Archive of Our Own ^beta

1.

It all started when Edwin met the Cat King.

The group was walking along the dock, their conversation drifting into silence. The shadow of the clouds shrouded the port in darkness, and the ferry's bell chimed in the air, disturbing the momentary quiet. Had Edwin still possessed the ability to feel the temperature, a chill would have prickled his skin as the wind rushed by. Suddenly, a small brown tabby crossed their path, pausing directly in front of them.

“Oi, Cat! You come to say goodbye?” Charles teased half heartedly. Edwin felt a twinge of excitement at the thought of returning home to the comfort of their office.

“You’re not going anywhere,” the cat hissed. “Your fancy pal used magic on a cat. He’s gotta answer for it.”

Edwin recalled the moment he tricked the cat in order to extract more information regarding Ester Finch. He crossed his arms indignantly, attempting to plead his case.

“A good detective does what he needs to in order to solve a case. Now, move,” Edwin insisted, stepping closer.

“The Cat King is pissed. We’re taking you to him.” The cat ignored Edwin’s comment, striding beneath the barrier arm that lifted shakily, revealing a snarling horde of cats.

“Edwin…” Charles huffed nervously. “What exactly did you do, mate?”

He didn’t answer, focusing his attention on trailing behind the cat that led them here. Hundreds of cats surrounded the dock, yowling and jumping about. They followed a rowdy group of cats into a large open building. Despite its size, the room felt small and damp. It looked to be a former storage house before it was overtaken by the vengeful creatures.

“All right then,” Edwin cleared his throat. “This is a matter of diplomacy, so let me do the talking.” he suggested quietly.

“Diplomacy? It’s just a bunch of cats,” Crystal chided.

A group of cats crawled atop a dense mass, voraciously chewing and eating away. Edwin felt fortunate for the inability to smell whatever it was. The cats, startled by their presence, hastily scuttled away from their meal when they noticed the three teenagers approaching. Crystal gagged, seeing the mangled body of a man, which was torn away in small pieces by the hungry mouths of the cats.

“They didn’t like him, did they?” Charles joked, adjusting his grip on his backpack.

“What’s wrong? It’s just a bunch of cats,” The brown tabby taunted from a hidden place in the shadows.

Edwin turned his attention to a well-groomed orange cat, who was sitting comfortably in a makeshift throne.

“We were invited to see the Cat King,” he explained.

A sudden burst of vibrant purple smoke exploded in the air before dissipating to reveal the shape of a man. He slowly emerged from the mist in place of the cat that was once there.

“Hi.” He spoke in a sultry smooth voice that coiled around Edwin’s ears, making him shiver involuntarily.

“Can all cats do that?” Crystal wondered aloud.

“Can all cats do that?” The man repeated, laughing sincerely. “Of course not. I’m a Cat King. I can tell you’re not the brains of the operation,” He yawned rudely. “Sorry, I’m already bored.”

The Cat King regarded the brown tom from earlier.

“Which one of them used the magic on you?” His smile vanished, replaced by a dour expression.

“The scrawny one that just had the nerve to talk to you,” the cat accused.

“Oh,” The Cat King shifted his piercing gaze towards Edwin, his smile returning.

“We are the Dead Boy Detectives and we’re solving a mystery—“ he began before being interrupted.

“Oh I don’t care. Using magic on my cats is a total car crash on your part,” the Cat King pointed a finger at Edwin, lifting himself out of his throne, towering above all three of them.

“We should discuss your offense,” his voice dripped, “Privately.”

Edwin was stunned into silence at the seemingly unintentional suggestiveness of the statement.

“Oi,” Charles interjected, removing his cricket bat from the bag-of-tricks backpack and swinging it threateningly. “He’s not going anywhere with you,” he gritted his teeth.

“Charles, come here,” Edwin instructed lightly. Crystal and Charles followed Edwin until they were a few yards away with their backs turned to the Cat King.

“Perhaps a conversation is the best play here,” Edwin whispered.

“No, I agree with Charles. Let’s just kick cats until we’re out the door,” Crystal argued.

“Do you want to end up like him?” Edwin gestured towards the deceased man on the floor that the cats were feasting on moments ago.

“Not to mention, cat scratches are like poison to ghosts. And there are too many cats here who seem to know that,” he reasoned.

“I don’t like the look of him,” Charles said, looking past Edwin at the Cat King.

“I am perfectly capable of handling this,” Edwin stated, before the looming figure made his presence known behind them.

“Telling secrets about me already,” the Cat King said between his teeth.

“Don’t you dare try any funny business” Charles snapped protectively.

The Cat King hummed thoughtfully before tilting his head, transporting Edwin to a separate room. Caught off guard, Edwin stumbled at the violent shift in location. Unlike traveling through a mirror, it was involuntary, and made his head throb like a headache.

“So…” the Cat King began before Edwin had time to think. “What should your punishment be?”

“Where do Charles go?” Edwin immediately said. The Cat King chuckled and brushed past him.

“Ooh. Charles,” he snickered. “Do you two have a… special friendship?” A smirk tugged at the corners of his mouth.

Edwin kept his mouth shut, daring to look away. The Cat King had no business meddling in his personal life. The tall man interpreted his silence in a different way, sighing knowingly.

“Can we clear up this magic leash business?” Edwin veered the subject. “I’m afraid I don’t see the harm in one little spell,” he mused.

“Oh? You don’t?” the Cat King stood on the other side of an inappropriately placed bed. He sucked in a breath. “You are so… oddly handsome.”

Edwin stifled an uncomfortable laugh. Surely this was a tactic to distract him.

“You fascinate me,” the Cat King runs his eyes up and down Edwin’s frame.

Another burst of purple smoke startles Edwin as the Cat King emerges from the thick cloud, clad in only a fur coat and scant undergarments. Edwin gulps nervously.

The Cat King struts up to him slowly, making a show of himself. Edwin fights to keep his eyes on the man’s face. Dangerously, he looks down to his chest and stomach, his eyes landing briefly on his toned muscles, and the trail of hair that disappears underneath what little clothes he wears.

He refuses to meet the Cat King’s eyes as he leans in closely, his breath ghosting along Edwin’s face, “I am fascinated by you.”

