Archive of Our Own ^beta

“And for a long while Britan had a monopoly on these machines, but decided it would be better to export them, and thus France and Germany ended up getting a piece of the pie. This machinery was nothing compared to what we have now, it was in fact worse and-” 

*RINNNGGG* 

“Well, that's all for today, maybe we would have been further if someone could keep it down.” The teacher, who Craig never bothered to learn the name of, shoots a nasty glare at Cartman who is unfortunately sat next to him. The comment does not concern him though, so he pays no mind, picks up his bag and piles up with the other students and pushes his way through the door. Once he is out of the classroom, he makes his way to Tweeks location- as he always does- while pawing for his phone in his pocket. Anticipating a vibration, he grips the phone while swaying past people in the semi- crowded hallways with his head down, pondering why Tweek hasn't texted him back. His impatience gets the best of him, and he looks as his lockscreen- A picture of Tweek sleeping in his bed with stripe loafing on his cheek illuminates the screen- and yet, no new notifications from Tweek on the hud.  

Before he could put his phone back into his jacket pocket his phone tremors and he immediately unlocked the screen again to see it only to be met with a text from Tolkien. 

Tolkien: Me, Clyde and Jimmy are going to go to KFC after school. Wanna come with? 

Craig reads the text. Unamused and disappointed he doesn't respond, it's not who he was expecting to hear from. His mood shift as he sees the messy nest of blonde hair appearing from the a few doors ahead of him in his peripheral vision. He puts his phone in his pocket and hurries his pace to Tweek. 

Tweek looks at him, widens his eyes, and then looks down. Thats weird, C raig thinks to himself, but he pushes through, and they meet halfway through the hallway. Craig turns to move in the same direction Tweek was moving. We do this every day why does it feels so awkward all of a sudden? They are shoulder to shoulder, walking to their respective classrooms at the opposite end of the school. Craig reaches his hand to Tweek, grazing the others skin and eyeing him intently- hoping for a reaction. A shiver is sent up Tweeks spine as he starts jittering at the sudden movement. This is not the reaction Craig was expecting at all, he whips his head to look at Tweek and just at that moment he feels the other grasp his hand. He quietly exhales and he hates it. He hates the quiet between them. 

“uh, you didn't respond to my texts this morning” 

“AH sorry sorry, I guess it just slipped my mind when I was... talking with my parents this morning- JESUS” 

“Oh, are you okay babe? What was it about?” 

Craigs knows Tweek more than anyone, so he knows that “Talking” means that him and his parents got into an argument again. I guess that explains why Tweek seems off. Craig tries to reassure himself with this thought because Tweeks standoffishness towards him is just odd. Unfortunately for Craig, over the course of the short exchange they reach their classrooms which are across from each other. Tweek finally makes eye contact with Craig. He is met with blueish green eyes giving him a solum expression. 

“Ill- ill tell you later okay? Ill text you” 

“ Sure honey. Ill um see you after class” 

“Yea! See you” 

And without another word Tweek pulls his hand away and rushes into the classroom. Craig is flabbergasted, confused, and most of all a little angry. He trudges into his classroom- some random throwaway intro to astronomy class he decided to do just for the elective credit. He already knows most of the material the teacher in here goes over and his grades display that well. So, he knows his teacher won't care if he's on his phone at all. He opens his school issued laptop and props his phone on the keyboard. He puts his head down on the desk and waits. For what exactly he doesn't even know at this point.  

Moments pass and as everyone get situated the teacher starts the blabbering. The lecture goes on and on: How stars are formed is the topic of today. Craig only quietly judges as the information kept the classroom occupied- this should be common sense to everyone . Goddamnit this is a highschool class after all, yea it's freshman level but that dosent mean it's still not general knowledge. Shit why am I so angry? Craig snaps out of his negativity and looks up to face the whiteboard. He is only further disappointed to see one of his classmates drop a worksheet on his desk. He looks at it with distain at first but decides it would be a good distraction and for once he does his assignment at the intended window of time. He fills in the questions with ease. The dumb fill in the blanks and short answer question plastered on the paper were all juvenile to him.  

Halfway through the worksheet he gets a welcomed notification on his phone. He rushes to look at it, barely even letting the vibration finish. His heart steady's as he sees the text from Tweek. Finally. He thinks to himself, surprising himself with his own desperation, but that doesn't matter right now. The text, Tweeks text, is what he really needed. And he responded almost immediately, 

Tweekers<3: Hey, can you meet me on the left side of the school today? Next to the gym. 

 You: Yea sure! Why the change in location? Whats up honey? 

Tweekers<3: I shouldn't talk about it over text. Sorry. 

You: That's fine babe. 

Tweekers<3: Youre too nice to me. 

You: heh it my job :) 

Craigs tension loosens at their text exchange. He thinks about texting again, but minuets have already passed, and he’ll see Tweek after school now anyway. He is, once again, surprised by why he is giddy. I mean, me and Tweek walk home together after school every day. He tried to dim his happiness down by finishing his worksheet which he barely almost didn't complete due to him being all giddy on his phone earlier. He hands in the worksheet and stand by the door first eagerly awaiting the bell and once it sounds, he speeds out to meet Tweek as he exits his class. He is confused to see that the blonde was not present among the crowd. He stays a few more minutes longer to see if he was truly not there and lo and behold, he actually wasn't. Craig, utterly confused, awkwardly makes his way out of the hallways, involuntarily dragging his feet in the process. It's fine, Tweek did say to meet on the left side. Maybe that's why he left class early. Craig tries to rationalize the actions and behaviors Tweek has displayed towards the day, but then he realizes it is Tweek so it's nothing to worry about, right? 

