Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

What does it mean to be a friend? Does it mean helping your friend move furniture up three flights of stairs? Does it mean hyping them up when they’re about to hit on the hottest person in the club that’s way out of their league? Does it mean eating their food and making weird noises when they’re on the phone? Or does it mean bursting into their room late at night asking them for the weirdest favor known to man? These are the questions Caelus asks himself as repeats the phrase he just heard. 

“You want me to go on a date with you to get practice?” 

His words were directed to said friend who was currently in his room, the bubbly pink haired girl March 7th. The two were currently as just a few moments ago she walked in uninvited. 

“Ugh Yes! How many times do I have to say it?” Said the pink haired girl as she placed her hands on her hips and cocked a look at him. Caelus was sitting besides his bed playing a mobile game, or trying to at least. March 7th came in with this request and it completely threw him off his game. 

“Why?” Was all he could ask as Caelus’s brain was still trying to process these weird turn of events. 

“Because, I have no one else to ask. Sunday won’t stop talking about this sister, and Welt feels more like a dad you know.” March walked up to him and bent forward just a bit. “Look, I’m going to ask Dan Heng out on a date and this is really important to me…”

She suddenly looked very bashful and her cheeks turned slightly red.

“I’m sure he doesn’t want to date someone with no experience…” 

Caelus nodded along, still very much confused by all this and not noticing that he was getting alerts on his phone. 

“So that’s where you come in!” She stuck a pose and pointed her finger right at the grey haired man. “You're obviously single.”

“Ouch.” Said the grey haired man. 

“And you don’t have any plans tomorrow! So come with me to the art museum, there’s plenty of places to take pictures there. Plus it will give me the experience I need when I ask Dan Heng out.” She pulled out her trusty blue camera and flashed a bright smile at Caelus. 

The grey haired man could only say one thing.

“You’re asking Dan Heng on a date? Damn…I owe Stelle 20 dollars.” 

March shot him a glare and was about to retort back when suddenly Caelus’s phone started ringing like crazy. 

“Who's calling you at this hour?” She asked as the pink haired girl leaned closer to get a peak.

“Oh man…” Caelus grimaced as he answered the phone. “Hey Silver Wolf…” 

“Hey, Dumbass, do you know what it means to do a raid.” An angry female voice rang from Caelus’s phone. “I thought I specifically told you to-”

Click

Before the young man could say anything back, March had reached over and ended the call as well as taken his phone out of his hand. She stared at the blank screen as the expression on her face was the pure definition of annoyance. 

“March! Are you trying to get me killed?” Asked Caelus in panic as he clutched his head.

“Oh please, you shouldn’t be hanging around Silver Wolf anyways.” There was a small amount of venom in her words. 

March then placed his phone on his desk. She then walked back to Caelus and sat just a few inches away from him. “Now come on, promise me you’ll go on that practice date with me tomorrow! A cute girl like me needs to be ready for her future real date!” She said as made a puppy dog expression that made her look even more cute!

Caelus however stood strong and wasn’t swayed by her cuteness beam. He’s fallen for that before one too many times.

“What will Stelle think when she finds out you went on a date with her brother?” 

March shot him a glare.

“Ugh, nothing. Your sister knows I’ve been planning to ask Dan Heng out and she’s even given me some tips. She’s the one who suggested I go on a practice date with you!” She leaned closer and closer, her face getting unnecessarily close to Caelus' face. “So, please help me.” 

Finally, the young man relented. 

“Ok, you win. I’ll go on this practice date with you.”

“Yes!” She rose from his bed and did a little dance. “Thanks Caelus, meet me at the art museum okay! Tomorrow at 6pm and don’t be late!” She skipped out of his room and didn’t even bother to close his door. 

Caelus sighed and rose from his bed, going to close the door before anyone else decided to come in uninvited. He then walked to his desk and looked at his phone, seeing several missed calls from Silver Wolf. Yikes…

“Yup she’s pissed, I’ll wait to she cools down and call her tomorrow.” With it being so late and bed time just a snore away, Caelus will wait for tomorrow to deal with any unforeseen consequences from his gamer friend. 

Caelus, true to his promise, met March at the agreed location and even arrived five minutes early! He was truly proud of himself, and even made sure to rub it in March’s face when she arrived. Bet she was expecting for him to do all that just for a practice-

“Oh good, you’re here.”

Huh? 

Caelus’s dreams came to an end when he saw March had arrived before him as she was already waiting right in front of the museum. Dressed in a nice pink and blue outfit, huh now that Caelus thought about it he doesn’t recall seeing her ever wear something like this. 

“Well…” She twirled around and smiled at him, most likely waiting for a compliment to come her way. 

“Wouldn’t it be better to wear this for your actual date?” 

Caelus’s words shot down any chance of that happening.

“Ugh you’re hopeless. I’m wearing this outfit now to break it in, girls do that too you know!” Said March as she punched his arm. “And your outfit…you always wear this…you didn’t think to wear something more special?” 

The poor grey haired man looked apologetic as well as confused. 

“But it’s a practice date and so I didn’t…”

March sighed and grabbed his arm, wrapping it around her arm.

“Fine, my fault I guess for not making things clearer. Anyways, let's go inside, I have everything planned out for our date!” 

And planned out she did, as the day went on March dragged Caelus throughout the museum. Taking him to any and every little thing she found interesting and making sure that they took a photo together. Some photos were serious, some were silly and some were just selfies. Throughout the whole time, March’s arms were interlocked with Caelus and rarely did she leave his side. The young man didn’t mind though, she most likely needed to get comfortable locking hands with Dan Heng and was using him to get that practice in. 

The grey haired man nodded as he connected the dots.

“Honestly, I’m so smart.” 

“What are you mumbling now, Caelus?” Said March as she saw her companion nodding to himself while speaking quietly. “Anyways, wait her I need to go to the restroom okay?” 

Finally unlocking his arms and walking away gave Caelus a moment to himself. He walked to a random piece of art, crossed his arms, nodded his head and walked away. Surely that will give the people around him the impression that he is truly a sophisticated man with a taste for the fine arts. But before he continued his little escapade the young man felt his phone ring. Taking his smart phone out of his pocket, Caelus could see a message from a familiar friend.

Firefly: Hey Caelus :) Silver wolf told me she was really angry with you. What did you do?

Caelus winced, he hadn’t called Silver Wolf back yet. He made a mental note to do that before the day ended.

Caelus: Sorry, I was talking with March during a raid and got distracted and ended up messing up the raid. I’ll apologize to her later.

Firefly: You were talking to March? But Silver Wolf said this happened late at night. 

Caelus: Yeah, March was in my room at that time. She was asking for a favor.

Firefly: Oh I see, what were you talking about?

Caelus: March wanted to do a practice date here at the museum. We're both here right now and just walking around. 

Firefly: A practice date? With just you and March?

Caelus: Yup. It’s a long story but I’m with her right now.

Firefly: Why?

Caelus: Why what?

Firefly: Why are you on a date with her? Why didn’t you tell me? I like museums too.

Caelus: It’s just a practice date, she’s planning to ask someone out and heeded help. And why do you sound mad?

Firefly: I’m not mad. 

Firefly: …

Firefly: Caelus, can I come and join you? 

Firefly: I don’t have any plans today.

Firefly: Would that be okay?

Firefly: I love museums too. I’ll be there in just a few minutes.

Firefly: Where can we meet? Just tell me where and I'll be there.

Firefly: …

Firefly: Caelus, why aren’t you responding back?

Firefly: Caelus? 

Caelus: He’s busy, stop texting him. 

“Hey, March!” 

Again, March had come and taken away Caelus' phone just like last night. This time she responded to one of his texts. The grey haired man snatched his phone back and shot March a small glare, only to be met with her annoyed expression. 

“Not. Cool.” He said.

“I agree.” She responded back. 

“You can’t just take my phone like that and respond back.” 

“What kind of guy focuses on another girl while his date is right in front of him?” 

“It’s a practice date!” 

March didn’t say anything after that, instead she turned around and pointed her back towards Caelus.

“...sniff.”

Oh no…Caelus recognized that sound. 

“No…Don’t do this to me…” Said Caelus as he recognized that sound. March turned around and the sound of sniffing could be heard as her head hung low. 

“I just…I just wanted to get some practice before the big day. I’m really nervous and doing this with you is putting my heart at ease. I didn’t think it was too much to ask that you just help me out with this…sniff.”

She’s crying, she’s actually crying. Caelus turned around and could see people giving him a stare so cold it puts Belobog’s winters to shame. Even worse was how the young man felt, making his dear friend cry like this. Forget the cold stares, if Stelle or Dan Heng learn about this they will absolutely kill him. 

“March, wait, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to make you cry just…it's just you can’t do that. It’s not cool…” He tried to coddle her and ease the tears.

“Sniff You’re right, I overreacted and I’m sorry. But can you promise that for today you’ll keep your focus on me?” Said March as her back continued to face Caelus.

The man in question smiled, happy that he got an apology. 

“Yes and thanks for the apology.” Caelus put his phone on do not disturb, he could see a few more messages coming from Firefly. He winced, knowing now he had to make things up with both Silver Wolf and Firefly. Putting his phone away, Caelus waved his hand at March. “Done! Now…I believe we have a ‘date’ to finish?” 

March’s tears went away and immediately her bubbly cute girl persona came back. 

“Yeah! Come on, we have a lot more places to visit!” She grabbed his hand and lead her further and further throughout the museum. 

The sun was beginning to set, Caelus and March walked down the steps that took them out of the Museum and back outside to the public. The grey haired man gave a big stretch along with a yawn, his body tired from all the physical activity they did. 

