be on his A-Game if he wanted to get into NYU. At first, Lance was upset that his mom was forcing him to go on this family trip to Cuba of all places. He always spent his summers with Hunk and Pidge. Not to mention, this would’ve been their last summer together since they’re both taking internships next summer before college. But after a little convincing and some heart-to-heart, Hunk and Pidge decided that this would be a good opportunity for him. 

He was feeling a little confused about himself lately and maybe getting out of the country is what he needed to wake himself back up. Back to the ole chipper Lance they knew and loved. And besides, Hunk and Pidge said that they would throw him a Welcome Back party on the DL if he went. And the one thing Lance can’t do is deny a party.  With that, he told his mom that he would go. Not like he actually had a say in the matter. 

So, the McClain family booked their flights, packed their bags, argued over the window seat then landed right in Santiago de Cuba. While they were grabbing their bags, Lance was suddenly pulled into a warm embrace. “¡Bienvenidos mi hermano! ¿Cómo estás?...I missed you Lancey.” said his older brother Marco. (Welcome back brother, how are you?)

Lance turns around, completely ecstatic, “Marco! Hola hola hola! Omg...¿Qué tal?” (how’s it going?) Marco squeezes Lance before letting go, “Muy bien, muy bien. ¿Dónde está mamá? Además..¿Cuántos años ahora? It's been so long hermanito.” (Very good, very good, where is mom? Also, how old are you now? Little brother.)

Before Lance was able to respond, his mother walked up and gave Marco a giant hug. “Ahh..mi hijo...te amo. ¿Tú bien?” (My son… I love you.. are you okay?) Marco returns the hug, “Si, mama. Estoy bien. ¿Y tú?” (Yes mom, I'm good, what about you?)

She lets go of her son, wipes her tears and smiles, “I’m fine Marco. ¿Dónde está tu hermano Luis?” (Where is your brother Luis?)

Marco averts his eyes, “Uhhh no sé? I haven’t seen him since yesterday but don’t worry, he’s not in trouble or anything. He said that he had to take care of something. But he’ll be back. No worry.” (I don’t know.)

Their mom’s smile instantly turns into a frown. She shakes her head,  “Ay dios mío.” (Oh my god.)

Lance pats his mom on the back, “It’s okay mamá. Knowing Luis, he’s probably off getting last-minute gifts because he misses you sooooo much.” Instead of laughing, all Lance got was a slap against his head causing his brother Marco and his two sisters Veronica and Rachel to laugh at him.

Once they finished grabbing their bags, they left the airport and headed back to their house. Which was now Marco’s and Luis’s house since their mom gave it to them after the big move to America. Lance’s family had a difficult time moving to America partially because the two oldest children didn’t want to leave their now-deceased father. And their mom wanted to give Lance, and his two older sisters an opportunity for success. A different life, something she never got. It took a couple of years for the family to get reconnected, but now it seems like they finally made peace. Lance was finally warming up to this family trip. 

“Oh.. by the way Lance, how old are you again? I never got your answer back at the airport,” asked Marco, looking his little brother through the rearview mirror. 

“Dieciséis, pero soy giro diecisiete en Julio veintiocho.” Lance replied, feeling a sense of pride for being almost 18. (16, but I’m turning 17 on July 28th.)

“Oh wow...un hombre..veo veo. We’re definitely throwing you a fiesta Lancey,” Marco beamed. It's been at least 10 years since he spent a b-day with his brother. (A man, I see I see. Party.)

Lance was practically jumping in his seat, which was making the car shake. His mom flicked him in the ear telling him to calm down. “Cálmate Lance.” 

He quickly settles down and in between soft chuckles he mumbles. “Yes ma’am.”

Although it was awkward at first, everyone was very happy to be together again. They finally pull up to the house and see Luis standing at the front gate surrounded by a multitude of shopping bags. 

Everyone in the car groans, “Luis.”

Ontario, Canada

Still feeling a bit uneasy with Adam hitting on him, it took them a bit longer to get situated compared to Nadia, Kinkade, Regis, and Curtis who were indeed plotting. Adam noticed Shiro was spacing out so he dragged him into a Macy’s and headed toward the first clothing rack he could find, pulling Shiro and him underneath it. “Dude...you gotta get your head in the game,” said Adam, not realizing his choice of words. Shiro holds back a laugh, trying to act serious, “Like, I need to getcha getcha getcha getcha ..my head in the game?” 

Adam groans then began laughing, “If you can make Highschool Musical references then I think you’re feeling better.” Shiro scoots up closer to Adam, “Let’s bop our way to the top.”

Adam stares at Shiro, face straight and immediately climbs out of the clothing rack, “Yeah, I’m gonna go.” Shiro follows after him, “You know that was funny, don’t even play.” 

“Funny? That’s debatable, but I will give you creds on creativity.”

Shiro rolls his eyes, “Whatever dude.” Adam turns around and ruffles Shiro’s hair, “It was funny Shiro.” 

Shiro flicks his hand away and straightens up the spot Adam messed up. His ears were flushed again. This is the second time Adam did this. He clears his throat, “So uh.. what’s our game plan? Because I don’t know which direction they went.” 

Adam looked at the hand Shiro flicked and smiled before placing it into his pocket, “Well...knowing Nadia and briefing knowing Kinny..they’re probably arguing right now.” 

Shiro nods his head, “That wouldn’t surprise me, but that still doesn’t help us with their whereabouts.”

“Okay, fair enough. Let’s just check Victoria’s. Nadia is always dragging us in there.”

Shiro’s taken aback, “What do you mean always ?”

“I mean always . She likes trying out the lingerie and making us pick which one looks better on her. It’s such a drag because she doesn't even buy any. We go in there so much the employees gave us a part of the store.” Adam said, feeling defeated. 

Shiro snickers to himself and lightly taps his nerf gun on Adam’s shoulder. “Are you gonna mope about it or take revenge?” 

Adam cocks his nerf gun and smirks, “It’s Nerf or Nothing.” 

Shiro shakes his head, “I’m gonna give you that one, but that’s it.” 

“So you’re saying that my one-liner was better than yours?” Adam coaxed, trying to get a reaction out of Shiro. 

Shiro flipped him off, “Absolutely not.” 

Adam scoffs, “Whatever dude.” 

They look at each other and laugh. Although the uneasiness was still lurking in the pit of his stomach, Shiro felt a bit better. He was still unsure of how to act around Adam, but that just made things exciting. They snuck around the mall, keeping a close eye on anyone who seemed suspicious. When they were the ones acting sus. Once they reached Victoria's Secret, Adam and Shiro gave each other the go-to nod and took off. Shiro took the left side of the store, while Adam took the right to cover more ground. They were hiding behind half-naked mannequins and crawling underneath the bra racks. So far the coast was clear until Shiro made the fatal mistake of not constantly checking behind him. He’s never been in a lingerie store. He was trying his best to not look around too much. Gotta respect the ladies right? By the time he finally had to courage to check, Kinkade was standing behind him ready to unload his chamber. Shiro grabbed the nearest object to protect himself but it was no use. The skimpy bra he grabbed had no padding. Free the nipple I guess. Kinkade shot his nerf gun straight at Shiro and the bullet went right through the bra, hitting him directly in the forehead. Pretending to take a critical hit, he falls over dramatically while looking at the padless bra with utter betrayal. He then glances at Kinkade who is cackling, “I can’t b-believe you...I thought we were bros.” Shiro’s now sprawled on the floor. Kinkade hovers over him and smirks, “Tough luck...bro.” And with that Shiro's eyes form with tears and he lays his head down with his tongue sticking out to signify that he’s dead. Everyone in the store is staring at the two boys like they’re insane, but you hear a couple of chuckles in the back. 

Nadia and Shiro walk up and see Kinkade and Shiro. “He dead?” asked Nadia, trying to hide her smile. Kinkade walks over to her while slapping his hands together, “Seems so. You get Adam?” 

Adam lowers his head like a puppy who got in trouble, “She got me. I’ve never seen so many panties before.” 

Nadia cackles, “Panty raid...gets him every time.” They all laugh. Shiro picks himself off of the floor and dusts his pants. He looks at Adam and smiles with the biggest grin, “Mission failed, we’ll get ‘em next time.” Adam was about to comment but then the manager of the store came out of the backroom and started yelling at them to get out. Shiro dropped the bra he was holding and everyone took off running. 

“Get out of my store you animals!” the manager yelled. “This is not a war zone! I’m calling security!” 

“Oh fuck!” The kids yelled back before scurrying out. They got as far away from Victoria’s as they possibly could. Finally, they collapsed on the nearest bench and erupted with laughter. 

“So...we’re definitely banned,” said Nadia in-between breaths. 

“Good, now I have a reason not to see you in lingerie,” replied Adam.

“Pfft, you like seeing me in lingerie,” Nadia added, feeling defensive. 

“Yeah maybe if I was your boyfriend ditto!”

Nadia shakes her head in denial, “We’re besties, same dif.” 

Adam groans and slides off the bench to the floor, “I can’t with this girl.” 

Kinkade gets up from the bench and claps his hands, “Okay..we need to settle this. Curtis and Regis are still nowhere to be found and since Adam and Shiro lost, we can either team up and split the winnings or you guys pay full price.” 

“Full Price? Why are you assuming that you and Nadia are going to win?” asked Shiro. 

“Because it’s Curtis and Regis. Duh.” Kinkade replied, baffled that it was even a question.

“Dude you must’ve forgot that these are Reggies nerfs bro..he is the final boss,” Shiro announced, trying to knock some sense into Kinkade. Also, he didn’t want to risk paying full price. No money gang. 

Kinkade slaps his forehead, “Oh shit, I completely forgot. Yeah, we’re screwed. So teamies?” 

Everyone nodded in agreement, “Teamies.” 

Once everyone was able to catch their breath, they walked around the mall on eggshells. Not sure which corner Curtis and Regis were going to pop out of. It felt like hours and there was still no sign of them. “This is getting ridiculous.” Nadia pointed out. “They’re testing us or...or...or trying to get us to separate so we “Cover” more ground and end up getting ambushed.”

“I don’t think they’re that smart Nads,” Adam implied. “Besides we’ve been walking around in circles, so of course they’re not gonna see us.” Nadia, Kinkade, and Shiro glare at Adam and walk off without him. “Come on guys,” he pleaded, trying to catch up with them. He tripped over his own foot and started to fall over before Shiro caught him. He shakes his head and smirks, “Next time you won’t be so lucky.” Adam smiles in return which catches Shiro off guard...again. Maybe Adam is kinda cute. Nadia yells, “Are guys gonna hug each other all day or can we please finish this game? Mama hungry!” They look at each other and straighten themselves up before following after Nadia and Kinkade. 

As they were waking, Nadia stopped dead in her tracks. All the boys bumped into her and were about to give her hell before they saw what she saw. It was no other than Curtis and Regis sitting inside a Gamestop playing Super Mario Party on the display games they had set up. They all walked over to the glass mirror and pierced their eyes at them in anger. Suddenly feeling an ominous presence, Curtis and Regis slowly turn around in their seats and scream. They quickly put down the controllers, apologized for the noise then left Gamestop. They were surrounded by their disappointed friends. All they could do was bow their heads and apologize.

Nadia walked up to Curtis and flicked him in the forehead, “You are a dirty dirty man.” 

"Sorry babe," he mumbled.

Shiro and Kinkade walk over to Regis and give him the hardest squeeze they could muster before cracking up. “I didn't know you had it in you, Reggie. You played us all..good for you good for you,” said Shiro feeling proud of his friend for being so devious. He knew Regis wasn’t as innocent as people made him out to be, because most of the time he just followed along to what Kinkade and him were doing. So, Regis doing something “bad” on his own accord was very refreshing to see. Character development I fear. 

“So...who won?” asked Regis, awkwardly looking between his group of friends. “Me and Shiro definitely lost, not to mention we all got thrown out of Victoria's secret,” replied Adam.

Curtis is shocked and immediately looks at Nadia, “Babe no, that’s your favorite place to show your tiddies.” Nadia fakes cries, “I know babe..life is so cruel. Poor Adam.” 

“Poor Adam? No, happy Adam. I don’t want to see your tiddies Nads!” 

Curtis and Nadia look at Adam and shake their heads, “Hater.” Adam flips them off. “So to answer your question Regis, you and Curtis are technically the winners by default.”

“So what you’re saying is that you guys owe us dinner?” asked Curtis. 

“Well if it’s dinner then how about you guys just come back to my house and I’ll ask my mom to cook for us?” Regis prodded. “That way no one has to spend that sweet ole cash.”

“Actually that’s not a bad idea, also we have to stop by your house anyways to return the nerfs,” Kinkade added. 

“Okay, but will your parents just let us over?” asked Nadia, worried that they might be intruding. They all did just meet, despite getting along really well.

Regis quickly speaks up, “O-Of course not, these two dweebs practically live at my house. I’m sure it’s fine.” 

“If that’s the case, then let's go back home then,” Adam announced. 

“Shot-gun!” Shiro yelled, “Also the last one to the car is at risk of getting caught by mall security!” He said before taking off down the mall corridor. They look at each other, “Mall security?” Then it registered that mall security was in fact running after them and Shiro wasn’t joking. They screamed and took off after Shiro. “Thanks for the warning asshole!” Kinkade yelled. “I did warn you guys tho..catch up!” he joked. 

They finally reach the car and rush inside. Adam quickly turns on the ignition and they speed out of there. Once they hit the main street, they all seemed to have settled down. After catching their breaths, the car grew quiet. Then Regis let out a large breath, “Whooo, are we uhh criminals now?” Everyone in the car burst out laughing. “I hope not because I'm tryna graduate with a clean record,” said Kinkade. Shiro scoffs, “Says the dude who takes lessons out of ISS.” (In-school suspension)

“I’m still learning tho so fuck off,” remarked Kinkade. Shiro turns around in his seat and flips Kinkade off. Kinkade grabs his middle finger and pulls it back. Shiro instantly retracts his finger. “Ow!...So abusive.” 

“You kinda asked for it Shiro,” Regis said. Curtis, Nadia, and Adam go “Oohhh.” Shiro quickly turned around in his seat and pointed at Regis, “No one asks for abusive Reggie.” 

“And no one asked you to be an asshole yet here we are.” Reggie shot back. The “Oh’s” got louder. 

“Wow, the streets changed you Reggie,” Shiro jested. 

“Changed me? Naur, I changed the streets.” Regis joked. Everyone in the car laughed at his response, making Regis finally feel like he was doing something good. It’s not like Regis never had any friends, but he always felt like he didn't belong. The sense of invisibility got a bit better after meeting Shiro and Kinkade, but even then, he still felt out of place. They were just so open, outgoing, and funny, he just never knew if he could keep up. But now he finally feels at home. Maybe skipping school did pay off. 

They finally reach Reggie's house and to their surprise, his parents let them stay over for dinner. They talked about their nerf gun game at the mall, and his parents were actually laughing along with them. They even shared some stories from their high school days. Being surrounded by supportive friends and family felt so right to all of them. They knew that they were going to be the best of friends. Probably for life, eternity even. After the mall fiasco, Nadia decided that they should kick it up a notch, and try to sneak into a nightclub during Spring break. It was going to be the Seniors' last one and she wanted to spend it with her new friends. Also, Lux was rumored to not card, but they didn’t know that it was also a nefarious spot for predators if you aren’t careful. How far was Shiro willing to go in order to feel something? The answer is too far.

Carlsbad , New Mexico

There was a sliver moment of regret Lance felt when Shiro was leaning in for a kiss. It was one of those moments where no matter what he did, his body just couldn’t say no. And besides, it’s just a kiss. It wouldn’t hurt. Which would’ve been fine if this was a normal situation. However, this entire situation was far from normal. You can’t just go kissing strangers after barging into their room knowing that they just used their hands to satisfy themselves. Not to mention, a stranger that picked you up off the street. Lance’s mind just checked itself into a mental hospital because it knew this kiss would cause psychological damage. He had every opportunity to say no or at the very least pull away. But that thought only made this situation more enticing. He leaned into the kiss, graciously welcomed it. It started off slow, both of them were trying to find a position that worked. Then, the kiss deepened and grew more ravenous. Feeling bold, Lance slid in his tongue which surprised Shiro causing him to become more aroused than he already was. He was breathless, “God you’re so fucking hot Lance.”

In response, Lance caressed Shiro’s ears and worked his way up to his hair. He ran his fingers through the man's dark silky hair. Once he reached his pearly white bangs he grabbed a handful and yanked it back. While holding that position, Lance crept up next to Shiro’s ear and whispered, “You’re a dirty boy Shirogane.” His voice felt so hot and sensual, Shiro didn’t know how to contain himself, in fact, he couldn’t contain himself. He pushed Lance on the bed and climbed on top of him. He took off his shirt, revealing a muscular body with massive pecs. Lance knew Shiro’s body was going to be impressive but seeing it up close alongside his flushed face was driving him to his breaking point. Shiro threw his shirt on the floor and leaned to give Lance a kiss. He then felt a pair of cold slender hands gently cupping his chest. 

Lance looks up at Shiro and smiles, “Nice tits bro.” He then pops a squeeze. They look at each other and laugh. “You’re a dork,” Shiro giggled. “What I am, is mad that you were hiding all this tiddy and didn’t tell a brother. I would’ve kissed you wayyy sooner,” Lance added, swiftly switching positions with Shiro who was now beneath him. With Lance on top, he slowly grinds his hips on Shiro’s growing erection. Teasing him. Every time Shiro tried to buck his hips to create more friction Lance would shake his head and hover over him until he settled down. Shiro was begging Lance to let him do much more than just lay there. Feeling bad that he kept blue-balling the man he was straddling, Lance took off his shirt to give Shiro something more to work with. Shiro eased his way up Lance’s slender thighs until he reached his hips. He gave them a firm grip before moving onto his plump, peach-shaped ass. Shiro knew he wanted to tear him in two, but he withheld himself. 

Looking up at Lance he noticed the scars and stretch marks. He had a surgical scar under his left boob, right where his ribs are located. Then another one was placed next to his belly button. It was surrounded by stretch marks that looked like lightning strikes in a storm. Lance was very beautiful to him. At this moment, all Shiro wanted even more than sex was to touch Lance, to hold him. Shiro had his fair share of scars, which is bound to happen if you’re a vet and grew up in an abusive home. But luckily for him, the only noticeable scar was the one across his nose. The mental ones were completely sheltered. Shiro got so caught up with analyzing Lance’s body, he forgot to actually pay attention to the person inhabiting the body.

Shiro staring at Lance and not saying anything was making him feel very anxious, and he didn't know what to do. He voluntarily went into this stranger's room, kissed him, and now he’s straddled on top of him. He felt like an idiot for even coming in there. He wanted to get up but Shiro’s hands were still gripping him down. Unable to say a word, he brought his hands to his face to shield his oncoming tears. ‘ Great, so now I’m a crybaby too, ’ he mumbles to himself. He chokes up, “S-Shiro...can you please let me go. I’m sorry.” Hearing Lance’s soft-spoken voice took him out of his thoughts. He quickly let go of his grip and slid up against the bed frame. Lance scooted himself towards the end of the bed so he could pick up his shirt. 

“Lance-” Shiro spoke up, trying to sound as gentle as he could. 