He walks out the doors as do all the other kids; some heading to the buses, some already crossing the street, and a very few amounts of them rushing to their cars to beat traffic. Yet, he makes his way towards the general direction Tweek had asked him to meet at which was more tucked away to the side. He walks slow, keeping his eyes peeled for the other. Finally, he spots the boy and jogs his way over. Tweek is leaning against the wall, griping his left arm tight and with what seems to be a piece of paper in his hand. Tweek notices Craig moving towards him and takes a deep breath. 

“ Hey honey. So what is with the change of location” 

“Just-AH- just to get away from the crowd..” 

“Yea I guess I should have figured that out earlier, sooo whats up?” 

Tweek is shaking way more than usual, his breathing hastening and sweat starting to pool. Craig notices this and raises a hand out to comfort the other but before he could make contact Tweek shoves a letter in his hand and bolts. Before Craig could even process what was happening, Tweek had already disappeared. He grips the letter and tries to catch up. He calls out Tweeks name to locate him to no avail. He rushes around the perimeter like a headless chicken but still nothing. He feels so...defeated. He tragically walks back to his usual spot to route home while shoving the letter in his pocket aggressively. Once he reaches the point, he sees his gang there. 

“Woah dude... you look upset. what happened?” Tolkien asked with just as much concern as confusion. 

“You get in trouble or something?” Clyde barged in with a snarky tone 

“Dude- cut it out” Tolkien bumped the others elbow 

Craig stood there, speechless. He stays quiet for a bit before he somberly sounds. 

“I-I dont know” 

Tolkien and Clyde glance at each other and try to puzzle together Craigs emotions but with someone as apathic as him- it would be a difficult feat. They try to silently cook up some questions to get more information but where would they even start. In their intense gaze at each other they are interrupted by a stuttering yell. 

“Y-You guys ready to Go-Go" Jimmy yells as he made his way over. 

“Give us a second Jimmy. Craig had a shit day” 

“Dude you are not helping” 

“Is it something to do wi-with TweeK” 

“Yea did something happen between you two” 

Craig looked down at the ground. What does he say? Can I trust them with this information, I guess Tolkien and Jimmy wouldn't snitch but Clyde and his loudmouth. Ugh- might as well. He hesitates though and the words he wants to express get further pushed back as he looks to see all of them staring at him with all different expressions plastered on their faces. 

“I'll tell you after we get there” 

“Oh, youre ack-actually coming with?” 

“Sure.” 

“Craig, dude, you dont have to be all bummed out-” 

“What Clyde is trying to say is, you can talk to us man. We'll listen.” 

“Once we get situated, I'll talk...” 

Clyde, Tolkien and Jimmy all glanced at each other and shrugged. Best not to poke the bear after all. The three of them made their way downtown in diluted awkwardness as Criag hunched over just behind Jimmy, still not talking and still not making eye contact with anyone. Internally, Craig tucker was fighting the painful stir in his heart: it was brewing quick. He felt his eyes sting and his nose start to run and thankfully for him Jimmy abruptly threw in his two cents. 

“Don’t worr-rry about it too much Craig. It is Tweek after all. Maybe, he just-just needs extra reassurance. Once you two have a conversation I'm sure itll- itll be fine!” 

“...Yea... youre probably right. Thanks, Jimmy” 

Craigs tension calms down a bit after the interaction- he quickly sniffs to get rid of the stuffiness and he feels his eyelids start to clear up too. They’ll talk about it later. It'll be fine. Craig reassures himself in a haste as the group walk through the doors of the building and take shuffle to take a seat. They probably weren't going to get anything to eat either so he can talk to them properly. He opens his mouth to speak and stops as he notices Clyde and Jimmy at the soda dispensers and Tolkien go to the rest room. He takes this moment to catch his breath and calm himself down. He pulls his phone out of his pocket hesitantly to look like he's doing something important even though he really is just trying to find a way to phrase his words. 

A few seconds pass and Clyde and Jimmy make their way back to the table: at the same time so does Tolkien, wiping his hands on his jeans and taking a seat next to him. Craig awkwardly fidgets with the peeling sticker on his phone as the people around him get comfortable. He looks up and sees all of them staring at him, its startles him a bit. So, to ease the tension Clyde starts the conversation. 

“So. What happened.” 

“We already know its T-t-tweek” 

“Did he do something that upset you?” 

“Nah, Craig probably did something to upset him” 

“Shut Up Cly-de" 

“He.. Uh, he told me to meet him at a different spot today.” 

“UH HUH” they all say in unison 

“And he shoved a letter in my hand and ran away.” 

“Whats in the letter?” 

“I don't know.” 

‘AWEE. He just gave you a love letter. Thats why youre upset?” 

“Yeah I thought you actually like like him” 

“I do-” 

“ Craig never actually told him-him" 

“Either way, when he handed the letter to me, he seemed off and he didn't even respond to my text this morning and he didn't hold my hand at first. It's all so weird for him” 

“Maybe he just had an off day” 

“But that doesn't explain the letter dumbass” 

 Tolkien shot a look at Clyde and then at Jimmy. They were all thinking the same thing and craig picked up on it too. 

“Craig. You won't know until you open it.” 

“Yeah, maybe it is actually a love letter instead of yknow” 

“ And even-even if it is that. You can always go and talk to him. Tweek really dosent seem like that type of person after all” 

“Jimmy, do you even know Tweek like that?” 

“Yes-asshat. He's in my fourth period. And naturally we talk.” 

