Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The crew landed back at Area 51. There were cheers and claps, as the people on earth watched, but they had bigger problems than that.

As soon as they could get the door opened, Barry pushed Vanessa out on a wheelchair. She groaned in pain. Everyone around them looked confused.

“Is she hurt?!” A man asked.

“She’s going into labor! Get her to a hospital!” Barry exclaimed.

They called an ambulance over to get Vanessa. Soon enough loud sirens, and flashing lights, drove over to the landing sight. The paramedics helped Vanessa onto a stretcher, and guided it into the ambulance. As soon as Barry stepped inside the vehicle, they closed the doors. The ambulance drove off, leaving the rest of the crew standing in the ship.

“We’re here!” Sea Hawk exclaimed.

“Yeah.” Adora sighed.

“Guys, what gonna happen?” Elmo asked nervously.

“Well first we’re going to get out of the spaceship, and then we’ll go back to the dormitory, and then we’ll sleep.” Squidward spoke almost mockingly.

“I’m serious. What’s gonna happen with… you know.” Elmo said, gesturing towards Adora, Sea Hawk, Shrek, and Rubert.

Squidward sighed. A more serious expression covered his face.

“I don’t know.” He spoke sternly. “Adora if they take you guys away, use your sword.” He spoke, trying to lighten the mood.

“I don’t have time for this, can I just go back to my room.” Shrek said, pointing his thumb towards the hallway.

“That’s right… you’re not welcome here, are you?” Sea Hawk spoke, recalling the memory. “What if I’m not welcome here?” Sea Hawk moped.

“No, Sea Hawk don’t think like that! I’m sure everything will be fine.” Elmo assured.

“What if they don’t want Rubert here?!” Sea Hawk cried.

“Sea Hawk…” Adora spoke.

Squidward sighed, and placed his fingers on the bridge of the nose.

“Look, it’s not like they’re gonna kick out a cat. They trust me, I can just explain the situation.” Squidward tried to comfort Sea Hawk.

“Are you absolutely sure?” Shrek asked.

“Yes.” Squidward replied.

——

It was night now. Elmo had a busy day of talking to tons of people, about space, and the mission, and being in the ship for so long, and interviews, and aliens, and… too many things. Everyone wanted to know every little thing about the trip, and Elmo didn’t blame them. Obviously it wasn’t a completely public thing, but many people still knew about it. They also had to contact the etherian, and thulite hospital to get their records. They also had to tell them they hadn’t collected any data of the planets.

In other words… he was tired.

Elmo was sitting on his bed in the dormitory, it wasn’t very comfortable, but it had to do for now. Their dorm rooms had room for two people in them, so they were assigned rooms with each other. Elmo’s room was with Squidward, and Barry’s was with Vanessa. Sea Hawk got a room with Rubert, Adora got a room for herself, and Shrek got a room to himself.

Elmo took his phone, and opened up Tinder. He clicked on the chat with Mark Da Man.

“Hey. I just got back.” Elmo typed.

A few moments passed, before he heard the familiar chirp come from his phone. He opened Tinder again.

“Really! Back to earth?” Mark replied.

Elmo couldn’t believe it himself, he was stuck up in that ship for so long.

“Yeah…” Elmo replied.
“That’s so cool! We’ll be able to see each other again. I can’t wait to see you😚” Mark returned.
“Me too!☺️” Elmo responded.

Mark Da Man is offline.🔘

Elmo sighed and turned off his phone. He placed it to the side of him, and dramatically let his back fall on down on the bed.

“Ow.” Elmo complained.

Squidward looked over at him, and smirked. Elmo scoffed.

“What?” Squidward asked.

“These beds are so hard.” Elmo complained.

Elmo sat himself up again. What was his plan now? He thought. Meet up with Mark, obviously. He thought to himself.

Squidward continued to look at him. Elmo self cautiously grabbed his phone.

“What are you thinking about?” Squidward asked.

“No one!” Elmo rushed.

…”I didn’t say WHO are you thinking about.” Squidward replied.

Elmo sighed.

“Don’t worry about it.” Elmo spoke.

Chapter Text

Missing home was interesting. There was so many new adjustments she had to learn, all Adora wanted to do was call home. She needed to get the hang of this whole phone thing…

Adora, Shrek, and Sea Hawk were hanging out out in Sea Hawk’s room. Adora had officially named them “The Outsiders”
-along with Rubert of course- with inspiration from Bow. They were trying to help her figure out how to use the device.

“It’s like a tracker pad Adora. It’s made to use with ease.” Sea Hawk spoke.

“Yeah I know that, I still haven’t gotten the hang of those thing either.” Adora sighed.

“Okay well… what are you trying to do exactly?” Shrek asked.

“…umm, call someone on etheria maybe?” Adora replied.

“Ooh! I wonder how everyone is back there, so much has happened since then. I know you called Catra, but Vanessa didn’t let me hear what it was about.” Sea Hawk spoke, emphasizing the word Vanessa.

“Oh yeah, I did do that. Squidward helped me.” Adora replied.

“Hmm. Okay, how do we turn it on?” Shrek asked.

“Oh! I actually know how to do that part.” Adora responded.

Adora held out the phone, and pressed the power button. The screen lit up. Adora swiped up on the screen to unlock it.

“Done.” She spoke.

“Interesting. I’m assuming you just press on the call button, that one’s on there right?” Sea Hawk asked.

“I think.” Adora pressed a button with a phone symbol.

“Who are you gonna call?” Shrek asked.

Adora looked at all of the contacts Squidward had put onto her phone. She had so many friends she could call. Adora scrolled through them carefully. Squidward must have had the time to take their pictures, because each contact had a small picture of that person next to it. How sweet.

“I think… I’ll call Catra.” She said.

“Catra, what a good idea!” Sea Hawk exclaimed.

“Go for it, call her.” Shrek spoke.

Adora took in a breath. She clicked Catra’s contact.

“I’m sorry, but the number you have chosen to dial has blocked you.

“What, that can’t be right.” Adora said nervously.

“Hmm.” Shrek hummed.

Adora let out a nervous laugh.

“Hold on, let me call someone else.” She clicked on Bow’s icon.

“Adora, hey!” Bow’s voice spoke.

“Bow!” Adora exclaimed.

“Yes, that’s me!” He said back.

“You picked up!” She spoke.

“Of course, why wouldn’t I?” He responded.

“Oh my gosh! It’s been- wow. I just… I miss you guys. I miss you!” She spoke into the phone.

“We miss you too! How is everyone, what’s going on?” He asked.

“Oh, we’re great! We made it to earth, finally! We’ve had some bumps along the way, but everyone is good… well we’ll see.” Adora spoke.

“What do you mean “we’ll see”?” Bow questioned.

“Oh, Vanessa is in the hospital right now. She’s having twins.” She replied.

“Wait, really! That’s… really? I wasn’t expecting that.” Bow returned.

“Yeah, yeah…. Anyways, how are you? Anything interesting happen while we’re gone?” She asked.

“Oh… um, something happened. I really don’t want to be the one to tell you this. I- have you tried calling Catra?” Bow spoke.

“Yeah! I talked to her on the ship… a little while ago…. Although, we did just try calling her, but it said my number was blocked. I don’t know what that’s about?” Adora returned.

Bow sighed. “Adora, Glimmer… and Catra, are…” he sighed again. “Well they’ve been spending so much time together.”

“Don’t they usually spend a lot of time together?” Adora asked, concern rising in her tone.

“Me and Glimmer aren’t together anymore, and she left me for Catra.” Bow cried.

Everyone in the room went silent.

“Is this one of those pranks? That wasn’t funny the first time you did one of those.” Adora spoke.

“I’m really sorry. But, just know, I’ll always be there for you.” Bow spoke.

“Thanks.” A single tear ran down Adora’s cheek. “Yeah… Um, Sea Hawk is with me. And Shrek too! We’re at the dormitory in Area 51, it kind of reminds me of the horde. The beds are just so hard, and- you know what, why don’t you talk to Sea Hawk.” Adora handed the phone to Sea Hawk.