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have done that, I’m such an idiot. Please forget what happened, I’m sorry. You shouldn’t have to see me like this.” he spilled. The knot in his throat was growing tighter and his nose was becoming all stuffy. The panic of not being able to breathe was settling in. He felt nauseous and wanted to run out of the room and throw up, but his legs wouldn’t stop shaking. He didn’t have any strength to move. ‘I’m going to die in here, ’ is what he was consistently repeating to himself.  Shiro slowly scooted his way towards Lance and carefully wrapped his arms around him. “Hey, it’s gonna be okay. You did nothing wrong. I’m so sorry for coming on to you like that. It’s completely my fault.” Lance remained quiet, not aware that Shiro was talking to him. His mind was off the deep end and he could feel himself sinking further and further until he felt large, thick calloused fingers grip his chin. Shiro turned Lance's head towards him, making Lance look him dead in the eyes. Giving him no option but to give the person in front of him his undivided attention. 

Lance didn’t notice this at first, but Shiro’s eyes were so dreamy. He felt so exposed yet at the same time protected. He felt like someone was actually looking at him, seeing him for the first time. Shiro’s grey eyes were absolutely mesmerizing, he was entranced. “Lance.” Shiro declared. He immediately answered back, “Y-yes?” Shiro lets go of his chin and pulls him into a warm embrace. While rubbing circles in the middle of Lance’s back Shiro says, “You are more than enough. You are beautiful.” Lance takes a deep breath and squeezes Shiro, tears cascading down his face. They roll off Shiro’s shoulder then down his back. “I would've hitchhiked more If I knew I was going to get free therapy,” Lance quipped, trying to ease the tension in the room. Shiro laughs at his response, “Free? I’m putting this on your tab mister. I don't work for free.” Lance pulls away from Shiro and glares at him, “My tab? Since when?” 

Shiro rubs his chin as if he were actually trying to think of an answer, “Since now.” 

“Nuh-uh, you can’t just go writing people’s tabs whenever you feel like it. This is completely against the law and The Constitution. What happened to “All men are free from randomly announced tabs?” He bantered, this time standing arms crossed in front of Shiro who was still sitting on the bed half-naked.

Shiro chuckles to himself and pulls Lance close to him, arms wrapped around his waist. They look at each other before Shiro leans in again for a kiss, this time on the forehead. “You’re very silly.” Lance smiles at the gesture and blushes, “And you’re gross. Now if you would excuse me, I have to get into a bed that isn't occupied by a sexy man.” Completely ignoring his quipping, Shiro stares at Lance like he’s some rare beauty. Like he’s the missing corner piece of a puzzle.

 “I meant what I said. You are more than enough. I want to kiss all your scars,'' Shiro announced, feeling his heart tighten. At this point, Lance is at a loss for words. He’s been scared to put himself out there since his breakup with Lotor. Even though he flirts with people, there’s a big difference between flirting than showing someone your naked self-conscious, and insecure-ridden self. And to his surprise, Lance did both things in a matter of hours. Overachiever I see. 

Unsure of what to say, Lance hides behind his face while still wrapped up in Shiro arms. Shiro speaks up again, “I’m seriously Lance. I know we just met, but there’s something about you that’s driving me crazy. I don’t even want to have sex, especially if you’re not ready. But please, can you let me hold you just for a while?” Lance slowly uncovers his face, revealing his flushed cheeks. “Fine, but I’m giving you ten minutes. Keith would tear me a new one if he found out that I slept in your room.” Feeling ecstatic, Shiro picked up Lance and gently tossed him on the bed. “Okay, you stay here and let me get a new blanket.” 

Lance gives him the side-eye, “Oh..because you drenched the first one with cum?” 

Shiro rubs the back of his head, “Drenched is a bit of an exaggeration.” 

“Then prove it.” 

“Are you provoking me?” 

“Provoke? Oh no sir, I’m simply asking you to provide evidence. There’s nothing sexual about it.” 

Shiro scoffs, “Then why are you hard?” 

“Hard? I'm not-” Lance cut himself off mid-sentence after looking down at his groin. He quickly covers it with a pillow and awkwardly laughs, “Leave me alone, I’m still a growing boy.” 

“Yeah...I can see that.” Shiro cooed. 

Shiro left Lance in his room to help ease the embarrassment for a bit. He grabs a blanket from the hall closet. When he got back, Lance was sitting huddled up in the corner of the bed with his knees to his chest. Shiro giggles at him, “I brought a cum-free blanket for the growing boy.” Lance snatches the blanket out his hand, “Ah yes, my favourite type of blankie, the ones that say cum-free.” They laugh at the silliness of their joke and climbed under the covers. Lance was still unsure how close he should get to Shiro, but he made sure that Lance had nothing to worry about. Shiro pulled Lance next to his chest and entwined their legs like twizzlers. Lance’s ear felt so warm against Shiro's chest and honestly, it felt like a mini pillow. Thank god for his massive bazoongas. Lance fell asleep first due to the warmth of another person. Something that he didn’t know he was craving. Shiro’s rhythmic heartbeat, and the massaging of his fingertips that ran through his soft brown hair. Maybe this is all Lance needed to finally have a good night’s sleep. He’s been restless for the last couple of months. Being with Shiro felt so right, so comfortable. Shiro was turning out better than he had expected. Lance never had that much insecurity with his scars and stretch marks since his closest friends and family know what happened. But I guess once you get pushed out of your comfort zone you become aware of all the things you thought you got over.

Being snuggled up in Shiro’s warm embrace made Lance completely forget about the situation with the phone number. He had his suspicions that Shiro did something with it, but after talking with him one-on-one he thought it was a bit ridiculous. Who would do such a thing? He probably just dropped it when he was in the bathroom. There’s no need to worry. The diminishing worry on Lance end was partially calculated. Shiro never thought Lance would open up to him so fast. He was actually caught off guard when he knocked on his door earlier that night, but he had to play along. What soldier wastes a perfect opportunity? Although Shiro knew what things to say in order to trigger a certain response or reaction out of Lance, he was also struggling. Struggling to find what parts of himself sees Lance for who he is and what parts of himself are using him in order to gain control. Once you get good at lying, you start doubting your own feelings. You can’t believe in yourself. You can’t believe in love.

Chapter Text

Carlsbad, New Mexico

The light cascades from the blinds, gently warming the room and Keith’s face. He grumbles and buries his face into the pillows. But it’s no use, he’s awake now. He sits up and looks over at the empty side of the bed, no trace of life. No trace of Lance. He had a good night's rest given that he was in an actual bed instead of the back seat of a car. But he couldn’t help but take those moments for granted. He won’t admit it to himself, but Keith misses the warmth Lance gave him. The subtle touches underneath the blanket. The obliviousness when he would catch Lance freaking out in the morning because he was cradling him like a newborn baby. The dried saliva patches on the shoulders of his shirt. The wrinkles on Lance’s clothes which were actually Keith’s clothes because Lance is a messy eater. He missed everything. 

Knowing Lance wasn’t an early bird, Keith gets ready for the day before waking up the Cuban boy. Yesterday was a whole ass mess and he knew Lance of all people needed to rest. Even if for a couple more hours. Keith grabs his toothbrush and a change of clothes then heads to the bathroom across the hallway. Little did he know that his precious Lance was already awake and he and Shiro were scrabbling to get ready. To not seem suspicious. They knew that they didn’t do anything “wrong” but they still didn’t know what “it” was. And having to figure that out in front of Keith of all people was a trainwreck waiting to happen. 

First of all, Lance was still unsure of how he felt about Keith. Yeah, he loved him because they’ve been friends since forever一if you count forever being 2 years. They met during Lance’s Welcome Home party from his family trip to Cuba over the summer. And ever since then, they clicked. Yeah, they had some arguments but that’s normal. Keith brought this spark into his life, something he didn’t know was possible. And if that was love, like romantic love. Like I want to give you my soul love, Lance didn’t want to address that right now. He was still trying to heal from the wounds that Lotor left and the last thing he needed was to treat Keith like a rebound. 

So that situation with Shiro last night might’ve done more harm than good, but Lance didn't feel any regret? He was just mildly anxious because he liked it so much. Shiro was a stranger, a hitchhiker. Well... a person who picked up hitchhikers. And although Lance had his suspicions about Shiro being in the room with him, being that exposed with him numbed every last one. He was supposed to cuddle with the beefy man and leave before morning. But they grew so comfortable and warm next to each other they ended up falling asleep. Lance prayed to every God and Goddess he could think of for waking his brown ass up that early in the morning. He shook Shiro like a goddamn madman while stumbling over his words. 

“Psst...Shiro...Takashi...bro...dude...y-you gotta wake up man...I’m sorry. Didn’t mean to sleepover.” But it was no use. Shiro was knocked out cold. It took a phat minute for Lance to realise that he could’ve just left. He had no reason to ask for permission to leave. Shiro being awake would just make things more awkward. “I’m such an idiot oh my god,” he mumbles to himself. Just as he was easing out of the bed he felt a gentle pull on his wrist. He turns around and looks at the man behind him. Shiro slowly sits up and runs his hands through his silky white bangs. His voice is deep and groggy, “Mornin.” 

Lance’s mouth drops open in a very cartoonish manner. Shiro has no reason being that hot this early in the morning. And had the nerve to open his mouth and greet him? Lance knew at that moment he was in over his head but he couldn’t stop himself. He crawled across the bed and quickly sat in the man’s lap. Shiro looked up at him and giggled at the boy’s boldness. Lance looks deep into Shiro’s eyes, his grey mesmerizing eyes. The lanky boy leans down and gives him a soft, sensual kiss. “Mornin,” Lance replies in between kisses. Shiro sits up and grabs the back of Lance’s head to push him closer, to deepen their kiss. From sensual to desperate had both the men panting after they released their lips. Shiro goes in for round two before two long slender brown fingers pressed against his now pinkened sore lips. He looks at Lance with puppy eyes and he slowly shakes his head sternly.

 “Keith is probably up right now and I got to bounce, or we’ll both be digging our graves with a fork.” 

Shiro chuckles at Lance's statement, “A fork ?” 

Lance crosses his arms and shakes his head disapprovingly, “He’s a conniving man Shiro, you don’t even know.” 

“Conniving or stupid?... because a fork doesn’t even seem practical, like does he want the damn grave dug or not?” Shiro retorts. 

Lance cackles, “Exactly...he won’t listen.” He scoffs, “Ugh, minorities.” 

They both get off the bed and hurriedly put on their clothes and Lance stands behind Shiro as he creeps open his door. He peeks into the hallway and turns around to give Lance a, “Coast is clear nod.” Lance slips past Shiro’s broad muscular body and briskly walks down the hall. Before he walks up the stairs he takes a final look at the white-haired man. They catch each other’s eyes like a hot knife on ice. Shiro is looking at him with a god-given smile plastered on his adorable well-structured face. They both giggle at their absurdity. Lance skips up the stairs and quietly eases his way into the room Keith was in. He sighs in relief when he notices that Keith is gone. Lance tiptoes to their pile of bags on the floor and fishes out a change of clothes and his toothbrush. Just as he was about to leave Keith burst through the door almost knocking Lance in his face. A rumble of, “I’m sorries and no it’s my fault,” spewed out of the boy's mouth before they stopped and stared at each other. They smile simultaneously before a nervous laugh escapes their lips. Keith’s hair is still wet from the shower and that image alone is working Lance up. Something about shaggy wet Keith was just a different level of sexy. 

While drying his hair Keith asks why Lance was up so early. It was only 10 am but he usually doesn’t get up until 12. Lance’s eyes go wide, “Uhh no reason...different place...new setting...nerves and stuff.” Keith side-eyes Lance, “Well I’m glad you’re up early for once. We still gotta check on your car remember?” Lance flips out, “Oh my god!... I completely forgot about that. Didn’t Shiro say they’ll be here by 7? Are we late?” Keith walks over to Lance and ruffles his curly brown hair, “Relax, if they got the car running they would’ve called. Now go hop in the shower stinky.” Lance melts into Keith’s touch before quickly smacking him in the arm, “I am not stinky!” 

Keith leans in close to Lance’s lips and takes a deep sniff, “Your breath says otherwise.” 

Lance quickly covers his mouth with his hand and a reddish hue forms on his cheeks. “If you wanna kiss me so bad then just say that asshole.” Keith blushes in response, “Uh...I mean since you offered.” 

Lance rolls his eyes before knocking into Keith’s shoulders, “I’m gonna go clean up and only nice boys get kisses from me.” 

“I can be nice ~” Keith begged. His heart racing for getting that close to Lance’s lips. Why did he do that? And the crazy thing was, was that his breath wasn’t even that bad. He just had to say something to get Lance out of his proximity. Lance slammed the door before opening it up immediately after, “Prove it,” he jested with a wink. The door closes again and he can hear Lance turning on the shower. Keith walks over to the bed and plops down on it. His body slowly bouncing until it’s still. He clenches his chest and tells himself to breathe. “Why the fuck was Lance so cute?” He and Lance “flirt” all the time and by that he means Lance just flirts with everybody. If you can keep up, then good for you because mans is witty with the remarks. There’s been plenty of times where guys and girls run away blushing their heads off. And now Keith was in the same predicament. He was just so confused. Was Lance actually interested in that kiss or was it just a joke? “Great, another thing we have to obsess over,” he grumbles to himself. 

Lance gets out of the shower and he and Keith head down to the living room to see if Shiro is up. Lance already knew the man was awake so it wasn’t much of a surprise. However, he didn’t count for Shiro cooking up a storm in the kitchen. The aromas and obviously the view were something else. Shiro was making hashbrowns, bacon, and eggs with nothing but black sweatpants and an apron on. Mr. Playboy of New Mexico headass. The view was impeccable, to say the least. Even Keith was having issues keeping his eyes off of the man. He never doubted that Shiro was attractive but he always thought Lance was prettier. 

Shiro finished cooking their breakfast and set their plates down at the living room table. “Coffee will be ready in a bit, so go ahead and dig in.” 

“Thanks,” the boys said in unison before ravishing their plates like goddamn goblins. With a mouth full of food Lance says, “Holy shit, this is so good... You’re really Gordon Ramsey in this bitch huh?” Keith smacks Lance in the back of his head causing the leftover food in his mouth to fly out and splatter against the coffee table like an abstract piece. Everyone in the room erupts into a grossed-out fit of laughter, “Yuck!... Keith!... look what you did,” Lance jests. 

Keith smacks his teeth, “Don’t you dare blame this on me… learn to keep your mouth closed.” 

“And you should learn how to keep your hands to yourself...it’s called boundaries,” Lance retorts. 

The boys are bickering as Lance scoops the food bits back onto his plate with disgust written all over the creases etched into his scrunched-up face. Keith dares him to eat them and surprisingly Lance does. Shiro hears Keith making gagging noises and has to mentally stop himself from finding it attractive. The image that enveloped Shiro’s mind was downright inhumane and overtly sexual. But he repressed those thoughts yet again and handed the boys their coffee with a heartwarming smile. They all ate and talked. Lance was telling Shiro about some uncanny events of their trip minus the hitchhiking. While Keith was yelling at Lance for being so open about details of their life. Despite all that, they were all generally having a good time, it felt so natural between them. No one wanted to admit it, especially Shiro. He finally had Lance where he wanted him and Keith was just a bonus. But he knew he couldn’t raise suspicion, so he casually brought up their “broken down” car into the conversation. 

“Oh yeah, by the way, do you guys wanna head out to the shop? I reserved the tow truck last night, so it should be there by now.” Shiro announced as he sipped on his hazelnut black coffee. 

Lance stood up and dusted off his pants, “Yeah, if you wouldn’t mind. This is fun and all but Keith and I do need to head back on the road.” 

“Completely understandable, it was nice having some company.” 

Keith picks up their plates and heads to the kitchen, “I was against the whole, ‘getting into a strangers car’ thing, but I’m glad it worked out. Thanks for having us over man.” 

Shiro takes a final swig of his coffee, “No problem, you guys might want to bring your things just in case.” 

The boys nod their heads and run up the stairs to pack their bags. Shiro rinses out their dishes and puts them in the dishwasher. He walks to the front door and disables the combination with his thumbprint. He swiftly grabs the car keys from the hook next to the light switch and yells, “I’ll be in the car!” As he’s walking out the door he hears a faint “Okay” from the two boys upstairs. Their voices warming up the cold, vacant summer home was music to his ears. Shiro could get used to this. It’s been so long since he had someone wait for him. Sex is great, flirting is great, but nothing beats those domestic moments. Love is being comfortable with each other’s presence. Love was Adam. And Adam was gone. Shiro was doing his damndest to fill that rotting void in his sunken forlorn heart. Lance and now Keith were his last solution. And if they didn’t work, Shiro would officially go crazy for good. 

They were now in the car with Lance bunched up in the undisclosed middle seat. He kept fiddling with the radio because multiple stations were trying to hop onto one frequency and it was driving him mad. At this point he didn’t care what music was playing he just couldn’t listen to another second of mashed-up voices and songs. He finally found a station that wasn’t going through an identity crisis. 

“Ah- Tchaikovsky...my favorite!” he avowed slumping into the worn black leather seat leaning against Keith’s shoulder. Shiro glances at him with a questioning smirk, “Are you serious?” 

Keith raises an eyebrow at Shiro, “I think Lance being an avid connoisseur of classical music should be the least surprising thing.” 

“I started listening to it as a joke and now it’s not a joke anymore,” Lance chimes in. 

Shiro laughs as he steers the car into the Altea Shop parking lot. “Funny you say that because that was the same reaction I had when I realised I liked guys.” 

Lance and Keith immediately cackle out loud, they tried to settle down but looking at Shiro and then looking at each other made them laugh even more. And it got to the point where Shiro couldn’t breathe because every time Lance or Keith tried to stop they would make a weird noise and ended up laughing all over again. People in the parking lot definitely thought they were crazy. A black jeep with heavily tinted windows just emitting sounds of laughter? It’s giving scary stories to tell in the dark.

Their laughter seemed to dwindle after a few breathing exercises and the realization that Lance’s car wasn’t going to be fixed anytime soon. Hearing this news, Lance was on the verge of a panic attack. His heartfelt like it was gnawing through his throat, desperate to get out. Desperate to be free. His whole body was trembling and it was hard for him to stay focused on anything. Your car being in the shop isn’t the worst thing in the world, Lance knew that. Of course, he knew that. His life was a multitude of examples of “It could be worse.” But at this moment it was worse. He just wanted to go on this nice little trip before the fall semester started again. He honestly just wanted a break. Lance couldn’t stand there in that room with the Altea mechanic yammering on and on about how fucked up his car was. So he left. All the voices and noises around him ceased to exist. They were numbed. He walked and walked and walked until a clammy hand yanked him and his thoughts back to this forsaken reality. It was Keith. Lance tried to smile but his muscles wouldn’t budge. So he lowered his head and let Keith pull him into a welcoming, forgiving, and protective embrace. Something Lance hasn’t felt since his breakup. Keith made sure his hug was tight but not suffocating, that was the only way to ground Lance. To let him know that he’s still here, that he’s okay. This was something Hunk told him after he wasn’t able to console Lance during his breakup with Lotor. Hunk and Pidge were still at the Garrison and the project they were working on couldn’t afford any “off days.” 