“OOO does he talk about Craig” 

“ Was he off today? Did yall talk today?” 

“Y-yes he talks-talks about Craig and yes he was weird today-day" 

“Youre not telling the whole story” 

“I usually don't agree with Clyde, but you are hiding something” 

“ Fine! Fine- but he cant know I told you all” 

Craig has been silent almost this whole exchange-just listening and trying to fit the tidbits of information into a coherent story. He grips his leg in anticipation of Jimmys next words and listens intently. 

“Tweek-Tweek gushes about you A LOT Craig. Even today we were talking about the ass-assignment, and he talked about how nice you were and more romantic-tic stuff like that... But- he looked very gloomy today. Like- depressed" 

“Oh.” 

“Such mixed signals” 

Clyde isn't wrong, these are very mixed signals, and it doesn't hint to what could be in the letter at all. Was Craig really overthinking this and it was just a cheesy love letter Tweek was scared to give him or was it a breakup letter. It did end up easing Craigs mind a little knowing that Tweek still talked about him like that, but that little bit of joy was largely overshadowed by the mystery that is the letter. Only one way to find out.  

“ I'm gonna head home. I'll see you guys later.” 

“Oh- okay man. Take care” 

“Don't stress about itttt- “ 

“Yea-Craig. ITll- Be fine” 

Craig shuffles his way out of the chair and before he leaves turns to thanks the group. 

“Guys. Thank you.” 

“No problem, Dude” 

“Yeah, we’re here for you!” 

And with that short and sweet exchange Craig leaves. Not knowing what to think anymore. He is more confused than ever but one thing he does know is that he must open that letter. 

. 

. 

. 

“Im home” 

Tweek yells to the empty house. He forgot that he begged his parents to take his shift today. He was still pissed about that. That he had to fight tooth and nail for a day off, but he didn't care right now he needed it desperately. He drags his feet up the stairs and sadly walked to his room, throwing his backpack on the floor and plopping onto his bed. He should take a shower, but he is just so...he just can't. Not after today. He is still so anxious, still so scared. Fuck it, if I don't take a shower ill stink anyway and bedsheets will get dirty and-ugh do I regret it? Did I astronomically fuck up? Shit what do I do now?   Tweeks mind scatters to so many questions but he knows he did what he had to. 

We can't pretend forever after all. We just started high school so Craig probably would like a girlfriend, right? Or or a boyfriend...That isnt me. South Park has mostly forgotten about us, it's fine. Craig would say it's fine. It's fine Tweek.  

Tears start streaming from Tweeks cheeks against his will as his mind spiral. He tried to reassure himself like Craig would, but only ends up thinking more and more till his mind is engulfed in thoughts. He heads to the bathroom like a zombie, head down low and barely any energy. He gets undressed and enters the tub, runs the water and sniffles, trying to hold it together as the water washes away the salty drops, But he just can't. This is not what he wanted. It had to be done Tweek. It's the right thing to do. No, I don't like this. I Dont-  

“AHH-” 

A loud bang startles him. The anti-hairfall shampoo bottle he thwacked over brings him to his senses and he hurriedly finishes his shower. He follows his routine: Shower, blow-dry hair, put his home clothes on and put his old clothes in the laundry, eat the food his parents probably left out on the counter. All normal except, no Craig. No constantly texting Craig, no call or video games before bed, no doing homework over the phone- just no Craig. Tweek feels so nauseous over this new feeling- this new routine he had bought onto himself- in fact he could barely eat he felt so weird, so void. He picked at his food only barely eating it and shoving it back into the pot as to not raise suspicion. In complete silence: No YouTube, no TV, no nothing, he washes the dishes. The water works start to form in his eyes once again and he tried his hardest to fight them. He successfully finishes dishes and rushes back up to his room and slams his door, no one is home so it's fine. It's fine Tweek its fine. Just four more year and- fuck. Four years of avoiding Craig. How will I manage that. How- can I ever face him. Tweek doesn't fight it anymore, he lets the tears flow. He sniffles and sobs all the way to bed and wraps himself in his blankets letting his sorrow take over.  

A little over an hour passes and he's still alone. No nasally voice to comfort him or no unintentionally dry texts to calm him down. Tweek can only look up at the ceiling in regret? Maybe? Do I regret this? Should I text him to forget about it? That I didn't mean it?, No, its already too late he probably already read it anyway. Shit-shit shit shit. Tweek has no tears left to cry and he painfully decides it's time to get over it and do something productive- no use crying over spilled milk... Craig would comfort me if I cried over spilled milk. No! No. Breakups are supposed to hurt. This is normal. I'll just do homework to forget about it. Ill get over it. That's right. I'm in high school now- I should. I should be moving on...  

He should be moving on, but he instinctually opened up their shared laptop. He should be moving on, but his first thought was to call Craig to ask if he's eaten yet. He should move on but when he grabs his phone it's a picture of Craig looking at the stars with his face being lit up by the sudden flash of Tweeks phone camera. Craig has always been a substantial part of his life and to just drop it like that was going to be a challenge. Everything he thinks of doing is accompanied by the thought of doing it with Craig. Oh, this is going to be awful.   

*Sigh* i have to return this laptop soon, and give him his stuff back, and his gifts. Do i have to pay him back for all our dates. Fuck-i dont like this. I need to text him- I need to talk to him.  