He moves with tantalizing slowness. Edwin is enraptured by his imposing flamboyance, so much that he allows himself to close his eyes as the Cat King runs a hand over his shoulder and down his arm…

Edwin gasps, his eyes shooting open. He feels the man clutching onto his wrist tightly, a metal band now taut against his skin. He lifts his hand to look at the bracelet, expelled so violently from his fantasy with the Cat King that he fears he may be sick.

“What the bloody hell is this?” He demands.

“Oh, that?” the Cat King toys with him, “That’s your punishment.”

Edwin furrows his brow.

“It’s a caging spell,” the Cat King finally explains. “It keeps you in this town. My…” He flops down on the bed with a grandiose flourish. “kingdom.”

“You can’t leave. Not in a car, not in a boat, not in a plane, not on a train and definitely, definitely not through a mirror. You ghosts are so tricky,” he flashes an uncomfortably charming smile.

“Unacceptable. Kindly remove it,” Edwin demands. “We cannot stay here. It is dangerous,” he tries to speak with as much fervid urgency as he can muster.

Edwin is painfully reminded of when Charles recklessly possessed a witch. If the afterlife were to have been alerted of their location, being stuck in Port Townsend would highly compromise their existence.

“Aw Edwin, what was it you just said to me? I don’t see the harm in one little spell,” the Cat King mocks, “Look, it comes right off as soon as you make me happy.”

“And what would make you happy?” Edwin asks, far too exasperated to feign amusement.

“Well I’m fairly sure we can figure something out,” the Cat King winked.

Edwin steps back, nearly tripping over his own feet. He couldn’t mean- No. Edwin would not allow himself to be exploited in such a way. However, he needed a logical explanation to escape this punishment.

“No— I…” Edwin stammered. The Cat King raised a skeptical brow. He gathered himself as quickly as he could, thinking up an excuse.

“I can’t. Charles and I are… in a relationship,” he chokes out, ignoring the feeling at the bottom of his stomach that emerges when he says it.

For the first time since Edwin has seen him, the Cat King looks shocked. The taller man stands up from the bed, folding his coat to cover his chest.

“Well then,” He begins. “Thank you for being so honest,” the Cat King leans in close.

“But you don’t have to pretend with me,” he whispers.

“I'm telling the truth,” Edwin puts on a convincing face.

“Listen, I’m a fair and consensual Cat King. So I will give you another option,” he struts around the room, clearly enjoying the feeling of beguiling Edwin. “Count all of the cats in Port Townsend, and the bracelet will come off.”

“Count all of the cats in Port Townsend?” Edwin repeats.

The Cat King's voice echoes around him as he is transported back to the physical realm. “You can’t lie to me, Edwin. I’m always watching.”

And then he’s back at the dock.

2.

Edwin chooses not to tell Charles immediately about his encounter for two reasons.

Firstly, he doesn’t want his best friend to worry needlessly. Secondly, the clandestine lie he has spun to the Cat King about their supposed romantic relationship may ensnare them both should the truth come to light. The situation that has been created as a result of Edwin’s impulse decision weighs heavy on his conscience. This fact isn’t made any easier by the number of cases they’re being forced to solve for the wayward spirits that walk the streets of Port Townsend.

However, Edwin’s aversion to conversation is quickly torn down by Charles. For the first time since they have arrived in the town, Charles and Edwin have some time alone.

Their new friend Niko had demanded to keep the dandelion sprites that nearly killed her, but Edwin insisted they needed to torch the little insects to avoid infecting anyone else. Thus, Charles and Edwin had gone to the woods to kill some nasty parasites while Niko and Crystal remained at the Tongue & Tail updating the case board.

Charles had decided to stash the jar in his backpack during their walk to evade the vitriol of the sprites.

The rustling of a bush quickly reminded Edwin of his predicament.

“Seven. Or was that six again?” Edwin tried to recall how many cats he had counted before. Perhaps it would have been more effective to keep a tally in his notebook, but he trusted that he could keep track in his head.

“I think that might have just been a raccoon, mate,” Charles said lightly.

“Well, this tosh of counting cats is an exercise in humiliation,” Edwin grumbled.

“Crystal and I could help. We’ll make it a group effort,” Charles suggested. “You know, I like having her around.”

“Charles, that is very clear,” Edwin snapped.

Charles gave him an almost surprised look.

“I apologize,” he sighed, lifting his wrist to examine the bracelet once more, “I simply hate that I am the reason we are stuck in this town.”

“I knew this was about that stupid Cat King!” Charles exclaimed, “You’ve been acting tense ever since you had that curse put on you. What is it you’re not telling me?” he urged.

Charles’s words ached with genuine concern. It was true that Edwin had been distant, bordering on catatonic, but he was positive that if he ignored the issue it would go away on its own.

It did not. The only thought that lingered in his mind was of a boy with a bright smile and slender fingers interlocking their hands together.

Was it even worth telling the truth? Charles would probably just laugh and tell him it wasn’t a big deal. Edwin considered the fact that it may be cathartic to tell his companion the details of his encounter, even if it did not elicit the kindest reaction. He let out a resigned sigh and stopped in his tracks. Charles paused beside him, adding to Edwin’s growing self-doubt.

“To tell you the truth I…” Edwin began, finding the words. Charles stared at him, brown eyes full of curiosity. “I may have told the Cat King that you and I are in a romantic relationship,” he forced out.

As expected, Charles began to laugh. A small, breathy laugh, but a laugh regardless.

“I - What? Why on earth would you say that?” Charles inquired, confused but not upset.

“Well he um - He began making unwanted advances towards me. And he mentioned you, so I suppose it was the first thing I could think of to get out of the situation,” he explained.

Now Charles’s expression turned serious. Edwin began to feel uneasy, fearing he made a mistake. Before he could even attempt to apologize, Charles exploded in anger.

“He what?” Charles yelled, his voice raising. “Please tell me you’re joking, Edwin. I swear I would have knocked the whiskers right off his face—“

“Charles! It’s fine,” Edwin tried to calm him down.

He was slightly relieved that his friend's anger wasn't directed at him, although if anything, Edwin should be blamed for putting them both into an uncomfortable position. Charles seemed to get a hold of himself, his eyes wandering.

“Well, what did he say? When you told him about us?” Charles asked, his voice quiet and searching.

“He thanked me for being honest, but then assured me that I could not lie to him. I’m not entirely sure what he was implying, but he made it clear he would be ‘keeping an eye on me’,” Edwin looked back at Charles, a horrified expression painted on the other boy’s face. Sensing he might have said too much, he quickly backtracked, “I don’t even know why I’m worrying you with all of this.”