“Oh hi Bow, I have so much I need to tell you!” Sea Hawk started.

Adora placed her hands in her lap. The stinging in her eyes faded, as she heard Bow’s voice over the phone. She took a deep breath. Adora looked up at Shrek. He had a sympathetic look on his face. Adora smiled, and focused on Sea Hawk, and Bow’s conversation.

“And Rubert is doing great.” Sea Hawk spoke, petting the brown cat lying in his lap.

“I’ve never thought about having one of those things as a pet? I guess that seems nice.” Bow returned.

“Yes, and I hope you’re still going on those adventures! You can take any of my ships!” Sea Hawk spoke.

“Oh yeah, about that, Mermista kinda burnt them down.” Bow spoke nervously.

Adora let out a chuckle, of course she would do that.

Sea Hawk paused for a second.

“That is the hottest thing I have ever heard.” Sea Hawk spoke.

Adora went into a full blown chuckle. Even Shrek joined in.

“Anyways, it was really good talking to you Sea Hawk, and you too Adora! You guys really cheered me up.” Bow replied.

“Thanks for tell me Bow, I really appreciate you being there for me.” Adora spoke, a blush growing on her cheeks.

“Of course, we miss you!” Bow spoke.

“Goodbye Bow, have an eventful day!” Sea Hawk spoke.

“Of course, you too Sea Hawk.” Bow spoke.

“I miss you so much! Goodbye Bow!” Adora spoke.

“Goodbye!” Bow spoke, before hanging up the phone.

Adora let out a long sigh. Sea Hawk placed a hand on her shoulder.

“How was that?” Shrek asked.

“It… it was good! I think I’m doing good!” Adora replied.

“Umm could you help me install a new app?” She asked Shrek.

“Sure, what app?” Shrek asked.

“Ummm, what’s it called? Umm… FaceChat? FaceTime?” Adora asked.

“Yeah, FaceTime. I’ll help you!” Shrek spoke, walking over to Adora.

Chapter Text

POV 1:

*phone rings*

“Oh!” Adora said almost dropping the phone.
“Right..” She whispered to herself, “it does that.”
Bow answered a few seconds later.

“Yes..?” He asked in a groggy tone.
“Hi. Sorry to call so late.. I need to talk..”
“Really? I have something to tell you..” Bow replied nervously.
“About Catra.”
“Oh.” Bow sighed, “yeah sure.” He said and flopped back down on his bed. “What do you need?”
“I feel like.. I need someone here. Someone from Etheria.”
“Isn’t Sea Hawk there?”
“Yeah but, I wanted Catra. But, clearly that’s not happening..” Adora was on the verge of crying.
“Oh Um! I could come.. i-“
“I mean! Why? Catra broke up with me and blocked me?! She didn’t even break up with me, she just blocked me!” Adora interrupted.
“Yeah. I can come to Earth. There are some free shi-“
“And without telling me?! Like what the fu“
“ADORA. I can fricken come to fricken Earth if you want!”
“Um.. sure! That would be great actually. Thanks for asking.”
“You’re fricken welcome.”
“Haha. How soon can you get here?”
“In about 3 days. Entrapta beefed up the ship. They’re really fast.”
“Great! I can wait to see you. I got to go.”
“Bye.”
“Bye.” Adora said and hung up.
Adora looked at the the clock on her bedside table. It read “12:43.”

POV 2:

Mark and Elmo have talking for a few days now. They have planned to meet up at the old cafe. (The one they broke up at) This was happening in a few hours.

“Hey Elmo.” Squidward said as he walked into the room.
“Hey yourself.” Elmo said without an expression.
“Wow, tiger, feisty..” Squidward chuckled and hopped off his bed.
Elmo blushed. Squidward had the top bunk so he was about 6 feet above the ground. As he dropped on the ground, his muscles bulged.

“Um.. I got to go.” Elmo said in a fretful tone.

Elmo gave himself a mental pep talk.
“Mark. Mark and you. That’s all. I don’t need Squidward. It’s just me and Mark. I’m obsessed with Mark. Mark, Mark, Mark. I’m addicted to the drug called Mark.”
Elmo quickly walked into the main room. Seeing that nobody was in there. Elmo sighed. It had been tough for Elmo to stay true to Mark. Squidward has been so smug lately, but he wasn’t Mark.
Elmo paced throughout the main lobby. His phone rang.
“Hello?” Elmo said into the phone.
“Hey. It’s Mark.”
“Oh. Hey.” Elmo pinched the bridge of his nose.
“What’s that for?”
“Oh. Um, I think I feel a headache coming on.”
“Oh, I’m sorry.”
“Thanks.” Elmo smiled. “Wait.. HOW DO YOU KNOW I DID THAT?”
Elmo heard a tapping on the window. Mark was there, waving.
“Mark!” Elmo shouted and flung open the double doors.
“That’s me.” Mark said and embraced Elmo in a hug.
“I missed you.” Mark said and let go.
“Yeah,” Elmo blushed, “me too. I mean, I missed YOU, not me.”
Mark laughed. “Same old apprehension Elmo.”
“Say what now?”Elmo asked like he just offended him.
“It means worry wart. I got bored and read the dictionary while you where gone.”
“Weirdo.” Elmo chucked and held the door open for Mark to come inside.

POV 3:

“Barry?” Vanessa said in the darkness of the room.
It was late at night and one of the twins was about to cry. There were no double beds so, they slept separately. After giving birth, Vanessa was quite tired.
“Barry!” She whisper shouted.
“What, what?!” He whispered back.
“Valerie is waking up.” She said and flopped back down on her bed.
The two cribs replaced the bed side tables. Each parent took care of the baby on their side at night.
“Hey now..!” Barry whispered ever so carefully picking up the baby. He rocked it until the baby fell asleep. He placed Valerie down and fell back asleep. He heard distant talking from Adora.
“Congratulations Vanessa. You woke Adora up. Now she going to wake up everyone else..” Barry thought and fell back asleep.

POV 1:

Adora woke up to a crap ton of messages from a group chat with Catra and Bow. She picked up the phone and read…

Catra
Bow, wtf, I’m deleting this group chat

Bow
No, wait. We need to talk with Adora about you and Glimmer.

Catra
No. I’m not

Bow
Yes you are!

Catra
No you mother f***er I’m not

Bow
Adora wants to know what you did

Catra
NO

Bow
Just tell her

Catra
Me and glimmer are not even dating.

Bow
Yeah just going on dates constantly

Catra
🤬

Bow
Wow, I’m so hurt

Catra
I just went on a few dates with her!

Bow
I caught you guys literally kissing

Catra
Me and Adora weren’t even official, she just ASSUMED we where

Bow
Bruh😡

Catra
Im done

Bow
😠

Catra
Goodbye you dumba**s

CATRA is offline 🔘

Bow
Im sorry Adora.

Adora had tears in her eyes.
“We weren’t official? When did we have to say we were?”
Adora thought and wrapped herself in her covers. She cried herself back to sleep.

POV 2:

“And then Vanessa started shouting about being pregnant or something, no one was really paying attention. Then everyone strapped down to land and then some other things happened and we were back on Earth.” Elmo said taking a breath.
“Wow. So not to many dramatic things happening with you.” Mark said leaning back in the plastic chair.
Elmo had left out all the stuff about his crazy romance.
They were hanging out in the main room, talking.
Then Squidward walked in.

“Oh!” Elmo said standing up. “This is Mark.”
“Nice to meet you.” Mark said standing up and reaching out to shake Squidward’s hand.
“Yeah, yeah. I got to use the bathroom.” Squidward said and left in a small rage.
“Good luck!” Mark said and sat down with Elmo.

POV 3:

Everyone was up and eating breakfast at the big table in the dining area. Shrek and Sauidward had just sat down. Sea hawk was feeding Rubert, and Elmo was petting him. Barry was feeding Beth at the table.