Hunk felt so guilty for not dropping everything to help his best friend of so many years. But luckily Lance was mature enough to realise that Hunk not being there was something he couldn’t control. And although Lance was bitter about it for a bit, he knew Hunk loved him more than anything and he wouldn’t want him to beat himself up over it. Keith really stepped up and went out of his way for Lance. And that’s something he’s never going to forget. Yes, they had a big fight and even went weeks without talking. But Keith still dropped by, Keith still never left Lance’s side. And even now, Keith is right here consoling him yet again. 

Being in the comfort of Keith was some sort of magic, voodoo even. Lance was on the verge of slipping into an unreachable place but Keith’s arms grounded him. His rhythmic heartbeat calmed him and the smell of his woody forest scented hair made him melt into a pile of emotional slush. Keith pulled Lance away to get a good look at his face, to make sure he was actually feeling okay, which he was. Lance shook his arms to release any remaining tension and slapped his hands against his cheeks. He kept his hands there for a bit trying to release his episode. He always felt so embarrassed after them. He slowly peeked through his hands and looked at the raven-haired boy in front of him. He gave an awkward smile and that made him giggle into the palms of his hands. 

“Okay, I’m feeling better, thanks Keith.” 

“Hey, no problem blue, I’m always here for you remember that.” 

“Yeah, yeah I know. But I still don’t know what to do. I really fucked up.” 

“No you didn’t, cars break down. It’s fine Lance...you’re fine.” 

“Okay...okay but-”

“No, let’s go talk to Shiro okay?” 

Lance gives in and nods in agreement. They walk back into the shop and spot Shiro talking to the mechanic. If Keith wasn’t still feeling the aftermath of Lance, he would’ve swore he saw Shiro hand the mechanic a phat wad of cash. Little to his surprise, that’s exactly what happened. However, the circumstances were something Keith didn’t account for. Shiro offered to pay for Lance’s car but he actually paid for them to delay the process. He would be a fool and not a very good soldier if he let this opportunity slide. He had to find a way to keep Lance and Keith close, even if just for a bit. He made sure he capitalized on it. 

After handing the mechanic the money he spots Keith and Lance walking up to him. He gives a gentle smile to Lance who nods slowly in return, avoiding eye contact. He looks at Keith wondering if he should pry but Keith shakes his head and Shiro proceeds to leave the situation alone. Seeing Lance looks so defeated yet again just fills him up with so many unspeakable emotions. Shiro shifts his body so that he’s facing the boys in front of him. “Okay so before you object, I already paid for your car and no you don’t have to pay me back. I mean it. No strings attached.” 

“What the fuck!? Are you serious Shiro? Why would you do that?” provoked Lance, feeling irritated that some stranger had to cover for him. Especially without asking. 

Shiro threw his hands up in the air to signify that he was no threat, “I understand why you’re upset. Your feelings are completely valid, j-just let me do something nice okay.” 

“Something nice? First of all, you pick us up off the side of the road, then buy us dinner, let us stay the night aND COOK US BREAKFAST?! Then you have the AUDACITY to cover my car repairs?” Lance yells, absolutely fuming. “I can’t BELIEVE someone like you is so... nice. I really appreciate you, Shiro. Because I have about 200 dollars in my account right now and I can’t ask my mom for any money or she’ll kill me and at this point, I might just let her.” He says calmly. 

Keith and Shiro look at each other completely confused and then at Lance who seems to be smiling again. Shiro lets out a series of nervous chuckles, “Oh my god, I thought you were seriously mad at me.” 

“I was too scared to jump in and save you, Shiro. Mad Lance is an actual madman, I simply don’t have the balls or the necessary testosterone.” Keith adds, feeling relieved Lance is back to his old self. 

“Why thank you, I was in theater during my high school days. Though I could touch up on some old skills. But seriously tho, I can’t thank you enough. But you have to let me repay you somehow.” Lance confirms, not wanting to be in someone’s debt. He knows that never works out. 

Keith chimes in, “What do you want us to do?” 

Shiro raises his eyebrow at Keith’s question, causing him to blush. “I-I didn’t mean like that pervert-” 

“ Unless ..” Lance adds in, trying to seductively lean over Keith to enhance his sex appeal by proxy. Shiro covers his mouth with his robotic arm and laughs into it. These boys were going to be the death of him. “Since you insisted, and I swear it’s nothing sexual...but I’m also not opposed. But you guys are free to stay at my place until your car is fixed. Which would be in two weeks. I know- that’s a long time but just clean up after yourselves and we should be good. It would be nice having company. If that’s fine with you guys?” 

Lance looks at Keith with “Please say yes” eyes and he graciously gives in. They already stayed the night at his house so a couple more days wouldn’t kill them. And besides, they were running low on cash and if Shiro’s payment was only “company” then so be it. It was almost like a-

“Sugar daddy” Lance blurts out. “I think you’re officially our sugar daddy Shiro.” 

Shiro is at a loss for words. His ears immediately blush and without thinking, Lance runs over and covers them. They look into each other’s eyes and smile. Keith is watching them feeling a bit uncomfortable over how close they are. Overwhelmed with jealousy he instinctively yanks Lance back by the collar of his shirt.

 “What the fuck Keith?!” 

He immediately let’s go, “Sorry.”

“Sorry my ass, you stretched my shirt!” 

Keith crosses his arms and scoffs, “I already said sorry and besides it’s not like I ruined anything. You can’t fix ugly,” he retorts. 

Lance and Keith start bickering again and Shiro rolls his eyes, they’re so childish it’s cute. Although Lance couldn’t tell, Keith was definitely mad at him even if for a little bit. This ordeal with the boys is going to be a lot more difficult if he doesn’t find a way to win over Keith. And if Keith didn’t come around, then the only option Shiro has left is to get rid of him. There was no denying that Keith was attractive but Lance just filled his needs a bit more. His skin tone, the way he carried himself, his personality was similar to his beloved Adam. He knew Adam could never be replaced and he didn’t want that. But Lance was the second-best thing. He wanted Lance, he was obsessed with him. The only reason why he kept Keith along was because despite not realizing it, these boys are attached at the hip. Lance seems to smile brighter with Keith by his side. And who is Shiro is to deny a flower of his sunshine? 

The three men said their goodbyes to the mechanic and headed back to Shiro’s house. They instantly made themselves comfortable yet again while Shiro was in the kitchen making dinner. Things were turning out okay. Shiro had the boys secluded while they had a nice, warm place to stay. It was a win-win situation with terms and conditions Keith and Lance didn’t read. They skimmed through the agreement and blindly checked off every yes box. Yes, Shiro was a dime a dozen. He was so nice, not creepy, super helpful, funny, charming, had money, and was ridiculously hot. They couldn’t have stumbled across a more perfect guy. But Shiro was much more than what he led on. He was also a broken man from a broken home from a broken relationship that he desperately relied on. His safety net was taken from this world without his permission and every day he has to wake up and look at himself in the mirror and wonder why that couldn’t be him. The ugliest monster is the reflection of yourself you don’t recognize. 

Ontario, Canada 

Everyone thought that Nadia was joking, being a sneaky little gremlin when she mentioned they should sneak into Lux for spring break. But as they were walking up to the front door, everyone knew that it actually wasn’t a joke anymore. It was too late to turn back, everyone already lied to all their parents about their locations. And they would be downright fools for bailing now. The craziest thing about the entire situation was that none of them knew what the plan was. Nadia said, “Club we go now” and everyone hopped into Adam’s car without a second thought. 

“Sooooo...are we actually doing this?” Regis questions, his voice trembling. 

“Y-yeah I think so?” Curtis responds, fiddling with the drawstrings on his joggers. 

Nadia skips between the two boys and flicks them hard on their foreheads. “Lighten up will ya’...like I said this place doesn’t card. So just act normal.”

“Maybe you should take your own advice Nads.” Shiro quipped, returning Adam’s acknowledging fist bump. She rolls her eyes and skips further away from the boys. “Funny how I’m the only girl in the group with balls bigger than all four of y’all put together.”

Kinkade loudly scoffs at her remark, “If your balls are bigger than a man then you wouldn’t be a girl now would you? You’d be a woman with massive balls. Get it right.”

Nadia playfully punches Kinkade in the arms before hooking their arms together like a Prince escorting his ballroom date. Adam gives Curtis a knowing look over and he shrugs. Curtis knows that Nadia is a touchy-feely person and he trusts her enough and his friends enough to keep within their boundaries. And with that, Adam returns his attention back to the boy with the silky long black hair with a white streak tucked behind his ear. 

“How you feeling?” he queried. 

“Everything I guess...you’re not scared are you?” Shiro replied, trying his best not to stare at Adam. He was wearing ripped black jeans with a tucked-in button-up and that was enough to send Shiro over the moon. Adam’s last name must’ve been ranch because he was dressing. 

“Scared? A smidge I guess. I rather save ourselves the embarrassment of getting found out more than anything.” 

Shiro’s eyes open wide like saucers, “Right? I’m not even easily embarrassed because I feel no shame, but Nadia has made me more anxious.” 

Adam softly chuckles at Shiro’s comment which makes him roll his eyes in hopes of averting the attention away from his red ears. Just as Adam was trying to relinquish in that moment, a person exiting from the club bumped into him which made him stumble. Causing his hands and Shiro to graze each other and before they knew it they were clasped together. Shiro immediately felt the heat radiating off of the palms of Adam. He only linked their hands together to keep him from tipping over. He tried to let go, but Adam tighten the grip and gave him a smile. 

“Can we just stay like this?” he asked, praying that the dark-haired boy would grant his wish.

“....Fine, but you don’t get to bring this up later okay?” 

“Okay.”

Nadia is the first to reach the bouncer and the boys surrounding her stiffen up like a pack of meerkats. The bouncer looks them over and laughs. 

“Relax,” he said. “It’s spring break, go have some fun,” nodding his head towards the club’s gothic black doors.

The group of kids all relax and let out a long breath they didn’t know they were holding. Nadia didn’t want to confess, but she was on the verge of shitting bricks until they got the okay sign. 

“Let’s fucking goooo!” Regis yells, throwing his hands up in the air. He runs inside while his friends chase after him hooping and hollering. This night was going to be a complete night changer. However, the circumstances of how it changed their night was something no one expected. They were just kids wanting to mess around and have fun with their friends. 

After finally catching up to Regis, they all head straight to the back of the club to where the bar was located. They made sure to keep Nadia in the middle of them so no unsuspecting hands would try to feel her up. Nadia never felt more secure in her life. Maybe being surrounded by guy friends had its advantages. Shiro, Regis, Kinkade, and of course Adam were like brothers to her in a weird way. Still holding Shiro’s hand, Adam guides him through the crowd. Unlike Nadia, he felt like he didn’t need protection. If someone put their hands on him, that’s it, game over. Shiro was not a toy to be played with. Suddenly feeling insecure, Shiro yanks his hand away from the older tanned boy with fluffy brown hair. He tried to guise his withdrawal from being in a crowded room, but Adam felt the abrupt shift. He just decided not to question it. Both of them did. But maybe they should’ve. Maybe if Shiro felt more comfortable around Adam tonight wouldn’t have been a nightmare. Maybe if Adam tried to hold Shiro’s hand a little longer, a little tighter. Maybe if he fought to keep him tucked between his fingers, tonight wouldn’t have been a nightmare. Tonight could’ve been a lot of things. But the only thing it was to Shiro was a night he wished he could never remember. That night changed a lot of things. 

The gang arrives at the fluorescent bar and desperately try to order drinks. Sadly, the bartender actually does their job and shoo’s the kids away. They groan and slump into their seats. 

“Clubbing without booze is so lame!” Nadia groans. 

“You talk as if you’ve experienced this before!” Kinkade yells over the music. They’re all sitting next to each other but it still feels like they’re miles apart. 

“I’ve seen movies dumbass!” 

“You sound like a wine mom Nads!” Curtis responds. 

“Awe you want me to be a mommy?!” 

“More like a milf!” Regis slurs in...wobbling in this bar seat. 

The gang quickly looks over at him in astonishment. Mans was totally wasted right now, and he didn’t bother sharing. Shiro gets up from his chair to steady Regis, “Reggie what the fuck did you do?!” 

Regis’ eyes drift across his friend’s faces and then to the bar behind him. “...uh- I-I got a drink!”

“Well no shit, how many?!” 

“L-like a big one?!” 

Shiro slaps his forehead, “Can you at least stand?!” 

Regis quickly nods his head and practically jumps out of his chair. For some reason, he was standing perfectly still. Shiro’s friends laugh at Regis’ drunken state. “I think he’s a lightweight!”

“You don’t say!” Kinkade says, walking up to his drunk friend to get a closer look. “Bro...Tell! Me! Your! Secrets!” Regis turns around and points beyond the bar table to the worker’s drink station. “I...just..grabbed..one!” 

“Oh shit- can you grab another one?!” 

Regis nods before swiftly hopping over the counter to grab a bottle of fireball. The club is so packed that the bartenders don’t even see the skinny high school kid snatching their liquor. The gang cheers and pulls Regis into a hug. He’s sloshing around his friends having the time of his life. He also made a mental note to never drink again. 

After a few swigs that were passed around, they emptied the bottle. At this point, everyone was zooted. “H...ow are weeeee getting h...ome?” Curtis asked, lazily leaning on his girlfriend who was leaning on Kinkade, and so forth. “T...That is a good question Curt...a g..ood question indeed.” Kinkade replied. They were smart enough to stay in a group together near the bar so no one would get lost or separated. So all their cackling, stumbling, and horrendous dancing was witnessed by everyone close to them. But they didn’t care. Everyone was having a good time, especially Shiro. He never felt that loose before in his life. Not that he was bricked up 24/7 it just sometimes you get moments where you’re like, “Damn...I was holding all these emotions in?” He and Adam seemed to have made up after the hand fiasco and it even got to the point where Adam was wrapping his arms around Shiro’s waist. They were swinging back and forth to the music, chatting, laughing, listening to Kinkade, Nadia, and Curtis bicker... but this time drunk. Regis was sitting in the chair behind them intensively listening. Shiro had a bright smile plastered on his face.

 Everything at his moment just felt so right. It felt like home. Although he wanted to spend more time hanging out with his friends. Liquor plus teenage boy bladder was not a good combo. He whispered into Adam’s ear saying he had to go pee. Adam nodded and let go of him. “Lemme come with you, so you don’t get lost,” Adam insisted. Shiro profusely shakes his head. Mostly because of the booze but also because being snuggled up with Adam for another minute was going to break him. He needed a chance to breathe. “Thanks...I’ll be okay. Be back in a bit.” 

And with that, Shiro squeezes through the crowd of people in search of a bathroom. He accidentally bumps into an older man who was mildly attractive. Sober Shiro would’ve knocked his lights out for touching him, but drunk Shiro couldn’t even tell which hand of his was his dominant. He curtly apologizes and continues to shimmy until he reached the bathroom at the back of the club. Unaware of his surroundings, which was something his dad taught him to never do. The man he bumped into earlier followed him in the bathroom. 

Shiro heads to the sink first to splash lukewarm club water over his face in hopes of sobering up a bit before he tries to aim an organ at a toilet bowl. As he was stumbling into the last stall, he curses at himself for nearly tripping over his own foot. Luckily someone was there to grab him. The older man eases the younger boy up before swiftly guiding him into the stall. He presses Shiro against the cool graffitied bricked wall. Shiro’s heart is beating so loud, it’s almost painful to listen to it. The older man locks the stall door and smiles at Shiro. Unable to decipher what was going on, Shiro stupidly smiles back. “Never smile because that means you’re asking for it, ” his father’s word rang through the back of his skull. 

“What’s your name kid?” the older gentlemen ask, now hovering over Shiro’s body. 

Shiro looks up at the man, “First name is My and last name is business,” He shot back, his sobriety finally kicking through his bloodstream. He needed to get the hell out of there. The man chuckles and leans in close, breath hot near Shiro’s ears. “You’re so fucking hot when you talk to me like that.” The boy’s ears immediately flush. Shiro never doubted himself when it came to liking guys. Out of all things he wasn’t sure of, being gay wasn’t one of them. He kissed a few guys when he was younger, but that was just kids being kids. He even went as far as going onto messaging apps to talk to older guys just to see what it was like. But that never equated to the real thing, to real life. He was a newbie through and through. A naive one at that. But for some odd reason, validation from older men made him feel so good and fuzzy inside. He was about one ticket out of that stall, but being this close to another man, especially one that seemed interested in him was an opportunity he couldn’t miss. And besides, people hook up in bars all the time, why would this be any different? But it was different. Hooking up in clubs is fine when it’s between two consenting adults. Not a grown man and a 16-year-old who was still intoxicated against his best judgment. The older man saw Shiro’s ears change hue and used that a confirmation to take advantage of him. He wasn’t worried about getting caught because no kid would voluntarily their parents they went to a bar and got drunk. And besides, he was a married man. The man smiled as he leaned away from Shiro to give him a once-over. Shiro felt so nervous underneath his gaze.

 The man cocked his head to the side, “I meant what I said, you’re really pretty.” 

Shiro blushes, “I thought I was fucking hot ? What happened?”  

He pushes himself off the stall wall and scoffs, “I can give you a hot fucking if you beg for it.” 

Shiro raises his eyebrow as an attempt to flirt, “I beg for no man.” 

The older man grabs Shiro by his chin and presses his lips against the younger boy. It was forced and awkward and after he slid his wet tongue in Shiro’s mouth the boy realized this wasn’t something he wanted. For fucks sake, he should be kissing Adam right now and not some greasy tool. After the fifth kiss, Shiro tried to pull away but was unsuccessful. The man quickly grabbed his hand and slammed it against the wall. Shiro tried his other one but it was no use. They were back in the same position but this time Shiro was completely dominated. The man’s grip was hurting him. His wrist felt like they were about to shatter. No matter how many times he yelled, “No...Stop...Let me go,” the man just laughed and kissed him harder. Shiro couldn’t breathe. He tried to kick him to put more space between them, any amount of space between them. But the man’s knee pushed its way in between Shiro’s legs. The sensation was driving him mad because why did it feel good? This shouldn’t feel good. He also still needed to pee. At this point, Shiro was full-on sobbing. Completely overwhelmed with everything. The rough kissing, his bruised wrists, the heat between his thighs, his jittering body from all the place the man felt him up. Everything hurt and he prayed for it to be over. But I guess god turned his back on him. Because it was far from over. He felt the tension leave his wrists and promptly tried to run out the door. Back to his friends, back to Adam. 

The older man snatched a handful of Shiro’s hair. The momentum gave him whiplash and he fell backwards onto the man. Shiro’s now sitting in his lap and he shudders as he feels the man’s growing erection slowly press against his own. 

“Please j-just let me go,” he pleads through broken sobs. 

“Why should I? We’re having so much fun?” the man breathed, gently rocking his hips making Shiro bounce on top of him. He yanks Shiro’s head back forcing the younger boy to look at him. “You look so pretty when you cry.” 

The life behind Shiro’s eyes grows cold. His body shuts down, his mind goes blank. He’s staring at the man who runs his grimy fingers down his chest, teasing him through his pants. But he sees no one. The whole world goes silent. It’s finally calm. His tears dried up, too tired to fall. Shiro was long gone. The only thing he was conscious of was making this man pay. He was going to suffer for what he did. No matter how long it took. 