“Too late for that now, mate. I mean, what would he do if he found out the truth?” Charles asked, unable to hide his distress.

Edwin was wondering the same thing, for both the Cat King and Charles. If the Cat King found out Edwin was lying, would he have his way with him? Would he reveal Edwin’s true feelings to Charles? If his friends ever discovered the truth, would they abandon him? Mock him as the boys did at school all those years ago? He couldn’t bear the thought.

“I don’t know,” he confessed. “It seemed as though he didn’t believe me in the first place. I can only hope it will be some time before I encounter him again. I will think of something else.”

“No, that won’t do,” Charles mumbled, his thumb resting on his chin thoughtfully. He finally spoke up again, a brilliant idea striking him, “Why don’t you and I keep up the charade? At least until the Cat King gets off your back.”

“Charles, you sound ridiculous!” Edwin cried, feigning disbelief at the notion of dating Charles.

“Nah mate, think about it. The Cat King probably has his cats prowling the whole town. If they catch wind we aren’t, you know, acting the part, they could report back to him, and you’d be found out,” Charles reasoned.

Edwin detested how logical it all sounded.

“Charles, I do not want you to feel obligated to pretend to be in a relationship with me. It was a stupid decision and you shouldn’t have to face the consequences of—“

“Edwin,” Charles placed his hands on Edwin’s shoulders. “Relax. I wouldn’t offer if I didn’t want to. Besides, my mum always told me I would make an excellent actor.”

Edwin was rendered speechless.

I wouldn’t offer if I didn’t want to.

“Charles, we’re both— I don’t know about this,” he said at last, his voice wavering with uncertainty.

“Come on, Edwin. It’ll be aces,” Charles looked at him through dark lashes, his eyes pleading, slightly amused, “I mean - It’s for your safety after all.”

“I suppose it will be a noteworthy distraction,” Edwin finally agreed, a smile escaping his lips as a grin spread across Charles’s face.

“We should first discuss the boundaries of this arrangement,” he stated.

“Right, of course,” Charles cleared his throat. “I guess just like… relationship things. Holding hands and such. Obviously no snogging,” he added hastily.

“Obviously,” Edwin repeated, heat creeping up his neck.

Charles took both of Edwin’s hands, entwining them with his own. His skin was warm pressed against Edwin’s fingers.

“Is this okay?” Charles asked, his voice hushed.

Edwin could only nod, his voice betraying him.

He finally tore his eyes away from the boy in front of him when Niko burst through the bushes, making a significant amount of noise. The boys jumped apart, their hands still clasped together. She panted, catching her breath with her hands on her knees.

“Sorry, so sorry! I couldn’t let you kill the sprites,” Niko whined. She looked up from the ground, her eyes widening more. “Oh! I didn’t mean to interrupt your romantic moment,” She smirked playfully, winking at Edwin.

“Oh we’re not—“ Edwin started to say instinctively before Charles interrupted.

“It’s no problem Niko,” he squeezed Edwin’s hand, “We haven’t torched them yet. I suppose it isn’t hurting anyone for you to keep them in the jar.”

He reached for his bag, letting go of Edwin’s hand and retrieving the sprites from inside.

Immediately, the creatures began spilling waves of colorful insults. Niko took hold of the jar, clutching it to her chest.

“Thank you guys so much! I’m proud of you both, by the way,” She smiled, pinching her index finger and thumb into a shape which she had previously described as a heart. “Especially you, Charles. I thought you were like- incurably straight. But good job!”

“What does that even mean?” Charles scoffed.

Giving Edwin a knowing look, Niko turned on her heel and started to walk back the way she came, humming to herself.

“Splendid. Now Niko seems to think we’re in a relationship,” Edwin pinched the bridge of his nose.

“Isn’t that the whole point of this?” Charles asked, his eyes turned to the floor.

“I suppose so. It just feels wrong lying to a friend,” he said.

Edwin was acutely aware of the hypocrisy in his statement. He had lied to Charles about the true nature of his reluctance to this arrangement. Deep down, Edwin knew he had seized the opportunity to get closer to Charles for a reason. Despite Charles being the one to suggest maintaining the facade, he had agreed to go along with it regardless.

“Edwin, are you sure you’re alright with this?” Charles asked, his eyes fixed on the other boy’s face. Cautiously, he brushed Edwin’s hand with his fingers lightly.

“Yes,” Edwin answered, his hand trembling against Charles’s fingers. He could feel the weight of unspoken words between them, and he was struck with an aching feeling that this would soon unravel disastrously.

Charles blinked rapidly and withdrew his hand, “Brills.”

3.

The subject of the boys’ supposed relationship was growing increasingly difficult to avoid around Crystal.

Initially, Edwin was concerned that Charles’s feelings for Crystal would interfere with their plan. However, since their discussion in the woods, Edwin would dare to say that Charles has been flaunting their relationship.

He no longer looked at the girl with the usual flirtatious glint in his eye. Instead, he began giving her a smug smile whenever he wrapped his arms around Edwin, almost daring her to say something. He had to admit that he feared Crystal would not be able to contain her frustrations for long. His suspicions were proven correct when she finally confronted them.

“Okay, what the hell is going on?” Crystal demanded, fixated on the two ghosts interlocked fingers.

The group was discussing their plan to go down to the Delvin house after an old woman had offered to pay handsomely for them to tie up some loose ends. As they were talking, Edwin’s hand subconsciously reached for Charles’s. Holding hands was comforting; it became an extension of their already close friendship, despite what Edwin’s racing pulse suggested.

“No idea what you mean, Crys,” Charles crooned, not taking his eyes off of Edwin.

“I mean this,” Crystal waved her hands wildly at the boys, “Did you two finally figure it out or are you just fucking with me?”

“If by figure it out you mean how mad we are for each other, then yes,” Charles said, almost too convincingly.

Niko clapped her hands together and giggled while Crystal groaned in agitation.

“Alright you’re definitely fucking with me because there is no way you just said that with a straight face,” she waved her hand as if to say I’m done with this.

“Crystal,” Niko scolded, “It’s sweet.”

“No, I support it. I’m just not sure if all parties are on the same page,” she squinted her eyes.

Damn Crystal and her psychic powers— Edwin couldn’t decide if it was due to  her gift, or if she was just incredibly perceptive.