Vanessa walked out carrying Valerie.
“Good Morning, Shrek, Elmo, Barry, Valerie, and Squidward!” She said and walked to the table to sit down.
Barry leaned over and whispered to her.

“Vanessa! Why didn’t say good morning to Rubert and Sea Hawk? That’s vary rude, you know they hate to be left out.” Barry whispered angrily.

“I’m not going to say good morning to an animal that’s too dumb to understand me.”

Barry scoffed and sat back with his arms crossed.

“And definitely not to a cat!”

Chapter Text

Mark was here now. Why was he here, how did he even get in? You can’t just “walk” into Area 51.

“Mark, are you staying overnight?” Squidward asked, as the three of them walked back to their dorm room.

“Oh yeah, I figured it all out with the “officials you know. I just want to finally be here for Elmo.” Mark smiled.

Elmo took in a deep breath, and held it for a bit longer than he usually would. What was Mark doing here?! Elmo thought. That doesn’t matter now! He’s here, and he’s… he’s reminding me why I fell in love with Squidward! Ugh! He thought. Even just looking at the two of them standing next to each other felt weird, it was like they were versions of one another. They both were around the same height, same build, same sense of humor.

Squidward walked up to the door a bit quicker than them, to open the door. He bowed down as Elmo and Mark walked inside.

“For out favorite couple.” Squidward spoke.

Elmo could feel the sarcasm in his tone, Squidward acted like this before, on Etheria. Squidward walked inside and closed the door. Mark walked over to Elmo’s bunk and sat down.

“That’s my bed.” Elmo spoke.

Mark just looked up at him. “I figured.” Mark gave him a smile.

Elmo glanced over to Squidward, he was looking at Mark. Elmo took a spare chair, and sat down.

“Mark, I’m really glad you showed up.” Elmo smiled.

“Yes, of course! I can’t wait to hear even more about your space adventures.” Mark spoke.

“Yep!” Elmo smiled.

Elmo looked up at Squidward. He looked at Mark, and then at Elmo. He sent a disgusted look. Elmo raised a questioning eyebrow.

Squidward cleared his throat. “Well, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to see if Shrek wants to play checkers with me.”

“Okay.” Elmo spoke quietly.

He could hear Squidward snicker on his way out.

“So… has he always been in love with you?” Mark smirked.

“Uh- I- pfff he’s NOT I love with me!” Elmo stuttered back from such assumptions.

“Seems like it to me?” Mark shrugged.

“Don’t- don’t worry about him okay. Just, let’s talk about space or something!” Elmo replied.

—

Adora was hanging out with Sea Hawk in his room. They had started spending more time together ever since they had landed. Shrek was doing something in his room, so they couldn’t have a full Outsiders hang out. Sea Hawk had placed Rubert on Adora’s lap, so he good dance around in his new room.

“Rubert reminds me of Melog.” Adora spoke, petting the long fur on the cat’s back.

“You’re right! You were always with that creature…” Sea Hawk spoke.

“Hmm, yeah, I guess I’ll have to thank Catra for that. Oh wait.” She spoke.

“Maybe we should try call Bow again… to make you feel better!” Sea Hawk suggested.

That sounded like a good idea to Adora. Bow was always so helpful, and cheerful.

“Sure!” She spoke.

She unlocked her phone, and went to the call app. Adora pressed call.

A few moments later, Bow’s voice came through the speaker.

“Hey Adora!” He spoke.

“Oh hi!” She said back.

“Bow, it’s so lovely to hear your voice! I’m going to do some SQUATS!” Sea Hawk said, before doing squats in the middle of the room.

“How are you doing?” Adora asked, petting Rubert.

“I’m on my way to earth, I’m already out in space!” He exclaimed.

“What- that’s amazing! I can’t believe you actually decided to do that!?” She replied.

“Yep! I really need more adventure! Like Sea Hawk told me… also… I really wanted to see you.” Bow spoke.

Adora bit her lip, and her cheeks flushed a pink color.

“Mmhmm. I really want to see you too! I’m just, so excited!” She spoke.

“I just-“ Bow stopped talking. “I don’t know, just with everything happening, and you guys gone. I just really miss you Adora- there’s really no way to explain it.” He spoke, his voice growing sweeter.

“Yeah… I know what you mean, I know exactly what you mean. Bow… I just… thank you. Me and Sea Hawk are dying to see you!” Adora spoke.

He grip on Rubert was getting a little much, so she placed the cat aside. Adora walked over to where Sea Hawk was doing squats.

“Bow, I can’t wait for your arrival!” Sea Hawk exclaimed.

“Me too. Um I’m actually getting a call from Entrapta, I’ll talk to you soon!” Bow replied.

“Of course, bye!” Adora said, before hanging up.

She did a little happy dance.

“Bow’s coming!” She squealed.

—

“Barry, I don’t understand why we have to leave!” Vanessa complained.

“You know exactly why! Plus.. we’ll be fine, we can move back to New York and raise the babies!” Barry spoke.

“Ugh! I don’t even want to be in this dump anyways!” Vanessa spoke, shoving more stuff into her suitcase.

“Don’t worry sweetie! We’ll be FINE!” Barry assured.

Chapter Text

Finally getting off of the ship, and being able to do activities you couldn’t do in space was an opportunity to start up hobbies Adora had back on Etheria. Adora usually would go for runs, and work out. It always kept her active without having to train for war. The dormitory building the crew was staying at had a gym inside that Adora was planning to use.

All she ever saw the rest of the crew wear was dark blue clothing. Blue pants, blue shirts, blue sweatsuits. Adora had only a couple different options of clothes she brought with her. When they had landed she was given a wardrobe with the plain blue clothing. She took out a pair of joggers. All of the sudden there was a knock on the door. Who could that be? She wondered.

Adora walked over to the door, and opened it. It was Barry and Vanessa. They had the twins with them, and suitcases.

“Hello? Can I help you?” She asked.

“Oh- um, we just came to say goodbye.” Vanessa spoke.

Adora couldn’t believe they were leaving so soon! Obviously Vanessa had been fired, but she was still her friend. Adora looked at the both of them.

“I can’t believe you’re leaving already. I’m gonna miss you!” She spoke.

“Adora, you were an amazing help on the ship. We were so lucky to have you!” Barry said.

“We’re headed back to New York, you should really come visit sometime. I can keep teaching you how to knit!” Vanessa spoke.

“I will, well… I need to get ready for the gym, but I hope you guys make it there okay.” Adora said, pulling them into a hug.

She pulled back from the hug.

“Bye.” Adora said before closing the door.

They were so nice to her.

Adora walked back over to her wardrobe, and got changed into her blue athletic clothes. She tied her hair up in a ponytail, and filled a bottle up with water. She was about to to open the door, when a chirping noise came from her bed. Adora looked back to see that there was a notification on her phone. She walked over the the bed, and picked up the phone.

|—————————|
| 2 Notifications |
| From “Bow🏹” |
|—————————|

Adora felt a burst of excitement. She immediately unlocked her phone, and looked at the notification.

Hi Adora! I just wanted to message you to tell you I’m on my way! Obviously you knew that already, but I’m even closer to Earth than before.

Text me when you get this.

Adora felt herself smiling at the message. She pondered for a bit… what should she say? Adora thought. She typed out her message before pressing send.

Hi Bow! That’s so exiting! I can’t wait to see you! Also, aren’t these little face things super cute? 😁😀😍🥰😌😚😜🥳🤩🥺🤗😺😸😼😽😹🤣😊😘

Adora put all of these emojis she thought looked cute. She typed another message out.

I’m going to the gym. I’ll talk to you later! 🥰

Okay! Talk to you then.😉

Adora let herself smile before exiting the room. She walked down the hallway to the gym. She practically skipped there in excitement.

—

Squidward had just closed the door after Barry and Vanessa came to say goodbye to them. Elmo looked at him.

“That was interesting.” He spoke.

“I guess? Honestly I wasn’t really expecting Vanessa to actually come and say her goodbyes to us.” Squidward replied.

“She was just saying bye? Where are they going to?” Mark asked.