“Oh man, that restaurant we went to was delicious. I’m so happy we got to go there and try out the food. Now I know it’s good to go there next time.” 

Caelus nodded to March’s words, patting his now full stomach over the delicious food they had. He then looked to the sky and could see the sun begging to set, their practice date had now come to an end. 

“So how do you feel? Do you think you’re ready to ask Dan Heng out?” He asked his pink haired friend. 

“Huh? Oh…right that…um I think so but I think I need practice with one more thing…” March’s cheeks turned red as she looked away. Her actions drew Caelus’s curiosity.

“Oh? What is it?”

“Not here…” She said quietly. “Can we go back to your place?” 

“My place?” Now Caelus was confused. “But my place is super far and now that I think about it, I haven’t cleaned my room. You kind of barged in there last night and saw the mess.” 

“It’s okay! I don’t mind the mess. My room isn’t that great either.” She grabbed his hand and began leading Caelus towards his home. “Lets go! Hurry up.”

“I’m coming, I’m coming.” The grey haired man could only wonder what last thing his pink haired friend needed to practice and why it needed to be done in his home.

The two reached Caelus’s home, after unlocking the door and going inside the young man called out to see if his sister was home.

“Yo, Stelle. You here? Hello!” 

No response. 

“Guess Stelle must be hanging out with her friends.” Caelus turned to see March outside, waiting to be invited in. “What are you doing?” 

“Waiting to be invited in! It’s proper manners.” She said with a huff.

“I don’t remember these manners when you barged into my room last night…”

Her cheeks turned red, she entered Caelus's home and smacked his shoulder.

“That was a spur of the moment all right, jeez…” She looked around and indeed the home was empty. Leaving only her and Caelus with no one else.

“All right, so what more do you need practice with?” 

The young man got straight to the point as he took a seat on the couch. He gestured for March to sit on the opposite side of the couch, leaving them ample space in between. The pink haired girl looked away and grabbed her arm. 

“Um actually, can we talk about it in your room?” 

“My room?” Now Caelus was starting to get a bit worried, especially with the way March was acting. “Sure…Do you remember how to get to my room?” 

“Of course, duh!” She said with a cheeky smile, running to his room leaving Caelus alone on the couch. 

“Hey wait! Don’t just go in there!” He rose from the couch and made his way to his room only to see March was already inside, checking underneath his bed. “What are you doing?” he asked Caelus as pulled March away from the bottom of his bed.

“Checking to see if you have any porn magazines, all guys have them under their beds. And Stelle told me you had a stash.” 

Caelus made a squawked sound as his cheeks turned slightly red and his mouth was agape. 

“I-Don’t listen to that monster! She’s the type of girl that eats that last pudding in the fridge and blames me!” Cried out Caelus as he tried to defend himself. 

“So you don’t have any porn mags in your room?” March gave him a suspicious look as her eyes narrowed on him. His mouth went silent and he looked at the floor, unable to meet March’s gaze, which told the pink haired girl all she needed to know. “Whatever.” Weird, that had a lot of venom in it. “You’re a guy so I get it, anyways come here and sit!” March returned to her regular tone and sat on Caelus’s bed and patted for him to sit next to her. 

The young man gave a sigh of relief, glad that they had moved on from that topic. He joined March on the bed. 

“Ok, so what’s the last thing you need help with?” Caelus was truly curious as to what else March needed help with that required them to be in his room instead of anywhere else.

“A kiss, I want to practice kissing.” 

…What?

“What?” Caelus scooted back but all that did was make March get closer to him to the point that their legs were touching. “March that’s not funny, don’t joke about that.” 

“I’m not joking.” Indeed she isn’t, Caelus knew March for some time and looking at her expression she was indeed dead serious about this. “I don’t want my first kiss with Dan Heng to go wrong and I’ve never kissed anybody before so practice with me.” 

She grabbed his shoulders and-damn! That was a strong grip, Caelus couldn’t even break out of it. Where did this strength come from? 

“First kisses are special, you need to have them with the person you care about!” Argued Caelus, but it felt like he was arguing with a brick wall. “When you and Dan Heng kiss, you’ll be able to practice together!” 

“Dan Heng has plenty of practice, you don’t so it’s easier.” She said rudely.

“Hey! I’ve kissed before and I’ll have you-”

“No you haven’t.”

She cut him off, her voice cold all of sudden. Again, her tone had some venom to them and it made Caelus all the more nervous. Where did this come from? Is this really March? The same cute bubbly girl who took photos all day and slept on the job? As Caelus and March’s eyes met, the young man could see that she truly wasn’t backing down. She really wanted to do this!

“March…I…I don’t think this is right for us to kiss. We’re friends and…”

“Stop.” Her gaze was sharp, her nails digging into his shoulder. Not painfully, but just enough to tell Caelus that his pink haired friend was losing her patience. “Just think like you're acting out a play, okay? Like actors do in movies.” 

Caelus looked unsure…but…if that’s what it took to get out of this situation and if it would get March back to normal and stop acting like this…then he’ll do it. 

“...Okay.” Caelus’s tone was weak but those words caused March to break out in just a small smile. 

“Good. Now put your hands on my hips…” She said softly and Caelus did as instructed. Placing his strong hands on her waist, he closed his eyes as the two slowly moved closer and closer. Caelus looked unsure while March’s expression was unreadable until finally their lips met.

Soft. Is what Caelus thought as he had his first kiss with March, it was awkward and he didn’t know what to do. He expected March to be the same, Caelus opened his eyes to see what expression she was making and what he saw surprised him. Her eyes were closed and she looked to be in pure bliss, but why? Why would she be making that expression, this is just a practice kiss.

Caelus soon broke the kiss.

“T-There now can we just-” 

The grey haired man didn’t get to finish his sentence as March wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him. This time the kiss was much deeper and passionate as she tackled him down so that he was laying on his bed. March positioned herself so that she was straddling Caelus and keeping him pinned between her legs. Caelus was surprised and tired to open his mouth to protest, but all that did was give March an opportunity to slip her tongue inside his mouth. The young man was now torn, this felt like it was too much for practice but he was still a young healthy male. Feeling March kiss him like this felt enjoyable, and a part of his brain told him to just enjoy it.

That feeling soon went away when he felt March slip her hand underneath his shirt.

This time, using all his strength, Caelus pulled March away from him. She still gripped his shoulders but now she wasn’t as close. 

“March! We need to stop! I think-I think you’ve gotten enough practice.” Caelus said as he was panting and gasping for air. “Look, you seem to know how to kiss and so when you and Dan Heng do it I’m sure it will-” 

“Are you stupid?”

Again, there was that cold venomous tone. One that made it hard to believe he was speaking with March, the same March that he’s known for years as a bubbly friendly girl. As she softly glared at him, Caelus began to sweat as he saw March’s eyes turn red…

How in the…what’s going on…

Unfortunately, the poor young man would get no answers as March(?) got closer to his ear and whispered these next words. 

“Do you really think a girl would do all this with a guy she wasn’t in love with?” 

“Wh-What?” Caelus gulped. His tone was a nervous wreck, something was wrong. March’s eyes were never red, she never sounded like this, never acted like this. It was like it was a completely different person. “In love? But I thought you were going to ask out Dan Heng.” 

She laughed, Caelus hated that laugh immediately and he hated what it made him feel.

“Hmmm…well that was just a lie. I needed you to go on a date with me but if we just asked you straight out you’d say no.” 

“We?” 

March(?) ignored his question and continued talking.

“So I came up with this plan to lure you out on a practice date. March was hesitant at first but after I explained everything to her she was more than happy to do her part.” 

“I don’t understand, March, why are you referring to yourself in third person?” 

“Oh…Sorry about that.” March(?) said as she started removing her shirt. “This might be a bit weird but it’ll make sense later. For now, just call me Evernight.” 

Caelus, still unfortunately confused, reached up and grabbed Evernight’s hands. 

“S-Stop, I don’t know what’s going on with you March but we need to stop!” The poor man was confused and a little scared. His friend was acting weird, she lied to him all so that they could be alone in his room with no one here. She just confessed her love to him and now wanted to make love!?

 “March please can we just talk first and then-”

“NO.” Again, with strength that seemed abnormal, Evernight grabbed Caelus arms and completely overpowered him. “I’m not waiting, I’m done waiting. March and I have been waiting ever since we fell in love with you. Firefly, Silver Wolf, Robin, Kafka, Topaz, Castorice, Cyrene. Even your own sister, Stelle. All of them are after you and the only reason why you haven’t noticed anything is because you’re too clueles.” Said Evernight with a slow whisper as she nibbled on Caelus’s neck.

“But I’m done waiting, and so is March. We’re getting what belongs to us…” Evernight started rocking her hips. “Besides…I feel something poking me.” 

Evernight looked to Caelus, who could only blush in shame. 

“It’s a perfectly natural response…”

“Ahhh…if you say so.” She let go of his wrists and slowly started kissing his neck. Caelus covered his mouth to hide a moan. “Don’t hide it, moan for me. I want to hear it.” Slowly her arms began to move up and underneath his shirt, Evernight grew even more excited as she felt his firm muscles. 

“Don’t worry…just let me take the lead.” Those were the last words Evernight said, before she completely removed both of their clothes and began to explore Caelus’s body. 

Night had come and the two had finished their little session, Caelus was currently asleep. His neck and back were covered in scratches and bites. Besides him lied Evernight, who was currently browsing through Caelus’s phone. She’s seen him enter his passcode so many times when he wasn’t looking, so it didn’t take long for her to get his phone and break in. She understood this was an invasion of privacy but it was for good reason. 