“I will be going to the library to conduct actual research, not third party conjuncture,” Edwin declared. “Perhaps I can count more cats along the way.”

He shot a glance at Charles, wordlessly reminding him of the true purpose of their arrangement.

“Come along Niko, we have work to do,” Edwin called as the girl grabbed her jacket and followed behind him.

______

“So it was a Misery Wraith? God, that must have been mental,” Charles says. “Did you pull the old die-and-go-seek maneuver?”

“Crystal and I tried something new,” Edwin said vaguely.

“Yeah, the old run-for-our-lives maneuver. It was terrifying,” Crystal remarked.

The case had proven arduous, requiring Crystal and Edwin to collaborate and get Charles unstuck from the horrifying time loop. Edwin was still concerned about Charles, especially with how quickly he seemed to recover. Nonetheless, Charles had insisted that he no longer wanted to speak of it, so Edwin dropped the subject entirely.

“Look, there’s Monty, our new friend!” Niko gasped excitedly.

Edwin was quickly reminded of the boy they had met outside the library, and how Monty had shamelessly flirted with him. He noted how Charles seemed to stiffen as the boy stood up from his spot on the bench, greeting them.

“Hey,” Monty smiled curtly. “Quite the crew you’ve got here.” He clutched a stack of books close to his chest.

“So, he’s alive and he can see the boys?” Crystal inquired, looking him up and down.

“Oh, he can definitely see Edwin,” Niko teased, a mischievous grin playing at her lips.

Edwin felt the weight of an arm snaking around his waist. He looked down at Charles’s hand resting on his hip.

“I’m Charles. Nice to meet you, mate,” he said through gritted teeth, which Edwin was sure only he noticed, “Any pal of Edwin’s is aces in my book,” he held out his hand to shake.

“Sorry, hands are full,” Monty grimaced, practically looking through Charles.

Charles let his hand drop from Edwin’s waist. He appeared taken aback, walking away to mingle with girls nearby. Edwin found himself focused on Monty, who persisted in offering the astrology reading he had promised. Edwin pretended to be interested, hoping for a diversion from the painful awkwardness. Just then, Charles intervened again, seizing Edwin’s hand abruptly.

“Monty, right? I hear you’re into astrology. Care to give me a reading?” Charles eyed the boy with mild disdain, the tension clear in his voice.

“Oh, I was actually just helping Edwin,” Monty stumbled, obviously caught off guard but still assertive.

“I’m sure Edwin doesn’t mind. Do you, love?” Charles planted a kiss on Edwin’s cheek, leaving him flushed and speechless. It was as if Charles had entered a state of disregard for any established conventions.

“I - um-“ Edwin squeaked.

“Ah, I guess we’re a bit worn out from our case today. We’ll see you around though, I hope? Cheers,” Charles waved dismissively, practically forcing Monty out of the way.

Niko and Crystal appeared stunned by Charles’s sudden shift in tone. The two girls exchanged whispers, subtly glancing at the boys. He finally released his grip on Edwin’s hand.

“Well, he was a proper arse, wasn’t he?” Charles huffed, turning to go upstairs. Edwin caught a hold of his wrist, finally regaining the ability to speak.

“Charles, may we talk for a moment?” he asked seriously.

“Of course. What’s wrong?” Charles turned back around, his expression shifting to incredulity when he noticed all three of his friends staring at him with the same look of surprise.

“What the hell was that?” Crystal laughed earnestly.

“What was what?” Charles shook his head in disbelief.

“You. And Monty. You got like - weirdly protective,” Crystal shrugged.

“Yeah. You were totally jealous that he likes Edwin,” Niko nodded thoughtfully.

“He doesn’t—“ Edwin said at the same time Charles let out a surprised yelp, “What? I wasn’t—“

Crystal rolled her eyes indignantly, making her way up the stairs and leaving boys to sort things out on their own. Niko followed suit. After a beat of silence, Charles launched into a hasty explanation.

“I just didn’t like the way he spoke to you. It felt disrespectful, you know?” Charles defended himself.

“Charles, do I need to remind you that we are not in a relationship? You don’t have to defend me to every guy that comes walking down the street!” Edwin fought to keep his voice at a whisper, his heart aching. Charles’s demeanor changed, all the anger and worry gone.

“I’m sorry, you’re right. I shouldn’t have - I shouldn’t have kissed you,” Charles apologized, his voice dropping. He looked about as embarrassed as Edwin felt.

“It’s alright, Charles. It wasn’t bad. Just… warn me next time,” Edwin replied softly, immediately regretting his implication of a ‘next time.’

“Right. Of course,” Charles agreed tersely.

He knew they could leave things there. They could return to a bizarre sense of normalcy, holding hands and keeping each other close. Edwin shouldn’t take any issue with the barest semblance of a relationship, but he did. He could not gauge Charles’s reaction to the proposition he was considering, but with his heart threatening to beat out of his chest, there was no ignoring the overwhelming urge to ask.

“You could do it again, you know,” he said instead. Any trace of eloquence was altogether destroyed.

Charles sputtered, his face going red.

“Uh - What?” he averted his eyes, shifting in place. The poor boy looked like he wanted to bolt out the door.

Despite lacking normal human bodily functions, Edwin felt an irrepressible rush of flustered embarrassment. His body was trembling, compelling him to stammer out an explanation with an unduly desperate need.

“I mean - Not like - I just mean if anyone gets suspicious. That’s it. For appearances,” Edwin reasoned, illusory sweat coating his palms.

“Right. For appearances,” Charles repeated.

“Only if it is okay with you,” Edwin said, more as a question.

“Yeah, it is,” Charles assured him with an understanding smile.

Although Charles’s agreeability did calm his nerves, it did little to diminish the unbearable sense of guilt gnawing at him. Edwin felt like he was manipulating Charles, taking advantage of him to fulfill his own selfish desires. The realization struck him with a harsh clarity: he was no better than the Cat King, who had attempted the same exploit only days ago.

He rationalized that once he had counted all of the cats, and the curse was lifted, the charade would dissolve along with his guilty conscience. It wasn’t as if Charles was being forced, quite the opposite in fact. The other boy seemed unfazed at the notion of kissing his best mate, almost enthusiastic, even

This cognizance hardly eased the weight of just how much Edwin wants this. The thought arises that maybe Charles wants it too.