Shiro finally snaps out of it once he hears the older man zipping up his pants. He blinks a couple of times while all his senses transpire. He looks at his hands and they’re dripping with semen, his mouth tastes bitter and slimy. He glances up at the man standing in front of him and doesn’t say a word. He has nothing to say. “I have nothing to say...after all this? I can’t come up with one word after all this?” He thinks to himself. He tries to speak, to do anything but his body won’t move. It’s a stiff as concrete, an ironclad vessel. He tries to read the man’s lips but all he understands is, “Zarukon.” Whatever the hell that means. The man takes a final look at the mess he created and smirks. He pats Shiro on his head, unlocks the bathroom door, and leaves. Doesn’t even stop to wash his hands. 

Shiro doesn’t know how long he’s been sitting on that dirty, rancid bathroom floor but it must’ve been too long because now Adam of all people was in the bathroom with him helping him up off the floor. He couldn’t comprehend anything, but he was glad Adam showed up to finally save him. 

Nadia, Curtis, Kinkade, and Regis finally settled down and slumped their bodies onto the bar counter. They all tried to hold a conversation but no one was making any sense so they all peacefully shut up. Adam was sobering up after playing Dad of the group and was wondering when Shiro was going to get back. Like he knew man had to pee, but 10 min pee break was a little concerning. Especially in a club of all places. Filled to the brim with worry, he lets his friends know that he’s going to the bathroom and quickly maneuvers his way through the crowd of people. On his way there he bumps into a man with short dark hair, and a stern face and almost caught feelings. Until he felt something ominous about the way the older man smiled at him before walking away. His body shook as he hurriedly ran into the bathroom. He looked around and didn’t see Shiro until he noticed the back stall door wide open and a pair of black converse peeking through. 

“Shiro! Oh my god...how long does it take for you to pee-” Adam’s voice abruptly shuts off. Too stunned to speak. Too angry at what he was looking at. Who did this to him? And where was he while this happened? He knew he should’ve gone with Shiro, he should’ve tried harder. But now wasn’t the time to wallow in his own foolish mistakes. Shiro seems so lifeless. So broken. Something even Adam hasn’t witnessed. He knew Shiro grew distant from time to time but he always came around much happier. But this time, he didn’t even know if happy Shiro was coming back. He ran over and crouched next to the boy. Trying to get his attention, but it didn’t work. Shiro was completely out of it.

 “Shiro...I’m going to pick you up okay? Can I touch you?” Adam asked consolingly. No response, but he saw a slight head nod. “Okay...he’s still here, ” Adam whispered to himself. He wraps his arm around Shiro’s waist and draped his arm around his shoulder to sturdy him. They walk out of the stall and head over to the sink. 

“We’re gonna wash your hands and rinse out your mouth okay?” Adam notifies calmly. There still wasn’t a response, but he was okay with that. Shiro could still process what was happening, and the little nod he would give was all the confirmation he needed. Adam ran the water and messed with it until it was warm. He gently grabbed Shiro’s hands, not flinching from touching the semen. The last thing Shiro needed was to feel gross and embarrassed by what happened. Adam rinsed the boy’s hands off and scrubbed with all the soap he could squeeze from the dispenser. He asks Shiro to spit out any leftover fluid in his mouth. Adam scooped water into his hands and poured it into Shiro’s mouth. He swigged and spit and swigged and spit. This went on for a while until he felt like his mouth was clean. Adam didn’t mind waiting on him. 

While Shiro was swigging the warm water into his mouth he felt brave enough to look at Adam. He was finally warming up and could feel his body loosen up. He spat out the final swig and wiped his mouth with the paper towels Adam handed him. They look at each other, not saying a word. Then Shiro notices tears cascading like a stream down Adam’s tanned face. He watched them fall to the floor and burst into a million particles. He’s never seen someone cry over him before besides his mother. And she was only crying because Shiro made her upset. But these tears were different. They reeked of pain, agony, regret, desperation...love. Shiro instinctively raises his hands to cup the boy’s face wanting to take all his pain away. He tenderly wipes his tears away, “Why are you crying?” 

Adam sniffles, “S-sorry...I know- it’s just..are you okay?... Shiro, I was so fucking scared. I’m such a fucking idiot for leaving you alone and my god- I s-should’ve- You-.” His rambling was cut off by Shiro’s delicate yet tight embrace. At that point, both of them were crying. Shoulders wet with salty tears. Adam was holding onto Shiro so tight it started to freak him out and he didn’t know what to do, what if he couldn’t speak anymore? His body started shaking and his breath was increasing in speed. Adam pulled Shiro back to see what was wrong. 

“Hey...hey...hey you’re okay. It’s just me Adam. Remember? Shiro I’m going to need you to look at me and take a deep breath. Can you do that for me?” 

Shiro slowly nods. Adam carefully places his palms onto Shiro’s cheeks and stares at the point his eyes meet his. Once they do, he watches Shiro take a deep breath as instructed. He calms down again. Shiro covers his face with his hands and sighs. “I- you have to promise me you won’t tell anyone what happened.”

Adam’s eyes go wide but he accepts. “I promise...but still-” 

“No but’s...please I need you to-”

“I promise,” Adam reassures.

Shiro backs away from Adam and looks at himself in the mirror. He didn’t say it out loud but he was absolutely disgusted with himself. They do a final look over and try to calm their nerves before leaving the bathroom. Once they back into the atmosphere of the club, life felt so fabricated. Who knew hell was in the club bathroom? They mosey their wave back to the bar and Nadia, Regis, Kinkade, and Curtis are still slumped. Shiro wrangles out a chuckle, “What the hell happened to them?” 

Adam smiles back, “Alcoholic withdrawals.” 

Hearing familiar voices, Nadia perks up with slobber dried to the side of her mouth. This really makes Shiro laugh. “Hey Nads, you okay?” 

Nadia blinks a few times, “Yeah...you?” 

Shiro shrugs, “Could be better.” 

Nadia gives him a giant smile, “I love you.” Shiro blushes at the random confession, “Don’t you have a boyfriend?” 

Nadia swivels in her chair before realigning with Shiro’s gaze, “And? This love is all platonic baby. I mean that Shiro, I love you.”  Shiro walks over to Nadia and gives her a peck on the forehead, “Love you too.” There’s a roar of “awe’s and you guys are so cute” from not only his friends but the bartenders as well. Shiro groans but secretly he felt content with it. Being with his friends again and way from that hellish bathroom cheered him right up. He was just happy to take his mind off things. 

Nobody wanted another round of liquor and they all agreed to never drink again until college. They were already feeling groggy now and dreaded the forsaken hangover the next day. They were now walking back to Adam’s car which was a good two and a half miles away from the club. They parked far, just in case someone they knew saw them. Also, it would be a good way to sober up if they actually needed a ride back home. Luckily enough Adam was beyond sober. He was actually too aware of everything and couldn’t keep his eyes off Shiro. 

“Bruh...how the fuck do I hide a hangover from my parents?” Kinkade groaned into Curtis’ shoulder. Curtis ruffles his hair, “You don’t.” 

Kinkade bangs his head against the back of Curtis’ skull, “Hardy har...you’re so funny.” 

“Ow...don’t get mad at me, I was just answering your question.” 

“Ughh my legs hurt.” Regis moans, slumping over while he walked next to Shiro. 

Shiro shakes his head, “Do you want a piggyback ride?” Regis chirped up in an instant and quickly jumped onto Shiro’s back. Regis scooched a bit to get into a more comfortable and stable position before he was thrown onto the ground. His ass hit the grass with a thump. 

“Ahhh- what the hell!” 

Shiro’s hands were shaking, “S-sorry I thought a bug landed on me.” 

“Well next time say bug..before you drop me to my death.” Regis picked himself off the ground and walks away from Shiro shaking his head. “And to think I trusted you” he joked. Shiro tried to laugh but he couldn’t. Apparently, he was still feeling the ramifications of what happened in the bathroom. The man’s body heat radiating on his back made his stomach drop just thinking about it. His throat felt really tight, almost swollen. Panic was stretching in. He felt like his friends were leaving him behind. Of course, they would leave behind a disgusting person like him. He deserved to get left behind. No one wants to be friends with a whore. A no-good slut who lets any man have his way with him. Shiro’s mind was venturing off deeper and deeper and deeper until he felt callused yet clammy hand slide into the crevices of his fingers. He turns around and sees Adam, lovely Adam. 

“Let’s walk.” That’s all he said, that’s all he needed to say. Something about Adam’s presence really grounded Shiro in ways he never thought was possible. They walked back to the car in silence and every now and then Adam would give his hands a little squeeze to let him know that he was still there. Everything about Adam was so heavenly and wonderful. “Why would a guy like him be so...so enraptured to a guy like me? I don’t deserve him. But I would also go crazy if I ever lost him.” 

They finally reached the car and drive back to Regis’ house. His parents were the only cool ones, so them crashing there for the night wouldn’t raise any suspicion. Everyone besides Adam was sound asleep, completely drained from the crazy night they had. Especially Shiro. He honestly thought his life couldn’t get any worse but ironically it did. A little to his surprise, this was only the beginning. Shiro was a man in the making. 

Chapter Text

New York City 

After spilling the beans to his precious but annoying coworkers, Lance’s mind was riddled with anxiety. He’s never been a phone person but he somehow managed to get years worth of phone addiction in a matter of 4 hours. The phantom vibrations, the constant need to check his notifs, scrolling through the settings, finally reading emails, checking the weather; He was doing it all. How long does it take to text a simple “ Hey…It’s me…the super hot and charming guy that wants to date you ?” It was driving Lance to the brink of insanity. Ezor and Axca were having a field day seeing him so anxious over a text message that hasn’t even happened yet. Zethrid brought up that if he’s like this now, he’s beyond screwed for when they actually start texting. That cracked everyone up and surprisingly eased Lance’s mind. Sometimes it’s good to laugh at your absurdity…keeps the brain young or whatever Ke$ha said. Time flew by once he stopped obsessing, and his phone addiction withdrawal was a successful recovery. He clocked out around 8 pm and said his goodbyes. On his walk to the station, his phone gently vibrates in his back pocket. It takes a few seconds for him to realise that his phone was actually notifying him. He scrambles to grab it as if he was on fear factor almost dropping his phone in the process. Lance taps the screen and the light illuminates his face in the brisk, dark fall weather. A smile warms up the air as he reads a series of texts:

+16429045698: Hey you up? 😳

Oh well of course u’re up its like 8 pm

Srry omg this is so ridiculous 

Lance its Lotor 

I apologize for the late reply 😣💞

-delivered 8:18 pm-

Lance begins punching the air, super excited that he got a text back. “I got a text!” he yelled to himself in a Love Island British accent. He didn’t want to seem desperate, despite him finally getting what he was worrying about for the last six hours. The train ride home is about an hour long and that felt like a decent response time. However, he didn’t get to respond until about 2 am since his mom works nights, his older sister Veronica has morning shifts, and his twin sister Rachel is just well… Rachel. Lance is the primary caretaker of his nephew Silvio. Which Lance doesn’t mind not one bit because he would die for that kid. But it just sucks that Silvy’s mom is a terrible person and his father, Lance’s older brother Luis, is in Cuba. His family does help take care of Silvy but weekdays are a little more chaotic. Once he got home, he had to do damage control because Silvio and Rachel were arguing. Which was stressing Veronica out, because she had an important business meeting the next day and she couldn’t sleep because of the noise. After winding everyone down, cooking dinner, packing his nephew’s lunch, and taking a shower he realized he never texted Lotor back. He practically screamed his lungs out, but as quietly as he could since everyone was asleep. He read the messages like 20 times while typing and deleting and typing and deleting. He finally settled on:

Lance: Heyyyy :)

OMFG like hey yeaahhh so its like 2 am LOLLLL so you are probably not up rn 

but yeah its me Lance

I also apologize for the late reply…swear it wasnt on purpose T^T

-delivered 2:37 am-

With that, he clicked send and flopped on the bed with his semi-damp curly hair. Ready to close his eyes, his phone buzzes underneath the pillow. 

Lotor: If you’re a vampire just say that😉

Lance: Me???? A vampy?? I will never tell 😋😋😋

and besides…what if youre the vampire huh?? 👀💙

now that I think about it…you kinda look like a vampire 😈😈😈

Lotor: ….shit

You caught me😱

But how? I thought I was being so careful😔

Lance: first off youre seggsy as FUCK 👹💖

like no ONE and I MEAN NO ONE has ever heard of an ugly vampire yanno?

they are deadass the epitome (and i dont use that word often LMAOOO) if sex appeal

of***** OMFG 😭😭😭

Lotor: they are provocative 😌

Lance: exactly!!!! it gets the ppl goin 😘

Lotor: so I get you going??? 😈💦

Lance: i meannnn yea😼💦💞

you are very gorgeous to me lol 😽

Lotor: thx love as well as you 😚

Are you still up for that date? 👀👀

Lance: duhhh are you???

Lotor: most certainly 

Does friday around like 4 work? 

Lance: uhhh yea I think so??? Could we push it back to 6 tho?

gotta pick up my nephew from skool 💅

Lotor: perfect

Do you want me to pick you up? Or meet somewhere? 

Lance: asking the hard questions i see i see LOL 

i’ll prolly meet you somewhere if thats coooL?? 

My moms gonna be home and yanno 💀💀💀

Lotor: thats perfectly fine, no worries 

I could pick you up near the food court at the school? 

Lance: perfect yeaaa!!! i’ll meet ya there bru 💙

Lotor: Cool

It’s getting late so sweet dreams love 💓

Lance: goodnight xoxo lol 💙💥

-delivered 3:10 am-

Lance’s heart was marathoning through caught feelings. It’s been a while since he had a date or a relationship since 15. And even then do those even count? He was squeamish in the best way possible and couldn’t wait to tell Keith. The first person he thought of. Of course, he wanted to let Pidge and Hunk know but he wanted to wait until things got a bit more serious. Just in case things don’t work out. He checked his calendar and it was only Tuesday. He groans, “Three days huh? Lameeee.” He tosses in the bed until finding a comfortable position that instantly knocks him out. College life was finally putting in the work. 

Unbeknownst to sweet sweet Lance, the next three days felt like an eternity. Time seemed to slow down rapidly the closer it got to Friday. Which was completely ridiculous and downright vicious behaviour from the universe. The only thing keeping him from his 13th reason were the messages from Lotor. 

Lotor: May this beautiful morning guide you to prosperity xoxo  

Lance: aweeee you sound like a fortune cookie 😹😹😹

its cute 😚💙

Lotor: I was wrong, u’re not a vampire

But an empath 😫😫

Fortune Cookie (next slide)

Lance: AINT NO FUCKING WAYYYY LMAOOOOO

Lotor: right? 

I was trying to be sweet and poetic lol 

Got caught red handed 😭

Lance: Sorry

didn’t mean to show you my godly powers so soon 

i just felt the presence of panda express fortune cookies 🙀

Lotor: but seriously have a nice day 

Really looking forward to our date 😏

Lance: same same sameeeee the week has never been slower like wtf

Likeeee i gotta wait a WHOLE 24 hours for tmw???

Why can’t life just amazon prime days 😑

Lotor: felt

But don’t give daddy bezo any ideas 

Lance: PLEASEEEE- not daddy bezo 😂😂😂

i meannn he does give off that sexc bald guy energy tho lolll

Lotor: that and his phat package and i’m not talking about the one in his pants 😉

Lance: LMAOO fuck off 😂💙 but yeah i gtg…

Text you later??? 

Lotor: forsure

Gonna miss ya 😞💞

Lance: You’re so silly…bye Lotor 💙💙💙

-delivered 10:05 am-

Lance arrived at work around 12 pm which is his usual schedule on Wednesdays. His courses only take up 3 days out of the week, so it gives him plenty of time to study and work on his off days. And as soon as he walked through the door, it felt like a thousand eyes were piercing into his soul. He groans, “I should’ve stayed home today.” 

“You love us.” coaxed Ezor who was dusting off the shelves next to him.

“If this is love, then I don’t like it.” He puffs, trudging to the backroom to change. “And yes, he did text me back.” 

As he’s closing the door the sound of whoops and hollers drown out. The customers in the store giggle at the commotion. Zethrid and her two girlfriends Ezor and Axca opened up a handmaid boutique five years ago. “Little Gremlins” is known for their out of the ordinary hospitality. It’s a community business that the people adore. So not only Lance, but the owners can afford to be a little “unprofessional.” 

During his shift, he showed Zethrid and them the messages between him and Lotor and told them about his plan to tell Keith first instead of Pidge and Hunk. 

“Am I weird for that? I mean Pidge and Hunk are my besties y’know? Like- I’m not saying Keith isn’t but I don’t know,” Lance faltered while ringing up a customer. “Thank you, have a nice day!” 

“No yeah yeah…totally get it. No different than when people tell strangers their deepest secrets. You can talk to strangers because you don’t seek the same level of validation from them compared to your personal relationships,” Ezor enunciated with a caring but firm tone. 

Lance looks at her sideways surprised at her helpful advice. “Okay ezzie…not you spitting right now. But yeah I guess I just feel more comfortable talking to Keith especially about guys.” 

“Is he… y’know? ” asked Axca. 

“All I’m saying is that if I were to refer to my group of friends as a fruit salad, Keith would be most of the fruit.” Lance joked. 

Ezor was in the middle of spewing out her obnoxious laugh before Zethrid yanked her away, “It was a good joke…a great one even” said Zethrid, trying to hold in her laugh.

“So he is y’know to answer your question. Meeting Keith actually helped me come into terms with my own sexuality and I’m very grateful for that.” 

“Weird way to say ‘Gay awakening’ but I respect it.” 

Lance groans, “Whatever Axca…you can’t blame me tho!” 

“He’s right babe, I’m pro-woman but catch me on an off day and I would definitely get drunk and nasty with him,” Zethrid swooned. 

Lance cackled so hard he choked on his spit. While Axca was slapping his back a little too hard for comfort, a special someone walked through the door. 

“Annnnnd speak of the sexy devil himself,” Ezor cooed, whistling at the tall raven-haired man blocking the doorway. 

“Omg Keith, impeccable timing…your existence just converted a sapphic,” said Lance. “But what are you doing here loca?”  

“I’m like a reverse gaydar,” Keith laughs. “Also I literally texted you 20 minutes ago saying I was going to pick you up?” 

Lance raises his eyebrow and quickly checks his phone. Five unread messages and three of them are from Lotor. He smiles at his phone before looking up at Keith. “Damn my fault my fault…uhhh.” He glances at Zethrid who gives him the okay to leave. 

Lance usually travels around NYC by train or by his long sexy legs, but the days that Keith can pick him instantly tallies up good star stickers to like life-meter. Mostly because he gets to spend time with Keith. Today was extra exhilarating because they haven’t been able to hang out for roughly 2 months. Lance was getting settled with college life and Keith was changing jobs and moving apartments. Needless to say, life has been quite hectic for them. Keith was so excited to see Lance. They’ve only been friends for about a year and dreading to admit it to himself, Lance is the longest friend he’s had since elementary. It’s not like he planned to never have long-time friends but people just seem to leave him. Lance was the only one that stuck around and he didn’t mind it. 

However, it’s also been the most confusing friendship he’s ever been in. He quickly found out that Lance’s love language was hardcore touching. And after their first week of meeting, he had to visit the doctor to make sure his heart wasn’t actually beating out of his chest. The palpitations were brutal. It took a few mental hoops to figure out that Lance wasn’t trying to date him and at the time, Keith didn’t even know Lance liked guys. That bonding moment changed their whole relationship. For the better Keith likes to think. Having someone so close and genuinely loving them gives him a reason to wake up every day. But it’s also his demise. And today was a speed-run from good, to great, to bad, to terrible, to please tell me this isn’t happening; in a matter of minutes. 

