Her bag was heavy- one would think people would learn to send flash drives… or attachments: But no- these were thick tomes: Apparently there was some long running myth that physical copies got looked at differently than digital.
Oh well. She had a long weekend coming up- that one manuscript would take a good chunk of her Sunday. Saturdays were her days… well… her and his days to be accurate.
After all, five months in- he more or less lived here anyway so she'd finally surprised him with a key tucked in his briefcase one morning- she'd been rewarded with pretty roses delivered to her cubicle later that same day and a handsome associate waiting for her when she got home.
He'd earned it.
He'd braved the harridan's home in Blossom's trek to regain the rest of her things from the insane jilted in-laws after all. Personal items, clothing, college mementos, pieces of jewelry lots of things that the bastard had rounded up in his own residence and was holding them hostage until as the insane woman had said "Blossom came to her senses."
Brick hadn't liked that phone call. Blossom hadn't liked that phone call. Their friends hadn't liked that phone call.
The former mayor had gifted her a rather pretty necklace upon her graduation from college: a pink flower with a diamond center: He'd been the closest to a grandfather Blossom and her sisters had had. She'd wept at his funeral. Will had conveniently had some work project that afternoon… judging from the timing that had been about the time the illegitimate child had been conceived.
Point was like hell was that baby mama wearing Blossom's diamond flower from her grandpa! Like hell.
Brick had agreed wholeheartedly.
So one chipper Friday afternoon, her brave Rowdyruff Boy had had rounded up a posse of indignant males: including a personal trainer who liked green, a cop in training who did love wearing the blue uniform and a former college Rugby player to accompany them on their delightful journey.
Will had apparently been the victim of this whole thing. She had broken his heart. She after all had apparently cheated on him. Like hell was she getting a thing!
But the sight of those three large males and her fire breathing handsome Rowdyruff in a muscle shirt that left none of those delicious assets to the imagination- she loved that shirt – well that shut Will up real quick. Boomer's newly polished badge ceased the harridan's threat of police involvement. No need they already were.
She really hoped that man became her brother in law someday. Bubbles had found a keeper.
The baby mama had screeched indignantly before claiming possession of the pretty flower. Finders Keepers!
Brick had curtly demanded it back. Before citing some kind of insanely complicated legal sounding bull that seriously made Blossom giggle inside before it was hastily removed from that plastic neck and he had snatched it back before he clipped it securely on Blossom's own. In all the entire visit had taken at most twenty minutes.
A hissed threat about the cake dress expense- that Blossom had paid for thanks so much- was also curtly taken care by more of Brick's legal mumbo jumbo that Blossom was pretty sure he'd just made up but it had caused the woman to go whiter than death and mumble insanely to herself even as he had serenely slammed the door behind them.
God her boyfriend was hot when he went all lawyer mode.
Wonder if he was doing it now. Sitting on her couch with one memo while a cascade of case files were scattered on her coffee table- pen in his mouth- only leaving it if he found something he needed to jot down or make a point of- Sundays were pleasant like that. He'd be in work mode- she'd be in work mode. He'd be shirtless. She'd be enjoying the view over her manuscript and editing pens of him being shirtless.
He'd decide it was time for a break. She'd go along with said break. Wonderful times beckoned. Oh how she loved weekends.
Case in point her door was left unlocked and slightly ajar on this fine Friday afternoon: There was a shock of red on her cream couch and he looked up and so did the big bundle of adorable fur that had turned her boyfriend into a sofa.
-l-
Aw look and there were her two favorite puppies.
Funny- once he'd had that sole title: So easily replaced was he?
-l-
Her own briefcase she set next to his on the floor and shook off her coat.
-l-
He should talk. What happened to Blossom having exclusive lounging rights on that lap?
White Fang was restless. This was the only way to save his shoes.
Uh huh. Sure it was. Kindly cease calling Artemis that please.
White Fang suited her better. It was more a wolf name didn't she know?
-l-
She rolled her eyes.
-l-
For the last time Artemis was a dog.
On the contrary. This was a wolf. Dogs did not have paws that were as big as dinner plates.
He was exaggerating.
Not by much.
-l-
Another rolling of the eyes.
She whistled and knelt. He rolled his eyes this time. Artemis barked and scrambled off him – taking a chunk of papers with her- silly puppy and as always dragging the remains of his shirt in her mouth that she simply refused to relinquish since she had come home from the shelter even months later.