“New York City. Her and Barry live there, she’s actually a florist.” Elmo replied.

“Hmm.” Mark noted to himself.

“I’m not really sure what her deal is though? She was really mean to Sea Hawk in the ship, and now she’s nice again?” Squidward spoke.

“Oh yeah, Elmo told me about that.” Mark replied.

There was an awkward silence between the three.

“Umm, I’m going to pack my backpack for our hike tomorrow.” Squidward said.

“What hike?” Mark asked.

“Me, Shrek, and Elmo are going for a hike outside of Area 51 tomorrow.” Squidward replied.

Elmo had totally forgot about that. He really wanted to go on that hike with Squidward and Shrek.

“Oh, well, me and Elmo made plans to go out tomorrow.” Mark spoke.

Elmo gave an awkward smile. He /really/ wanted to go on that hike and stretch out his legs.

“Oh is that so? You know what… go have your fun. After all, you’re Area 51’s favorite couple.” Squidward said.

Mark let out a chuckle.

“Shut the h*** up Squidward!” Elmo thought.

—

“As much as I hate to say this, I think I’m really gonna miss them.” Vanessa told Barry.

“Oh yeah, I totally get that. Everyone here are like our friends! We spent so much time with them!” Barry agreed.

Barry and Vanessa had packed up their belongings in suitcases. They were about to leave back to New York City. Each of them had a baby carrier.

Vanessa walked up to Shrek’s door, and knocked. Shrek opened the door a moment later.

“What?” He asked.

“We’re leaving now…” she spoke.

“Ok.” He said before closing the door.

Vanessa stopped him from closing it.

“Wait! I just- wanted to say goodbye… it was nice knowing you… I’m sorry.” She mumbled the last part a bit quietly.

“It was fun having you on the ship with us, I hope you find your way here!” Barry spoke.

“Goodbye.” Shrek spoke, before closing the door again.

Vanessa sighed, and walked over to knock on the next door. It opened.

“Hello? Can I help you?” Adora asked, looking down at their luggage.

“Oh- um, we just came to say goodbye.” Vanessa spoke.

Adora looked at the both of them.

“I can’t believe you’re leaving already. I’m gonna miss you!” Adora spoke.

“Adora, you were an amazing help on the ship. We were so lucky to have you!” Barry said.

“We’re headed back to New York, you should really come visit sometime. I can keep teaching you how to knit!” Vanessa spoke.

“I will, well… I need to get ready for the gym, but I hope you guys make it there okay.” Adora said, pulling them into a hug.

Vanessa tensed up, but let herself be hugged.

“Bye.” Adora said before closing the door.

Vanessa walked over to Elmo, and Squidward’s room. She knocked on the door.

“Who’s there?” A voice called from the inside.

“It’s us!” Barry replied.

Squidward opened the door. He stared at the two.

“Oh, you’re leaving?” Squidward asked.

Vanessa could see Elmo, and his friend looking at them.

“We came to say goodbye.” Vanessa spoke.

Squidward cleared his throat. “I see.”

“It was really fun, and I’ll miss you guys.” Vanessa spoke.

Elmo fully walked up to the door. He poked his head out. “Bye guys! I can’t believe you’re already leaving.”

“Bye.” Barry smiled.

“Um, we’ll really miss you guys. I don’t think we could’ve done it with out you.” Squidward spoke.

“Bye guys.” Vanessa spoke, going in for a hug.

“We’re not doing that.” Squidward stoped her, before shutting the door.

Vanessa rolled her eyes.

“Seriously?” She looked over to Barry.

“Let’s go say goodbye to Sea Hawk.” Barry said.

Vanessa turned around and took a deep breath. She walked to Sea Hawk’s door. Her fisted hand hovered over the door. She looked back at Barry. He gave her a nod to go on. Vanessa let herself knock on the door. A moment later, Sea Hawk opened the it.

“Hi.” He spoke.

“Umm- we’re leaving now.” Vanessa replied softly.

“Hmm.” Sea Hawk hummed.

“We’ll miss you.” She said.

“Thanks.” Sea Hawk spoke.

“It was really nice having you in the ship with us! We hope you continue to have many adventures.” Barry said beside her.

“Thanks Barry!” Sea Hawk smiled.

“Bye.” Vanessa said before turning around.

She could hear Sea Hawk close the door, as she walked away.

Chapter Text

Shrek, Squidward, and Sea Hawk walked down the trail. Shrek wanted three people to be there, so he invited Sea Hawk along. Leaves crunching beneath their feet. The trees bended branches made shadows on the trail ground. The brown dirt scuffled up as the gang walked along. All three were silent, stunned by the trials immaculately amazing beauty.

“Wow.” Shrek said in amazement, “I- but, this is wow. Gosh. Mm.”
“Amazing, you can fit your entire vocabulary into one sentence.” Squidward smirked.
“Hey! Shrek’s not thaaat dumb.”
A burst of laughter caught Shrek off guard.
“I’m sooo offended!” Shrek said laughing.
They continued in silence for a little bit.
“So, um, what do you think about Mark?” Squidward asked the group.
“Mark, he is a good guy. Just really random.” Shrek said.
“What do you mean?” Sea hawk asked, “I think he’s fine.”
“Never mind.” Squidward said as they continued on walking.

—

“You ready?” Mark said knocking on Elmo’s room door. The grain on the door intertwined in complex patterns. Mark didn’t realize he was staring at the door so closely. A long light brown streak battled a deep brown one to a small Pocket, as the cherry and walnut color blended to a deeper apple. The Roman Ogee cut on the side of the door had caused light shadows to spread on the edges of the wood. As the annual rings of the door clearly showed a resaw and crosscut had been used for that section. As the grain moved along, Mark could see the early and late would areas moving forward as th-

“Mark!” Elmo said in a surprised tone. Mark was one inch away from touching Elmo’s forehead with his own.
“Nothing.” Mark said turning around and shrugging.
Elmo laughed as they walked towards the doors in the lobby.

“Nice door by the way.” Mark said as they got into his car.
“What?” Elmo snorted.
“Never miiind.” Mark laughed back.

—

“Where are we going?” Sea Hawk questioned Squidward.
“I just want to walk along the stores. You know,” Squidward said shrugging. “To look.”
“Oh. Isn’t there that indoor skydiving place?” Sea Hawk asked.
“Those are way over priced. Not worth it.”
“Oh.” Sea Hawk sighed. He really wanted to do indoor skydiving.
Squidward didn’t want to look. He knew Mark and Elmo were going to be at the coffee shop. Haha, Squidward going to watch them like a dog starring at a squirrel. They will never know.

“Spying is my middle name.” Squidward said proudly getting to in his head.
“Wait, we’re going to spy on someone?!” Shrek asked.
“Um! No!” We are not!” Squidward shouted.
“No. Way. It’s like a spy mission.” Sea hawk laughed as Shrek started shouting the Mission Impossible theme.
*Shrek shouting*

Bum, bum
Dum dum!
Bum, bum
dum Dum.

Bum, bum
Dum dum!
Bum, bum
dum Dum.

Ba da dummmmm
Ba da dummmmmm
DoDo!

“Shrek! Stahppp..” Squidward complained.
Shrek laughed Squidward walked with his arms crossed.

—

“Umm.. is this the music you listen to?” Elmo said turning the radio down.
“Do you not like “The Spice Girls?” Mark asked.
“Um. Their fine, just, did you really buy the Wannabe playlist on CD?”
“Oh come onnn.” Mark said turning the song back up. He started to sing along.
“I’ll tell you what I want, what I really really want!”
Elmo joined in.
“So tell me what you want, what you really really want!”
“I wanna I wanna I wanna I wanna”
*both at same time*
“I wanna really really really wanna zing-a-zing ah!”
(They get to the cafe and are drinking coffee outside..)