“Repugnant, these shameless women. Messaging and bothering my Caelus.” Evernight said these words internally, looking at how many messages he’s received today from other woman. Especially Firefly…

16 messages and 5 missed calls. Honestly, the woman couldn’t be anymore desperate, she probably went to the museum looking for Caelus. Speaking of which…

Evernight looked to her sleeping lover as her smile grew wide and wicked.

She placed Caelus’s phone down and grabbed her phone instead. Snuggling up to Caelus, she undid the sheets just enough so that it was clear for anyone watching just what had happened between the two. Then rising her camera and giving a great big smile, Evernight took of photo of her and Caelus together.

“Here you go Firefly…I’m sure you’ll enjoy this.” 

With that, she placed her phone away and nuzzled next to Caelus as sleep overtook her.

A young woman stared at her phone, her eyes blank and devoid of any life. She looked at the photo, a photo of the man she loved. The man who belonged to her in bed with a shameless tramp. She gripped the phone with such strength that it shattered completely in her hand. So angry was she that as she looked in the mirror, she could see blood falling from her lip as she was biting it with too much force. 

“It’s fine, I’ll be there Caelus. I’ll save you. You belong to me, we’re perfect for each other. I just need to show you.” 

Chapter Text

Deep inside the home of Caelus lies the grey-haired man, still fast asleep from last night's encounter. To his side lay March 7th, who had blank eyes and a smile on her face as she stared at the face of her new and permanent lover. Finding pleasure in just seeing his chest rise and fall at a steady pace.

"I told you it would work."

This voice came, not from inside the room, but from March's mind as it was Evernight speaking to her.

"You're right. Thank you." March 7th said warmly as she calmly stroked Caelus's head, relishing the feeling of his hair between her fingers. "I don't think I could have ever thought up something like this. Thanks to you, he's finally ours."

"He's finally yours you mean."

"No, you love him too Evernight. I know you do."

"I do love him, but I love you more March."

March gave a soft hum at that, Evernight has always been a part of her life. Like an older sister who would do anything to see their little sister happy.

"I only wish you didn't swap out when it was time to make love. You should have been the one to do the deed, not me."

Evernight's words caused March to blush.

"I-I was nervous okay! Besides, I still felt everything! You were just in the driver's seat." Argued March.

Evernight gave a soft laugh, March could tell that she was finding enjoyment over this teasing.

"March…Regarding the photo I sent to Firefly."

March paused, her body froze as she remembered Evernight doing just that. Taking a photo of her and Caelus in bed and sending it to Firefly. Soon, a 'smile' broke out on the pink haired girl's face. A smile so wicked that it was a good thing Caelus was asleep, because if he saw the smile that March had on her face at this moment, he would have runned.

"I loved it, someone needy to put that clingy bitch in her place." Words so rude and crude, yet it came out as natural for the bubbly pink haired girl. Whose love and obsession towards the grey haired man trumped everything.

Evernight gave a soft laugh.

"I knew it. Well, I'm going to sleep. Call me if you need me…"

March bid her older 'sister' a mental goodbye. For just a few more moments it was just her, staring at Caelus. She wondered what he was dreaming, was it about her? About their first time together? Would he be up to do it again?

March didn't have to wait much longer, for her lover was now awake.

Caelus stirred and slowly opened his eyes, and the first thing he saw was March who was wide awake and bore a huge smile on her face.

"Good morning, sleepy head. Have a good night's sleep?"

Caelus, for a brief moment, wondered why she was in his bed but then it all came back to him. The date, the museum, the kissing, the…the love making…

"March…you're eyes. They're back to normal."

She giggled at his words, finding his confused expression adorable.

"Yeah, Evernight went to sleep. She's a bit sore, you didn't hold back you know!" Said the pink haired girl as she poked his nose.

Caelus wished he could share in the amusement that his friend seems to be having, however he was still very much confused. He sat up, the blanket was covering his lower body but exposing everything above his waist.

"March I-"

"Shhhhh…" March wrapped her arms around his neck and brought her lips just inches away from Caelus's lips. Her bare chest pressed against his, the woman showed no embarrassment at that face that she was still nude. "I know you have questions, and I'm going to answer them…but first give your lover a morning kiss."

Caelus gulped upon hearing the word lovers. March wasn't wrong, after all they did last night the word lovers would be an appropriate term. Still…calling March that felt weird to him, Caelus hoped that by her answering his questions he could find some understanding.

"March…I don't think we should-"

Her eyes became serious as her arms tightened around his neck.

"Why? You've already done so much more…or do I need to remind my lover who it was that gave me all these bites?" Her tone became slightly more pressed, showing that she didn't appreciate being denied a kiss from Caelus. She titled her neck to the left, showing off all the hickey that Caelus left on March. The grey haired man blushed and averted his eyes.

"No, don't look away, I'm not mad." Said the pink haired girl as gently grabbed his chin and tilted Caelus's head so that he was facing her. "I'm glad you did this, it shows everyone that I belong to you…" She moved closer, the bubbly girl using her seductive skills to the fullest. "Now…about that kiss…"

Caelus, deciding that he would make no progress arguing, relented and gave in to March's desires. Planting a soft kiss on her lips, she moaned at the kiss and wrapped her arms even tighter bringing them closer. Her tongue brushed against his lips, asking for entrance into his mouth. The grey haired man kept his lips closed and opened his eyes, ready to give March a stare for trying to do something like that.

As Caelus opened his eyes, he saw March was already staring right at him with a blank expression. She didn't need to say anything, that expression already said enough.

Don't deny me.

Caelus opened his mouth and immediately March slipped her tongue in and began exploring his mouth like a cave. Finally the kiss ended, but only because they both needed air.

"Gasp…March, you know we need air right?" he sarcastically said.

"Oh give me a break." She stuck his tongue out on him. "Besides…" Hey eyes trailed down to the 'tent' that was pitched right between his legs. "Something tells me you enjoyed it."

Caelus blushed but met her stare head on.

"It's a perfectly natural response, I'm telling you."

"Oh? That's what you said last night…" March's hand slowly moved down underneath the sheets, but was stopped by Caelus. Whose grip and firm stare told the pink haired girl that she wasn't going farther than this.

"Nu uh, you have some questions to answer."

March sighed in frustration.

"Fine…dummy." Said the young woman, upset that her lover wasn't down for another round.

"First of all, Evernight. Who is she?"

March gave it some thought.

"Think of her like an older sister…" March rose from his bed and began getting dressed, even though she was still nude the pink haired girl showed no signs of embarrassment from Caelus seeing her. Caelus on the other hand turned a healthy shade of pink and looked away. "To be honest, I don't know where she came from either. It's like I have another person inside of me."

She walked to the mirror.

"Only Himeko and Welt know about her, and now you too."

"How come this is the only time I've seen her?"

March smiled, she had the answer ready for that.

"Evernight only comes out when I'm in extreme danger. Or…" She walked up to Caelus and for a moment, March's pupils flashed red. "Or when she wants to have fun with a certain someone…"

Caelus blushed, but didn't say anything.

"Honestly…I wish I could tell you more…but I don't know too much either besides that. I remember some members from the Church of Remembrance approached me about Evernight but she turned them down in a not so nice way."

The young man finally decided to speak.

"Honestly, I'll take it, because I was really confused last night and not just from that."

Finally the young man decided to face head on what's been gnawing at him.

"You love me?"

The pink haired girl turned to Caelus and flashed him a genuine smile.

"Of course! I'm sorry I had to trick you but this was the only way we could show you our feelings! If we tried anything else, you would have tried to weasel out!" She pointed at him like he was a criminal.

"Wow…I don't…March I didn't know." Caelus looked ashamed that he never realized his best friend was in love with him.

"It's okay…" March closed her eyes and kissed him, he didn't fight the kiss. "What's important now is that I love you, and I know you love me. We're perfect for each other and everyone will soon know that."

Everyone?

Caelus wanted to ask what she meant about that but both of them got texts from their phone. March was the first to check hers.

"Ah! I'm going to be late for work!" She flashed Caelus a smile. "Bye Babe! I'll text you when I get off, we'll talk more after work okay!" And just like that, the bubbly pink haired girl left, leaving a bewildered Caelus all by himself.

Honestly, he still had a few more questions but…he figured it could wait. The young man got some answers and that will be good enough for now. Caelus turned to his phone, wondering who it might be?

Firefly: Hey Caelus…I didn't get you at a bad time did I?

Ah Firefly, he hadn't forgotten how March took his phone and texted her back. Caelus sighed, knowing that he needs to make it up for her.

Caelus: No not at all, just woke and about to get ready for work.

Caelus felt it would be best to not tell her, or anyone really, about him and March until they had more time to talk.

Firefly: Oh wonderful! I wanted to ask if you could come by after work! :) It's been a while since we've hung out, how does dinner sound?"

Caelus has had Firefly's cooking, and he damn well knew better than to skip out on that.

Caelus: Deal! Will everyone else be there?

Firefly: Of course, I've already run it by Kafka and Blade. We're good and they'll be looking forward to seeing you again. Plus, you can apologize to Silver Wolf for ruining her raid XD

Caelus: Oh man…well it's worth it to try your cooking. I'll see you all tonight then.

Caelus smiled as he sent out that last text. Being able to see his old group again sounds nice. Getting up from his bed, the grey haired man started getting ready, his mood considerably better after texting Firefly.

Caelus couldn't help but feel the nostalgia as he walked in the building owned by the Stellaron Hunters. Wanted in several different countries for their crimes, they came here to start a new life. He and his sister Stelle were just kids when they met the Stellaron hunters, who took them in. Caelus owed a lot to them, to Firefly, Kafka, Blade and Silver Wolf. Criminals they may be, but…in his eyes they were good people.