Lance, dating Lance, being in love with Lance, having intimacy with Lance, has always been things on the very back of Keith’s mind. But he never felt comfortable or worthy enough to ever pursue those feelings. He was just always waiting for Lance to make a move because if he did, Keith would give his everything to that charismatic, goofy, incredibly smart Cuban boy. Frankly speaking, Lance could have him. Name a time and place and he’ll be there. 

They were having such a good time cracking jokes and doing carpool karaoke that it took a solid minute to process “I have a date with this guy Lotor… I met him at school and like I’m really hoping this works out. Ahh I’m so nervous…Keith, what should I do?”

The honking from the car behind them snapped Keith out of it. “Wait…what?” 

“Yeah…like we met in my film class and things kinda just went from there.”

“.. ..what?” 

“Yeah and we’re meeting on Friday and I’m just like ahhhh y’know?... Keith, are you even listening? I’m spilling all kinda beans here dude.” 

“Y-yeah…sorry. Wow…do I say congrats?” Perplexed Keith, the excessive grip on the steering wheel painted his knuckles white. 

“I mean…I guess. You’re not exactly the first person I told but I haven’t even brought this up to Hunk or Pidge.” 

“Seriously?” 

“Yeah…I just don’t feel ready talking to them about it yet.” 

“Well…I’m super happy for you, thanks for telling me. I appreciate it for real.” Keith deadpanned, the words felt so icky leaving his mouth. In the grand scheme of things, of course, he’s happy for Lance. But he can’t deny that it just doesn’t feel right. The ache that’s swimming in the pit of his stomach is causing his throat to burn. He’s so angry at himself for being such a coward. 

“Of course... also like who else can I even talk to about like guys and stuff? Fuck …my mom doesn’t even know yet. I feel like Rachel and Veronica might have an inkling because I’m a bit too vocal when it comes to Andrew Garfield.” 

“Andy G is a sexy beast tho.” 

“Exactly..but yeah you’re all I have Keith. So... what I’m saying is… thanks.” Lance attested, truly grateful that he has someone like Keith in his life. 

“Of course, glad to be here…I don’t wanna fuck up the vibe but are we having like another bonding moment right now?” Keith joked, hoping to release some of the tension that’s happening to his body. 

Lance and Keith cackle in the car both thinking about their first bonding moment and how ridiculous it was. It’s what jumped started their friendship but looking back is so cringe.

“Oh my god…Please don’t remind me. I have BMSD” Lance groaned, slumping into the passenger seat. Covering his face to hide his embarrassment, his war flashbacks. 

“What the hell is that?!” Keith choked. 

“Bonding moment stress disorder. It’s a real disorder that’s not often talked about. A true silent killer if not taken care of immediately.” Lance proclaimed.

“Wait, do I have BDSM?” Keith asked, genuinely scared for his emotional wellbeing. 

“Wha- NO…BDSM? Keith B.M.S.D…don’t be rude! You’re being like totally ableist right now.” 

“Awe...well that’s too damn bad” Keith yelled, mimicking the grandpa from Holes. 

Lance’s laugh was hoarse and drawn out. He kept smacking the dashboard as if that was going to help him breathe better. Every time he tried to take a breath Keith would squint at him and that started the laughing fits all over again. His infectious laugh contaminated Keith to the point where he started swerving on the street and that made them chuckle more. Because how funny would it be if Keith crashed his car because he was laughing so hard?

They seem to be breathing normally once they entered Keith’s new apartment. Lance is in awe. The place looks so cool. It was like a bohemian rustic 50s diner thing. Which would seem like clashing themes but they actually fit together quite nicely. Interior designer? Well I hardly know her. Keith smiles at Lance and watches him poke and prod around the room like a kid at a museum. 

“You know the couch is totally available, my stuff isn’t going anywhere.” Keith offered as he made his way into the kitchen. 

“Don’t care, didn’t ask plus you're a minority.” 

Keith rolls his eyes and reaches into the fridge to grab two bottles of Orchard apple beer. He clinks the bottles together, “You want one?” 

Lance’s eyes immediately light up, “Hell fucking yeah…gimme that boy.” 

Keith cracks open the bottles with his teeth like a caveman and passes one to Lance. Lance shakes his head in disgust. “You’re gonna break a toof like that.” Keith rolls his eyes, “Haven’t broken one yet and besides it’s a cool party trick.” 

They tip their drinks together before each taking a sip. “So…about that date?” Keith prods, itching to know more but also hating that he has to hear it. Lance talks about girls all the time and it doesn’t bother him. But I guess that’s different, now that he knows Lance is bisexual. Him being bi kinda opened up some doors but now they have locks on them and Keith never bothered asking for the key. He took another swig to swallow his emotions. He’s gonna be fine…he’s gonna be fine.

“The date…yes. Like bro, I’m shitting bricks…like kick my grandma in the ankle kinda nervous.” Lance insisted.

“Damn, that serious?” 

“That’s what I’m saying…it’s not like I’ve never been on dates before but-”

“But you also never dated a guy,” Keith added. 

“Exactly- and no matter how many times I’m like ‘It’s just like dating a girl,’ No it fucking isn’t because he’s a fucking dude with cock and balls.” 

Keith giggles, “Some men doobie having cock and balls..but it’s not like y’all gonna get wicked on the first date. And listen…before he’s a man, remember he’s a person too. Just talk to him, be yourself, all that jazz.” 

They plop on the couch together with their legs tangled up in the middle. Lance spreads out over the armrest staring at the ceiling, absorbing everything in. Keith playfully kicks his butt and Lance immediately jumps him. A stupid decision on both their parts because no one put down their drinks. Apple scented beer spilled all over their clothes and the carpet. 

“Lance!” Keith yells, trying to be stern but a smile escapes his lips.

“Don’t you dare ‘Lance’ me…you’re missing half your drink too girlie.” 

“You got me all wet,” Keith smirked. 

“What are we talking about?... .what are we talking about? ” Lance asked seductively, rubbing his hands together like a fly.

“You’re a pervert. Go change.” Keith demanded, pointing across the room at the open door. “And you better not pick any of my good shirts.” 

“Whatever.”

Lance goes into Keith’s room and grabs two shirts from the closet.  One that had blue horizontal stripes which was an old shirt he left over at Keith’s old place, and a dark grey long sleeve with holes around the collar. He scoffs at the shirt because he remembers when Keith kept trying to insist that it was “modern fashion” when in actuality moths just ate through his clothes. "He's so stupid oh my god," Lance thinks to himself. 

He walks back into the living area aggressively throwing the shirt at the long-haired man on the couch. Lance peeks through his fingers to watch Keith change before quickly turning around when Keith makes eye contact with him. Keith amusingly shakes his head. Right in the middle of Lance changing into his shirt, his phone starts ringing. With the blue striped shirt draped around his neck like a scarf, he answers the phone. 

“¿Puedes recoger Silvio?” (Can you pick up Silvio?) his mom asks. 

“¿Qué pasó?...por qué?” (What happened, why?)

“Your sister’s aren’t home.” His mom answers, feeling annoyed. 

“Adónde van?” (Where did they go?) 

“No seas inteligente conmigo” (Don’t be smart with me)

“Sorry…I’ll go get him.” 

He hangs up the phone and sticks his lanky arms through the shirt sleeves. “Yeah, I gotta go.”

“Is Silvio okay?” 

“Oh yeah…don’t worry about that rascal. He’s okay. Just gotta pick him up from a friends house, that’s all.”

“Oh okay…you need a ride or?”

“Nah, he probably doesn’t wanna leave right away anyways. Gonna take the train.” 

“Alright, well see you soon?” 

“Definitely, you can’t get rid of me that easily. I know where you live muahahaha.” Lance giggled. 

They walk to the door and Keith gives him a hug, “It’s giving stalker but next time answer your phone. Also, keep me updated on your boyfriend.” 

“Not my boyfriend,” Lance clarified, his cheeks feeling warm. 

“You’re thinking about it though,” Keith suggests, nudging him in the arm. 

Lance flips him off as he walks down the warm orange and brown brick corridor. 

On the train ride to Mateo’s, Lance leans back into the seat and opens up the messages he got from Lotor. He religiously can’t stop smiling. Why is that man so cute?

Lotor: u’re nevr gonna guess where i’m at

Actually you might, empath tings right? 

Selfie of Lotor

-delivered 5:45 pm-

Chapter Text

On the train ride to pick up Silvio, Lance got a few new texts from Lotor. 

Lotor: Lance?.... You still there? 😳

Oh my god you blocked me huh? 😣

Didn’t mean to send you such an explicit photo so soon! 😭

Forgive me? 🥺

Lance: I dont accept apologies from creeps 😡

HOW DARE you send such an adorableeee pic of you at pandies? 😐😐😐

I couldn’t stop looking at it!!! 🤪

…hope you dont minnddd but i saved it to my phone^^

Lotor: I just hope I can work my way up to your lockscreen 😉

But how are you love? 

Lance: peachy tbh 💙

omw to pick up my nephew!! 

wbu?? 👀👀

Lotor: Im feeling more plumy 🤧

Class was running late

Walking back to my car now

Lance: thanks ✨

Make sure you check the backseat before climbin in tho^^

Lotor: wait you do that too?

Lance: hell tf yea

After seeing that chucky movie as a kid its deadass been a fear of mind

ppl be sneaky bru 😩😩😩

Lotor: honestly

Its a good tactic though bc most people dont even think about it 🤨

Lance: EXCATLY!!! 

EXACTLY****

Expect the unexpected 🦾

Lotor: Expect the unexpected is right

At my car now…text you when I get home?

Lance: yea yea of course

Have a safe drive!! 💙✨

Lotor: I will love 🥰

-delivered 7:18 pm-

Lance was internally screaming his head off. That date couldn’t come any faster. Talking to Lotor just made everything so much better. Who knew a train ride could be so exhilarating and romantic? He kept replaying the entire conversation until he reached the steps of Silvio’s friend’s house. He took a deep breath and knocked on the door with the cadence of a mellow snare drum beat. Mateo’s dad opens the door with a smile, “Lance!... Come on in. Silvy’s upstairs.” 

“Hey Mr Hernandez, how are you?” He replied, ducking his head as walked through the door. 

“Swell, my wife made an amazing dinner and the boys been having a good time. You?”

They both wait by the stairs with Lance leaning against the rails, “Slivy I’m here! But yeah pretty good…I have a date on Friday.” 

Hernandez’s eyes light up, “Oh really…are they real?” 

Lance gasped so hard he started coughing, “Are you shitting me? Yes, they’re real..why do people keep asking that?” 

Hernandez cackles while holding his giant hand to his broad chest, “My apologies. Mateo is starting to get into anime? That’s what it’s called? He can go on for hours saying how pretty those girls are. He mentioned “Waifu?” Do you know what that means?” 

Lance damn near had a heart attack. No way he was actually talking about this to his nephew’s friend’s dad, “Silvy I’m here!” Lance yells again, worry grabbing at his vocal cords as he covers his face and giggles to himself, “Yeah... um... no comment... oh my god.” 

Hernandez gives an awkward smile, “Sorry, I’m such an old man.” 

Lance playfully pats him on the shoulder, “When you’re older you’ll understand.”

They both crack up. Lance actually likes coming over to Mateo’s house. His father is like the dad he never had. And although Mr Hernandez and him don’t talk much, knowing that they can get along so well is enough for Lance to feel content. Silvio and Mateo both come sprinting down the stairs, almost tripping on the way down. Silvio leaps off the remaining three into his uncle’s arms. Lance swings him around before letting him go. “You ready?” 

Silvio grins with every muscle in his face, “Yeah! Bye Mateo!” 

Mateo is hugging his dad’s leg with an equally big grin, “Bye Silvy!” 

On the walk back to the station, Silvio’s energy powers down. He’s dragging his feet and swinging his arms like they lost all strength. “¿Qué pasa?” (What’s wrong?) Lance asks, worry flooding his face. 

“Nada” (Nothing) Silvio replies, trying to avoid looking at his uncle directly. 

Lance grabs his nephew’s hand and doesn’t let go until they reach the station. 

“If you don’t feel like talking that’s fine, but just know that I’m always ready to listen okay?” 

Silvio nods his head, “I think I’m just sleepy.” 

“Sleepy.” 

“Yeah.” 

“Anything else?” 

“No.” 

Lance gave him a quizzical look and decided to stop prodding him. They get on the train and take a seat away from the crowd of people. Slivo rests his head on his uncle's lap and closes his eyes, slowly falls asleep to the rhythm of his uncle combing through his light brown curly hair. They got home and the house was quiet as per usual. He made Silvio’s lunch before putting him to bed. After doing his night routine, Lance hopped into bed opening up messenger. He noticed that Lotor never texted him back like he said he would. 

Lance: Omg you’re dead? Say it’s not true 😭😭😭

Lotor: Stop the cap! 👹

My apologies, things got a little crazy here 😔

Lance: no worries!!! 

you okie?? 🥺🥺

Lotor: Yeah? 

Just fatherless behaviour with the father actually home for once 😒

Lance: Felt…

just without the father because he’s dead 😀

Lotor: damn

sorry for your loss love 💜

Lance: thanks

sorry for your lack of loss 🥲

What happened if you don’t mind? 

Lotor: Would it be cliche if I said long story? 

Lance: I can handle cliche 😈

Lotor: Okay well, you know that premise I brought up in class a while back? 

Lance: dad shoots son with a load while mom and sister watch? 🥵

Lotor: Uhmm LOL 

That’s one way to put it if I was writing a porn 

Lance: LMAOOO sorry 🙈

go on^^^

Lotor: you’re fine 😂

It was really funny

Almost woke up the house because I laughed so loud 

But yeah, that premise

…it’s partially true 😬

Lance: WHAT THE FUCK🤭

Are you okay????

Lotor: well obviously because I lived bitch lol 🤧

Lance: well duh 🙄💙

I mean like what even happened??

Lotor: mom and dad were arguing and he just took things too far like hw always does

and ended up shooting me instead...

Luckily he didn’t hit anything major 

Lotor Gunshot Selfie

Lance: omg 😳

The scar doesnt look too bad

Almost badass 😏💙✨

Also that pic is weirdly attractive

HELP- 🙈🥵

Lotor: almost badass indeed 

And I live to please love lol 💜

But yeah that’s what happened

I would feel better talking about this irl if that’s cool? 

It’s actually a long story 😩

Lance: no problem!! I tell my nephew this all the time but talk to me when you’re ready 😌✨

Im always here^^

Lotor: thank you Lance, that means a lot 💙💜

But yeah, dad came home after a business trip (typical rich kid shit ik) 

And was just in a bad mood and that put me in a bad mood

Then we started arguing

And now I’m talking to you 😜

Lance: well im glad youre here

And alive 🤣🤣😭

Also not trying to change the voibes

But are we still going out friday???? 🤨

Lotor: Of course darling 

Wouldn’t miss it~

Lance: okay good, bc I’ve been thinkin about it and just you in general for the last couple of days 😎

Lotor: you’re so cute 😚

Lance: that is an astute observation my lad 🤓

Lotor: An astute observation indeed 🤓

Seriously hate to do this again

But I’ll text you in the morning love

Sweet and wonderful dreams 🥰

Lance: they’re not gonna be sweet and wonderful if you’re in them 😈😈😈

Lotor: bye lance lol 

Lance: bye bby 😘

-delivered 10:27 pm- 

With his hand still gripping the phone, Lotor plopped his arm down against his bed and let it bounce until stagnation. He closed his eyes and dreamed of the days when he wouldn’t let his father’s words tear down every ounce of confidence he had. He suddenly thought of Lance, the one boy keeping him hopeful for the future. Possibly their future. This date couldn’t come any faster. Lotor quickly scrunched up his pillows and closed his eye wishing time would fly by. “God if you’re out there…please let Lance be mine.” 

For the first time in months, Lotor woke up feeling well-rested. No alarm, no tangled hair, no traffic. Just him and his chipper mood on his way to class. He even said good morning to his dad. That’s how great he was feeling. It was still relatively early but he decided to send Lance a good morning text hoping that would make his day just as grand. 

Lotor: Despite the heavy topics we discussed the night prior

I woke up in a good mood for once

So good morning love and thank you for making my life better than the day before 

You truly are a breath of fresh air that I would die for 💜

-delivered 7:54 am-

He smiled after clicking send and slid his phone into the pocket of his bookbag. Lotor doesn’t typically walk through the city since he has a car and everything he wants is easily at his disposal. But since he was such in a good mood, he decided to park his car a couple of blocks away from a coffee shop he’s been meaning to check out. And who knows, if the place is nice he might just bring Lance here in the future. Before opening up the glass door covered in floral decorations and bright warm colours, he looks up at the sign plastered across the brick exterior. “Floral Beans,” he mumbles to himself. He shrugs and walks in. The temperature changes as quickly as the first drop of rain. Out of nowhere then comes the flood. He absorbs the room like a prospector, taking note of everything done good or not to his standards. He’s snapped out of his thoughts by a sensual raspy voice calling for his attention, “Welcome to Floral Beans! How can I help you, sir?” 

Lotor strides up to the counter while quickly scanning the menu appearing behind the rather attractive employee. “Do you have decaf?” Lotor asks with a smirk letting his smile do the talking. The employee keeps a cool face, not impressed at the man in front of him. Yeah, he's drop-dead gorgeous but gorgeous people walk in here every day. And his mind was still preoccupied with the days before. Lance is going on a fucking date and it’s not with him. Suddenly reminded of his trauma, the employee’s face turns into a noticeable scowl. An expression that didn’t sit too kindly with the man still completing his order. “Pardon, are you deaf? I asked if you have decaf, not a bad mood.” The employee rolls his eyes and exhales, “Yes.” 

“Yes to what?” Lotor shot back, his temper rising like a slow boil.

“Guess.” The employee deadpanned, prepared for another customer to explode. 

Lotor looks down at the man’s nametag place quite crookedly against his lapel. “Keith,” he reads. “Keith,” he says again almost like he’s trying to make a mental note. “Fucking Keith, you’re Keith?” Lotor spat out, shocked that Lance's "friend" was standing right in front of him. Oh, today was a good day indeed. 

Obviously taken back, the employee doubles down, “Uh, who are you?” 

“Do you know Lance by any chance?” 

Keith’s eyes pop right out of his sockets and he steps on them for good measure. “Ain’t no fucking way. You gotta be fucking with me right now.” 

“Language!” a woman says from the backroom. 

“Sorry!” Keith yells back. He scoots closer to the man over the counter. “How the fuck do you know Lance?” 

Lotor readjust his posture to make sure Keith could get a good look at his shit-eating grin. “I guess you better ask him huh? Does “date” ring any bells or can you not hear them?” 

Keith was one second away from jumping that man, but he needed his job and couldn’t afford another write up for fighting a customer. Although the last time was self-defence, this one would be aggravated assault. So he gripped the porcelain countertop until his knuckles bled. Fuming at the thought that this total asswipe, this fucking tool was Lance’s potential date. It almost made him depressed because why can a guy like him get a dude like Lance and he can’t? Was he not good enough? Was he not mean enough? 