Tweek abandons his work almost immediately and is adamant to just rot in bed today. He pulls on his hair while wriggling in the blankets. He feels so destroyed and he doesn't want to admit it, but he misses Craig so dearly. He knows, at least he's sure, it wasn't real. I mean yea we’ve held hand, and we hang out every day, and call and play games all the time, and sometimes sleep in the same bed when it's cold, and yea Craig hasn't stopped calling me pet names- BUT that was all- it was all for those stupid Asian girl and all those weirdoes in South Park that “ship” us.   

His depressed haze soon dismissed as he heard the front door rattle. His parents must have gotten home, and he looks like a mess. The last thing he wants right now is to argue with his parents again. He quickly pulls out his phone and goes to the camera to see what he looks like. Truly a mess, his hair still slightly wet, eyes puffy, nose red and lips busted from biting at the dry skin. He wants to get up and go freshen himself up, but he just can't, his whole body feels heavy. He is so sullen, he barely has the energy to do well anything. Screw homework, screw his parent, and especially screw that damn coffee. His wave of sadness is so heavy that he feels so tired- even after all the coffee his has consumed: he feels so weak. He chooses to just deal with his parents when they barge through the door. The day is already shit after all; how much worse can it get? He completely ignores the amount of time that has passed between when he first heard the door rattle, his mind is too pre-occupied. He just rolls in bed to face the wall and doesn't even bother to turn off the lights. 

A few seconds pass and the door still doesn't open- now he's freaking out. Was someone actually trying to break in. His parents would have been inside by now, unless they lost their key, but he doesn't hear the footsteps of either of his parent. Oh, this really is the worst day of my life. He tries to find the courage to go and investigate but he just can't. He is way to frightened and way too anxious for this. Why today of all days? Is this a bad omen. Maybe I should call him. Before he could even get up or fathom anything else he hears a strange sound. Three consecutive knocks on his window- ONLY CRAIG DOES THAT! HOLY SHIT IT IS A BAD OMEN - he whips his head to face the window while palming for his phone. 

“ACK-” 

Three consecutive knocks again. Tweek starts shaking- He is terrified. Is this my punishment, goddamn it I'm sorry Craig. I didn't want to break up I promise, I'm sorry. He starts spewing in his mind for anyone who will listen. A mind reader or a god he didn't care, he just had to admit his truths. Tweek prepared for another set of knocks, but he was distracted by... a voice.. Mumbling. It kinda sounds like Craig. He gains some courage hearing the familiar voice and gets closer to the window. The voice is more prominent yet still muffled, but Tweek ended up making sense of the incoherence. He’s heard this voice many a time, he knows every articulation and cadence to it. 

“ Tweek let me in...please. I need to talk to you. ”   

Holy shit. It is Craig.  

He pulls the curtains open as quick as humanly possible and is beholded a comical sight. His boyfriend- no his ex- boyfriend- No fuck that. His boyfriend, griping the frames of the window for dear life and his feet barely on the windowsill. Tweek lets out a shriek and immediately opens the window and claws at the other while dragging him in. Craig awkwardly thuds into his bed. He is exhausted and out of breath, fighting for air as Tweek admires. He climbed up to the window for me. HE CLIMBED UP TO THE WINDOW FOR ME.  

“ Holy shit are you okay? That was SO DANGEROUS. WHAT IF YOU FELL. ”  

Craig takes a deep inhale and puts a hand on Tweek’s shoulder to stay balanced of the uneven surface. He looks straight at Tweek and exhales to speak his mind. 

“I-I read your letter. I don't want to break up. Whatever it is I did wrong, tell me. I can *huff* compromise.” 

Craigs speaks breathlessly and Tweek looks back with a concerned look. Craig feels at ease even at their given situation- just looking at Tweek’s eyes again was enough to calm him down at this moment. 

“Craig I- Let me get you some water first.” 

. 

. 

. 

. 

Craig trudges back home from his talk with Clyde, Jimmy and Tolkien: strangely alone. He walks with his head low, not even bothering to check his phone or put on some music. He needs all the sanity he can get when it comes to what he's about to do after all. He makes it to his front door and dreads every moment afterwards. He feels a heavy burden on his shoulder, but he greets his family like normal. Flips the bird at them and nonchalantly walks to his room. He takes a deep breath and subconsciously pats himself on the back for keeping it together and walks to his desk to take a seat: His heart starts pounding like crazy and he is left there to zone out. A picture of him and Tweek on one of their dates catches his eye on his corkboard. Goddamn it Tweek. Craig whips out the letter from his pocket and rips it open. He sees the lined notebook paper folded into it and starts sweating. He unfolds the paper and prepares for the worst but once the paper is spayed infront of him he closes his eyes. 

Craig tucker takes a deep inhale and squints his eyes open. He begins reading the letter fighting the anguish he feels inside. The letter reads- 

[Dear Craig, 

We have been at this for a long time, and I think we need to move on. We’re only a few years away from going into the real world but that doesn't mean I didn't enjoy my time with you. You are so cool Craig, and you have been lovely to me time and time again despite my outbursts. Your reassurance and kind words have gotten me through so much and for that I can't thank you enough. But we need to part ways for reason other than that too. 

We can't keep the charade up forever. eventually this would have happened since you'd probably want to go do all the awesome stuff you want to without me holding you back. Youd probably want a girlfriend or something and have actual romance in your life. IDK like your first kiss and stuff. And I kind of want that stuff too. Even if you had another boyfriend, I wouldn't be mad. I mean why should I. Haha. 

This isn't the main reason I want to break up though. Please don't be mad. I know you won't ,but still. Over the years we’ve hung out, been on (fake?) dates, spend most of our days together. I've started developing actual feelings for you. I've fallen for you, for real. And I know you said this was all pretend so I'm sorry for ruining it like this. And if we continue this I'm scared ill only fall harder. I really like you, Craig. And you don't have to reciprocate my feelings I promise, I want you to be happy as you have made me happy. 