Caelus knocked on the door and it didn't take long before the door opened and he was greeted by a familiar face.

"Caelus! You made it." A young man who was older than she looked despite her short stature. Firefly is her name and she currently has a bright smile on her face. "I'm glad you could make it, come inside."

Caelus did as instructed and walked inside what used to be his old home.

"Times haven't changed, it still looks the same."

His words cause Firefly to giggle.

"You can thank Kafka for that, she always wanted it to remain the same after you and Stelle left. Because she wants you guys to feel like home whenever you visit."

Caelus couldn't help but blush in embarrassment over those words, he looked at the ground and awkwardly scratched his cheek. Firefly noticed the effect her words had on him and she placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.

"Don't feel guilty, you and Stelle needed your own place. We understand, and you've kept in contact with us so it's not like we're strangers again."

"Thanks Firefly." Caelus appreciated the words of comfort he received from her. A wonderful aroma reached his nose and he used this opportunity to change the subject. "Dinner smells delicious."

She smiled with pride.

"Thanks, make yourself comfortable in the living room. Dinner is almost ready, I'll call you when it's time to eat."

Caelus moved to the living room, having no trouble finding it due to living here for over several years. He looked at the photos on the counter, noticing a lot of the photos were of him and him alone. The grey haired man looked to see if they had any photos of his sister, they did…but it was so few.

"Stelle was never one for the camera unless I asked her…" He mumbled to himself, still Caelus found it odd. "Where is everyone else Firefly?" Asked Caelus outloud.

"O-Oh, um they're busy!" She yelled from across the kitchen, she sounded oddly nervous. "Kakfa and Blade had 'work' to do and Silver wolf said she needed to visit a friend. Speaking of which, have you made up with her?"

"I tried to call her but all it did was go to voice mail." Caelus said as he walked to the kitchen, as he walked in the young man paused upon seeing Firefly dressed like a typical housewife. White shirt with the sleeves rolled up, hair done in a pony tail and an apron with a heart on it. "Oh wow, I've never seen you dressed like that."

"Thanks…I look like a wife don't I?"

He nodded his head in agreement.

"Yeah, honestly you're selling that look."

Caelus didn't mean it as a compliment or an insult, but a simple statement. He didn't know that positive effect those words would have on her, as she blushed and broke into a small smile.

"T-Thanks, anyways go and sit down. Dinner is done!"

Caelus moved to get himself a plate, but all he got was a slap on the wrist and stern look from Firefly.

"Go sit down! You're the guest so sit, I'll serve you okay?"

He nodded his head meekly, not wanting to suffer another slap the young man did as he was told and sat down at the dining table. Soon enough, Firefly came out with plates and drinks for both of them. The two soon began their meal with Firefly sitting close to Caelus. The food was delicious which made Caelus got up for seconds, all while praising Firefly's cooking saying that she would make a great wife someday.

Caelus was serving himself a 2nd plate, so he didn't see the look on Firefly's face or the uncanny stare in her eyes.

As the meal between the two finished, Firefly was getting more and more nervous.

"You know, while it's a shame no one else could join us, it was nice having dinner with just you Caelus." Firefly looked him in the eyes while she said these words, her cheeks turning slightly red.

"Yeah…It was nice, thanks again for inviting me Firefly. Next time it will be my treat, I still need to apologize to you for what happened yesterday."

Firefly's head shot up at that.

"Right, would you mind telling me how March got your phone and sent that text? That got me very upset!" She said with puffed up cheeks.

Caelus could only shrug.

"What can I say, she was fast and I just didn't see it." He sighed. "Yeah, what she did was wrong but March did apologize. I had to put my phone on silent and follow her every whim."

Caelus gave a soft chuckle, and that only made Firefly's blood boil even more. But it was these next words that were the straw that broke the camels back.

"Still…it was kind of fun…"

Crack.

"Firefly!" Caelus shouted when he saw Firefly's hand bleeding. The cup she had in her hand somehow broke, and it caused a cut. "How the hell did that happen? Wait here, I remember where the medical bandages are!"

Caelus threw away the glass cup and ran to get the bandages in order to stop the wound from bleeding.

Again…it was a good thing that he did because had he stayed any longer then the young man would have surely been frightened by the empty, uncanny look in her eyes.

Why did he mention her?

Why did he bring her up?

This was supposed to be about us tonight.

Just us.

I had to lie to Kafka, to Blade, to Sliver Wolf, I had to make sure he didn't bring Stelle.

I did all this so that it was just me and him.

So why…

Why did he have to bring up that bitches name!?

Firefly's uncanny stare hid the mental stress her mind was going through right now. Her heart was racing, her hands were trembling, her mind was stressing. The young woman wanted nothing more than to wrap her hands around March and STRANGLE HER LIKE THE WHORE SHE-

Slap her, that's what Firefly wants to do. Firefly wanted to slap March for taking Caelus away from her and taking away his first time. That's it, that's all she wanted to do. Anything else would cause Caelus to hate her, and the young woman didn't want that.

Deep breaths.

Calm down.

You still have one more weapon in your arsenal.

"Firefly! Let me see your hand."

Caelus arrived back with the anti bacterial soap and bandages. He carefully led Firefly to the sink as she cleaned her wound and dried her hand. She didn't mind, in fact she liked it. The white haired woman couldn't help but wonder if she got hurt more often, would Caelus take care of her.

"Done." He said as Caelus wrapped the wound.

Firefly looked intently at Caelus, admiring his handsome features. He's always been like this, kind, looking out for others, playing the hero even when it had nothing to do with him. Brave, silly, it was no wonder that Firefly fell in love with him.

"Sorry about that, Caelus, I didn't mean to spoil the mood."

"Hey, don't even worry about it. That wasn't your fault. Go rest in the living room, I'll clean the table."

Firefly paused.

"Actually…Caelus, when your done cleaning the table can you head to the living room? I'm gonna go to my room. There's…theres something I want to show you."

The young woman looked to the grey haired man to see if he had any objection to this and thankfully he didn't. He simply nodded his head as Caelus got to work cleaning the mess.

"Yeah, don't worry about it."

With that taken care of, Firefly made her way to her room and made sure to close the door as she walked in. She placed a hand over her chest and could feel her heart beating. She knew why, it was beating because she was so close to the man she loved and she was still so angry over March for taking him from her. That smug pink haired tramp, she thinks she knows Caelus? Please, Firefly has been with him since he was a kid.

She knew him better! She knew his fears! His dreams! His secrets! Which is why she belongs with him and no one else!

"Deep breaths, Firefly." She said to herself.

The white haired woman made her way to her closest and pulled out a special outfit that she had ready just for this occasion. It wasn't even getting it clean in such short notice, but it was going to be worth it. The large, unnerving smile that was plastered on her face made it clear that this was going to work, one way or another.

While Firefly got ready, Caelus was on his phone. The young man was currently playing his favorite mobile game, or rather he was trying too. He get getting hit with a notification from March who was bombarding him with texts and photos.

March: Babe, I miss you :( Work is such a drag.

March: Can I come over tonight? I want to sleep with you again in the same bed.

March: Oh! And I mean just regular sleep, not the other type of sleep you perv :)

March: Unless you want to…I have some outfits I can show you…

Caelus: March, get back to work before you get in trouble.

March: :P Whatever. See you at your house tonight. Love you!

Wow, she was sure moving fast. This is their 2nd day dating and she's already wanting to stay over at his home. His fingers hovered over this phone, the next thing to do would be for him to text back I love you to March. And yet he hesitated, why? It's true, he never considered March to be romantically interested in him. He always assumed she saw him as a brother and had a thing for other types of men. Still…the idea of being in a relationship with her…it didn't sound bad. She was cute, funny and they liked the same things.

Still, he felt like he needed to say something.

Caelus: Miss you.

There, now he won't feel so guilty for not typing 'I love you' back.

"Maybe I just need to give it time. This is our 2nd day being together, I'm sure March understands."

Caelus internally said these words as he stared at the ceiling.

"Caelus?"

"Hm? Oh Firefly you're back and-"

Caelus' words died in his throat as he saw Firefly walk in the living room, wearing what looked to be a school uniform. Brown shoes, thigh socks that squeezed the fat around her legs showing Caelus just thick her thighs have gotten as Firefly got older. A grey skirt along with a white blouse and green bow wrapped just above her chest.

"Oh wow…" Caelus said with stars in his eyes as he got hit with a wave of nostalgia as he stared at Firefly. "This is the-"

"The school uniform that I wore on my first day." She said these words with a warm tone, as she stared lovingly at Caelus. "Do you remember Caelus, my condition when we first met?"

Her words cause the grey haired man to adopt a somber expression.

"I remember…"

"Right…" Firefly spoke as she slowly twirled. "I wasn't…in the best health when we first met. Even though we were just strangers, after Kafka introduced you to us I remember you coming to my bedside asking if I needed help." Firefly started walking around the living room, looking at the photos scattered throughout the room.

"You always helped me, talked to me, even when the others were too busy to do so."

Her words of praise cause the young man to blush.

"All I did was bother you and read to you a bunch of comics I found, not to mention force you to play all the two player games when Silver wolf was here…" He said awkwardly as Caelus scratched the back of head.

"And that was enough to give me the strength to get by every day." Said Firefly as she stared out the window, looking to the night sky. "But do you know what really stuck with me? It was this."

She gestured to the school uniform she was wearing.