—
“Cool!” Shrek exclaimed, “a food fair!”
There was a community food sharing event going on in the park.
“Um.” Squidward said spotting Mark and Elmo. “Let’s look at the.. um..” Squidward looked around trying to find something to name. “The mannequins.”
The three walked over to the store as Squidward eyed the couple. Then Elmo looked at Squidward.
“Look!” Squidward said averting Sea Hawk and Shreks attention somewhere else. He grabbed both their hand and shoved them into a nearby bush.
“What are you doing?!” Sea Hawk demanded.
“Look.” Squidward said grabbing Sea Hawks head shoving it towards some random flower on the bush, “these.” He said pointing to the flowers still looking at Elmo and Mark. They stood up and walked over to the market. The “bush gang” walked over to a booth.
“What are we doing here?” Shrek wondered. Squidward looked down at the booth items. Knitted fairy.
“Um.” Squidward stuttered. “There vary authentic items. Look.” Squidward looked for Mark and Elmo. He saw them. Mark was pulling Elmo into a kiss. Just as their lips where about to touch, Elmo looked directly at Squidward. They kissed. Elmo bushed and pulled away. Both groups walked away on different paths.

Chapter Text

“Squidward, wait!” Elmo called out.

Mark had dropped him off at the dormitory after their date. He was running after Squidward, who had stormed off after seeing him.

“Squidward please, I’m sorry!” Elmo spoke, trying to get his attention.

Squidward continued.

“Wait, just let me talk to you!” Elmo yelled.

“Elmo you are so good at this.” Squidward spoke.

“What do you mean?” Elmo breathed.

“I mean, you always do this!” Squidward had stopped, he was facing Elmo now.

“Do what?! Make mistakes! Because I’m sorry for that!” Elmo yelled.

Squidward stepped forward towards Elmo.

“Elmo, you always go off and find someone else! It’s always some “long lost love”, or someone you’ve just met!” Squidward spoke.

Elmo sighed. Squidward was really good at calling him out, wasn’t he? Squidward just knew him, better than he maybe wanted him to.

“I’m- ugh I know! I just wanted to apologize for that exact thing!” Elmo admitted.

“Go ahead!” Squidward raised his tone.

“Squidward you don’t have to be mean!” Elmo complained.

“I’m sorry but you’ve just been acting
so-“ Squidward began.

“Weird, I know.” Elmo finished for him.

Squidward gave him a look Elmo hadn’t seen before.

“I’m sorry. I was stupid for thinking Mark was the right idea, and I only ever wanted you the whole time. I was just… lonely? Or confused I guess? I know we had the whole thing with me, you, and Shrek, but when you tried to kiss me… my head was focused on something else.” Elmo spoke.

“Someone else.” Squidward corrected.

“Yes- no- I mean, I wasn’t /think/ thinking about them. I was just worried about Sea Hawk.” Elmo cringed, he knew that sounded bad. When he looked up Squidward didn’t seem to care as much as he thought he would.

“Anyways, you know what I mean? I just wasn’t thinking straight!” Elmo finished.

“You never are.” Squidward spoke.

“I’m serious!” Elmo tried to hide his blush.

“So… you’re just crawling back to me, because I’ll /always/ be there for you? Elmo you need to understand that not everyone is just waiting in a line to be with you.” Squidward spoke.

“Ugh! I just- I’m sorry okay? And if you never forgive me that’s okay, and I’ll be fine. Well maybe not, but that doesn’t matter! I just want you to /know/ that if you maybe, potentially, want to get back together -or just get together I’m not really sure what we were before- I’ll be totally committed to the relationship.” Elmo replied.

Squidward stood there in thought, but Elmo knew that he wasn’t thinking about it. Squidward let out a sigh.

“Are you completely sure?” Squidward asked.

“Yes! I swear I won’t leave you.” Elmo promised.

“…I mean why not? Hopefully you don’t have another boyfriend you haven’t told me about.” Squidward shrugged it off, but Elmo could see the grin on his face.

Elmo pulled him into a hug.

“I… I love you.” Elmo whispered.

Squidward pulled him back to look at him.
“Yeah?” He asked.

Elmo nodded his head, he could feel the blush on his face, but he didn’t care.

“Me too… I mean, I love you too, not- never mind.”

“Can we kiss now?” Elmo asked.

Squidward pulled him into a searing kiss.

—

Adora plopped down on the chair in her room, and looked down at her phone. No one had asked to hang out with her, and there wasn’t anything interesting happening then, so Adora went through her phone. She looked at the different apps Squidward had put on the phone. She let her finger hover over one of them, FaceTime. Shrek had gotten that one for her.

She pressed down on the screen, and a list of contacts appeared. Seeing that Bow was the first one she saw, she clicked on it. The phone started to ring, and Adora could see her face. Then Bow’s face popped up.

“Hi!” He spoke.

It was just like how she would call people on tracker pads.

“Hey Bow, I miss you!” She replied.

“I miss you too! I’m so excited to see you! I promise I’ll be there soon. I might be on Earth either tomorrow, or the next day.” Bow returned.

Adora was bursting with excitement. Bow was just who she needed to see.

“Also, I have some exciting news.” Bow spoke.

“Ooh what is it?” Adora asked.

“Well… Entrapta is on Earth, she just landed.” He started.

“What! Now way, how did I not know about this?” Adora gasped.

“I know, but also, they’re throwing a party! I think you should go.” Bow replied.

“Wait- who’s “they’re”?” Adora questioned.

“Oh, I forgot to mention, she went with Big Bird, and Peppa Pig.” He replied.

“Oh, umm, I’m not sure who that is?” Adora spoke.

“Right, sorry, they’re people who came from Earth. I don’t know the whole story, but I think Big Bird went to FarFarAway on a mission, and Peppa followed him. Anyways, they are throwing a party somewhere in Area 51, and Entrapta said there’s gonna be lasagna? You should tell everyone else.” Bow answered.

“Okay, I will. Sounds fun!” Adora replied.

A silence fell over the two. Adora fidgeted with her fingers, trying not to stare at Bow. A blush grew on her cheeks.

“So… how’s Earth? Anything I need to know before I land?” Bow asked.

“Oh, it’s nice. We haven’t really explored it yet, we’re all kind of just hanging out in Area 51 for now… but I do think we’ll be taking trips to other places soon.” She replied awkwardly. “And as far as anything you should know, I don’t think the process should be too bad? We’ll have to get you to stay at our living institution. I think some of the other ones are nicer, but this is still decent.”

“Yeah, I just can’t wait to see you and Sea Hawk again, and Entrapta too. Being stuck in a ship alone is kind of weird but, it’s nothing I can’t do.” Bow replied.

“Yes, that’s got to be so weird.” Adora said.

“It’s really taking my mind off of Glimmer too, well… I just thought about her. I just mean I’ve been able to take time for myself, and not have anyone distracting me.” Bow spoke.

“Oh sorry… am I distracting you?” Adora asked.

“Not at all!” Bow rushed.

Adora let out a sigh of relief, she wouldn’t want Bow to start to hate her.

“Okay good.” She smiled.

“I love talking to you.” Bow added.

“I love talking to you too.” She replied.

“Can I tell you about the weirdest thing I saw today?” Adora giggled.

“Go ahead.” Bow returned.

“Okay… so Elmo has this friend that he bought over, I think it was a boyfriend but I’m not sure. Anyways. I walk out my room right, and I see him standing outside of Elmo’s door.” She started.

“Right.” Bow replied.

“And then he leans towards the door.” Adora spoke.

“Then what?” Bow asked.

“Then… he started making out with the door,” Bow makes a shocked face. “And he still doesn’t see me, but he just acts t like he’s in love with Elmo’s door.”

“Oh my gosh, you’re joking right?” Bow asks.

“No! I literally saw him. And he was mumbling to himself. I think he took Elmo’s door with him when he left.” Adora confirmed.

“No way! That crazy. Is everyone on Earth like that?” Bow asked.

“Nope. It was really weird.”

Chapter Text

Elmo and the gang walk into the party being thrown at the NASA headquarters in Area 51. It was in a big ballroom with simple orange and black decorations along the wall and ceiling.