Puppy kisses ensued. Her adorable big ball of fluff.
How could Blossom have resisted! Those huge amber eyes looked so sad from that kennel and then when she had ever jumped on Blossom's Rowdyruff like she had met some long lost friend- and his indignant protests had only sealed the deal when she had begun covering them both in puppy kisses.
She had claimed them as the giggling volunteer had declared. No other dog would go near them, she had been the alpha and she had claimed her pack- Brick's silly protests of it's gonna get bigger than a damn bear! – That ain't a dog that's a wolf! – Look at its paws! –dogs don't have paws like that! – Like hell that's a dog! You like that mutt more than me!
Silly jealous puppy. The puppy kisses continued. The other puppy sulked.
-l-
Again he's just that easily replaced.
Who was a good girl? Yes- she was a good girl! Aw did she miss momma? Aw she missed her too! – And stop sulking.
Funny, he remembered a time where he had been the first to get the kisses. And he wasn't sulking. He was impatient and the wolf stole his cherry Blossom.
Artemis was a dog. His cherry Blossom had had a long day- so no puppy fights please- there was plenty to go around.
-l-
Something else warm embraced her from above just then and she was plucked off the floor- Artemis whined but the taller puppy won the day. Her feet were slightly sore so she agreed to the ride to the couch. Besides-
Ew. He was wearing it. Nope. Not happening. Ah… there we go. Well it wasn't as long and glorious as it had been in all her silly high school giggling esque day dreams but it was still soft and kind of fluffy- She loved Fridays: Yes she did. He rolled his eyes again but nonetheless made no comment as she crawled over his lap and began her usual Friday evening ritual.
It was thick and strong: Like the arms that looped around her waist and pulled her closer wordlessly- a deep chuckle escaping him at her… childish antics she'd admit but he didn't seem to mind them- or he for some reason just chose not to comment on her obsession with his hair.
So soft. So fluffy. All Blossom's. She'd caught envious looks come her way from other females at the sight of her beau's glorious mane: tied back by day but left to run wild by night- the shoulder length locks just the right thickness and consistency for her fingers to become lost in it- she rather liked this length: just right. Not too long so it'd get in the way: not too short so she couldn't play. She normally liked it down and free in this ritual but this little ponytail he was sporting was too much of a temptation.
Flip. Flip. Hmm. New game.
His chuckling grew louder. Artemis whined at the loss of her sofa and instead dragged her security shirt and planted her rump on his feet.
Flip. Flip.
-l-
Having fun?
Leave her alone. Her toy was back.
Well good to know there were some things White Fang couldn't replace him in.
His hair was glorious. Stop calling the dog that. He'd confuse her.
She was confusing her more with her denial of her obvious heritage.
Artemis was a dog.
One of these days he was going to bring White Fang here out in a full moon and see how long it took for the mutt to start howling.
All dogs howled to the moon. Sit still. Be a good Rowdyruff.
Woof.
-l-
Artemis looked up and bobbed her head back and forth. They both snorted at that but apparently her playtime was over as she suddenly hit the couch back first. Another whine and her poor doggy likely still traumatized from last time dragged her security blanket away and went to go sulk under the kitchen table.
Ah… now came part two of her favorite way to start the weekend. Slow and steady- the frantic almost frenzied encounters of the past had more or less vanished into pleasant lingering evenings – instead of simply ripping clothes off- though they did that still eventually – now she got to hold him as they lay wherever they decided to start things off: Murmured words, soft caresses, hell occasionally she'd even get a shoulder rub: Well… to be fair he did too: Last week when that one case had drained him of nearly all energy their Friday evening she had decided was exclusively for him: He'd tried arguing but his sheer mental exhaustion finally made him cease and desist and just let her bring on the loving. They hadn't done anything but watch bad reality TV, laugh at the morons and their attempts at being "clever" before being double crossed and voted off the island anyway, the dog had sat at their feet. A warning to their families and friends had ensured their phones remained off for the entirety of the weekend proper and truth be told… it had been one of the best weekends Blossom had had in years.
And all she had done was just sit on her sofa, eat Chinese food, watch bad TV and lie in his arms while the dog happily chewed on some toy… or his shoes. She couldn't remember.
Point was… she'd gone domestic. Her last relationship had been go, go, go! He'd always wanted to go somewhere- be seen with the Puff: Relished in media attention and sometimes there had been times she had simply wanted to crawl under the covers and sleep.