"My dream was to go to school, and just be a normal person. Meet with kids my age, have friends, hang out and go to sleep overs. That dream came true when I finally felt healthy enough to go to high school, I couldn't believe it. But then, I needed to wear a school uniform. That was a requirement. I felt crushed. Until…"

Firefly then turned to Caelus and walked towards. She stretched out both of her hands and grabbed Caelus's hand between her own. She enjoyed the feeling of his strong hands and how they dwarfed her hands in comparison. To her, it made him look strong and it made Firefly feel safe.

"Until you came in with a school uniform just for me!" Firefly gave a smile so large that it reached from ear to ear. "Because we had just moved, none of us had the money to spare. So buying me a school uniform was out of the question. Yet…you worked every odd job you could find, saving up money just so I could get a school uniform to wear for school."

"Firefly…" Caelus said as he saw tears beginning to form in her eyes.

"And because of that…I got to live out my dream!" She hugged him as strongly as she could.

She expected Caelus to hug her bag but only could hear him laughing.

"Caelus?" She wondered why he was snickering.

"I'm sorry it's just…" Caelus wiped a tear from his eye. "I just remembered, it was at that same time you started getting into those mecha shows."

"...Eh?" was all Firefly could say.

"Yeah you know?" The young man took a few steps back and took a deep breath for dramatic flair. "I will…SET THE SEAS ABLAZE!" The grey haired man said these words with vigor as he struck a cool pose.

"STOP!" Cried Firefly in embarrassment as she grabbed Caelus by his shirt and started shaking his shirt.

"This is more than just a battle!" Caelus struck another pose.

"Caelus, you're embarrassing me!"

"And who could forget…FIGHT TO LIVE!" He finished it off with one last pose.

"Caelus!"

The young man couldn't hold it in; he fell to the floor holding his stomach in a burst of laughter. He was laughing so hard that tears left his eyes. It didn't help that when Caelus did open his eyes he saw Firefly as red as a tomato staring right at him, smacking him as hard as she could.

"Ok…ok, I'll stop." Finally Caelus was able to compose himself long enough to stop laughing, he got up. "Sorry, I remember you doing all that stuff when you came back from your first week in school."

Firefly huffed and puffed, but managed to calm down though her cheeks were still red.

"Anyways…this uniform. I still have it because when I look at it, I think of you. I think of how brave and strong you are, no matter what. And it's because of that I can say these next words."

Firefly grabbed Caelus's hand.

"Caelus, I love you."

His eyes went wide, his mouth opened and looked to be stuck. It was as if he was processing what just happened.

"Wait, Firefly you-"

"I do, I love you Caelus. And not as a family, but as a woman loves a man and yes, it's exactly what you think it means." She moved closer to Caelus and hugged him, a tight deep hug with strength that did not match her stature. Firefly rested her head on his chest, enjoying the feeling of his muscles.

She did it, now all she needed to hear was I love you back from Caelus. He'll say it, after all they've known each other for so long that its only right for them to be toge-

"Firefly…I'm sorry but I can't return your feelings."

It was a silent, very silent, Caelus didn't even feel Firefly breath as she maintained her hug on him.

It scared him.

Firefly, Silver Wolf, Robin, Kafka, Topaz, Castorice, Cyrene. Even your own sister, Stelle. All of them are after you and the only reason why you haven't noticed anything is because you're too clueless.

The young man couldn't help but remember the words Evernight told him last night when she made her confession to him. Was she right? No, she wasn't. Caelus had to mentally scold himself for thinking such a thing and acting like he was some Casanova. Besides, he had other things to take care of.

Firefly hadn't let go of him, her hold on him was still just as strong.

"Firefly?"

"Why?" Her tone was scary and heavy. This wasn't a tone that should belong to Firefly.

Caelus paused. He didn't know why, but…something was telling him to leave. To run and let go, but why would he? This was awkward for sure but Firefly is his friend, they've been friends for so long. Caelus trusted her.

"Because…I'm dating March."

Silence, she said nothing. Firefly said nothing but continued to hug, and her hold on Caelus was still strong.

Caelus decided to continue speaking, being careful with his next words.

"I'm sorry that I didn't notice your feelings. I'm sorry that I…That I'm such a jerk." He was a jerk, maybe if he just noticed her feelings then this awkward encounter would have never happened! Caelus smiled at Firefly and patted her head. "Thank you for telling me your feelings, I'm honored, really I am but I just can't return them."

The hold Firefly had on him got tighter to the point that Caelus was starting to feel pain.

"Firefly? I think…you're squeezing me a little too much…"

And just like that, she let go. Caelus took a few steps back and rubbed his sore back, he turned to Firefly whose bangs covered her eyes making him unable to see what her expression was.

"Why…"

"Firefly?"

"WHY!" She screamed at him, tears in her eyes. "WHY CAN'T YOU SEE THAT YOU BELONG TO ME!?" Her eyes were red, her shirt slowly became stained with tears as the young man started to panic, unsure of what to do.

"Firefly! Please calm down!"

"HOW CAN I STAY CALM WHEN I POURED MY HEART OUT TO YOU AND YOU RIPPED IT APART!"

Firefly ran, she ran straight to her room and slammed the door. Caelus stood there for just a moment, trying to understand what was going on. Soon after Caelus ran after Firefly, and made it to her door.

"Firefly!?" He knocked. "Can you please open the door?"

No response.

"Please, I want to talk to you."

Still no response.

"...I'm sorry." Caelus rested his head on the door. "I'm…I didn't…" He couldn't find the right words to say. "Please…tell me what I can do to make it right?"

"There's nothing you can do!" She finally spoke, shouting and while Caelus couldn't see her he could tell from her tone that she was still crying. "First, I already knew that you were with her when that pink haired bitch rubbed it in my face that she f$#%# you. Now when I try to save you, you reject me!"

Wait…what…

"Firefly, what are you talking about?" He was confused.

"You don't know? What that Tramp sent me last night?" Firefly spoke from behind the door and it sounded like the tears stopped?

"No, what did she show you?" Caelus was starting to get worried.

No response, Firefly said nothing. The silence, it felt loud and Caelus felt his heart beating so fast in his chest. Finally, the door opened and when Caelus looked at Firefly…

She bore a smile so wide that he felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.

"Look what she sent me…" She showed him a photo of him and March together right after they…

Oh no…

March didn't tell him she did this…

That she took this photo of them.

Firefly was happy. She was beyond happy.

This night didn't start out the way she expected, after all getting rejected by your soulmate definitely hurt. But it's okay, Caelus didn't know that she and him were perfect for each other just yet. Honestly, he was so cute when he was confused! Firefly couldn't help but smile seeing him act like this. Oh and she should really thank March when she gets a chance, who knew that her sending Firefly that photo was all she needed!

"Yeah, look." She held the phone closer to her dear Caelus. "After you and March finished, she sent me this photo. Most likely to rub it in my face."

She felt a pang of sympathy as she watched Caelus look confused and hurt. Oh, it really did hurt Caelus to see him like this, but it's okay. Firefly will be making him feel good in just a few minutes.

"March didn't tell me she did this." He said in disbelief.

"Hmph!" She puffed her cheeks and stomped her feet. "Honestly, what kind of girlfriend does that! She knows my feelings for you and sent that private photo just to rub it in my face!" Firefly crossed her arms and turned away. "Do you know how hurt I was when I saw that? My chest felt like there was a lump in it…"

"Firefly, I'm sorry that-"

"Shhhh…" Firefly placed a finger on his lips. "It's okay Caelus, you didn't know. But do you see what I mean? She did that to you, like you were some prize to be won…"

She needed to be careful, she needed to play this just right. Firefly took a few steps forward and wrapped her arms around his neck.

"What kind of girl does that to her partner? What kind of girl goes out of her way just to hurt her partner's friends?"

He was confused, good. Kafka always had taught her to use that to their advantage when dealing with their enemies, who knew she would be needing it with her soulmate? Slowly, Firefly pulled Caelus closer.

"She doesn't deserve you Caelus, please let me show you what it means to love."

With that, Firefly kissed Caelus.

It was soft, the kiss that is. Caelus was confused, Firefly's confession, her strange behavior, finding out March sent a photo of them that should have never been taken and now this. Firefly was kissing him, and the young man wasn't doing anything. His mind was in disarray, the grey haired man didn't know what to think. A part of his mind yelled at him to stop, that regardless what March did he was still dating her and this is cheating. Another part of his mind told him to enjoy it, especially since Firefly was so dear to him.

Thankfully the internal struggle didn't last long, Caelus felt his mind shock himself back into focus when he felt Firefly's hand grope his butt.

He pulled away and took a few steps back. A look of self loathing and confusion plastered all over his face.

"Firefly." He said with a frustrated tone. It was clear he didn't approve of her doing that.

"S-Sorry. I kind of got carried away." Her apology sounded anything but sincere.

"..." Caelus didn't know what to say, it was like March all over again. The person in front of him was acting strange, acting in a way Caelus had never seen them act. He didn't like it, and he didn't like how it was all focused on him. "I…I need to go. Firefly, I'm sorry March sent you that photo. I don't know how to make it up to you."

Caelus couldn't look Firefly in the eyes, he was too ashamed of himself for letting Firefly kiss him and he still wasn't sure how to respond to her confession.

"You don't have to, not right now at least." Firefly moved closer to him and grabbed his arms, it was a rather strong grip. "Caelus…" She whispered in his ear. "I meant what I said, I'm in love with you."

Caelus didn't say anything, he didn't know what to say. So he stayed silent and waited for Firefly to finish speaking.

"I know you're confused right now, and I know my kiss didn't help but I wanted to show you. Just how serious I am. So please, after you're done talking with March. Give me a call, we need to talk too."

She let his arms go and took a few steps back, Caelus was finally able to look her in the eyes. His worried, unsure face met her calm and serene smile. The young man released a breath he didn't know he was holding, he walked up to her and ruffled her hair. A talk sounds nice, after he's gathered his bearings, Caelus liked that.