“Elmo where did you hear about this party again?” Squidward asked.

“Ummm… Adora invited me actually. She said it was for an important member of NASA” Elmo responded nervously.

‘Important member of NASA?’ Squidward thought to himself, ‘I wonder who that could be’

“Hey! I’m glad you guys could make it!!” A voice bellowed from across the room. It was Big Bird. He was walking towards them, but he seemed to be moving oddly.

“Oh hey Big Bird!” Elmo said as Big Bird approached the group “Of course we came! I said we would” Elmo chuckled a little.

“Does his eye seem a little off to you?” Sea Hawk stage whispered to Shrek, looking at the red orb that was one of Big Birds eyes.

“Sea Hawk you can’t ask that!” Shrek replied, whispering as well

“Big Bird… are you okay? You look a little… different” Elmo asked, concerned for his friend

“Oh. You mean my new upgrades?“ Big Bird asked, showing off his new robotic arm, which he morphed into a sword.

“Woah, that’s just like mine!” Adore exclaimed in excitement.

“Oh my god. WTF!” Squidward said at the same time.

“Oh sorry! I didn’t mean to scare you” Big Bird said, turning his hand back into a hand again, “These are just some advancements made by my Entrapta, she’s been so nice to me since we met”

‘Entrapta,’ Elmo thought to himself ‘isn’t that the girl who was way too into science and could control her hair somehow?’

“Entrapta’s here??” Adora asked excitedly, looking around for her fellow princess

“Oh yes of course! She’s with my Peppa right now, they are getting refreshments. I no longer have need for those now, of course” Big Bird said, as if that explained anything about what was happening.

“Peppa pig? As in the one that you broke up with because she was a murderer?” Elmo asked, looking around nervously  

“Yes! That’s the one. Hahah you have such a good memory Elmo!” Big Bird said excitedly. “Oh here they come now” he continued, waving over two figures. One who was walking on her hair, the other a faint shade of pink. They were talking excitedly too each other and holding plates with small appetizers on them.

“Oh word! Is that lasagna?? I love lasagna!” Sea Hawk said while he ran off to the refreshments table to get his own.

“Ummm should we be worried?” Elmo asked Big Bird nervously while he tried to move behind Squidward without him noticing.

“Oh no you don’t! If anyone is getting murdered by that freak it’s you” Squidward said, holding Elmo in place.

“Hey guys!” Entrapta said as she neared the group. “Don’t you think it’s weird they only have lasagna at this party?” Entrapta says unfazed. Like she isn’t on an entirely new planet, with a cyborg Big Bird and a murderer beside her.

“Oh, hey Entrapta” Elmo says nervously, looking at Peppa “and Peppa”

There’s a moment of awkward silence, where no one speaks.

“Soooo… how did you guys all get to be together?” Shrek finally asks, trying to break the tension.

“Oh that’s actually a funny story,” Big Bird starts “so Peppa, finally found me on Etheria, I guess she had been looking for me since we broke up. And she wasn’t too happy, which is fair! I did break her heart after all” Big Bird says while chuckling.

“Anyways, she brutally murdered me and cut me into pieces,” Big Bird continued light heartedly “but good thing I was near Entraptas ship when it happened! She was able to help put me back together again. She and Peppa worked together to make me whole again, and I will forever be grateful to them for that. Now I’m even better, and I get to share it with them”

“I just love seeing the insides of things” Peppa said in a very monotone voice.

Elmo chucked nervously and rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly.

“Wait, what do you mean share with them?” Squidward asked incredulously. “Are you guys all in a relationship together??”

“Yes” three voices say all at once. Two enthusiastically, and one in a monotone voice.

“My calculations have shown that I smile 17-22% more when I am in their presence.” Entrapta says matter of factly.

“Plus Peppa now gets to take me apart and back together again whenever she feels the urge to” Big Bird adds helpfully.

“I like to see the insides of things” Peppa adds in the same monotone voice.

“So… you’re basically Mr. Potato Head now?” Shrek asks Big Bird.

“Yes exactly! Wow, I really should just say that instead of the brutally murdered part” Big Bird says laughing.

“How does that actually wor-“ Squidward gets interrupted by Sea Hawk when he comes back excitedly to the group

“GUYS! You’ll never believe who I ran into at the lasagna table! The owner of the place I got Rupert! I guess he’s now the head of NASA, and this is his party. Anyways, meet my new hero, Garfield” Sea Hawk explains in a rush as he gestures to the man beside him.

Chapter Text

“Hey, this party kind of sucks. Wanna get out of here and find a bar?” Shrek leaned in and whispered to Elmo.

The party had been going on for awhile now. Elmo wasn’t sure what he expected when Adora told him about it, but she seemed pretty excited since her friend Bow told her about it. Elmo was standing with a random crowd of people, listening to Sea Hawk tell some -probably made up- story. It was actually comforting watching him be so openly himself, he usually was, but it was not usually something Elmo saw in people.

“Haha, why not.” He spoke back into Shrek’s ogre ear.

Elmo set his plate of lasagna down on a table in the room, and walked towards the door with Shrek. Squidward followed him.

“Where are we going?” Squidward smirked.

“Headed out…” Shrek replied.

“To a bar.” Elmo spoke.

“Kay…,” Squidward looked back at the party. “Let’s go.” He affirmed.

The three walked out the doors, and made their way out of Area 51.

—

“And then,” Sea Hawk jumped up and struck a pose flexing his muscles, making everyone gasp and step back. He sent a smirk towards Garfield, hoping to impress him. “I fought all 200 of them with my laser sword. Everyone was amazed by my bravery, even Mer-“ He paused before going on. It was like some kind of unspoken rule to not say her name. “It was impressive I shall say…” he twirled his mustache. “In honor of the battle I set my enemy’s ships aflame, and then my own!” Sea Hawk flexed his bicep.

Everyone clapped and cheered. He took a bow, before saying thank you.

“That’s amazing Sea Hawk!” A woman spoke.

“Yes! Life on your planet seems so adventurous, and dangerous!” A person said.

“I haven’t even told you about my ADVENTURES yet!” Sea Hawk replied.

He could hear Garfield give a chuckle next to him. Some bubbled up inside Sea Hawk, he found himself smiling at the orange cat. He felt the heat grow on his face, as Garfield looked at him.

“Ahem.. thank you all for your time.” Sea Hawk cleared his throat, trying not to stare at Garfield.

After people started making their own conversation, and started leaving the group, Garfield turned to Sea Hawk.

“I’m impressed, and that takes a lot to impress me.” He spoke.

Sea Hawk was given one of the best complements he had ever received.
“Thank you! I mean… that means a lot!” He replied.

“I’m glad, I really like you Sea Hawk.” Garfield spoke.

“Hah! I like you too! You’re amazing, I think i will never forget you.” Sea Hawk exclaimed.

“Haha, that’s nice Sea Hawk. I feel the same about you.” Garfield smiled.

“Why don’t we go over to the refreshment table for some space to /talk/?” Garfield suggested.

“Sure, I can’t wait.” Sea Hawk replied.

Garfield led him over to a table next to the wall of the building. They stood next to it.

“First of all, to start off our /conversation/, how’d you get those strong muscles? Can I feel them?” Garfield smirked.

Sea Hawk was so excited that someone was appreciating his hard work.

“Sure!” He replied.

Garfield placed his hand on Sea Hawk’s bicep. He squeezed a bit. Garfield started using both of his hands to feel Sea Hawk’s arms. Sea Hawk nervously chuckled and stepped back.

“You are so cool.” Garfield spoke.

“I know.” Sea Hawk grinned.

“I like your confidence.” The tabby replied.

Before Sea Hawk could think, he was being pulled into a kiss.

“Wait!” Sea Hawk immediately pulled back.

“What are you doing, stop!?” He said.

“What? You were flirting with me.” Garfield replied.

“No I wasn’t. I was just-“ Sea Hawk stopped, and looked away.

“I thought you would’ve wanted to kiss me. Sorry.” Garfield mumbled.