However, being friends with someone for thirty years could only deepen their bond beyond conventional limits, he surmised. The other ghost likely wanted to be closer with his friend, especially considering the recent rift in their friendship.

Edwin would not let himself hope.

4.

The next time Edwin sees the Cat King, he is at the lighthouse.

The ghost of a sailor approached the detectives that morning. The man, Dagfinn, complained about people jumping from the widow’s walk of the lighthouse into the ocean, which interfered with his peaceful solitude. The case was disturbing and vaguely intriguing, so the group quickly made their way down to the beach, arriving in the early afternoon.

Crystal interviewed the melancholic ghosts, gathering as much information from their unhelpful whispers as she could.

Edwin was preoccupied with his racing thoughts when a cat appeared beneath his feet, scratching him roughly and beckoning him to follow. He flinched at the pain, casting a glance at the others to make sure no one was looking before he snuck off.

The cat led him up makeshift stone steps to a short wall of stones enclosing an empty outlook. In the center lay another slab of stones. The area appeared to be an abandoned ritualistic altar location, albeit without an altar.

The cat king was sprawled lazily on the wall, as if he was waiting for Edwin to show up.

“A note would suffice. The burning cat scratch was unnecessary,” Edwin criticized.

“In my experience, uplight boys like a little bit of rough play,” the Cat King flirted.

Edwin wrinkled his nose at the distasteful comment. “Right.”

“There are 142 cats,” he declared confidently.

“There are absolutely not 142 cats,” the Cat King chortled. Edwin’s fists clenched at his sides.

“It is an impossible task, how on earth does this make you happy?” He fought to keep his composure.

“Because it gives me more time with you,” the Cat King cooed. Edwin swallowed dryly. “What? Cat got your tongue?” His yellow eyes flickered up and down.

The Cat King sighed, a smile playing at his lips. “I get it. I might be too mature for you, but I’m not a daddy type. Although I am hundreds of years older than you. I know it can be intimidating but aren’t I fun?” He sat up slightly.

“Not in the slightest. It’s just old.”

“Well with age comes experience. I can really be… anything you like,” he stood up, raising his arms to his sides. The familiar purple smoke returned, bursting in the air and revealing the form of Monty, although he retained the Cat King’s wicked yellow eyes. “How about this?”

Edwin said nothing, struggling to remain unfazed.

“He is fun,” the Cat King swung his arms, getting used to the new body. Edwin was unaware that he had the ability to shapeshift into more than a cat.

Monty— the Cat King smiled viciously. “You like roleplay? Maybe something like…”

Another flash obscured Edwin’s vision. It wasn’t until Charles stepped through the smoke that Edwin’s breath caught in his throat. His best friend stood before him, yellow eyes darting down towards his lips. He stepped closer, stroking the lapel on Edwin’s jacket.

The abrupt sound of footsteps caused both Edwin and the Cat King to jump back.

“Oi!” Charles - the real Charles called up the steps, scaling the stones swiftly and bolting to Edwin. The ghost already had his cricket bat in hand, ready to swing.

“Whoa, easy there,” the Cat King collected himself from the initial shock, now wearing an unbothered expression. He regarded Edwin, ignoring Charles. “He’s so protective. I can see why you like him,” the shapeshifter smiled, his voice sounding rough and unnatural coming out of Charles.

“What the bloody hell is going on here? Why are you wearing my face?” Charles spat, his eyes darkening.

“Relax, would you? Edwin was just showing me how he does it with you,” the Cat King teased, unnervingly aware of how the joke made Edwin flush.

Charles’s expression wavered, but he didn’t dare take his eyes off the Cat King.

“He’s lying, Charles,” Edwin interjected. “I did nothing of the sort,” he wasn’t sure why he felt such a need to explain himself, considering there was no way in hell Charles would believe the Cat King over him.

“You also know a thing or two about lying, don’t you, Edwin?” The indecent beast jeered.

“If you don’t piss off now, I’ll skin you right here,” Charles threatened, his arm shielding Edwin.

“You know Charles, I never pegged you as the jealous type, but if I had a handsome boy on my arm, I’d probably be jealous of the competition too,” the Cat King taunted.

“Enough of this,” Edwin clenched his teeth. “You heard him. I think it is best for you to leave.”

“So you’re really together, is that right? That is so sweet,” the man laughed, assuming he would achieve a reaction. Charles’s face only seemed to harden more.

“Yeah, we are. Do we have a problem?” Charles snapped, viciously defensive.

“Of course not, love is love. But I am curious…” he paused. “Prove it.”

The Cat King almost exploded into a fit of furious giggles, observing how Edwin paled at the comment.

“We don’t have to prove anything to you,” Charles adjusted his grip on the bat.

“It’s easy,” the Cat King purred, “watch.”

He strided over to Edwin, who instinctively backed away. The sight of his best friend's (admittedly attractive) face sauntering towards him with unwavering determination was incredibly conflicting. Before Edwin could react further, the Cat King swiftly took Edwin’s face in his hand and pulled him in, planting a firm kiss to his lips.

Since he was woefully unprepared, their teeth clashed awkwardly, and as far as first kisses go, it was quite awful. He clamped his eyes shut, hoping to be released. Right as he felt the Cat King breaking their impromptu and very short kiss, Charles ran up and forcefully separated them. The sudden jolt caused Edwin to bite his own lip hard enough to draw blood, had he still been alive.

The Cat King finally shifted back into his regular form, and Charles punched through the smoke, colliding with his temple.

The shapeshifter swore unintelligibly, backing up with his hands raised. Charles lunged forward, getting in a couple more shots before his opponent shifted into a cat, dashing to the other side of the wall. Whatever respect the Cat King had for Edwin meant that he wouldn’t attack Charles, even if he wanted to. The shapeshifter wore a guilty and almost apologetic look.

Edwin collected himself, grabbing hold of Charles’s arm. He could feel the heat radiating off of his soul, the very essence of him burning with rage. Although, he seemed to relax at the touch.

“Charles. We should go,” Edwin instructed. He was not keen to watch his best friend fight in his honor.

“No,” Charles grunted, pulling himself towards the Cat King.

“Charles,” he said, rougher this time. The other boy let out a noise in between a sigh and a whine, steadying his center of gravity. Edwin took him by the arm, guiding Charles away from the Cat King.

“Oh, and Edwin?” He called after them with a sneer. “Don't forget to count the cats, because you were way off.”