"Yeah, that sounds like a plan." They bid each other goodbye and Caelus soon headed home, with an unsure heart and a heavy mind.

This wasn't what she had in mind.

She was hoping to have him in her bed, riding him till his hips broke.

But it's fine, she will just have to be patient. After all, Caelus needed to speak with March and Firefly already knew how that was going to go. She couldn't help but laugh, who would have thought that March sending her that photo was the best thing that pink haired tramp could have done. Honestly, Firefly should be thanking her.

She pulled out her new phone that she had to buy, after breaking her old one, and pulled up March's phone number. Firefly then sent a simple text.

Thank you.

Just a bit longer, and Caelus will be all hers.

March felt her phone ring and saw that she received a message from Firefly.

"Ugh, what does she want?" She said quietly to herself. March read the contents and saw that it said thank you.

Perhaps she's finally cracked. Said Evernight.

March shrugged, she really didn't care, after all her shift was over and she was headed straight to Caelus's house. She pulled out her bag, filled with costumes that she can't wait to put on. The pink haired girl just knew that it was going to be a special night!

Just a bit longer Caelus, your one true love is on the way!

Chapter Text

Caelus arrived at an empty home, he checked his phone to see a message from his sister. Telling him that she was staying with a friend and that she would be back tomorrow.

Your older sister is staying at a sleep over, so don't worry too much okay little brother? 

He read the message and then sighed, the young man felt tired mentally and wanted to speak to someone he could confide in. As he walked in, Caelus immediately collapsed onto the couch. He wanted to just sleep and sleep and wake up tomorrow and have everything be a silly dream. His good friend March is in love with him, she has a split personality that honestly worries him and now Firefly confessed her love for him.

“What in the world is going on…” Caelus sat up and looked at his phone, he went through his contacts and focused on one in particular. 

Kafka 

She’s always helped him and Stelle out, maybe it would be best to call her? 

…

No, he found no logic in involving more people into what is just his silly love life. 

“Doesn’t matter.” Caelus said to himself. “All I need to do is talk to March, explain to her what she did was wrong and maybe slow down on this whole relationship thing.” That should go fine, March was a bubbly girl who always looked on the positive side of things. Dan Heng always said that he and March shared the same brain cell, and the two of them always laughed at that statement. 

A smile formed at this face before it quickly went away, as Caelus remembered the photo March sent to Firefly.

“...I never would have thought March would do something like that.” It felt like the friend he knew was all just an act. “I’m over thinking things, she should be on the way here soon.” Nothing better to do than to play some games on his phone and pass the time. 

Some time later 

A knock could be heard on the door, Caelus placed his phone away and took a deep breath. He mentally prepared himself for what was to come next. As the grey haired man opened the door he was surprised with March leaping at him, wrapping her arms around his neck and giving him a big kiss. 

“Mmph!” Said Caelus as he body instinctively moved to catch March from falling, giving her the perfect position to lean on him fully. “Mmm-mmm-March!” Finally he was able to pull her off of him and break the kiss. 

“Hehe! Hey sweetie!” Said the pink haired girl with a huge smile on her face. “Thanks for waiting for me, work was so busy!” She immediately let go of the hold she had on around his neck and walked to the kitchen. “You must be hungry, right? Me too, so let's get started on dinner.” 

“March.”

“Honestly, I’m surprised you and Stelle keep your fridge stocked.” Said March as she tied her hair back and opened Caelus fridge, pulling out ingredients as if she lived here. 

“Wait, March.” 

“Lets see, I know how to cook basic stuff. Looks like we can have some hamburger steaks…” The pink haired girl walked through the kitchen with absolute ease, treating it like it was her own home.

“Hey, March I need to-”

“Ok, let's get started. Caelus, get the stove ready while I prepare the meat. Oh, our first meal cooking together I can’t wait!” She sounded so happy, and it made it all the more difficult for Caelus. 

“March!” Yet, he couldn’t let that distract him. Caelus needed to address it now while he had the chance. 

“Geez Caelus, no need to yell I’m right here.” She gave him an odd look, as if he hadn’t been calling her several times. Pinkish blue eyes meet amber colored eyes, and the young man found the courage to address what he needed to. 

“We need to talk.” 

Despite his serious tone, March still maintained her bubbly expression. 

“Okay mister serious.” She said with a small laugh. “We can talk while we make dinner, you know?” Her playful tone told Caelus that she wasn’t taking this seriously. He hated that, and he hated that March being her usual self was upsetting him. He didn’t want to feel this way.

“I saw Firefly today, and there was something-”

“What.”

She was in front of him in almost an instant, her face mere inches away from his. Her eyes were lifeless and blank, if Caelus didn’t know any better it would be as if was staring at a dead body. The young man was nearly flabbergasted, he expected her to be mad but not like this.

“I-I said I was with Firefly.” He was stumbling on his words and Caelus didn’t know why. It’s just March he’s talking to, so why did he suddenly lose his vigor? Why is his heart racing, and why does he feel like he has a lump in his throat?

“Why were you with Firefly? You didn’t tell me you were going to see her.” Her voice was harsh and hurt. Her hands grabbed onto his arms and held it tight like it was a stress ball. The expression March made was slowly getting more and more intense, telling him just how angry she was getting. Calm, he needed to remain calm. Caelus has been in stressful situations before due to his rough up bringing. 

“I-I’m sorry but I didn’t think it would be that big of a deal.” Caelus has been in enough arguments with his sister Stelle to know that starting off with an apology normally pacifies the situation. 

Unfortunately, this was not one of those situations. 

“Big Deal!? Do you know what that girl feels towards you! Do you know what she might have done after I-”

Caelus did not miss that slip of words and took full advantage of it. 

“After what?” Caelus used his tone to put his figurative foot down. “March, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you that I went to see Firefly, but do you know what she told me?” 

She didn’t avert her eyes, her empty gaze met Caelus firm expression. 

“You. Sent. Her. A. Photo of me and you after we had sex.” Caelus emphasized each word in order to show just how upset he truly was with this. “You did that without asking, you sent a photo to a good friend of mine for the purpose of hurting her and you didn’t even have the nerve to tell me in the morning.” His tone got firmer, Caelus broke out of March’s grip and grabbed her by the shoulders. 

“Well yeah I sent that but what’s the big deal?” March looked at Caelus like he was the one in the wrong. “Have you seen how clingy that tramp is? She needed to be-”

“Don’t call her that, her name is Firefly.” Caelus cut her off with a firm tone, and that tone made something snap inside of March.

“Why are you defending her!” March yelled out, tears in her eyes beginning to form. “I’m your girlfriend! Do you know how many messages she sends you! You don’t think that’s weird! Don’t you know how much I love you! How much I’m scared of losing you!?” Her voice got louder than Caelus had ever heard. He found it hard to dismiss this as a lie or a trick.

“March, I-”

“I’ve loved you for so long! Do you know why! Don’t you remember what happened when we first met! Back when we worked together at the Astral express train station, that gang who call themselves the Anit matter legion! They came in and threatened to kill us all for some money!” March’s eyes were no longer blank, life had returned and it burned fiercely. 

Suddenly, Caelus no longer felt sure and with that his confidence and lead in the conversation was slipping. 

“One of them almost did!” March wasn’t done, the pink haired girl was pouring out her heart into every word. “One of them pointed the gun and shot at me, the only reason I didn’t get shot was because of you! You jumped in front of me and took the bullet for me!” She began smacking his chest. “Do you know what that does to a girl! To see a guy take a bullet for her! And you didn’t stop there! You kept being nice to me! You kept acting like a prince charming! Always helping me! It kept making me feel like I was special!” 

She collapsed and fell to her knees, her eyes sobbing and tears falling into the floor. 

“YOU WANT TO KNOW WHY I SENT THAT PICTURE TO FIREFLY?! BECAUSE I DON’T WANT TO LOSE YOU! I KNOW SHE LOVES YOU, AND THAT SCARES ME!”

“March!” Caelus couldn’t take it, he couldn’t bear to see his friend like this regardless of what she did. He fell to his knees and hugged her. “It’s okay! You don’t need to continue! You can stop!” 

Silence, March buried her face into Caelus’s shoulder and stayed quiet. He could feel her in his arms, her breathing slowing down and getting quiet. 

“March?” Caelus asked as he held onto her tight.

“She’s asleep, now let's talk about me and you, dear.” 

A familiar voice but with a different tone, Caelus carefully let March go only to see a familiar pair of red colored pupils. 

“Evernight.” 

She gave a soft smile at him.

“It’s good to see you again dear, now I believe you have some questions for me?”

The two had moved to the living room, Caelus had brewed Evernight some tea. As he placed the tea cup in front of her the young man moved to sit somewhere else but was stopped when Evernight grabbed him by the wrist. She pulled him down with surprising ease and made Caelus sit right beside her, with such closeness that their legs were pressing against one another. The grey haired man made no attempt to get back, accepting his fate and taking a sip of his tea with Evernight following suit. 

“This tea is good.” She said, though her eyes were dead focused on him. 

“Thanks…”His words sounded empty. “March said you only come out when she's in danger. Was she…” The idea of Caelus being the reason March felt she was in danger made him feel sick to his stomach.

“It wasn’t because of you, she just needed to rest for a bit, her emotions simply got a bit too high there.” Evernight gave him a flat stare. “Though…you certainly weren’t helping…”

He released a heavy sigh.

“I’m sorry…I didn’t mean for this to happen, I didn’t, I’ve never seen March act so-”

“Crazy? Obsessed?”