Ill return all your stuff soon and I'll come and say bye to stripe if you want IDKK. I'm just so sorry. 

Yours truly 

Sincerely,  

Tweek Tweak] 

What the fuck.  

Craigs mind starts rushing. Only Tweek could manage to write a breakup and a confession in one letter. Craig hurriedly gets up his chair crumbling the letter in his pocket and running out his room. He doesn't know what to do next, but he knows he has to see Tweek. Jimmys words echo is his brain. “Have a conversation: tell him your feelings.” He runs to the front door and fumbles with the knob in his haste. 

“Where are you going young man, you were already late today.” His mom yells from the living room 

“ I- Me, Jimmy, Clyde and Tolkien just went to KFC and worked on some school stuff. And I left my worksheet there. I'll be back soon I promise” 

Before his mother could retort he slams the door shut and starts running to Tweek’s house- It's not that far from his. The usual 20-minute walk turned into a 10-minute mad dash and Craig tried to brainstorm what he’d say to the other once he made it there. Unfortunately, it was overshadowed by his exhaustion and all he could fathom was just making it there. He gets some clarity as the cold breeze flows through his face, and he makes sure of himself to two truths. I Like Tweek- No, I love him and I DONT want to break up with him. I should have told him sooner. Shit I should have said something.  

Craig sees Tweeks house and slows down his pace to a jog once its visible, he hunches to catches his breath as he reaches the pavement of the structure. He lazily walks towards the door and rattles the knob- of course its locked its Tweek after all. He tries to peak through the glass, but the floral curtains block his view he doesn't want to knock or Tweek parents would start talking to him making it awkward for both of them, little does he know they aren't home and its just Tweek wallowing in sorrow . Spare Key! Key I need. *puff* The spare key. He knows that the Tweaks keep a spare in the rocks on the pathway. He takes one glace at the spread of marbled smooth stones and rocks in the gardening pit and decides against it. Fuck that. Craig looks up and sees the drainpipe, it's just past Tweek’s window. I can make that-. 

Without a second thought craig starts to climb the pipe and grips the panels and ledges around the area to stay balanced. He hasn't does this before:  Tweeks parents were way too supportive of their relationship. He’d usually just walk through the front door with no problems and no regard for the time of day, but it's different now. He makes it to the windows and is extremely thankful that it is turning dark because he looks ridiculous. Craig is crouched on the barely thick ledge of the windowsill with both his hands grabbing the corners of the window. He sees the closed sage green curtains through the windows and knows hes at the right room. He finds his balance once again and takes a hand off the corner to knock on the glass. Three consecutive knocks: Thats how he usually knocks on Tweek’s door. He is pleased to hear a startled yelp on the other end. Oh, how glad he is to hear the others voice again. 

A minuet or so passes and the window is still not open, so Craig knocks again. He figures Tweek must be scared at the sound, so he shakily offers some reassurance that it is him and not some burglar. 

“Tweek let me in! It's just me” 

Craig is excited to hear the shuffling inside and speaks again. 

“ Tweek let me in please. I need to talk to you!” 

He is over the moon to see the curtains swung open and the shocked face of Tweek as he messed with the latches of the windows from the inside. Once the glass was no more, he is happy to hear the loud shriek from the other and even more happy to feel Tweek’s jittery arms wrapped around his shoulder blades while pulling him in. Craig awkwardly plops on the bed and a rush of panic pumps through him as he realizes that he's actually here. 

Before Craig could fathom a sentence, he is instantly met with the concerned cries and questions of Tweek. It puts him at ease knowing that despite their circumstance it still felt like nothing has really changed. They were close to each other, making direct contact and conversation. Thank God Tweek didn't shut me down. Craig was still exhausted and sweaty though. The adrenaline from his dash over wore off, unfortunately, giving his body time to process the strain he put on it. He could only gasp and cling onto the other for balance as he waited for the discomfort to falter.  

He tries to steal a glance at Tweek but instead made unexpected direct eye contact with him instead. Tweek was already looking at him with a worried look on his face, a look that was even more heightened by the tear steaks on his face. In fact, Craig noticed the moment he saw Tweek through the glass- he had been crying. Tweeks eyes were puffy and even darker, his nose red and stuffy, and his hair slightly more knotted. All realizations Tweek had made prior. He regrets not fixing himself up a little in Craigs presence; even though Craig has already seen him at his worst. 

Seeing Tweek in this state gave Craig the much-needed motivation to sort this out. He grabs Tweek’s hand with both of his and began his spiel. 

“I-I read your letter. I don't want to break up Tweek. Whatever it is I did wrong, tell me. I can *huff* compromise.” 

“Craig I- Let me get you some water first.” 

“ NO- No its fine. I want to get this sorted first” 

“ Whats there to sort... I said- ACK- said everything I needed to in the letter.” 

“You did. But I want to hear it from you. You tell me everything. And I'll tell you everything. And I'll explain and we’ll compromise. Just talk to me.” 

Tweek is confused. Why is Craig trying so hard to continue this. In his mind this was all fake even though it felt so real.  Was the publicity that important to Craig or did he feel the same way. NO WAY, Craig wouldn't like me like that. I'm way too much for him to handle. T week really doubts Craig’s affection for him, so he decides to hear him out. Seriously why would Craig tucker of all people give a shit. I mean he did let me hold stripe. Ugh just don't freak out again Tweek.  