Lotor glanced at Keith’s knuckles and quite literally cackled out loud. “Keith, don’t worry about the decaf, I think I’ll get some caffeine from your loverboy.” He smirked, letting the floral door slam behind him.

It took everything in Keith’s power to walk away and he succeeded. He threw off his apron and walked straight to the back room demanding his coworker to watch the front for a bit or he was going to commit murder. He needed a cigarette and a nice long walk. Watching Keith throw a hissy fit made Lotor’s day about ten times better. Seeing Lance get worked up was one thing, but seeing his “friend” was something else. He had to get to Lance before Keith did because the kid was trouble. He wasn’t about to let Lance go, not when he finally got around to meeting him again. “I will not lose you twice.” On the stride back to his car, now regretting he parked so far he received a text from his favourite person. 

Lance: aweeee wtf 😭😭😭

why are you so sweet? 👹

im gonna cream 🥴

I MEAN SCREEAAAMMMM!!!!!

OMFG

BYE-

BUT GOOD MORNING 😑💙

Lotor: speaking of cream, I’m actually on the prowl for coffee 🤭

You’re so intuitively it’s crazy 

Lance: and YOU need to leave me alone 😣

I swear it was a typoooo

But you def seem like a blk coffee dirnker 

drinker***

sorry i just woke up ☠️

Lotor: you’re fine love

And you’ll be surprised but I actually have a sweet tooth 🤐

Lance: you don’t say….

Lotor: I do say but it’s like bittersweet stuff 

Dark chocolate etc etc 🤧

Lance: no WAYYY 🥳🥳🥳

ppl think I’m crazy for liking dark choccy

get the right brand and its sex in heaven 😝

Lotor: sex in heaven LOL 

Is that even allowed? 

I thought sex was like a sin 😅

Lance: not if you’re married wink wonk 😘

Lotor: weird way to propose but okay 😒💜

Lance: fuck OFFFF LMAOOOO

But no seriously it means alot that I of all ppl can make your day 🥺💙

Lotor: of course, I know we just met but I appreciate everything you do

You matter to me 🥰

Lance: keep riling me up and im actually going to cream LMAOOOO

Lotor: you ask and you shall receive playboy 😈🥴

What’s the plan for today?? 

Lance: who’s askin? 🤨

Lotor: don’t worry im not a cop 😎

Lance: word? 😳

Well I have class at 11

But after that who knows? 

Whyyy? 👀👀👀

Lotor: I just really want to see you 

Do you think we can reschedule our date after? 

Lance: omgggg I would love to but could you ask me again around 2pm?

Im usually all gorss and sweaty after lab days 😞

Lotor: no problem, I can handle gorss 😉

See you at 2

Lance: FUCK OFF LOL 🤣😭😭

butttt bye byeeee 💙💜

-delivered 8:10 am- 

Keith didn’t know what came over him. That long walk he took left him in front of Lance’s classroom door. He felt like such an idiot and completely embarrassed at the thought of Lance just seeing him up here. What would he even say? “I was so mad that I came up here to potentially harass you into dating me instead.” ‘Fuck off Keith’, he groaned to himself. He ruffled his hair and began walking away as far as he could from the classroom. Peeking around corners to avoid the potential threat of Lance. But it was no use, he would’ve done better just staying put at his job because luck was not on his side today. Or at all for that matter. He turned the final corner ready to run down the flight of stairs before he bumped into the one person he dreaded seeing. 

“Keith? What the hell?” Lance asked, eyebrows raised to the heavens. Obliviously perplexed on why his friend was staring at him with the widest eyes he’s ever seen. 

“Fuck ..can we talk?” Keith doubled down, messing with the loose string in his jean pockets.

“Uh..sure?” Lance agreed, checking his clock to make sure he had time. “Are you okay?” 

Keith grabs Lance by the wrist as they stumble down the stairs. Ignoring every ounce of concern that was spewing from his friend’s mouth. He leads him to one of the empty courtyards before speaking again. 

“Sorry...it’s just...fuck...I’m okay I guess, but fuck. Lance, is the guy you’re seeing some insanely attracted dude with white hair?” Keith asked, biting on every compliment like it was rancid vomit.

Lance actually shit his pants, “The hell? Are you psychic?” He tried to joke off, but his hands were clamming up like crazy. The jitters in the pits of his stomach were churning worse than fresh butter. And for no reason, because why was he so nervous? He was gonna have to tell Keith about the guy he was seeing eventually. But I guess he’s still worried about what Keith thinks of him after all this time. We all want a friend’s approval after all. 

“I wish, I ran into him at the coffee shop and no offence but dude’s a fucking prick,” grumbled Keith, still fiddling with the jean pockets. 

“Keith!” yelled Lance, taken aback at the disapproval. 

“I’m sorry he is!” Keith yelled, pacing around the courtyard to ease his tension. 

“What did you do?” Lance snapped, feeling defensive over Lotor. Despite them only just meeting, you would think he of all people would know Lotor. 

“What did I do? The fuck?” Keith snapped back, the pacing stiffened. 

“Hey! I’m just asking, you do have resting bitch face, shit happens,” Lance argued.

“And what of it? My face doesn’t mean I’m just gonna allow someone to be rude to me?” enunciated Keith. At this point, he was inching towards his breaking point. He never would’ve thought Lance would be so condescending. It was almost making him sick.

“I never said that, what’s your deal Keith?” said Lance, rolling his eyes. Keith was actually getting on his nerve. “If that’s all you have to say then can I go? Some of us have class.” 

“Whatever. It’s not like you’re desperate to go anyways. And my deal is that your boyfriend or whatever the fuck just made my life 10 times worst,” he shot back, closing the space between them. “Dude couldn’t wait one second for me to respond to his fucking question before acting like a total dickbag. “Are you deaf?” Keith mimics. Praying Lance would get a clue. 

“He said that?” questioned Lance, not wanting to believe the saint he’s been talking to is actually that rude. He won’t believe it. What does Keith know? 

“Yes, he said that. And then asked if I knew you and that is what honestly pissed me off. Which is why I’m here.” Keith replied, his voice softening over the last few words. It felt good to get that off his chest. 

“Damn…so what happened after that?” Lance prodded, almost aroused at the fact that Lotor was almost claiming him. If he wasn’t in this particular situation right now, with Keith all people. He’s honestly not sure if he would even care. 

Keith huffed, disgruntled for having to add more details, “Just stupid shit. Him patronizing me and saying how you’re gonna be his caffeine and shit.”

Lance had to cover his mouth because he was about to burst into a stampede of laughter, “Keith…are you being serious right now?” 

Hearing those words was setting fuel to fire, an immediate reaction. “Lance, are you fucking with me right now?” The tone in Keith’s voice had Lance trembling. He’s never seen him so angry at him. He’s never been angry at him. So why now? Lance doesn’t understand. 

“No? I’m just confused because I don’t understand why you’re so mad? Okay, the deaf thing was kinda rude but-” Lance stammered out before being cut off.

“No but’s, what’s not clicking?” Argued Keith, now visibly upset. He wanted to calm down but everything was spilling out quicker than what he could stop. And Lance acting like a total doofus about the entire situation was not helping. 

“Keith where is this coming from? I apologize for not describing who I was talking about first but small fucking world dude. I thought you would be happy for me?” 

“I-I never said I wasn’t happy for you… it’s just that, I don’t understand why its that guy of all people and not-” 

“Not who? You? Sorry I don’t wanna be your little gay whore Keith.” Lance snapped, the words felt like acid on his lips.

“Is that what you think this is? What I think of you? You know what? Fuck you, Lance. Like honestly fuck you. I came all the way here by accident mind you because I was worried for you. And I’m not about to sit and beg on my knees apologizing for trying to look out for you.” 

“Look out for me? What it looks like is that you’re throwing a hissy fit just because some guy I’m talking to noticed your existence. And what else would I be to you? Because at this point we’re obviously not friends.” 

“Not friends? So what do you want this to be then huh?” Keith seethed, arms crossed over his wrinkled work uniform.

Lance’s eyes start swelling up with tears, he’s just so overwhelmed right now and not in a good way. Keith and him never argued like this and he just can’t wrap his around why he always fucks up relationships. He didn’t know what was wrong with him. What was wrong with them. Of course, he liked Keith. He liked him the day they met, but he just wasn’t sure what kind of like it was. Or if that “like” was even allowed. He’s just been too scared to confront anything, so he shoved it all down. And the one chance he had to explore his options and not be obsessed with his “friend,” it gets put in his face and then some. What do you mean Lotor is mean? He’s been so nice to me. Lance kept repeating in his head. Not wanting to believe anything Keith was saying.

“I-I don’t know,” sniffled Lance. Wishing Keith would just leave him alone and stop badgering him. Not even his tears were working, and that made everything hurt worse.

“I dont know? That’s all you have to say?” 

“Yes Keith, fuck.. Do we have to do this right now? I’m sorry if I led you on or whatever the fuck I did but please can you just give me a break?” Lance pleaded with him.

Keith ruffles his hair again, his anger and heartbreak felt like needles in his veins. Making Lance cry, the guy he was supposed to look out for made him sick. Disappointed in himself for not having any control or boundaries. Lance didn't have to date him. And at this point, he was no better than Lotor, Keith thought to himself. Wishing he could reverse time and just deal with his emotions like someone other than a possessive freak.  “Fine, whatever you want. You know where to find me.” He eventually spat out. Unable to bring the strength in his ego to console Lance. He felt like he’s done enough. Maybe leaving Lance alone for good, might be what’s best. 

And with that, Keith walked away and Lance watched him. He watched every step, every second go by, every chance he had to stop him. To tell him anything, literally anything to keep him from walking away any farther. Was this the end? Did Keith actually like him back? Lance didn’t know, everything felt so confusing and his brain was swelling like crazy. Which made him cry more because of the headache. He checked his clock and still had a whole hour left before class started. What a fucking day. What. a. fucking. day. 

All throughout the lecture, his mind was elsewhere. And it only got worse the longer the class was drawn out. He even asked his instructor if he could skip out on today’s lectures because his mind just wasn’t in the right place. After getting approval, he packed up his bags and left. Not knowing who to talk to since it was still pretty early in the day. Not to mention Keith and his coworkers were the only people he told about Lotor. And frankly, he didn’t feel like talking to either. Ezor and them are a bit too chaotic for him right now. He surprisingly felt instant relief when a text message from Lotor appeared on his phone. Contray to the events that just happened. He set aside all doubt and replied anyways.

Lotor: Hey you okay? 

Lance: yeah? 

Lotor: you sure? Because you look like a walking corpse from here 😬

-delivered 1:23 pm- 

Lance turned around and jumped because Lotor was right across the hall from him.

“So you’re stalking me?” asked Lance, humour coating his words as he placed his phone in his jacket pocket.

“If stalking is going to the same college just to spend time with you, then yay! I’m a stalker.” 

Lance laughed and softly punched Lotor in the arm after closing the gap between them. 

“Youre an idiot, but for real what are you doing here?”

“Well, you told me to text you around 2 pm so I just decided to get here early,” Lotor smiled.

“Huh…that confident that I would say yes?” asked Lance, giving the taller man the stink eye. 

“Well I’m here and it obviously worked. Are you going home? It’s still early,” Worried Lotor, a genuine sentiment that Lance picked up on immediately. 

“Yeah, I guess…skipped labs today because my morning was a shitbag, the smelliest of the bunch.” 

“What happened?”

“Ugh, I dont even know. Got into an argument with a friend and I’ve been upset ever since.” 

“Damn, I’m sorry. Is there anything I can do?” 

“No? I mean unless you have any ideas? My brain will not do any more thinking today.” 

Lotor pulled Lance into a warm embrace and let him sit there for a bit. Lance immediately returned the hug and fell into it. He took a big sniff of the man he was caressing and felt so relaxed and protected. He needed this. 

“You smell good,” admitted Lance, taking as many breaths as he could as if the next one would be his last.

“Thanks, you too. Uhm..is this okay?” Lotor asked, gently shifting his body to let him know he was speaking about their hug. Lance squeezes him a little tighter, “Yeah, I really needed this. Can you hold me for a bit longer before we go?” 

Lotor smiled to himself and deepened their hug, “Anything for you.” 

They finally let go of each other and Lance swiftly grabs Lotor’s hand without a care in the world. He was desperate for physical touch and the man next to him was the perfect victim. They look at each other and smile before walking down the corridor. Their clasped hands swinging like a pendulum. Maybe this could be the start of something new. Lance didn’t care what anyone thought. At this moment, Lotor made him happy. And Lance deserved to be happy. 

“So about that date?” Lotor chimed in, his heart raced at the thought of their intertwined hands.

“Yeah?” 

“Wanna go now or later?” 

“Hmm lemme think,” Lance says, pretending to ponder. “Sleepover?” 

“Sleepover? Like we’re twelve?”

“Yeah, why not? Could be fun,” Lance chuckled.

“If you wanna get in pants just ask?” Lotor deadpanned, trying to hold back his laughter. 

“Me? A painty raider? How dare you!” 

“How dare I ? You’re the one who’s trying to have a “sleepover,” he shot back. The giggles were escaping him. Lance couldn’t help but join in. 

“Pleaseeee,” Lance groaned in between chuckles, “Sleepovers are innocent.” 

“Not if it’s just gonna be us together,” Lotor scoffed. 

“I promise I won’t pounce on you..so what do you say?” Lance begged, gently pulling Lotor closer to his puppy boy eyes. Lotor gave him a peck on the forehead before leaning away, “I’m not worried about you doing the pouncing but sure why not?... But, what about your nephew?”  

“Forehead kisses huh? You’re so romantic darling,” Lance ribbed, despite his heart bursting into a million pieces. Besides, it’s the weekend. I’ll call my sister to pick him up etc etc. No biggie.” 

“I can kiss other places if you like, but is my house okay? Not too weird for ya’?” 

“Don’t threaten me with a good time or I might surprise ya’....but yeah yeah I’m totally fine with that. Not’s like we can go to my house. For starters my bed is too small for you,” Lance laughs, giving Lotor’s hand a soft squeeze before pressing a soft kiss against his dark brown skin. The deep blush that was radiating from Lotor’s face made Lance want to kiss him a million more times. 

“So you were trying to get me into bed?” Lotor questioned, hiding his face with his free hand. Lance quickly averted his gaze and felt his heart clench. This man, this gorgeous gorgeous man, was going to ruin his life. Hopefully for the better. 

“Try? Give me a couple of hours and I think I’ll succeed,” Lance shot back. They made it to Lotor’s car and drove off speeding past everything that would put their future on hold. Whatever that future was, was something neither of them expected to happen. They were so happy and giddy. I guess that’s why it’s called the Honeymoon phase for a reason. And sweet, dear Lance was only a moonchild. 

Chapter Text

Seriously appreciate the kudos and hits !! I've been working on this fic since 2018 and I'm not even close to being done. So I'm very thankful for those that stuck around for VOLTRON of all things and all new readers!

EDIT: I started writing again since I was threatened lol. So Moonchild III will be uploaded on the 8th at the latest. I'm gonna try and get it out before then but this chapter is really long and the editing process is a nightmare. But thanks again !! much love <3 

Chapter Text

Santiago de Cuba 

Lance’s mom nudges him in the shoulder while pointing at her son Luis, who’s blocking the driveway alongside his abundance of shopping bags. “Ve a ayudar a tu hermano (Go help your brother).” Lance groans before shuffling out of the car. His blue converse scrape into the dirt and black asphalt. On the walk over to the gate, he’s suddenly tackled with a hug. Luis’ grip tightened as he confessed how much he missed his little brother. 

“Ahh…mi pequeña Lance, te extrañé mucho. Cuba no ha sido la misma sin ti (My little Lance, I missed you so much. Cuba hasn’t been the same without you).”

Lance returns the hug, “Missed you too. Mamá wants us to move these bags.” 

Luis cackles out loud, “Y’all are going to love what I got!” 

Lance follows behind his brother, a smile contours his face, “If the gifts are trash, I have permission to resell them right? Because I’m always after the bag.” 

Luis rolls his eyes, “!Oye! !Maleducado! (Hey, rude.) You haven’t been around so I’m not gonna blame ya’. But my gift-giving has gotten better. Muy bien, ¿ves? (Very good, you see?).” He says, digging through the bag. He pulls out a limited edition mini Newtonian Telescope. 

Lance practically died on spot from the adrenaline of excitement, “Luis! What the fuck? ¿Dónde conseguiste eso? (Where did you get that?).” 

Luis gently places the telescope back in its bag and smirks, “Hehe, I will never tell. I remember how much you’re into space and shit when you were little. So yea.” 

Tears were beginning to form in Lance’s eyes. He was so overwhelmed at the moment. He hasn’t seen his older brothers in 10 years and always felt that they didn’t like him anymore. Especially since he didn't want to stay in Cuba with them and their dad. But the fact that Luis remembered something so important to Lance after all this time, made him feel so loved and seen. Lance was always the center of attention but it never felt genuine. People always seemed to look right through him. So there has always been this insecurity of being invisible. Their family bonding was cut short by an agitated yell. “Luis! Lance! ¡Vamonos! (Hurry up),” Their mom yelled from the car with a few obnoxious honks Marco was throwing their way. The girls in the back were giggling as they watched their brothers quickly scramble up all the bags out of the way as Marco was driving closer to them. A little too close for comfort. Their muffled cursing filled the air. Luis opened the gate and Marco drove up to the front of the house. The McClain family spent the next 30 minutes unloading the car and catching up in the best way they could. 

Their relationship wasn’t completely damaged but after not talking to your family for 10 years, it’s almost like talking to strangers. Despite the initial awkwardness, the McClain’s pulled through and after awhile their conversations became more relaxed. They felt like a normal family again. Well, as normal as they could get. While Lance was chatting with his brothers, he couldn’t help but feel grateful his mom planned this trip. This was exactly what he needed to get him out of his funk. To be surrounded by his people, his culture, his identity. Nevertheless, things didn’t stay peaceful for long. Luis brought everyone to the living room because he had an important announcement to make. 

“Lo siento por no decir esto antes (I’m sorry for not saying this earlier), but I have a son. Su nombre es (His name is) Silvio. He’s six now y hoy está con su mamá (And he’s with his mom today). I invited them over later this week so they could meet y’all. De nuevo (Again), I’m sorry.” 

The room grows quiet, not out of anger but pure shock. It’s hard to believe that Luis of all people not only has a child but a wife? Growing up he was such a playboy who couldn’t be tied down. Not to mention all his antics wore off on Lance. He’s a true ladies' man, or so he thought. Lance was about to speak up before their mom interrupted him. 

“Luis…¿por qué? ¿Por qué no nos lo dijiste? Podría haber ayudado, hijo.¨ (Why, why didn’t you tell us? I could’ve helped you son) His mother spoke, softness coating her voice. 

“Todos podíamos haber ayudado a Luis (We all could’ve helped),” Veronica chimed in, reaching out to hold her brother’s hand.

“I don’t understand, why isn’t he here now?” Rachel asked, looking around the room. Searching for anyone who could give her answers. 

“Do yall not live together?” Lance added. 