______

Charles’s outburst when dealing with the Night Nurse did not help with the overall morale of the group. It seemed as though the boy was wrestling with a multitude of unpleasant feelings, that of which not even Edwin could help with. However, that night had left some room for them to talk at last.

Charles was sitting on the edge of the bed, his chin resting on his hand, lost in thought. Crystal and Niko had gone off to watch Scooby-doo or some nonsense, leaving the boys alone in Crystal's room.

Edwin had never pressed to know anything more about Charles’s past than he was willing to tell. He imagined that being forcefully thrust into your most traumatizing memories would be unpleasant enough to isolate from your loved ones.

“Charles?” Edwin asked.

“Hm?” Charles replied, his eyes fixed on the wall. Edwin took a seat next to him on the bed.

“You know that you can talk about it, if you want to,” he whispered as if a sudden movement would scare the other boy like a frightened animal.

“What is there to talk about? I couldn’t let her take you,” Charles murmured, still not meeting Edwin’s gaze. “You aren’t fragile Edwin, I know that. I am.”

“That’s not true,” Edwin swallowed, fighting the tears that threatened to spill. He refused to cry in front of him.

“I worry that you don’t need me to protect you. Then it’s like - What am I even good for?” He continued, his voice breaking. “And with the Cat King… I should have—“

Edwin inhaled, trying to remain composed. He settled for placing a comforting hand on his back.

“Charles, it’s okay.”

“I shouldn’t have asked you to pretend with me,” Charles wiped his face with the back of his hand. “You’re my best mate. I just want something that’s real.”

Edwin’s mouth clamped shut. So that was it, then. Charles didn’t want this anymore. He figured that it had to happen soon, he just wished it didn’t have to be like this.

“We don’t have to do this anymore,” Edwin broke the silence, letting himself be the one to say it.

“I didn’t say that,” Charles said, staring at Edwin.

“Oh.”

And then Charles was leaning in. When their faces were only millimeters apart, Charles paused hesitantly. His pupils were blown wide, his face silently asking for permission to move forward. Edwin felt the sudden urge to breathe, like his corporal form somehow demanded oxygen after over 100 years.

He let out a small breath, and Charles’s eyes fluttered shut. His lips parted, and they breathed in tandem. Edwin was about to close the distance when the bedroom door swung open and Crystal entered, her eyes widening.

The ghosts jumped apart immediately, and Edwin felt his gut churn with embarrassment.

“Shit, sorry! God, I didn’t think I would have to knock! You two are unbelievable,” Crystal shot Charles a glance, grabbing her purse off of a chair. He turned to Edwin, smiling sheepishly.

“I had better go apologize,” he collected himself brazenly, standing up and following after her.

Charles looked back with a wink as he walked through the wall, and for a brief, vulnerable moment, Edwin let himself hope.

5.

The boys agreed to go on a walk in the afternoon after solving what Edwin called “The Case of The Two Dead Dragons.” Charles had commended him for the clever title.

They hadn’t discussed their interaction in Crystal’s room any further, which Edwin was grateful for. He wasn’t sure what he would do if Charles suddenly asked him what he wanted out of this. Quite frankly, Edwin wasn’t sure of the answer himself.

The case had brought up some admittedly hard feelings, especially the uncanny similarities to his current situation. The poor girl, Maren, had been exploited by a boyfriend whom she once trusted deeply. It left a sickening pit in Edwin’s stomach that had yet to leave. He knew that this case had no direct impact on how he went about fixing his problems, but it felt like a bad omen.

Charles had hugged him and cried, telling Edwin that he wished their clients could have been the good guys. He worried that, deep down, he was a bad person, reflecting his fathers defining characteristics. Edwin had assured him that this wasn’t true at all. It felt strange, holding someone’s heart in his hands. He had never mistaken Charles for being fragile, but in the warm light under the awning, with his best friend in his arms, every movement was calculated to keep him there. Edwin couldn’t help being transfixed on Charles, even with his cheeks stained with tears. He was beautiful.

Edwin shoves the thought away, trying to make conversation.

“How are things for you, Charles?” He asked as they made their way up a tall grassy hill.

They had been wandering aimlessly for the better part of an hour before Charles mentioned that he had noticed an outlook that housed a swingset in a secluded area of town. Edwin had jumped at the opportunity. Something about being alone with Charles ignited a valorous fire inside of him.

“I think you already know the answer to that, mate,” Charles goaded, affection dripping from his words. “There’s hardly anything I don’t tell you.”

Edwin paused, a grin forming on his lips, “And what don’t you tell me?” He teased playfully.

Charles ducked his head, blushing.

“Look, we’re here,” he changed the subject, gesturing towards the old swing set. Charles sat down, the rusted chains creaking under his weight. Edwin sits next to him, his hands folded on his lap. He wondered if the chains would bend the same way if they were both still alive, sitting on a swing set together.

The thought brings back painful memories. Edwin’s life had been notably unremarkable, his parents were indifferent, and the boarding offered little comfort. He and Charles had seldom discussed the specifics of their time at the school, a topic Edwin was content with leaving undisturbed. Yet, at that moment, Charles seemed to read his mind.

“Edwin?” He mumbled. Edwin hummed in response, encouraging him to continue.
“What do you remember most? About your life?” Charles asks, his hands gripping the swing chains.

“Why are you suddenly so interested?” Edwin questions back, an eyebrow raised.

“I don’t know. I feel like we don’t talk anymore.”

“We talk plenty,” Edwin jokes.

“I’m serious! It’s hard to get a word in when we’re always solving cases nowadays!” Charles shouted.

“Can we talk about something else, then? I’d prefer not to reminisce on my life,” he grimaced ruefully.

“That’s fair,” Charles agreed, pausing in thought for a moment before speaking again. “What’s the first thing you’re going to do when we get back to London?”

“I’m not sure. Maybe I will reread some old case files,” he answers honestly.

“Charmingly boring as usual,” Charles smirks. Edwin wants to kiss him very badly.

“I find that quite insulting. What will be the first thing you do?” Edwin asks incredulously, unable to hide his amusement.

“I dunno. Might play some Clue. It’ll be nice to have Crystal at the agency,” Charles bemused. It hadn’t occurred to Edwin that Crystal would potentially stay at the agency with them. They hadn’t gotten any closer to recovering her memories, and she seemed to enjoy solving cases with them, at least from what Edwin could tell.