“Fine. But after I get you water” 

“Okay honey- I Mean. You know what I meant” 

Tweek leaves the room, and Craig is left alone in the familiar room. He lays on the bed and gathers his thoughts. He thinks about the letter and all the contents in it, but his mind is in a haze he could only remember few bits of it. Something about Craig getting a girlfriend. Ha that's funny, me with a girl- that would be annoying. Besides Tweek said he like liked me why would I get a girlfriend. A few seconds go by before his realization kicks in . HOLY SHIT HE LIKE LIKES ME. Craigs springs up the bed and starts heating up- The initial distress from the breaking up completely overshadowed Tweek’s confession to him causing him to forget. He was going to fight for their relationship regardless but now even more so.  

A voice echos in his head, one that isn't his- Mocking him- “He never actually told him-him". Damn Jimmy. But he was right, maybe if Craig had grown a pear and told Tweek earlier they wouldn't be in this situation, but Craig feared rejection more than he thought, so he never risked it. His wallow in self-pity was suddenly interrupted as Tweek walked in with a tall glass of water. And as he is handed the cool glass Craig took the opportunity to graze their hands together intentionally trying initiate any form of touch. Tweek doesn't back away or remove his hand in anyway, in fact Tweek was more than pleased by the gesture. Craig noticed Tweek had freshened up while getting him the refreshment. Stray droplets still dew on his face from splashing it with some water and his nose less red from presumably blowing his nose. Cute...  

Craig doesn't waste another second and chugs the drink like a man lost in the desert and sets the glass on the nightstand. Not letting another moment pass he quickly starts questioning. Tweek is startled by the directness, but he can't stall forever so he caves. 

“So why did you want to break up?” 

“I already told you!” 

“I know I just- want to hear it. I promise I’m going somewhere with this.” 

Tweek looks away while trying to format his answer. He lands on the most difficult one to bring up and the most important one he wants to clarify. Still looking away, He grips the bedsheet and feel his heart ache. THIS IS TOO MUCH PRESSURE. However, with the ridiculous stunt Craig had pulled Tweek swallowed his anxiety and followed along. 

“This all started as pretend and I just don't think I- or we can keep pretending like this. It feels so UGH THIS IS TOO MUCH.” 

“It's not pretend. I thought we stopped pretending a long time ago” 

“WHat?! Craig! I thought you were straight. RIght? ANd this whole thing started because of those wierdos. I Thought we were still... pretending” 

“I don't know what I am Tweek. I just know that I don't want to break up.” 

“But doesn't that mean you like me. Yknow- like that. AH” 

“I mean yea. Who said I didn't like you babe?” Craig grabs Tweek’s hand and holds it tight 

“ I- I really thought. This was all..” Tweek trails off unable to finish his thoughts. This was way too much information to process. He squeezes the others hand tighter and looks down in defeat. 

“Tweek, Hey. I know it started off as pretend, but that's not how I feel now. Every time we hung out after the Asian girl incident. I felt all nice and warm in my heart, I thought nothing of it, and it took me a while to realize that I like this. I like hanging out with you.” 

“Then, if that's all wouldn't it make more sense for us to stay like this? Just friends I gUess- ACK” 

“No, Ive- been wanting to be more than friends. I just assumed you didn't want to go any further, so I didn't push it.” 

Craig turns to look at the other and Tweek does the same but immediately looks the opposite direction. Craig doesn't know what to make of this and before his mind could make any connections Tweek lays his head on Craigs shoulders. Craig tenses up because he is still so confused but his tension subsided once Tweek started talking. 

“I did want to go further too. I really like holding your hand and hugging you and stuff. But a part of me still wants more. CHrIST- Like I want to cuddle and kiss and all that other cheesy stuff couples do” 

“And you never asked because you thought we werent dating?” 

“ YeaH- we never Talked about it. AND- and I was satisfied and happy with how we were- Even though it was fake- so I never complained. But now that were older, I just need more but I was afraid if I bought it up you'd be weirded out or leave and UGH IM sorry...” 

A tear rolls off Tweek’s cheek onto Craig’s shoulder soaking into his jacket and Craig, like usual, comforts him to the best of his ability's- though this time he also lets himself be vulnerable. 

“I’m not the best with words or emotions Tweek. And I'm also sorry for all of this. So can you- um look at me when I say this.” 

“Mhm.. ACK-“  Tweek wipes the wetness off his face and shakily looks at his dandelion-colored eyes. 

“This was never fake to me, at least not anymore.” He brings Tweek’s hands closer to his lips and gently kisses the band aided knuckles. He doesn't let go and with his ears flushing at his own actions he buries his face in Tweek’s pale hands. Oh my gosh I can’t believe I just said that. He probably thinks I’m so cringe-. Craig internal panic was halted as he felt Tweeks hands change positions. Craig felt the boney structure of the hands shift to the plush yet rugged texture of his palms. Craig squinted to catch a glimpse of Tweek’s expression, relived to be met with a blushed face and blueish green eyes looking at him dearly while his face was being cupped firmly. He places his own hands on top of Tweek’s and lets a small smile escape his otherwise stale face.  

Their eye contact is fierce but not uncomfortable and Craig somehow gains the courage to bump their foreheads together despite the tense conversation. He removes both their hands off of his face and intertwines their finger instead while bringing their arms down to rest. Tweek feels a wave of relief at the loving gesture and enjoys the quiet as Craig continued to air out his feelings. Tweek can't help but feel lucky knowing Craig was willing to do all this for them. I can't believe I tried to break up with him.  