“I just- I saw you as my hero! You’re so cool! I- I feel weird now.” He replied.

“I’m sorry Sea Hawk, flirting is… I guess it might be different where you’re from.” Garfield apologized.

“Thanks I guess. Um- I have a boyfriend just so you know.” Sea Hawk had his arms crossed. That technically wasn’t true, Shrek and him had actually broken up, but they still loved each other… and he didn’t want to seem available to Garfield.

“Oh.” Garfield spoke.

“Yeah…” Sea Hawk looked back to him.

“I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable, I just really like you, or liked you. I don’t want it to weird now. Can we just forget that this happened?” Garfield asked.

“Yes… and thank you.” Sea Hawk responded.

Speaking of his not boyfriend, he wanted to go find him, and tell him what had just happened. Sea Hawk walked out into the group of people, searching for the green ogre.

Nothing.

“Shrek?” Sea Hawk called out.

“I saw him leave with red fish and blue fish.” A voice said abruptly beside him, making him jump back.

“Aah!” He yelled, looking over to see familiar purple pigtails.

“Entrapta! It’s you, you scared me a bit.” He chuckled.

“I seem to have that affect on most people.” Entrapta spoke.

“Wait- where is Shrek?” Sea Hawk asked.

“He left with… what was the name?” She looked on her comm pad. “Elmo, and Squidward. They were talking about going to a bar.”

The Board Game Gang…. They were going to a BAR! Without him! That sounded…fun, but bad for him.

“They left about twenty minutes ago.” She spoke.

“I have to go with him!” He spoke.

“Well… we don’t really have much information on where they are going, and how fast they will get there. I know they are going to are a bar, but I’m sure where they’re going, there will be many. I wouldn’t risk it. Also it appears you usually have bad luck when those three are together.” Entrapta told him.

“I guess you’re right- wait how do you know about the board game gang leaving me out?” He asked.

“Is that what you call them?” She asked. “I had a recorder installed in the ship you left on, so I could keep up with your “adventures” as you usually call them.” She informed.

“I should’ve just assumed…” he sighed.

—

“You wait here, we’ll be back with drinks.” Squidward said, as him and Shrek walked away.

Elmo sat on a barstool looking around at the different people there, it was weird being back in the real world after being isolated for so long, he was so used to seeing aliens everywhere. It was just humans here though. He felt sort of out of place there.

“Hey.” A man spoke to him, sitting down on the barstool next to him.

“Hey.” Elmo spoke back.

“How’s it going?” He asked.

“It’s… it’s going I guess.” Elmo replied.

“Really? That sucks.” He chuckled.

“Well… don’t worry.” Elmo returned.

He just wanted for his friends, one of them was a special friend, to come back, and for them to share a good time. He sat facing the bar now.

“Okay then… let me buy you a drink.” He said.

“Could I have your name first?” Elmo chuckled.

“Oh sorry. You can call me Jack.” The man spoke.

“Elmo.” He spoke with little emotion shaking Jack’s hand.

“Hey Elmo.” Jack smirked.

“Um… yeah, hi.” Elmo spoke awkwardly.

“Now about that drink.” He called a bartender over.

“Jack stop, I don’t need a drink.” Elmo stopped him.

“What, you a lightweight?” He smirked

“No!” Elmo usually would have blushed, but this /Jack/ was not letting him breathe.

“Woah, sorry man. Look, can I get your number or something? I just think you’re really cute and I-“ Jack was interrupted.

“Hey Elmo, making friends with out me?” Squidward spoke, as him and Shrek came back with drinks in their hands.

“Nope! What did you get me?” Elmo quickly looked to the two.

Squidward handed him the drink, and Elmo took it happily. He took a long slow sip, trying to avoid Jack.

“Who’s this?” Shrek asked.

Elmo glanced at Shrek before quickly going back to his drink. He could feel someone staring at him, but he wasn’t quite sure who it was.

“Jack. You are you, his boyfriend or something?” Jack spoke.

“Actually… I am.” Squidward replied, his voice get stronger.

“And who are you?” Jack asked, a bit more sarcastically than he knew Squidward would appreciate.

“Why do you care… Jack.” Shrek spoke.

“You can leave now!” Squidward raised his voice.

“Jeez sorry.” Jack got out of his seat and backed away.

“Was he bothering you?” Squidward asked, sitting down on the stool next to Elmo.

“Kind of.” Elmo replied.

“What was he saying?” Shrek asked, ready to punch someone.

“Nothing much. He was just flirting with me, trying to buy me a drink. Please don’t worry about it, I wasn’t going to let him do anything.” Elmo assured.

“I’m just glad you’re okay.” Squidward smiled.

Elmo loved the thought of Squidward just as his boyfriend. Shrek was defending him too. And the next part Elmo wasn’t expecting, but it felt so welcomed. Squidward went to peck his lips before sipping on his drink. Elmo blushed at the thought of him just casually kissing Elmo, without it having to be some dramatic event, or some love confession. They could just be… them.

Elmo felt much better, and a little buzzed.

Chapter Text

Elmo sat there, dinking of course. But his mind was
else where. He looked over to see Shrek and Squidward taking.

“Elmo?” Squidwaed nudged him. “You good?”
“Yeah, yeah. Fine.” Elmo responded. He looked around trying not to make eye contact with him. He stood up and placed his drink down.
“I’ll be back,” Elmo said pointing to the doors in the back. “Bathroom.” He said and left.
Elmo looked over to the brown doors. He walked toward them and glanced down. He had to walk right by Jack’s table. He stared down at the dirty floor, blushing. He was almost in the safe zone, the bathroom, when he heard someone stand up behind him. Jack. He walked up and passed Elmo. Elmo sighed and walked in to.
He opened the door and found Jack right there beside the door.

“Hey.” He sneered.
“Um.. Hi.” Elmo said quickly and tried to walk past, but Jack grabbed his wrist.
“You don’t deny me, nobody denies me.” Jack said walking closer to Elmo.
“Let go.” Elmo said with a serious tone.
“Oh come on, have some fun.” Jack said, pulling Elmo in.
“Let go of me!” Elmo said louder. Jack was a second away from kissing Elmo but he got out of his grip and ran out the door.
“You’ll be back.”

Elmo ran out the door and back to the spot where his friends where.

“That was quick.” Shrek said.
“The bathroom was crowded. I’ll go back later.” Elmo said picking up his drink again.
A few minutes later, Elmo walked back over to try again. But there he was. Jack didn’t see Elmo yet so he thought he has the chance to run into a stall. Elmo ran as fast as he could, but Jack caught his shirt.

“Jack, let GO!” Elmo said.
Jack lunged forward to kiss him.
But Elmo slapped him. Hard.
“What the H***?!” Jack said. Elmo looked back and saw that Jack has a bloody nose.
“B****.” Jack sneered and walked out.
Elmo sighed.

—

“BOW!” Adora squealed.

Bow had just landed on Earth and Adora was waiting.

“Adoraaa..!” Bow said hugging her.
“I’m so glad your here.” She said during the hug.
“Me to, I really missed you.”
“I missed you tooo..” Adora cried.

A few minutes later they where in Adora’s room talking.

“Adora. There’s something I want to tell you.” Bow said reaching out to grab her hand.
“Really..?” Adora said looking down at Bow’s hands holding hers. She blushed.
“I.. I think I like you.”
“I like you to Bow.” Adora said quietly.
“No, not like that. I meant li-.”
“I know what you mean, Bow. I like you. I really do.” Adora said looking up. She had tears in her eyes.
“Adora…” Bow said quietly putting his hand on her cheek. He leaned forward to kiss her on the cheek. The they heard the door open. It was Shrek. He stood there for a moment, silent. The he smiled and put his fist in the air.
“Adorabowwwww!” He said and ran out.

—

Elmo was out a minute later, glad he got rid of Jack. But then he realized he had to walk by his table again.
He opened the door a quietly as possible and stepped out. He peered around the Conner to spy on Jacks table. He loom and saw.. Mark?! WITH A DOOR?!? Elmo ran passed and grabbed Squidwards arm.