“Do you like her?” Edwin found himself asking. He had to know.

“Yeah I like her. She’s my friend, innit?” Charles smiled, clearly not understanding what Edwin meant.

“No, what I mean to say is… Are you attracted to her?”

“Oh, uh - Maybe? I don’t know,” he answers uncertainly. “Can I ask you something?” Charles questions in return, shifting on the swing. His loafers dragged on the dirt lazily.

Edwin nodded.

“Are you attracted the Cat King?” His eyes flicker to the other boy’s face, searching.

“Maybe. I don’t know,” Edwin repeated Charles’s words, staring at him fondly.

“Wanker.” Charles shoved his shoulder, making Edwin sway. The metal chains creaked and groaned.

They sat in silence for a beat before Edwin decided to speak. It was as if the tranquility of the moment was forcing Edwin to reveal all his innermost thoughts. Charles seemed to sense it too, because he didn’t stop him.

“Things have been rather confusing for me,” he began.

Charles looked at him expectantly. It took all of Edwin’s strength to focus on his words instead of the boy beside him.

“There are these… feelings that I am not used to,” Edwin swallowed thickly, forcing himself to continue. “I thought those feelings were never to be spoken of. But once you have them… It’s hard to hold them back.”

He moves his gaze up from his hands, gathering the courage to view Charles from the corner of his eye. “And that terrifies me.”

Edwin felt inebriated, his fear pushing him to say what he desperately wanted to. “Charles, I’ve been realizing that I—“

A rustle in the bushes made him jump. A brown cat yowled and made a dash for a tree, another following close behind. They disappeared into the bushes, although Edwin noted that he could still see two pairs of slitted eyes watching intently.

However, he seemed to completely forget about that when he looked back at Charles, who was eyeing him with a tender, focused gaze. Edwin forced himself to breathe, the heat of his breath forming a puff of mist in the chilly air. For a moment, he felt truly alive.

“Edwin,” Charles whispered, “I’m going to kiss you now.”

It occurred to Edwin that Charles was asking permission.

“I’ve never done this before, Charles,” Edwin said, barely audible. Their faces were so close that their lips would be touching with even the slightest movement forward, yet Charles still stared up from Edwin’s lips, wordlessly asking to continue. Edwin swallowed, assuring him it was okay, “Show me how.”

He could do nothing but nod as Charles leaned in, finally connecting their lips. This was nothing like his kiss with the Cat King. His lips were relaxed, moving and pulling at Charles’s bottom lip gently.

Charles gasped softly, reaching a hand to the back of Edwin’s neck, pulling him in. The chains of the swings rattled as they shifted closer, nearly falling on top of each other. Edwin could barely kiss back with how hard he was smiling against Charles’s lips.

The kiss was so tangible and real. Edwin wanted to drown in it, so he did. He placed his hands on either side of Charles’s face, kissing him hard.

He felt his heart stutter in his chest when Charles moaned into him. The parts of his body that Edwin took great care to ignore while he was alive suddenly resurrected, heat pooling in his
gut.

Charles broke the kiss first, both boys breathing heavily. He dove back in, kissing the corner of Edwin’s mouth before trailing lower, brushing his mouth along his jaw slowly.

“Charles,” Edwin whined.

He could feel Charles smirking against his neck, and then he opened his mouth, pressed it to his skin and sucked. Edwin made a noise he didn’t know he was capable of, and Charles reacted by kissing him fervently on the mouth.

Charles was saying things in between kisses, inaudible breathy mumbles. Edwin tried to listen, but his own pants and moans made it hard to hear.

“Fuck, I love you,” Charles whimpered into his mouth. Edwin froze against his lips, and he knew Charles could feel it. They both paused, moving apart.

Snogging was one thing, but heated declarations of love were entirely too real. Edwin hadn’t thought about the depth of his feelings for Charles, only that there was no one, dead or alive, that could compare to him.

He could see the regret on Charles’s face, his eyes searching Edwin’s expression for a reaction and finding nothing. He wanted to say it back, to tell Charles that it was okay, but he wasn’t sure of that.

Charles licked his lips, swollen and red. He averted his gaze, his eyes flashing over the bushes, which rustled furtively as the cats breached through the leaves.

“That was close, right?” Charles laughed, shifting in his seat and swinging gently.

“What?” Edwin asked, a blend of confusion and disbelief evident in his voice.

“The uh - the cats were watching. So, you know. We had to make it look real.”

Was that all this was to him? Was it still a charade? It seemed real only moments ago, with their hands entwined, kissing roughly. Edwin had never felt that kind of desire before. Burning hot shame consumed him, knuckles going white with how tightly his hands were balled into fists.

“Right,” Edwin exhaled, his emotions carefully guarded. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand for good measure. Standing up, he swiftly began walking down the hill.

“Where are you going?” Charles called, following after him.

“Does it matter?” Edwin lashed out, his eyes glistening with unshed tears.

“Of course it does!” Charles cried out, and then quieter, “Edwin.”

Edwin didn’t look back, carrying himself until he reaches the butcher's shop. He didn’t even bother trying to find a mirror. Tears poured relentlessly down his cheeks.

He stared into the zenith of the night sky, feeling the weight of exhaustion settle upon him.

+1

Charles didn’t know where he went wrong, so he confided in Crystal.

The psychic sat on the end of her bed, playing with her hair absentmindedly as Charles paced back and forth. Edwin had been avoiding him the past two days, and Charles was growing increasingly worried.

“Careful. You’ll put a dent in the floor,” Crystal teased wryly. “What is this about again? You dragged me in here 15 minutes ago and you’re still pacing around. It’s honestly starting to scare me.”

Charles groaned, flopping onto the bed with his head in his hands. “I don’t know, Crystal. Edwin’s been avoiding me. Has he said anything to you?”

“Are you two having a lovers quarrel?” She sighed.

“No! Okay - look, this is going to sound crazy,” Charles hesitated, “Edwin and I aren’t together.”

“Oh. Wait, what?” Crystal sat up, suddenly interested.

Charles sucked in a breath, preparing to clarify everything he and Edwin had agreed on the past week. His mind was instinctively drawn back to their fraught kiss. He feels his cheeks heat up involuntarily, but was quickly expelled from his reverie when Crystal lightly tapped him on the shoulder.