“I never really thought too deep into this, and I avoided my feelings a lot, I can admit that now. So let me clear everything up, okay?” 

“ JESus- Craig you don't have to Its fine” 

“Honey, At least let me apologize.” 

“Fine. Finee!”  Tweek is beyond flustered: seeing Craig show this much emotion is just so uncanny.  

“Im sorry for making you cry babe, and I really don't want to break up, I promise. I like you a lot like- like you and I'm sorry I never really talked to you about it, about our relationship. I'll do better.” 

“AUGH THIS IS TOO MUCH PRESSURE” Tweek lets go of Craigs hand and plasters his own in his hair. 

“Calm down babe it's okay” 

“YOU DONT HAVE TO DO ANYTHING YOURE ALREDY PERFECT- SO- so THATS why i regret everything. I regret writing that stupid letter and I regret giving it to you and I regret not telling you my feeling sooner and I regret making you upset and worried like this AHHH-” Tweek pulls his hair and tucks his knees in to muffle his frustration with himself. 

“There there honey, let it all out. I'm here now.” and Craig just pats him on the back glad to be of reassurance and even more glad to hear Tweek gush about him with his own ears 

Tweek unravels himself and whips his head at the other. Craig is a little taken aback by this but trusts Tweek’s intuitions. The blonde grabs his face without warning and gets extremely close. Unsure of what will happen next, Craig starts burning up. HOly shit is he going to do it. Before Craigs imagination could go wild, Tweek softens his grip and drops his hand to Craig’s shoulders to then slithering them around his neck. AHH I shouldn't kiss him its WAYY too soon. Craig is confused but satisfied and wraps his own arms around Tweek- resting on his shoulder blades. 

“Craig... I'm really sorry about all this.” 

“it's okay babe. It was just a misunderstanding.” 

“more like a lack of understanding.” 

“Heh. Yea" 

Tweek nestles into Craig as Craig does the same to Tweek. They hold each other tight but it feels way more sincere. It's weird but...normal. 

“Sooo Tweek.” 

“ACk- YEs” 

“Are you free. Saturday.” 

“Uh yea. I'm not working that day I don't think.” 

“Great." 

“Whyyy do you ask? 

“DO YOU- *ahem* do you want to go on a date. With me. Like an actual date. Because. we’re dating now.”  

“AUGH CRaig” Tweek pulls away from their hug after the sudden ask. 

“YES” 

“WHY ALL OF A SUDDEN” 

“ I DONT KNOW... I just- want to take you on a proper date.” 

Craig looks at the other and is thoroughly embarrassed by his own sudden declaration. And Tweek can't help but chuckle at his adorable misery. 

“We dont have to go on a proper date dude. You can just come over and we can play video games and we can order something to eat afterwards and you can sleep over. IF YOU WANT TO. Of course. I mean I wouldn't mind a proper date. I'm just happy to spend time with you.” 

“That sounds great honey. I'd love that. with you. My boyfriend” Craig teased to try and get some dignity back. He looks at Tweek for some sort of reaction-a laugh or a bashful expression- but he is instead greeted by a surprisingly bright smile. 

“Ugh ACK my boyfriend is an asshole…” Tweek quickly intertwined their fingers again and can’t help but smile at Craig’s attempt to save face. 

Craig’s eyes widen hearing Tweek so sincerely refer to him as boyfriend and just then he realizes how love struck he really was. As happy as he was, he was also equally mad at the 5 years they “wasted” without moments like this. He zonesd out while looking into Tweek’s eyes thinking about all the other couply moments they could have that he didn’t even notice the erratic hand waving in his face.  

“Earth to spaceman Craig? AH-“ 

Craig slithered his hands around Tweeks torso just because and it startles Tweek. 

“You should call me that more often.” 

“…Space man Craig?” 

“No no what you said earlier” 

“Asshole?” 

“Ha-no. Boyfriend.” 

“Hehe CHRIST- I plan too don’t worry.” 

Craig keeps his steady hold on the other but feels his eyes get heavy. He nuzzles into Tweek and is met with an unexpected question 

“Do you-AUGH. Want to sleep over… tonight.” 

“Whyyy? So we can cuddleee?” 

“UGH NEVERMIND” 

Tweek looks away with visible pink on his cheeks. Craig notices and tries to grapple the hands away to catch a glimpse of the full picture. Tweek tries to fight Craigs grip, but it only tightens the more he tries to escape. It leads to Craig wrestling him down to the bed. They are face to face and before Tweek could protest, Craig pulls him in and wraps his arms around. One arm resting around his nape and the other engulfed in his hair. Tweek hugs back, sliding his hands under Craig and relaxing into his embrace. 

“I can't tonight. I rushed over after I read your letter-” 
“GAH REALLY? Youre parents must be so worried.” 

“Yea I should probably go...” 

Tweek tightens his grip not wanting Craig to leave, yet he feels a pool of guilt stirring in his stomach knowing this whole thing was his fault. Without a second thought he let his mind spill. 

“UGH I'm sorry for all this mess. It's my fault and ACK. I don't know. I'm just upset. I never wanted to break up with you ever craig- SHit dude I feel so-” 

“Tweek. it's okay honey. Calm down. Besides, if you didn't give me that letter, I wouldn't have ran to your house and we wouldn't have had this conversation and then we’d both be miserable.” 

“Haha Yeah.” 

“I mean it Tweek. Now, It's all sorted and we’re still together and actually dating and stuff.” 

“YEAH- I mean. Yeah" 

Tweek lets go and plops down next to him and in unison They both turn their heads to face each other, sparks fly as Craig cupped Tweek’s cheek and gently caresses it with his thumb. 