Luis gave his sister's hand a gentle squeeze before letting go. He sat down on the floor in front of the couch his family was sitting on. He spoke after a deep breath. “Okay, so after dad died I took it pretty hard.” He glances at Marco who gives him a nod to keep going. “We all took it hard. Era un desastre (I was a mess). Got this girl pregnant so we got married. Then life actually got good for awhile, but after Silvio was born. Señor ten piedad (Lord have mercy). Things took a turn for the worst. Mi esposa (My wife), Valencia became very violent and unstable. Traté de ayudarla (I tried to help her), I really did. But things didn't get better until recently. And I wouldn’t have left Silvio alone with her if I didn’t think she wasn’t a threat anymore. However...” He paused, trying to gather all his thoughts. He caught Lance’s eyes and gave a gentle smile. 

Marco walked over to Luis and patted him on the back to console him. “Valencia is ill, and it hasn’t been easy on any of us. I try to help out when I can but trying to maintain the house and my job. I can’t. Valencia’s treatment is very expensive.” Luis looked at his older brother and nodded in agreement. “So, I need you guys to take Silvio back with you to America. No puedo mantenerlo (I can’t keep him). Not right now anyway. He’s such a good and sweet boy.” Luis starts to tear up, “Lo amo hasta la muerte, mi bebé (I love him to death, my baby).” But where I am right now, where Valencia is. We can’t give him the life he deserves. Luis gives his mom a look. Because she completely understands where he’s coming from. No mother wants to be separated from her kids, but she had to make a tough decision. Taking Lance, Veronica, and Rachel to the States saved them. It saved her. It killed her leaving Marco and Luis behind, but they made their choice. She couldn’t force them to come with her. A small part of her regrets not trying harder to convince them.

Tears are running down their mother's eyes, and Veronica and Marco consol her. At this point, everyone is crying. All the pent-up emotions of leaving your family behind seemed to hit everyone at once. Now tenfold, because their new nephew was about to experience the same thing. Generational trauma is a wretched curse to break. While living in America has its perks, it’s not exactly sunshine and rainbows for a brown kid. It’s such a culture shock. Lance was devastated in knowing that his nephew might have to go through the same hardships as him. Being an immigrant isn't easy. From that moment on, Lance swore to protect Silvio by any means necessary. 

The room finally settled down and Luis felt comfortable enough to speak up, “So, mamá, Lance, Veronica, Rachel…can you guys take care of him until this all blows over?” Lance abruptly stands up and walks over to Luis. He grabs him by the arm and lifts him up. They were nose to nose, exchanging the same air. The tension between them felt so cold and thick. Luis felt like his soul was getting ripped to shreds by Lance’s piercing blue eyes. He looked so much like their father in that moment. Luis couldn't look away, he didn’t want to. Luis straightened his back and bumped his chest against his little brother.

 “Luis, I love you. Te quiero jodidamente (I fucking love you), okay? But please, I’m begging you. Don’t completely abandon him like pa’. He deserves better, me and my sisters deserved better. You and Marco deserved better. Hell, this is the first time we talk in years. ¡Diez malditos años! (Ten fucking years) I haven’t received not one thing from you, Marco, or even Dad. I was the last person to know he died Luis. The last person to know. It’s just not fair. So I just hope you know what you’re doing. No cometas los mismos errores (Don’t make the same mistakes).” 

Lance hugged his brother before leaving the room. He just couldn’t stay there anymore. He needed some good ole fresh Cuban air. Something to calm his nerves. Also, he was kinda freaking out because he cursed in front of his mother, and did not want to stick around for the repercussions. While the rest of his family sat inside trying to work out the semi-adoption plans for Silvio. Lance thought a little stroll around the neighborhood would do him well. Right now he wanted to get as far away from the house as possible. He sent a text to Rachel.

Lance: Heyyyy

Things got kinda crazy huh? Lol

I’m going for a walk to clear my head

Tell mama and them I’ll be back in a bit 

Rachel: Omfg

Happy family vacay huh? 

This is an actual shitshow 

But yeah I’ll tell her

Stay safe! 

Lance: Thx rach

Appectaie ya 

Appreciate**

Rachel: LOL 

I appectaie ya too 

After sending the text, Veronica asked what Rachel was smiling about while peeking over her sister’s shoulder, “What’s so funny?”

“Nothing, Lance can’t spell,” Rachel replied, muffling her laugh. 

“I’m surprised even learned how to read. Where is he anyway?” 

“He’ll be back in a bit, said he was going for a walk.”

“Ugh, lucky bastard. He should’ve taken us, this is awkward as hell,” Veronica confessed, flopping down lower into the family couch. 

“¿Estás nervioso? (Are you nervous?),” Rachel cautioned, unsure if she was even allowed to have an opinion on the matter. 

“About Sivilo? No mucho (Not really), I just hope he likes us.” 

“Yeah, I would hate being separated from my mom at such a young age. Shit, I would hate being separated from mamá now,” Rachel announced while scooting closer to her sister. 

“Yeah…el pobrecito (poor baby).” 

Veronica and Rachel let the rest of the family know that Lance went for a walk and their mom wanted someone to go grab him. But Luis advised against it. “Don’t worry mama, he’ll be fine. Do y’all want dinner?” Everyone shouted, “Yes.” They all strolled into the kitchen and started prepping. While Lance on the other hand probably should’ve stayed home. He was planning to come back home a lot sooner but he somehow managed to get lost. It's not like his neighborhood changed all that much, but a few “Let me turn here,” and “Oh…where does this road go?” had him on the opposite side of town. Curse his lanky legs. Now, he could've just used his phone and GPSed his way back. But luckily enough, no reception. He felt like such an idiot and all he could do was continue walking and pray that things didn't get worse. Or better yet, he runs into some help. Thank god it was the latter. He saw some kid around his age digging around in the dirt with a stick. He had this beautiful short white hair, that almost didn't seem real until he got closer to the boy. He gently tapped him on the shoulder, “Hey.” 

The kid jumps and slowly turns around. His grey eyes look him up and down. Trying to get a feel of the stranger in front of him. He removes himself from the crouched position and stretches his arms and back. Revealing that he’s much taller than Lance. And possibly more attractive. Damn these Cuban genes. The kid runs his fingers through his hair before holding out his hand, “Hey, ¿Su nombre? (his name?) he asked, trying to remember all the Spanish he learned on the trip over here. Lance chuckles a bit, “¿Su? (His?) “ Mi nombre es ( My name is).” The kid laughs, “Whoops, no hablo mucho espanol (I don't speak much spanish).”

Lance laughs again, “No worries, I speak English. The name’s Lance by the way,” he replies, offering up his hand to shake. “Love your hair, super sick.”

“Lotor,” the kid says, returning the gesture. “Thanks, crazy how genetics works haha.” 

“So um, are you okay? Whatchu diggin for?” Lance points to the rather large hole behind the kid.

“Oh, this? Hopefully gold, I have a wife and kids at home. You know how it is.”

Lance slowly nods in agreement, “Times been rough huh? I can only pray we make it out the gutta.’” 

They both look at each other and crack up laughing. This is the first time Lotor actually experienced some sort of joy on this trip. He was only there because of his Dad’s stupid business meeting. He usually stays home when his Dad goes out of town, but this time was different. He was forcefully removed from this place of solace. His Dad didn’t want him to stay cooped up in the house all summer. And Lotor wasn’t too happy about that. He complained all the way from New York to Cuba, but now? He’s kinda glad his father made him go. That Cuban boy was very funny and ridiculously cute to him. Especially those blue eyes. The ones in America don’t live up to them. Lance’s eyes were a thousand times prettier, more mesmerizing. Lotor was so wrapped up staring with at Lance, he didn’t hear a single word the boy was saying. 

“Lotor…Lotor…Lotor! ¡¿Me estás escuchando?! (Are you listening to me?) Hello?” 

He’s forced out of his thoughts, “S-sorry, you’re just so beautiful. Muy hermoso (Very beautiful).” 

Lance was caught off guard, he’s never received a compliment like that. Not from another boy at least. It was making him feel all jittery inside. And he was way too awkward to flirt back. Could you even flirt with a boy? He wondered. Was that even allowed? 

“Hmm, so you know how to call guys pretty but don’t know your pronouns?” Lance joked, crossing his arms. 

“I guess I was only focused on the priorities,” Lotor shot back, revealing a toothy grin. 

Lance laughed out loud, “You’re ridiculous.” 

“I try my best.” 

They kinda stared at each other for a bit, just living in the moment. The tension felt so soft and intriguing. Both of them were unsure of what to say next. Should they even speak up at all? This moment was far too precious to ruin. It was the beginning of something between them. However, it didn’t last long. There was an abrupt loud ring drawing attention to Lance’s back pocket. He gave Lotor a quick smile before answering, wondering how the call even went through. 

“Lance! ¿Dónde demonios eres estúpido? (Where the hell are you stupid?).” The voice roared. 

“I’m lost,” Lance mumbled.

“What do you mean lost? I’m looking right at you.” 

Lance quickly turned around and saw his sister on top of the hill. “What the fu-” He hangs up the phone. “Rachel how’d you find me?!” 

She puts her phone in her pocket and cuffs her hands around the edges of her mouth, “Twin institution?!” 

“Bullshit!” Lance yells back.

Rachel ran down the hill and stopped once she reached her brother. They shared a tight and quick hug. “¿Quién es este? (Who’s this?)” She asked, pointing at the dark skin boy in front of them. She cautiously pulls Lance closer to her. Despite Lance being the older twin, she always felt like his big sister. And would fight for her brother if anyone messed with him. 

“Lotor. Ran into him during my journey,” He joked.

“Hey,” Lotor spoke, trying to figure out why that girl looked so much like Lance. 

Lance picked up on his confused staring and ruffled his sister's hair, “This is my twin sister Rachel.” 

“Hey hey!” Rachel said, fixing her curly hair. She tugged on Lance’s arm and whispered in his ear, “Tenemos que irnos (We gotta go) They sent me out here because dinner is almost ready.” 

He pats his sister on the head and turns to face Lotor, “Hey so I gotta go. But it was super cool meeting you bro. Maybe I’ll see you around?” 

Lotor smiled, “Yeah same here, bye Lance. Bye Rachel.” 

Rachel and Lance raced up the hill and simultaneously yelled, “Bye Lotor! ¡Hasta Pronto! (See you soon).”

While the twins were racing back to the house Lotor walked back to the hotel he and his dad were staying at. He felt kinda empty yet excited. Meeting Lance made him feel all gushy inside. But he didn't want to say goodbye so soon. Hell, they didn’t even get to exchange numbers. All Lotor could do was hope they somehow ran into each other again. He prayed that Lance actually meant “Hasta Pronto.” Lotor went to the same spot every day when he had the chance, wishing that Lance would come strolling around the corner. But he never did. The days turned to weeks, then a month went by. At this point, he was starting to resent Lance. He promised he’ll come back. To see him soon. Lotor began to wonder if Lance was even real? Did he imagine this perfect guy to distract himself from being with his father? But Lance had to have been real because he met his sister. Or was Lotor just that insane? Towards the middle of July, he and his father were leaving Cuba. But he couldn’t just leave without checking for Lance one final time. 

“Lotor, are your bags packed? We’re about to head out,” His father spoke with a commanding tone.

“Yeah, but I’ll be right back.” 

“You have 10 minutes, we can’t miss our flight boy!” 

“Whatever!” Lotor yelled before sprinting out the door. He didn’t stop running until he reached their spot. His chest burned so much his throat was drying out. He hunched over and heaved. Trying to steady his breathing. Once he finally calmed down he stood up and looked all around him. He waited, and waited, and waited. But there was nothing. Only the memories of when they first met. Only him and that stupid hole he dug. Lotor wanted to pull his hair out. He was so upset and heartbroken. It just wasn’t fair. Why couldn’t he have anything? He took one final look before walking off. He swore to himself that one day he was going to find Lance again. And once he did, he was never going to let him go. Ever. 

Before entering the house, Lance pulled his sister aside. For some reason, he felt this lump swell in his throat. The run back to the house already had him out of breath, but now it was even harder for him to breathe. “Rach.” 

Noticing her brother’s shift in body language she hesitated to respond, “¿Q-Qué pasa? (What’s wrong?)” 

“Nada (Nothing), it’s just. I don’t want people knowing who I like met and stuff.” At this moment, Lance didn’t even understand why he was so worried. Okay, he met some kid on the street, who cares? But apparently, he cared. A lot. He was just worried that if his family asked any questions he wouldn’t be able to lie. To lie about what he felt, the way he was feeling now. A guy called him beautiful. Him, Lance. It was messing with him. He spoke up after rummaging through his thoughts. “Lotor. Me llamó hermoso (He called me beautiful) and I-...I liked it. Am I weird for that? Like, who calls another guy beautiful? That’s gross right? Am I gros-” 

Rachel stopped him immediately. She brought her brother into a hug and nestled his curly brown hair. “Tú eres perfecto tal como eres hermanito (You are perfect just the way you are little brother). I promise, this stays between us. And I swear, you can always talk to me. You’re not gross Lance. Maybe a little stinky since you’ve been exploring Cuba.” 

Lance laughed a little into Rachel’s shoulder, “I guess I am stinky huh?” 

“The stinkiest,” She joked before releasing her brother. He wiped his eyes with the palms of his hands, “You know I love you right?” 

“And I love you, now can we go inside? ¡Estoy hambriento! (I’m starving)” Lance nods with a smile on his face and they both rush inside. The smell of Ropa Vieja and Arroz y Frijoles Negros smacked the sibilings right in the face. Lance thanked the heavens his sister found him because imagine missing out on this feast? He wouldn’t live to see another day. They spent the rest of the night eating, playing games, and talking. His talk with Rachel eased his mind. Although he still had some doubts about his sexuality and what any of it meant. For the remainder of the night, he decided to let it go. To let tomorrow’s Lance McClain deal with it. Tonight he wanted to focus on his family, he can worry about boys later. In fact, Lance completely forgot about Lotor until it was time for him to go back to New York. He got so caught up hanging with his old Cuba friends and his nephew Silvio, Lotor slipped his mind. 

Marco and Luis were loading up the car while Rachel, Veronica, and Valencia were talking. Their mom was in the kitchen cutting up some fruit for Silvio. And to Lance’s surprise, his nephew was a strong kid. He didn’t cry one time at the news of him leaving his parents behind. In fact, he looked almost glad that he was leaving. But given the stories of how his mother was, Lance couldn't blame him. Valencia wasn’t a terrible person. Lance actually thought she was kinda cool. However, she and even Luis weren't ready to be parents yet. That much was evident during their stay together. The trip to Cuba was only a month and a half long. But that was plenty of time to see how his brothers lived. He just prayed that they could give Silvio a better life, a more stable household. There was no denying that Lance was going to miss his brothers and being in Cuba. He almost didn’t want to leave but Hunk and Pidge sent him a text the week before about the Welcome Home party. And that was the only thought on his mind. Now he was desperate to get home. 

Terrible Threes: 

Pidge: oy dont think we forgot abt the party 

Hunk: its gona be sickkkk 

Lance: holy shit !!! coming home rn lol 

Hunk: when are yall coming back tho? Bc we actually havent started preparing anything yet lol 

Pidge: whoops 

Lance: omg you guys are trashhh but i think 3 days before my bday?? Super cool right ?

Pidge: for real? 

Hunk: so we’re throwing a welcome back bday bash?

Lance: Welcome Back Birthday Bash Palooza !!! 

Pidge: gross

Pidge: but im down 

Hunk: so its on !!! 

Hunk: dont worry about a thang, just bring your butt over here at liek 8 

Pidge: just asked matt and he said we could use his apartment, we just need to keep the noise down

Lance: lets fucking goooooo

Lance: you guys are the best, much love 

Pidge: np

Pidge: get back safe !! 

Hunk: Hasta la vista bby !! 

Lance was eager to get home. So many exciting events were about to happen. After the car got loaded up and Luis did a final rundown of their house to make sure nothing got left. He hopped in the car and Marco drove them to the airport. They ended up driving down the same street he met Lotor in and that’s was awakened his memory. “Ah shit!” he yelled. His mother slapped him against the head, “Language mijo (son). Don’t think I forgot.” You could hear snickers from his siblings. “Sorry mama, Marco could you pull over right quick I forgot something.” 

Maroc stops the car, “Lance I said-”

“Ah ah, lo se lo se (I know I know) I‘ll be quick.” 

Marco gives the go-ahead and he jumps out of the back seat. And to his surprise, his sister Rachel is right behind him. “Where we going?” she asked.

“I have to check to see if Lotor is there, I completely forgot about him.” 

Rachel laughed until she couldn't breathe, “How do you forget about your first boy crush? That's too funny.”

“Whatever, I just forgot. Also shhh, not so loud estupida.”

“Is he even gonna be there? It's been like ages.” 

“I just wanna see yanno?”

Thank god Marco stopped when he did or the walk back would've been treacherous and not worth the effort. He and Rachel got to the spot but Lotor wasn't there. Lance felt like such a jerk, but a part of him was relieved. Because what was he expecting? A goodbye kiss? A confession that they'll meet again once the time is right? He took one final glance at the stupid hole Lotor dugged and turned away. Maybe he would like to meet Lotor again, if the fates allowed it. The disappointment he felt was heavy. Rachel and Lance got back in the car. Their mother was curious about where they went and Rachel quickly evaded all questions well enough to not arrive suspicion. Lance was too upset with himself to even speak. After that, their mom dropped the topic and the car went quiet. No one spoke until they got to the airport. The reality of them separating again hurt. Way more than any one of them thought it would. 

“We’ll be back!” Veronica announced, trying to ease the tension. 

“No, we’ll come to you,” Marco replied.

“It's the least we can do after all,” Luis added.

“It was so good meeting y’all, thanks again, for Silvio.” Valencia spilled. 

Their mom pulled her two oldest sons into a hug, “Nunca debería haberte dejado (I should’ve never let you).” She deeped the hug before kissing them both on the cheeks. Tears were streaming down her son's faces. Everyone grabbed their bags and were about to head inside. Silvio was holding Lance’s hand. His father tried to say goodbye to him but Silvio was being stubborn and dismissive.

“Silvio, say bye to your dad. Don't let this be his last memory of you,” said Lance, trying to instill some maturity in his nephew. Silvio shook his head no, “He’s giving me away.” 

“That’s not true, your mom is sick Silvy. You want her to get better right?”

Silvio nodded. 

“Say bye to your dad, por tu mama (for your mom).” 

Silvio let go of Lance’s hand and ran into his father's arms. Luis picked him up and spun him around, “Eres mi amor (You’re my love) Silvio. I love you.” 

“Bye papa,” he cried. 

Although Lance was happy for Silvio, he felt a little bit jealous that he was never able to say goodbye to his dad. How was he supposed to know that leaving Cuba at seven was going to be the last time he saw him? Marco and Luis watched the rest of their family disappear through the airport doors. They watched until their family blended in with the crowd. The McClain family split up once again, but this time was different. And they were all going to make sure it was different for Silvio. 

New York City 

Lance and his family made it back to New York. Everyone was so jet-lagged but relieved. Home is definitely where the heart is. And their hearts were in the apartment they shared in downtown New York. Cuba will always be their home, but New York is their home. And now Silvio's home. After a week, they all fell into a comfortable routine. Their mom was back to working and Rachel and Veronica were preparing to get Silvio enrolled in school. While Lance was anxiously waiting for his birthday palooza. He didn’t understand the whole school stuff so he left that to his sisters. He thought his skills were much more useful for interior design. Their apartment was a three-bedroom, so there wasn't a lot of space to squeeze in Silvio. Unless he wanted to bunk with the ladies or Lance. However, Silvio wasn't happy about either of those options. He was so used to being an only child, so “sharing” wasn’t a common thing for him. And you could call the kid ungrateful, but he was six. And Lance’s mom wasn’t about to have beef with a minor. So she left the issue up to Lance to deal with and he did. Without tearing up the foundation of their apartment, he was able to build a little fort for his nephew. Now they wouldn’t have a dining room anymore but hey, Silvio has his own little area. He’s close enough to ma’s room in case he needs anything. And he's not completely out in the open, so he has some privacy. He was super excited when Silvio damn near died at his new room. He was so in love with it. That was the first time Lance saw that kid smile and laugh since they got back home. 