“A while after Edwin met the Cat King, he told me that the bastard had made a move on him. And to avoid the situation, Edwin said that he and I were in a relationship,” he explained hastily.

Crystal felt the dawning realization, her eyebrows shooting up. “So you put on a scheme to fake-date,” she finished for him.

“Yes, exactly. And it was good. I mean - it was fine. He’s a fit bloke, so I didn’t mind. I offered. It’s just different now,” Charles stuttered, trying to get her to understand, knowing she wouldn’t. It was impossible to avoid him forever, they ran a business after all. But knowing how petty Edwin could be, Charles knew he’d damn well try.

“Jesus Christ,” Crystal rubbed her forehead with one hand, exasperated. “So what happened to make you two… break up?”

“Well,” Charles cleared his throat, flushing at the memory, “We kissed.”

“Oh my god. Was it when I walked in on you?” Crystal inquired, horrified.

“It was a different time, don’t worry,” he gave her a reassuring smile. “I just don’t know where I went wrong.”

“Did you say anything after you kissed?” Crystal sussed.

“I may have told him that I love him,” Charles murmured.

“Oh, shit.” Crystal’s jaw nearly dropped in astonishment.

Charles groaned once more, standing up and resuming his pacing. He was living a nightmare. Revealing his feelings had only made things worse. He couldn't shake the image of Edwin’s face after their kiss— unsure and hurt. Evidently, Charles did what anyone would do: he made up an excuse. Unfortunately, Edwin saw right through it.

“I really do love him. But, you know - as a friend!” Charles defended.

Crystal raised a skeptical brow.

Charles huffed, addressing his feelings earnestly. “Okay, maybe not. But I only offered because I wanted to protect him! And who doesn’t want to kiss their best mate?”

Crystal held her tongue, like she was waiting for him to say something.

“Oh.
Oh.”

“There you go,” Crystal congratulated him like he just got a math problem right. “It really took until after a heated makeout sesh for you to realize?”

Charles stared at her blankly.

“Never mind, I don’t want to know. Gross,” Crystal flopped back on the bed, thinking hard. “Wait, I’m confused. You kissed and told him you loved him, and now he’s avoiding you?” Her voice carried the same tone as when she was trying to piece together a case.

“So you see,” Charles laughed uncomfortably before Crystal raised her hand to silence him.

“Nope. I don’t want to hear it. You clearly said something that upset him. You two never fight, and that boy is hopelessly in love with you, so he wouldn’t be upset at a confession.”

“He isn't—“ Charles bristled defensively, “What do I do?” he pleaded.

“Fucking apologize, maybe? You’ll figure it out. You always do,” Crystal promised, strolling over to Charles.

He gave her a hopeless look, and she pulled him into a tight hug. He let his arms dangle at his sides awkwardly before reciprocating, embracing her and resting his chin on top of her head.

“Thank you, Crystal. I mean it,” he beamed, the delighted glint in his eye returning.

“Anytime. Now go get your man!” She playfully slapped his backside.

Charles stuck out his tongue and flipped her off as he walked through the door.

______

“Oi, Edwin!” Charles called after his friend, who was briskly walking through the wall out onto the roof of the shop. Edwin whirled around, looking like a deer in headlights.

“What is it?” Edwin bemoaned, his jaw tightening.

“Can we talk?” Charles begged, urgency coating his words.

“Very well. Please do make it quick. Monty informed me that he has a potential case awaiting us,” Edwin declared, his voice taut with painful strain.

“Right, of course,” Charles flexed his fingers, finding the words. He should have planned out an apology, but he was running entirely on adrenaline, rendering coherent thoughts inconceivable. Edwin looked at him intently, the look on his face a mixture of anguished vulnerability and impatient frustration.

Charles was never good with words like Edwin was, so unfortunately they all came spilling out in a rush, “Edwin, I am so sorry for saying everything that I said yesterday. I was inconsiderate and I should have been upfront about what I wanted from you, because I just want things to go back to normal and I can’t handle you ignoring me anymore. If you’re going to say something, just say it now, because after knowing what it’s like to - I can't exist without you and it would kill me all over again.”

He cut himself off breathlessly, scouring Edwin’s face for any signs of emotion.

Edwin took a deep breath, his face set in a rigid mask, the only betrayal of his pain being the slight tremor in his hands.

“Do you really want things to go back to normal?” Edwin appeared unconvinced.

“Well, I might change a few things,” Charles lightened the mood with a chuckle and stepped closer. Edwin’s slight smile didn’t go unnoticed.

“Like what?” Edwin seemed to lean into Charles, craving his touch. Charles couldn’t take it anymore, so he did what he knew how to do, and cupped Edwin’s face in his hands, kissing him sweetly. He kept the kiss chaste, not wanting to get ahead of himself again. When he opened his eyes, Edwin was staring at him with a devotedly amorous gaze.

“I love you, Edwin,” Charles asserted with unwavering confidence. Time was of no consequence; there was no need to wait for anyone to catch up. He simply desired it.

“I love you too, Charles. I’m sorry I didn’t say it before. I didn’t realize how badly I wanted this - us to be real,” the words came out easily, and it felt like a previously debilitating weight was lifted ceremoniously.

Charles once again acted impulsively, letting his fingers brush against Edwin’s collar, dipping past the fabric to touch his clavicle. He yearned for the touch, oblivious to its implications. “When we get back to London would you maybe want to—“

“Charles!” Edwin shouted incredulously, although he didn't move away. His cheeks went pink, and Charles realized Edwin was most definitely jumping to suggestive conclusions.

“Not like that!” Charles retracted his hand, opting instead to lace their fingers together innocently. “I mean - unless you uh,” he hadn’t considered going any further than kissing, but he wasn’t opposed to it.

“Some other time. I believe we have eternity to figure it out,” Edwin gave a tight-lipped smile, his eyes glazed over with adoration. Each glance exchanged between them contained a subtle depth, 30 years of unspoken emotions brought to the surface with an intensity born from love-struck devotion.

Charles felt his breath hitch at that. Eventually.

“Brills.”

He released one of Edwin’s hands, keeping a tight hold on the other. Their fingers intertwined, a union that felt like their souls were bound together.

Perched on the edge of the building, the two boys gazed out at the seemingly vast expanse of the town. In that fleeting moment, he felt the gravity of their connection, a quiet certainty that they had found something rare and enduring between them.

Charles had him now, and he was never letting go.