“Elmo, you ok?” Squidward said looking at him.
“I want to go.” Elmo said glancing at Shrek. He was blankly staring off into the distance.
“We’ve only been here an hour.”
“Can we go please?” Elmo stood on his tippy toes to whisper into Squidwards ear. “I saw Mark. And there’s this weird stalker guy.”
“Oh, um, we can go actually. Shrek we’re leaving.”
“Got it.” Shrek said standing up.
The group left the bar. Yeah

Chapter Text

“Guys… when are we actually gonna leave this dump?” Elmo asked, pushing around his food with a plastic fork.

The crew was in the dormitory’s cafeteria, eating lunch. Everybody sat at the same table to talk.
The rest of the crew gave him weird stares.

“What?” Elmo asked.

“Elmo, we literally just talked about how we’re going to go on a road trip together, and get away from here.” Shrek explained.

“Oh. Sorry.” Elmo spoke awkwardly.

“Yeah I’m really excited to explore Earth with you guys!” Bow exclaimed.

Bow was new here. Apparently he came just for Adora, and they’re “just friends” from what Elmo heard. They were sitting next to each other, along with Sea Hawk next to him.

“I haven’t even seen anything outside of Area 51. I can’t wait to see it all with you.” Adora said, leaning into Bow.

Okay… so someone had obviously lied to him. They were definitely more than friends.

“Well, we’re not exploring the WHOLE world yet. We’re going up to Las Vegas in the van, and then-“ Squidward started.

“Wait what van?” Elmo asked.

“Okay, this is why you have to listen. I was going to explain. I know someone who’s gonna bring us a van, and then we’ll pack and drive up to Las Vegas. We can stay there for a night or two, and then drive up to Caliente.. and… ugh I know you’re not interested in all the planning stuff anyways.” Squidward explained.

“Okay thanks for telling me.” Elmo spoke, playfully rolling his eyes.

Squidward sent him a smile.

“Well, I’ll be happy to show everyone else what it’s like outside of this place.” Elmo said before taking a bite of food.

“I’ve heard good things about Las Vegas!” Sea Hawk exclaimed.

“Yeah… Um, guys I’m not that excited to be seen out in public. You know I kind of am not allowed here… cause they you know… /banned me/.” Shrek returned.

“Right.” Squidward replied.

“It can’t be /that/ bad. What did you do to get banned?” Bow asked.

There was a pause of silence between them…

“Me and Donald Trump… sort of… had an incident.” Shrek winced.

Elmo completely spat out his bite of food.

“Hahahahaha-“ Elmo started laughing out loud.

“Elmo! It’s not funny!” Shrek yelled.

“Who’s “Donald Trump”?” Bow asked.

“Don’t worry about it okay, it’s nothing.” Shrek spoke.

“It doesn’t sound like nothing. You got kicked out of a planet because of… some guy?” Adora questioned.

“Well… yeah?” Shrek replied awkwardly.

“Huh.” Squidward noted.

“The thing is… I don’t want to be seen in public or else people might hate me.”

“Well don’t they already hate you-“ Sea Hawk was cut off.

“Sea Hawk not the time.” Adora said.

“Well- we’ll just have to keep you blended in.” Elmo replied.

“Elmo, are you dumb? Do you see me right now? I’m literally the most obvious person to spot out.” She returned.

“Yeah I guess you’re right, but we can at least try to have fun!” Elmo encouraged.

“Whatever.” Elmo could see him roll his eyes.

The group continued to eat their food in a comfortable silence.

“Guys, where is Rubert going to stay?” Sea Hawk asked.

“Oh um, just with us I guess?” Squidward replied.

“Oh.” Sea Hawk spoke.

Elmo looked over to him.

“But what if he doesn’t have enough space?” Sea Hawk exclaimed.

“I’m sure it’ll be fine.” Bow rested a hand on Sea Hawk’s shoulder.

——

Shrek sat on the bottom bunk of his bed. He stared down at the suitcase Squidward had given him. It lied open on the ground, almost staring back to him. Shrek looked at it longer.

He got off of the bed and kicked it closed. He went back to the bed and plopped down.

“This is a stupid plan.” Shrek mumbled to himself.

No it’s fine, just go with the flow. He reminded himself.

“Oh who am I kidding, this IS dumb!” Shrek spoke I little louder then he would’ve wanted to.

Chapter Text

“Shrek!” Elmo called from across the hall. “Can you bring me my bag?”

Shrek looked around the room to find it. He saw a duffel bag sitting on Squidward’s bed.

“Do you mean Squidward’s?” Shrek yelled back.

“Yeah, me and him are sharing a bag, can you just give it to me?” Elmo replied.

“Fine!” Shrek walked over to the bag.

Shrek pulled it off of the mattress, and slung it over his shoulder. As he walked towards the door, he noticed something fall out. A piece of paper. Shrek saw that it was the picture of him as a kid Elmo had kept. He stared at the picture, thinking about how his Elmo was becoming someone completely different.

“Shrek!” Elmo yelled.

“Got it!” He called back.

Shrek shoved the picture into his pant pocket and ran out of the room with the bag. He went down the hallway to where Elmo was. Elmo was helping Sea Hawk carry all of Rubert’s thing into the van.

“Take it.” Shrek handed Elmo the bag.

“Thanks.” Elmo spoke before going outside to put the bag into the van.

Shrek huffed. ‘No more blush out of him I guess.’ Shrek thought.

He noticed Sea Hawk having some trouble with picking up a suitcase. He walked over to him.

“Do you need some help with that?” Shrek offered.

“Oh no, I’m good!” Sea Hawk continued to struggle.

“You sure, I can just-“ Shrek helped lift the suitcase off of the ground and let Sea Hawk hold it.

“I could’ve done that myself you know.” Sea Hawk declared.

“Oh I know.” Shrek smiled.

He saw Sea Hawk quickly walk away with the suitcase outside. A moment later he came waddling in.

“Still need help?” Shrek smirked.

“…Ugh… yes!” Sea Hawk cried.

“Okay here.” Shrek started lifting things and walked outside to the van with them.

—

“It feels weird not doing tons of astronaut things all the the time, you know?” Elmo spoke, putting him and Squidward’s bag into the van.

“Yeah, I know what you mean. I mean I guess it’s nice to have a break from it though. I feel like space needs to chill.” Squidward replied.

“Haha /chill/… cause space, it’s /cold/.” Elmo began.

“You know what, I’m gonna stop you right there. That might have been one of the worst things that has even come out of your mouth.” Squidward said.

“What about the time that I told you I lovvedddd youuuuuuuu.” Elmo spoke.

“You’re annoying, you know that right?” Squidward asked.

“I do now.” Elmo smiled.

“Calm down! Why are you so giggly all of the sudden?” Squidward exclaimed.

“I don’t know…” Elmo spoke.

“What did you do? Am I gonna have slime on my head or something?” Squidward asked.

“No! I just… it’s nothing.” Elmo blushed.

“Yeah I know, and it’s freaking me out.” Squidward replied.

They both walked back to the building and picked up the last of the things they needed to leave on their road-trip.

Everyone gathered outside.

“Okay everyone, this will be sort of like a space mission. I’m going to be in charge because that makes the most sense, and I don’t trust anyone else to lead this “mission” no offense.” Squidward started.

“Non taken.” Shrek replied.

“Okay, so everyone knows that plan -I think- and that is we’re driving up to Las Vegas. Please find seats in the van that you want, because we’re not switching them! You can if you want, I don’t really care. Anyways, Elmo’s in charge of snacks, if you want something to eat, ask him. I will be in charge of driving. Do you understand?” Squidward spoke.

Everyone gave their yeses. Elmo hadn’t discussed being “in charge of snacks”, but it was fine with him. Elmo felt happy after Squidward had let him pick out the passenger’s seat.

Everyone got inside of the van.

“Next stop, gas station. Because we need more gas…” Squidward spoke.