Caelus looked at Evernight like she slapped him.

“What? No, March isn’t any of those things. She’s just emotional right now.” 

Evernight gave a soft laugh.

“Is that what you think? My dear Caelus?” She pressed her lips against his ear. “Let me tell you something, I was the one who took the photo of us in bed and sent it to Firefly.” 

Caelus shot her a sharp look, Evernight simply rolled her eyes not caring at all that she had offended him.

“Oh don’t give me that, it had to be done.”

“You’ll have to forgive me for not seeing eye to eye with you, taking a photo without my consent and then sending it to my friend with the sole purpose of hurting her.” His voice had the beginning tones of both sarcasm and anger. 

Evernight wasn’t bothered at all though by his words, if anything her smile seemed to grow wider. 

“Oh my dear Caelus, it’s such a good thing you're so cute because you’re so stupid.” 

Caelus gave her a flat stare.

“Alright, you’re not the first person to tell me that.” The young man didn’t even make an attempt to argue that statement. “Even so, how the hell does that have anything to do with you sending that photo?” 

Evernight sighed.

“Go get your phone, please.” The pink haired girl pulled back, allowing Caelus to get up and retrieve his phone. He came back with a confused expression. 

“I got it, don’t see what you’re trying to do here?” Said the young man as he sat back down next to Evernight.

“I’ll show you, now sit down and show me your messages.” 

Caelus opened his mouth to argue, ready to say how his messages are none of her business but as he met her dead stare and cold smile the young man lost his words.

“Fine.” He opened his phone and showed Evernight the messages he received.

“Now…Let's go ahead and read what you’ve received since yesterday? Hmmm?”

Her warm breath danced against his ear and it made him feel certain things he didn’t want to feel right now. With a heavy sigh, Caelus and Evernight started going through his messages.

Topaz: Hey Caelus, mind stopping by the IPC today? There’s something we need to discuss! Don’t worry it’ll just be me and you! 

Robin: Caelus, I have a practice session planned later this week. I would love for you to attend and share your thoughts with me. Please give me a call. 

Silver Wolf: Hey dumbass, why did you stop calling me? Just because I didn’t answer doesn’t mean you stop reaching out. Now hurry up and call me, you still owe me an apology for fumbling the raid!

Kafka: Hello Dear, how have you and Stelle been? I miss you, perhaps we can get dinner later and catch up.

The Herta: Give me a call, we need to discuss the next trial for the simulated universe. Do not keep me waiting.

Castorice: Um, Mister Caelus? Do you have any plans this week? Would you like to go to the zoo with me?

Hyacine: Greyie! Things have been so busy here at the clinic. Let's get together and talk, I need someone to vent too. 

“My, my look how popular you are. Poor March would have a heart attack if she saw all this.” Evernight’s tone was getting strained, though she wasn’t trying to hide it. It seems that seeing all these texts from other women was starting to irk her too. “Do you see what I mean now?”

Caelus shot her a flat stare.

“No I don’t.”

It was subtle, but Caelus could have sworn he saw Evernight’s eye twitch.

“I don’t know why you think I'm some cassanova, I’m not. Half of these texts are just friends reaching out to me.” 

For the first time since this conversation started, Evernight dropped her smile. What replaced it was an annoyed expression.

“Oh Caelus, how are you so gullible?” 

Caelus didn’t know if she was showing him pity or mocking him. Given how she softly caressed his cheek, it might be a pity. 

“These texts were from yesterday, correct?” 

He nodded.

“You haven’t responded back yet, given how busy you were today. Let’s see what their response is shall we?”

She sounded so confident, it was starting to irk him just a bit. Still, Caelus granted her request and the two began to open up each message. The pink haired woman was in fact correct, and indeed he received a response from each female. The response he received didn’t seem weird to him.

Topaz: Caelus? Did I do something wrong? You don’t normally take this long to respond back. Hurry up and get back with me.

Robin: Caelus? Are you okay? I tried calling and you didn’t answer. Was I too forward? Please I didn’t mean to insult you. You’re probably upset because I didn’t invite your sister. She can come too! Please get back with me.

Silver Wolf: …Why haven’t you called me? Idiot, hurry up and get online so we can talk again. 

Kafka: Sweetie? You haven’t responded back. Please don’t make me wait, or else I’ll start getting worried.

The Herta: How dare you, someone as beautiful as me is giving you the time of day. Just taking the time to message you again is already a waste of my precious time. How on earth do you plan to make it up to me? Don’t answer, I already have ideas. Call me soon before I come and drag you back to my lab.

Castorice: Mister Caelus? Are Zoo’s not to your liking? We can do something else. I’m sorry for not thinking of your needs too.

Hyacine: Greyie? Are you not feeling well? You normally get back with me so soon. Do you feel sick! I can stop by and cure you.

As the two finished reading his texts Evernight stared at Caelus with an “I told you so” look. The grey haired man simply shot her a sharp glare. 

“You’re reading too much into it.”

Evernight couldn’t help it, she broke out in a small quiet laugh.

“Oh my sweet dear Caelus.” The pink haired woman straddled him and wrapped her arms around his neck. Her red eyes and sly smile sent shivers down his spine that Caelus wished he didn’t feel. “You truly believe that, don’t you? Yet I have an inkling suspicion as to what you and Firefly talked about.” Her lips moved closer to Caelus. “Tell me, how did she feel when she saw that photo? Tell me after this kiss…”

She moved to kiss him but was stopped when Caelus turned away. 

“Evernight, there’s something else I need to tell March. When I went to see Firefly, she told me something. One of them was how she was in love with me.”  

Evernight scoffed.

“I imagine as much. The photo we sent must have sent her panicking, thinking she had to scramble up some kind of love note.” 

“That’s not all. She kissed me, and…I let it happen.” 

Whatever smile, whatever pleasant mood Evernight must have been in as she embraced Caelus went away upon hearing those words. For the first time, Caelus saw an expression of anger written all over her face.

“She what.” Her anger was much different from March’s. March was emotional, tears flowed from her eyes when she got stressed. This? This was cold fury, a snarl written all over her face as her red pupils pierced right through Caelus. 

“I-”

“Be Quiet.” She didn’t even give him a chance to speak. “What did she do to you? Where did she touch you? That stupid woman, taking what doesn’t belong to her.” She grabbed Caelus by the chin and forced him to look at her. “You said she kissed you right?” 

The grey haired man struggled to break free, what is it with Evernight and her strength? March was not this strong physically!

“Answer me.” 

Caelus, although now reluctant to do so, nodded his head. 

His response from Evernight was her crashing her lips onto his into what could be described as a sloppy and somewhat painful kiss. Thankfully, it didn’t last long as Evernight ended the kiss soon after.

“What else?” She said in a cold whisper.

“Nothing else.”

“Do not protect her.”

“I’m not!” Yelled Caelus as he stared Evernight right in the eyes, his tone felt like a volcano ready to burst. Evernight, to her credit, relented.

“I see, my apologies.” Her voice went somewhat back to normal, that made Caelus relax as well if only just a small amount.

 “Do you regret it?” She asked.

“I do.” He was frustrated but more so at himself for letting Firefly kiss him.

“Why?” 

Caelus looked at her with an incredulous expression. 

“What do you mean why? Because I’m dating March, because she’s my friend and regardless of her or you sending that photo I…I still kissed another woman. I cheated on her.” Caelus looked to the ground, self loathing creeping up upon his back. He felt fingers on his chin and his face was titled up to look at Evernight. 

“It’s okay, my dear Caelus.” She hugged him, placing his head on her chest. “You must be so confused, I understand. But there’s a simple way to look at things. March was the first to tell you her feelings. She is the winner. Everyone else had lost their chance. Don’t you agree.”

“...” He couldn’t deny the logic, if Firefly really did care for him why wait until now to tell him. March made the first move so that was it right? Still…it felt so cold to think of Firefly’s feelings, when he’s known her for so long, as something like to be dismissed. “...I need to tell March.” 

“No.” 

Her words caused him to pull away from her hold. 

“Evernight, March needs to know that I kissed another woman.” 

“She does not, no one aside from me, you and Firefly know about this. You can simply say nothing and if Firefly calls you out then call her a liar.” Evernight said it like it was a simple as pouring a glass of water, yet Caelus looked at her like she was crazy. 

“I’m not doing that! March needs to know that truth.”

“No she does not.” 

“Yes, she does!” His tone was rising and Caelus could begin to feel his blood boiling. 

“So you are choosing to protect Firefly-”

“I’m not protecting anyone!” Caelus couldn’t take it anymore, he pinned Evernight down to the ground, holding her arms in place right on the floor. With her being pinned between his legs Evernight had no way of getting out. “And I’m getting sick of you acting like I’m choosing one over the other.” 

Evernight was not worried, her calm dull expression told Caelus that she was still in control of this conversation despite her being pinned down.

“You are a fool.” She said.

“Yeah, you said that already.”

“And yet you don’t seem to understand just how much of a fool you are. Tell me, what does March feel about you?” 

Caelus was confused by her question.

“What do you mean, you and her both confirmed she loves me.” 

“Do you know what that means?”

“What? Of course I do! It mean March is in love with me-”

“No, Do you know what it means to have someone like March be in LOVE with you?” 

The way she spoke her words felt she was speaking a foreign language to Caelus. He didn’t understand, March loved him. What more was there to understand?

“I…I don’t understand…”

“March is obsessed with you, you idiot. She doesn’t say because she’s smart enough to know that will just scare you off.” Evernight turned the situation around, overpowering Caelus and turned him over so that now she was on top of him. “Do you know what it means to have March love you? She’s obsessed with you. Have you ever been to her room? Do you know how many photos she has of you? You can combine all the photos she has of Himeko, Welt, Dan Heng and Stelle and it would amount to just a quarter of what she has with you.”