Once Silvio had his own space, he started opening up a lot more. He engaged with the family, cracked jokes, and even got into arguments with Rachel and Veronica. They finally felt like a family again, and Silvio felt like his little brother more than anything. So far life was good, but it was about to get even better because Lance’s birthday was tomorrow and he had permission to spend it with his friends. The only thing in his way was his outfit. What the hell was he going to wear? He arrived at Matt’s house dressed to the nine’s, but skimpy. He thought he looked really good and was not going to tolerate any disrespect on his outfit or himself. 

“What the hell are you wearing?” Pidge groaned, pretending to pour bleach in her eyes.

“Pidge!” Lance yelled, “Don’t bash the birthday boy. You’re committing treason. The council will not be happy about this.” 

Pidge rolled her eyes, “The council can suck my balls. You’re fit is trash.”

Lance gasped before dramatically falling to his knees, “Racism is real!” He screamed into the air while shaking his fists. 

Hunk shook his head, “Pidge, don’t be racist. Not cool bro.” 

She flipped them both off before laughing to herself, “Guys stop saying that.”  

“Oh, so now the racist wants to humble us, brown men in America?” Lance joked, crawling off the floor. 

“I’m done,” Pidge replied, slamming her computer closed. “I’m not gonna keep fueling the fire.” 

“You mean the same way your ancestors used to set us on fire?” Hunk chimed in, trying to contain his laughter. 

Pidge jumped off the counter and walked away, “Not listening.” 

“Way to silence POC voices Pidge, good one,” said Lance, dusting his clothes off. 

Pidge scoffs before chuckling out of sheer audacity. The party hasn’t even started yet and she’s already going insane. While Pidge went downstairs to pick up the liquor her brother bought them. Hunk and Lance were sitting on the couch munching on the leftover party snacks that didn’t fit on the table. 

“Give it to me straight, is my fit really trash?” Lance whined, popping a little blue sparkle cupcake into his mouth. 

“I mean no? Wearing a crop-top button-down suit is different tho. If I was you, I would cut off the sleeves.” Hunk replied, trying to give his friend more confidence. “Besides, it is your birthday. Who cares?” 

“Who cares,” he repeated. “Alright brb, say goodbye to the sleeves brotha.” 

Hunk laughs, “Scissors are in the junk drawer next to the fridge. Bye-bye sleeves. I’ll miss you.” 

Lance is snipping away at his shirt as Pidge is banging on the door. Hunk rushes over to help her inside. They scatter all 20 bottles of liquor and a few seltzers across the counter. 

“Holy shit, Matt is awesome!” Hunk announced, feeling somewhat grateful he’s such a lightweight. Drinking all that alcohol would actually kill him if he wasn't one. 

“Awesome indeed given that my brother works for the FBI,” Pidge smirked.

“Is he gonna get in trouble for like giving underage kids alcohol?” 

“Gave? He just happened to have this stash at his house. And we just happened to come across it.” Pidge winked while crushing up the boxes the alcohol came in. 

Lance finally came out of the bathroom and did a little twirl to show off his goods. “So? How we feeling gang?” 

Pidge peeked around the corner, “Okay I take it back. You look sexy Lance. Alt punk meets CEO businessman. I like it.” 

“Told you, dude. Anything looks good sleeveless, although personally, I would lose the dress shoes. Don’t seem danceable.” 

Lance nodded, “Yeah, I’m already getting blisters. Sock gang!” 

He slid over to the kitchen like he was on ice skates, “Holy fuck, did Matt rob the liquor store?” 

“He’s an adult with money, I think the liquor store robbed him. Look at these prices. How is a juiced potato almost thirty dollars?” asked Pidge. 

“Big bottle?” Hunk implied.

“Yeah right.” Pidge mocked, handing over a bag of ice to Lance. He starts pouring it into the coolers. “I’ve been meaning to ask, but why is Matt letting us do this?” 

She hands Lance another bag, “He’s too stressed to care. Don’t tell anyone because this is like confidential FBI Military mumbo jumbo. But apparently, the kid he recruited was discharged from the Miltary. And not on good circumstances.” 

“No fucking way!” Lance gasped. 

“What happened?” Hunk questioned. 

“Matt wouldn’t specify but from what I found-” 

“Did you hack your brother's computer?” Lance interrupted. 

“If by hack you mean he left it open and walked away as I read through the files then yeah, I’m somewhat of a hacker.” 

Hunk and Lance laugh, almost choking on their spit. 

“So yeah, what I read this dude named Takashi I think was let go because he had a mental breakdown. Like heavy PTSD shit. Ended up killing one of his squad members and girlfriend during an episode. But get this, dude was perfectly okay. In terms of mental well-being after losing not only his arm but his fiance at the same time. How does that work?”

Hunk and Lance are racking their brains trying to process the information they just learned. 

“I’m not understanding. Why did he kill his girlfriend and military bro?” asked Lance.

“Fit of rage? He caught them together and I guess he just snapped?” 

“Wow,” Hunk said. 

“But that’s all I know. They’re still investigating so all this is just like alleged. Matt’s driving to the base now to testify on Takashi's behalf.” 

“Well shit…shall we turn up for Matt then?” Lance prodded.

Hunk raised an empty red cup, “To the homies and caught cheaters.” 

Lance and Pidge lift their empty cups, “To the homies and caught cheaters.”

They all pretend to take a drink before slamming their cups down. They laugh at their silliness while spending the next 10-15 minutes setting up the final details of the party. Which was impeccable timing on their part, because right after Lance turned on the music the whole neighborhood and their mothers seemed to stroll through the front door. 

“Where did all these people come from?” He asked, only recognizing a few faces.

Pidge shrugged before running up to the door to collect money. Hunk shakes his head, “Friends of friends I guess. Is this okay? Because we could ask them to leave?” 

“Nah, the more the merrier. Let’s have fun!” 

About an hour in, things went from steady to chaotic. I guess that’s what happens when you give a bunch of future seniors alcohol. The music was up way louder than it needed to be and you could feel the pulse of the floor vibrate throughout your entire body. In fact, the whole apartment shook like the first wave of an earthquake. Kids were running around, tripping over furniture, making out in the hallway, and playing the weirdest version of Beer pong. Anything that they shouldn’t be doing, they were in fact doing it. Pidge made sure to lock up her brother’s room and hide all important items. So they definitely lucked out. However, the night was still young and the music was only getting louder. Too loud for a certain neighbor in particular. He was finally about to fall asleep after a week of constant insomnia. And although he likes to avoid confrontation, he was no saint tonight. He angrily got out of bed and pulled his dark silky overgrown hair into a low ponytail. The leftover hair sprung out and flopped right over his eyes, giving him shaggy curtain bangs. He slammed the door of his apartment and stomped upstairs, following the sound of Super Bass by Nicki Minaj. He actually liked the song, but this was not the time. Upon arriving at the door he had to steady himself. He was still half asleep and the pulse of the music vibrating under his feet felt nauseating. He cracked his knuckles before banging on the door. He didn’t stop until he almost fell through it when it opened. 

His expression shifted automatically when he saw the smirk on this white kid's face. The first impression was not going well. The kid takes a huge swig out of his cup, “Wassup? You here for the party? I mean the..” He stops and turns around to read the banner behind him, “The Welcome Back Birthday Bash Palooza.” 

Keith peeks into the apartment and stares at the banner, “Uhh nooo…could you turn down the music? It’s gnawing at my skull and I’m trying to sleep.” 

The kid laughs and yells into the room, “Yo turn the music up!” 

Keith glares at him, “What the fuck dude?” 

Lance is walking towards the kitchen when he catches a glimpse of James Griffin talking to some dude at the door. He walks over wondering why he won’t just let the kid in. While leaning over the door frame, his sleeveless button-down crop-top suit rides up. Exposing his stomach and happy trail. Keith catches a peek before quickly looking away. 

“Griff, what’s the problem?” Asked Lance, instantly in awe at the emo-looking dude, “Woah,  who’s this babe you’re with? Let him in already you dork.” 

Griffin rolls his eyes, “Babe? This dweeb is complaining about the music.” 

Lance jumps, realizing the handsome dude in front of him might be a resident. He pushes James back into the apartment, “Dweeb? What are you 12? Turn the fucking music down Griffin. Don't be an ass.”

James flips him off before walking over to the stereo. Once he turned the music down he glares back at Lance and mumbles, “You happy?” 

Lance shoos him away before drawing his attention back to the guy at the door. “Sorry about that, is the sound better? I’m Lance by the way.” 

Keith looks him up and down, as well as he could since his bangs were in the way. He pushes them behind his ear and almost fainted at what he saw. This “Lance” was so attractive, even in the weird outfit he was wearing. Mans pulled it off somehow. Keith wondered if it was the sleeveless look throwing everything together. 

“Uhh…I’m the babe you were talking about, but I go by Keith. Keith Kogane.” He flushed, reaching out his hand. Keith never shakes hands but he wasn’t tired enough to not try and get a feel of this cute boy he just met. 

Lance shakes his hands with the biggest drunk smile on his face. “Hey..Keith…Keith Kogane. This is gonna sound insane, but do you wanna come in? I just got back from Cuba and my friends are throwing me a fiesta .” 

Keith falters a bit under the gaze of Lance, why were his eyes so enticing even in this dim hallway? “Uh..fiestas aren’t my thing-” 

“Heyo Lance! We have blue jello shots man! Hurry the fuck up bro!” James yells from the abyss. 

Lance rolls his eyes. He pulls out his phone and types a few numbers in his notes app before handing it over, “Hey babe- K-Keith, here’s my number. And if you wanna like not party…call me. Bye mullet!” 

Keith frantically memorizes Lance’s number since he left his phone on the nightstand. He barely heard anything the boy was saying because he kept repeating the numbers in his head. After Lance closed the door, Keith ran back to his apartment and grabbed the nearest pen he could find. Scratching 642 978 0546 into a dirty napkin with the word “Mullet?” circled next to it. 

A few weeks go by before Keith even decides to give Lance a call. A text. Keith was worried about a multitude of things which is why he waited so long to do anything. But now he feels like he waited too long. This was worse than any one-night stand he’s had because for some reason he actually cared. If anything he was curious about Lance. It was weird for him to admit that he wanted to get to know him. Yuck. Imagine getting to know someone. Keith picked up his phone while his toothbrush was still in his mouth. The toothpaste was foaming up like crazy but he couldn’t spit it out until he sent the text. Or it would’ve been another few weeks. It was now or never. By this point, he didn’t even need the chicken scratched napkin anymore because he knew Lance’s number by heart.

+6428857624: 

Hope this is Lance

It’s Keith 

Kogane

From the party 

Hey 

Also sorry for waiting so long

-delivered 10:15 am-

Keith laid his phone back on the counter and spit out the remaining toothpaste. His phone chimed right as he was about to rinse his mouth. His heart started racing. Who knew texting could be this nerve-inducing?

Lance: 

Omg heyyyyy

No worries lol

Surprised you remembered me

-delivered 10:17 am-

Keith: 

How could I forget? I was called “Dweeb” and “Babe” in the same minute 

Lance: 

NOOOOO 

Im so sorry for that

I swear griffin isn’t like a jock bro

He’s actually really nice 

Keith: 

So you have no issues with calling me babe? 

Lance: 

I mean, why would I lie? 

Ik i was drunk but I was sober enough to see how good you looked lol

Keith: 

Lol if you thought I looked then you should see me now 

Keith Selfie 

Lance: 

omfg you’re adorable 

I cant- 

Keith: 

Uhmm what

Lance:

Im being serious

Pls stop tho before I catch feelings 

Keith: 

Would that be such a bad thing?

Lance: 

Take me to dinner first then ask me again

Keith: 

Send me your address 

Lance: 

Holy fucckk 

Are you bein fr? 

Keith: 

Yes

I’ll come get you right now 

Lance:

Ksf0uwgokfosj0ier

Watit \

\Waitt 

Omfg 

I was like partially joking 

You’re not messing with me right ???

Keith:

I promise

Also literally no rush 

Like at all

But I do want to see you 

Lance: 

Wow 

This is crazyyyyy 

Okay ummm pls dont be a murderer 

I’m about to start senior year in 2 weeks 

Keith: 

You’re still in hs? 

Werent you guys drinking? 

Lance:

I’ll be 21 soon and besides i’m legal in cuba so pemdas or whatever einstein said

Ahhh omg

Is my age a problem? 

I don’t want you to catch a case bc im so young and sexy 

Keith:

Pls dont say that lmaoo

And depends, Im 19 

Is that weird? 

Literally graduated a year ago

Lance: 

not for me per se

I just turned 17

That cool ??

Keith: 

yeah but let’s keep the flirting to the minimum tho

We can still talk and hang out if you want

Public place tho 

Lance: 

oh forsure

Also im not really sure if i should be dating rn anyways

Still figuroing things out 

figuring*

Keith: 

I understand, no pressure at all 

What time?

Lance:

 uhmmm

Im at the store rn with my sisters and nephew so maybe

around 4 pm? Is that cool? 

Keith:

 totally 

Just send me your address 

Actually just tell me where you want to meet 

I want you to feel safe 

Lance: 

you’re making it really hard to not catch feelings

Are you sure don’t want a case? 

Bc i can make it worth your time LMAOO

But honestly…why are you so sweet? And nice 

Im gonna cry 

Keith: 

Listen not even gonna lie, you are mad gorgeous but i’m not down that bad LOL 

But thanks, I’m just doing me ig

Also it’s dangerous meeting people y know? 

I know we already met but still

Doesnt hurt to stay safe

Lance: 

of course^^

Well could we meet at central then?

Keith: 

yeah forsure 

Meet you there

Lance: 

okay well ahhh this is so exciting

Ttyl 

Keith:

 bye !! 

-delivered 10: 34 am-

Keith damn near felt his entire essence disappear. So many thoughts were roaming through his mind it was hard to keep track of them. Lance on the other hand was experiencing the same dilemma but he wasn’t in the comfort of his own home. His sisters caught him smiling at his phone and they wouldn’t drop it until he confessed. But he couldn’t confess because he would be asking to get grounded. His mom knew about the party but she didn’t know about the party. And why would he self-report? He tried giving Rachel the stare so she could back off but nothing was working. Thank god Silvio is here. Or was here. The kid ran off somewhere in the store. Lance was worried but he thanked the heavens for the diversion. His sisters were too caught up looking for their nephew that they forgot about nagging their brother. He managed to avoid talking about his new friend the entire train ride home. As soon as he stepped through the door of their apartment he rushed into his room. He needed to change, shower, update the gang and figure out an excuse to leave. He checked the time and gasped. Hopefully, three hours was enough because he still had to catch a train and the strenuous walk to the park. Not to mention four pm was peak heat hours? Lance groaned, already dreading his new life dealing with boys. 

After Keith sent the final text he raided his closet for the first time in months. Usually, he just grabs a black shirt, black jeans, gloves, and his token red jacket. But this time he wanted to spice things up a little. So after ages of digging and throwing clothes all over his studio apartment, he found them. The perfect black pair of skinny jeans that makes his thighs look good. Now he just needed a shirt and he thought it would be funny if he showed up wearing a sleeveless crop top and tie. So he did. He looked in the mirror and struck a few poses before deciding the outfit was good enough to leave the house in. “I hope Lance likes this,” he thinks to himself. Keith walks over to his nightstand and grabs a hair scrunchie. He ties his hair in the same low ponytail he had during the party. The time on his phone read 2:56 pm so he grabbed his keys and dipped. He knew he was going to get there a lot early than he anticipated but he couldn't help it. He was so excited and nervous. This wasn’t like a date-date but it was pretty damn close. He tried to relax but the big goofy smile on his face wouldn't go away. On the drive to the park, Keith just hoped that this date or hang out. Whatever he and Lance were doing, was going to be good for him. He needed someone new to talk to. He just needed someone , and hopefully, he was someone Lance needed too. 

Lance did a final look in the mirror before running out the door. He told his sisters that he’ll be back soon and to call him if anything serious happened. Since he was allegedly hanging out with Hunk and Pidge. Veronica didn't think anything of it but Rachel gave him the stink eye. They waved him goodbye and Rachel yelled, “Have fun with your friend.” 

Lance flipped her off before slamming the door. He booked it down the corridor and managed to get on the last train. He flopped into the nearest opening and sighed, “I made it. Oh my god.” 

He reached into the back pocket of his dim blue jeans to pull out his phone. 

Lance: 

Hey hey hey 

I’m omw

Anywhere you want to meet in particular ??

Keith:

 hol d p 

driv ing 

Lance:

 sorry !!! 

Keith reached the stop light and pulled out his phone again.

Keith: 

Hey 

So im heading up too 

Be in there in like 10 mins? 

We could meet at the conservatory garden? 

Lance:

 near all the bugs? 

Keith: 

Its a park lol

That’s outside 

Lance:

 i know 

But okay

Text me you get there 

Also no texting and driving mister 

Keith: 

Will do 

Ttyl 

-delivered 3:32 pm- 

They somehow managed to get to the conservatory garden at the same time. Keith was about to send Lance a text before he felt the weight of his shoulders tighten. Lance ran over and jumped hugged Keith, wrapping his long arms around his shoulders and letting them dangle over Keith’s broad chest. Keith gently spun Lance around and stopped once his shoes hit the ground. This was the second moment Keith realized how crazy Lance was driving him. And it wouldn’t be the last. He wondered if Lance was always this touchy-feely? Because it’s normal to be close with friends, but there was no doubt that to outside eyes, they looked like a couple. That thought made Keith’s heart race. 

Lance was giggling like crazy, “Oh my god hey. Sorry, I’m literally so nervous right now. Hey. Oh my god hey. You look good by the way. I’m rocking with the sleeves or the lack of sleeves haha.” 

Keith just stared and smiled at Lance. He was just too adorable. “Oh this, let’s just say I was inspired.” 

Their unofficial not-date hangout get-together went way better than expected. The nervous jitters went away and they both genuinely had a good time. They were able to talk and joke with each other like they’d been friends for years. It was something that Keith appreciated more than anything. He desired connection and luckily for him Lance was all about connecting. He loved meeting new people and the thought of some older guy that he drunkenly gave him his number to asked him out? That threw him over the nearest moon. Both of them couldn’t fathom how perfect everything was, how perfect they were together. Maybe this new person in their lives could be their forever. 

Chapter Text

Hey guys, I know it's been a while (almost 2 years) and I'm so sorry for that. Life got super busy and I wasn't sure if people still wanted to keep up with this story. I'm back in school so my schedule has been all over the place. But I do want to write and draw more fanart for this series. Just let me know if this is something I should finish !! Because we're not even CLOSE to the end of the story, all of this has just been the beginning lol. As always, thank you paladudes. May Voltron and Klance live forever.