“it sucks you can't stay the night.” 

“I know babe. I know. I would like to aswell”  

Tweek glances at the clock by his bedside table and grabs the others hand motioning them up to where they are sat on the bed. And regrettably, Tweek mentions to Craig that he has to go home. The last thing he wants is for Craigs parents to be mad at him- what if they never let him come over again GAH.  

“it's getting dark. You should probably go home- I don't want you parent getting mad at you” 

“M’kay honey” Craig rubs his eyes to try and delay his tiredness. 

“ILL- Uh walk you out.” 

Tweek motions for Craigs hand and Craig obliges, reaching for it slowly. Tweek leads him out of his room and to the front door as they are now hand in hand. Despite the gesture, the silence surrounding it is uncomfortable and Craigs knows something is off. 

“You okay babe?” 

“Yea Im just kinds bummed you can't stay the night” 

“You'll see me tomorrow” 

“Yea but still” Tweek pouts and it is barely visible to craig since they are both facing forward, but Craig knows as he sees the change on facial structure and internally squeals 

Soooo cuteee. Craig tucker felt like he just got hit by a truck. The way his legs started feeling wobbly and the twists his stomach did upon hearing Tweek would miss him. He doesn't want this day to end. 

“Want me to fall asleep on the phone with you tonight. I know it helps you.” 

“YES BUT, you don't have to” 

“it's okay Tweek. I would like to.” 

“UGH OKAy!” 

Tweek opens the front door and looks back to see Craig smile at him. Its barely even a smile but to Craigs standards it's one of the biggest smiles Tweek as ever gotten from him. Tweek gets flustered and hurriedly leads them out into the cold air to hide his flushed face. they stand right outside the archway and before Craig departs, he can't help but reassure the blonde once more. 

“Tweek, im sorry for all the misunderstandings and for making you sad” 

“ Its okay! Really! I'm just glad you decided to come talk to me and ACK. Not follow through with it. Plus, it was my fault too-” 

Craig let out an affirmative hum and let his mind go on autopilot. He held Tweek’s jaw and lightly pecked the other eyelid with a light kiss. Craig froze and realized the extent of his actions and hurriedly tried to apologize before Tweek could freak out but he is abruptly stopped by a similar gesture. Tweek placed his hand on the others cheek and smooched it equally as gently. Once Tweek pulls away they make eye contact and can't help but smile and chuckle at their pathetic displays of affection for the first time. Craig moved to intertwine their finger again and bumped their foreheads together once more. 

“I'll see you tomorrow honey. I'll call you when I get home.” 

“ Heha- okay man. See you tomorrow, Craig” 

Craig lets go and begins walking away yet when he looks back to wave at Tweek he stares as he flashes a bright smile at him. Craig heats up so fast the cold around him feels like steam. He trudges back and hugs Tweek so fast the guy had no time to react. 

“Youre so cute. How can I possibly leave?” 

“GAH CRAIG- OH just go- the last thing I was is for my boyfriends’ parents to come after me” 

Craig lets out a small laugh into the others shoulder while Tweek clawed at him to pull him away. They both giggle at each other as Craig lets go and turns to leave for real this time. Tweek waves to signal a goodbye and as the other reached the street he projected his voice for Craig to hear him, getting louder the further away he got.  

“See you tomorrow Craig. Walk home safe! Text me!” 

“I will honey. See you later” Craig cupped his hands around his mouth to reciprocated  

Once he saw Tweek go back into the house he turned around completely and walked home gushing like an idiot as he hid his visible flushed face in his chullo.  Tweek on the other hand, once in the warmth of his house, shut the door, and slid to the floor with hands covering his face while emanating a silent scream. They both have the same thought as they relished in their highs. 

Criag puts his hands in his pockets to harbor some warmth while making his way home and feels the letter still crumbled up in his jacket. He glances at it and opens it again to skim the messily written cursive he eventually learned to read while helping Tweek with his homework and sighs. He rips it up and tosses it in the nearby trash can and pulls his phone out. He is glad to see three new messages from Tweek.  Just like normal.  

Tweekers<3: AHHHH it's so cold outside I should have lent you a jacket! 

Tweekers<3: Please don't freeze into an ice cube :( 

Tweekers<3: Also! We need to plan our date on Saturday! 

Despite Tweek’s worries, Craig doesn't feel cold- his chest and face emanate warmth thanks to Tweek Tweak. He texts back and hastens his pace in order to get home quicker. I can't wait to call that dork.  

Tweek gets the pings on his phone almost immediately after he texted and he smiles into his pillow knowing their back to normal again. He reads the messages and smiles so wide his cheeks start to hurt. 

Honeypie(Craig): I won't freeze babe. I'm actually very warm thanks to you<3 

Honeypie(Craig): Plus, we still have our date to plan. It would be rude if I froze. 
Honeypie(Craig): I'm almost home so I'll call you soon, Okay? 

You: Okay! :) 

Tweek just kept smiling at his phone and before replying looked at the celling and gushed in his head about how lucky he was. He texted back an affirmative “okay!” and hugged the previously tear-soaked pillow in exhilaration.  

He starts daydreaming about the other and finally understands Craig’s catchphrase now. He is soo happy. 

A few minutes go by and Tweek is still huddled up into his pillow's-ecstatic- and finally, finally he hears the ringing of his phone with the words “Honeypie( Craig)” on the call screen. Before another second could pass he answers the call and hears the nasally voice he yearned for. 

“ Hey Honey~” 

“Hehe Hey Craig”