Caelus said nothing, he wanted to speak and say she was lying but every word Evernight said felt real. 

“Everytime she sees you talk to another woman her heart aches. Do you remember the time you introduced the Astral Express train crew to Firefly, how Firefly hovered over you practically all the time. How you and her would laugh at almost every moment. The express crew thought you were dating. Do you know what that made March feel?”

Caelus opened his mouth to speak, yet his words failed him. 

“She cried. She cried for hours alone in her room, thinking that the man she loved had been ripped away from her. I had to step in before she did something drastic.” 

Caelus felt his blood turn cold.

“Drastic? What do you mean…”

Evernight said nothing and all that did was make the poor man’s imagination run wild with thoughts. 

“Stop.” He said.

“I didn’t say anything.”

“Exactly! Tell me! What did you mean by drastic!” 

Evernight never answered his question, instead she rose up from him allowing Caelus to get back up on his two feet and off the floor. 

“What do you think it means?”

Caelus had one guess, but…he didn’t want to say it outloud. 

“No, March is one of the most positive people I’ve ever met. She’s always willing to help others, she's always smiling, she’s always looking on the positive side of things. Besides, she has other people in her life like Welt and Himeko. There’s no way I have that much influence in her life…” 

“My dear Caelus, if you truly believe those words then why are your hands shaking?”

He looked down and indeed his hands were shaking and his words felt he was trying to convince himself more so than Evernight. Evernight walked up to him and grabbed his face gently with both of her hands. 

“Do you truly want to know? Do you?” 

He was silent, they both were, all Caelus could hear was the loud beating of his own heart. 

The young man was scared, scared for his friend. Caelus wanted to say yes, to find out what Evernight meant but his words, they died right at the tip of his tongue. 

“If you truly want to know…then tell her. At this point I won’t stop you.” Evernight said as she gave Caelus one last kiss. “March is coming back, I leave it in your hands my dear.” 

Red pupils switched back to pinkish blue as the March returned back to the scene, the once cold expression worn by Evernight was replaced with a bubbly yet slightly confused March. Caelus expression immediately softened, he tried to speak to her.

“March I-” 

“Caelus!” She ran to him and hugged him tightly. “I’m sorry! I’m so sorry!” She said as Caelus felt tears running down his shirt as March buried her face in his chest. “I’m sorry I sent Firefly that photo! I’m sorry I called her a tramp! I’m sorry I hurt your relationship with your friend!” Though the words came out muffled Caelus was able to make out what she was saying. 

“I wanted to scare her off! I thought by doing this she would get the message and leave you alone! Please! Please don’t be mad at me!” 

“March, it’s okay…” Caelus peeled the pink girl off of him. “I’m not…I’m not mad. It’s okay.” He flashed her a smile, the best smile he could under these confusing and dire circumstances. “ I spoke with Evernight and she…helped me understand some things.” 

March wiped her tears from her eyes.

“You’re…you’re not mad.” 

“I’m not, I promise.” He was confused and somewhat worried. “And…I’m sorry I didn’t tell you I was seeing Firefly today.” 

“Oh don’t worry about it!” Said March as she waved her hands in a panic. “I understand that she’s still your friend, as your partner and lover it’s important that I trust you in these situations! What did you both do anyways…” 

Caelus opened his mouth ready to tell her exactly what happened.

She’s obsessed with you.

And yet Evernight’s words lingered in his mind, causing him to stop.

“I…She and I just had a talk, she um confessed her love for me but I told her I couldn’t return those feelings. That’s when she showed me the photo that you sent her.” 

His stomach turned and twisted, it felt wrong lying to March for this. Surely she could handle the truth and all Evernight was doing was just scaring him? He didn’t know, and that not knowing worried Caelus.

“Oh, well I can’t say I’m surprised.” She beamed into a bright smile. “Thanks for putting her in her place sweetie!” March ran up to him and kissed Caelus on the lips. A kiss that Caelus didn’t put much energy in returning. “Now she knows who you belong to, and that she lost her chance!” 

March looked to the clock, it had gotten pretty late. 

“Well, it’s a bit late to be having dinner so maybe we should just head to bed.” The pink-haired girl gave him a suggestive look. “You know…as an apology, how about I show you a few costumes I brought with me…It might get you a little excited…” 

Caelus pulled March away from him, which caused her emotional distress. 

“How about we skip that for now?” His tone and expression told March that Caelus was in no mood for what she was implying. There was no hiding the hurt in her eyes but at this moment Caelus could not find the strength to care. 

“Oh…ok…can we still sleep together?” 

Oh how Caelus wanted to say no. 

“Sure.” 

“Ok, I'll go to your room and change into my pajamas.” March left before Caelus could stop her from going into his room uninvited again. Not that he had much energy to stop her anyways. His whole body felt tired and it felt like a great weight had been placed on his shoulders. 

*knock knock.*

Caelus turned towards the door, wondering who it could be at this late hour. With a heavy sigh he got up and headed towards the door, opening it slowly and was greeted by-

“Yo, thanks for opening the door for me, little brother.”

Stelle, Caelus’s older twin sister, who could not have picked a worse time to come back home.

“Stelle? W-What are you doing here?” The young grey haired man didn’t know what to do, he hadn’t told Stelle that March was staying over? Would she care? She wouldn't, right? 

Even your own sister, Stelle.

Caelus smacked himself right in the face for thinking of such a thing, damn Evernight. Her stupid words are still stuck in his head and now he’s acting paranoid over his own twin sister. Speaking of said twin sister, Stelle was looking at her brother with concern after seeing him just smack himself.

“Um…I live here? Are you okay Caelus?” She placed her hand on his forehead. “Are you getting sick or something? Why are you acting so scared?” 

Stelle walked inside her home, placing down her items before walking to the fridge to take out something to drink. 

“I’m fine.” Said Caelus as he turned around so that his sister wouldn’t see the mess his face was in. “I mean what are you doing at home, you texted me that you were staying with a friend.”

“Oh that, Bronya had something come up with her mom and you know what a total bitch she is.” Caelus winced at that word, though he wasn’t surprised, Stelle had always been the cruder sibling. “Wait…was someone looking to get some alone time? Hehehe.”

And there it is. Caelus could only sigh as he felt Stelle wrap her arm around his neck and as she nuzzled her face against his. 

“Sorry about that, Caelus, didn’t mean to ruin your alone time…” Her cheeky smile and teasing tone only made things worse. 

“Stop it Stelle, not in the mood right now.” Said the young man, had this been any other day he would respond back with his own qwips but right now he was too burnt out. 

“Hm? You okay? You’re not normally like this. What's wrong?” 

Before Caelus could answer, the sound of his door from his room opening could be heard. 

“Caelus?” And just like this, Caelus knew he was screwed. “Are you coming to bed? Oh! Hey Stelle!” 

Caelus turned around slowly and was greeted by March who was wearing a pink transparent nightgown!? His jaw hit the floor, it covered almost nothing, the only thing she was wearing besides that was a pair of blue underwear. The grey haired man was so shocked that he couldn’t turn his eyes away, he was just staring right at March who in turn started to blush. 

“I-I’m glad you liked it.” Her sweet response only made him sweat more. 

Caelus buried his face into his hands, wondering when this day was going to end. Man, Stelle was gonna be so confused and probably super awkward. He could already tell that he was gonna owe her big time for this.

“Stelle, before you say anything I know what it looks like but just hear me out.” He turned to his sister only to be surprised when he was met with a pair of cold eyes.

“Caelus, do you mind telling me what's going on?” Or she would get completely angry, huh…Caelus couldn’t remember the last time he’s seen Stelle get this mad. “Why is March in our home? Why is she with you alone? Why didn’t you tell me? And WHY is she dressed like that?” 

He opened his mouth to say something, anything but unfortunately for him March had other plans. 

“Is it obvious?” She ran and hugged Caelus’s arm, latching onto him like a leech. “We’re dating now, Stelle! I guess I’ll be calling you sister from now on!” 

Caelus didn’t say anything, he couldn’t because Stelle had grabbed him and ripped him away from March like he was a wet paper towel. Amidst all this confusion and stress, the young grey haired man felt his phone ring. He wished could see who was calling, but as he saw March smile condescendingly at Stelle who in turn looked ready to snap, Caelus realized that he had bigger things to worry about. 

She looked at her phone and still had no response.

“Honestly…who does this fool think he is?” 

She rose from her desk, a stack of papers and coffee falling to the floor. She made her way through her lab, passing by machines, beakers and liquids with various labels on them. Despite the fact that it was in the middle of the night she showed no signs of slowing down. 

“I warned that idiot.” A flick of a switch and lights came on, her eyes drifted to three teenaged sized dolls that were dressed in a small white, black and purple dress along with three small hats on their heads. The individual made her way to said dolls and turned on all three of them. 

“Madam Herta is a peerless Gem.” Said one doll. 

“Madam Herta is an unrivaled genius.” said the second doll.

“Madam Herta is an imitable beauty.” Said the final doll. 

“Ah…Like music to my ears.” She laughed as her dolls left the charging station and walked up to her, ready for her command. “Well Herta Bots 1 through 3, Seems like our dear test subject has decided he could ignore me. You know what to do, and you know where he lives, bring Caelus to me, get to it.” 

“Yes!” All three shouted in union as they left the building and made their way to the destination. 

“Honestly Caelus…” She began speaking to herself. “I don’t know why you think you can ignore my texts and my calls, but I suppose I could hear you out once you get here.” 

It seems Caelus’s night was far from being over.