Now… she could do that. There were times of course they both were all for it. Take off the tie, let the hair down, throw on a cute dress and be off for an evening with friends and family. His friend Jerry was a scream. He was positively floored by the apparent dramatic change in his best mate and Tina the lovely bride who Brick had more or less stolen the bouquet from: At least if that video was to be believed.
Brick didn't know she's seen it. Shhh.
Tina wouldn't hear of apologies. She was thrilled to meet her! Confused… but thrilled! So glad it worked out! Details however had been necessary.
And now Blossom coincidentally had a new best friend.
So really… she had an adorable puppy who was not a wolf thanks, she had a great new job, she had a great best friend, and she had a handsome living space heater who was apparently… rather fond of her for some reason but she wasn't complaining.
Life was good.
She snuggled into her personal space heater's chest and his deep sexy laughter put shivers down her spine. Mmm… life was very good.
However her well-deserved cat nap was interrupted by sudden loud… knocking? That knocking… why with the knocking? It continued.
She groaned. He stiffened and sat up- HEY! - She pulled him back. Fridays were her time! Not outside time!
It was probably Lobster Mama… funny- for all their… encounters in the past she had been... more than a little wary of meeting the "Parents" of sorts… properly not throwing them in prison or… running for her life: But he had finally grown tired of her excuses- her pleas and dragged her off anyway.
It had been necessary- he had said. Stop hitting him he had said. He was carrying her because she was being unreasonable!
…and apparently she had. The beginning of that evening had been disastrously awkward. By the end of it the former worst enemy had turned into her biggest fan, had engulfed her in hug after hug, apologized profusely – alcohol may have been involved- and invited Blossom to every single holiday for the rest of her life.
It had also been made quite clear to Brick that if he messed up this time "momma" was going to beat him with a rolling pin. There was also a mention of red eyed grandchildren whatever that meant but Mojo "Papa" had merely grunted and led his co parent away to "spare their embarrassed eldest son from further embarrassment due to your inability to control yourself in your unhinged demands for grandchildren when technically they are not even biologically your grandchildren and thus-.
Their arguing had grown shrill. Brick had hastened their own escape.
… She liked Lobster Mama. Really she did- the times he would come swooping in- her bewildered sister in tow to a day of beauty and out for tea were always an… experience: Tina had even been along for the ride a few times.
But right now all Blossom wanted was boyfriend with pretty hair to take his shirt off and murmur hot legalese to her all night long.
He wasn't cooperating. How rude. He sat up anyway and plopped the dog on her chest with a snicker. Well… jerkface! Meanie! She scooped up her puppy and stomped over to him, he flashed her a wry look as he opened the door with a flourish.
…This wasn't lobster mama. He had immaculate style, always well dressed, make up expertly applied and-. This creature looked rather disheveled, was sporting a tank top, a pair of torn jeans, hiking boots and a sleeve full of tattoos and oh dear God it was her sister.
Eep.
What was Buttercup doing here?! She'd been adamant over never speaking to Blossom again! She hadn't even told Blossom she was heading off on another dig- less than a month after they had stopped speaking she had just vanished- poof – and that had been… four months…
Artemis whined but Blossom held her tighter. She wasn't scared. Oh no. She was... shocked. Yes. Indignant and shocked- what was she doing here- how dare she-!
The evil sister Blossom hadn't missed in the slightest smirked in her direction and bent to the side to look past Brick- not that Blossom was hiding behind him or anything. The meanie waved nonchalantly.
-l-
Well howdy sis, how you doing today?
-l-
She waved back slightly. No need to be rude. Why was this asshole smirking so much? Seriously what was he up to?
Artemis whined again. She was a cuddle bug but she was getting slightly big for it. She shifted her weight. She wasn't scared. Really she wasn't.
-l-
Hi.
-l-
See Blossom wasn't scared. Her sister's odd smile grew as she raised an eyebrow.
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Heard you got a new puppy. I wanted to come see it for myself.
-l-
Well Artemis was adorable. Of course Bubbles must have gushed about her. A little warning would have been nice but- well.
She extended her puppy whose tail began to wag wildly and she barked her own hello.
She looked unimpressed.
-l-
Cute. Nice try. Not that puppy. Where the hell did you manage to get a wolf?
-l-
A loud snort. Traitor. He grinned at her and plucked the puppy out of her arms and set her on the floor where she bounded over to the stranger in the door way. Double Traitor!
Her sister bent over and rubbed Artemis's definitely non wolf ears with a slow smile. Her bag- ripped and torn from months in the Amazon was plopped casually next to Blossom's and… she fiddled with her hands. Buttercup's eyes darted around- left and right.
There were the two mugs on the kitchen table.
There were the two jackets hanging off the hook.
There were the two toothbrushes in the bathroom.
Her raven haired sister's eyebrow rose. Well… what did Blossom care! Nope! Not at all! She was an adult! If she so chose to have her boyfriend stay the night…. Most of the week what did she care what her… sister thought!
Nope! Not at all!
-l-
I would have called when I left but a volcano erupting really does wonders with cell reception. Oh well I mean I AM a geologist and all- or did you forget that part? Glad to see the cheap knock offs gone by the way. Oh and the ring too.
-l-
Her cheeks flushed. Where was her puppy?
Why didn't she like that whistle. Oh… oh he wouldn't dare! Artemis barked again- the traitoress went bounding over and allowed that… that traitor to pin her leash to her collar.
He… wouldn't.
She grabbed his arm.
-l-
Where does he think he's going?
White Fang is restless. Isn't it his turn to take her for a walk?
He wouldn't dare.
Has to be done Cherry Blossom. Be back in half an hour. Sisters need time to catch up.
But-… BUT!
-l-
The traitor kissed her cheek- and then pecked her mouth for good measure before flashing her a wink and sauntering out with her puppy in tow.
Traitors… TRAITOR PUPPIES!
She hasn't spoken to this woman in almost four months! The last time was a shrill screaming match that- that-! He couldn't be serious. She had plopped herself on the couch and was fiddling with what looked like a tiny hammer in one hand- a dark rock in the other.
… Blossom was mature. She was a sensible adult who had… who had nothing to worry about. Nothing to… nothing to stress about.
This was just her sister. Just… her unreasonable angry sister who… had a hammer and an aversion to men in Blossom's life apparently. She gulped. Wait. No she didn't. Because she was not scared!
-l-
Coffee?
-l-
Her sister looked up then nodded.
-l-
Coffee's fine.
-l-
The silence was awful. Only the occasional whap of the hammer echoed through the still room.
-l-
What was she doing?
Geology things.
Oh.
-l-
More wringing of the hands.
-l-
So Blossom had a new puppy did she?
… Yes her name was Artemis.
Not that puppy.
… Yes. She had a new boyfriend.
… Cool. Will was a dick.
-l-
The hammering continued.
-l-
He... was wasn't he?
That's the understatement of the year. This one any better?
… Yes.
…Good.
-l-
More hammering. Though when she tried to look at exactly what her sister was doing it was irritably turned from her.
She decided against lamenting about the rock crumbs littering her living room floor.
-l-
So… she saw the video. Bubs sent it to her. The entire camp almost died laughing.
-l-
Everyone had seen that video. She was shocked it hadn't ended up on some funniest video TV show. Perhaps it would. Perhaps Boomer feared for his well being if it did.
It was indeed funny. And… somewhat flattering in a way… he had certainly bolted out of that wedding fast enough.
Brick still didn't know she'd seen it. He was content in his conviction no one had seen it.
Blossom just didn't have the heart to tell him.
-l-
He's an idiot.
He was drunk.
Exactly. Idiot.
Well he doesn't drink anymore.
Well that's a relief.
-l-
That hammering continued. Blossom really wished one of her puppies was here. Preferably the tall one.
-l-
She's glad Blossom's not marrying the tool anymore. She was relieved to hear it actually.
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Silence.
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In fact… she's apparently upgraded. Seriously thought Cherry Blossom? Ew. He needs new nicknames.
-l-
Slight giggling. She swallowed it.
-l-
There's a story to that.
Mmm. Yeah. Probably- no offense she's not interested in goopy sappy love stories.
… It's not a love story. It's a story of two individuals discovering they don't hate each other.
And having really good sex.
…. She had best believe it.
-l-
Another snort. A wry sort of grin that put an ache in Blossom's chest despite herself. It was… disturbingly familiar. Like she had gone back in time: Instead of sitting on a cream colored couch in an apartment she was lying on a bed in a dorm room getting her toes painted by a chipper blonde and a raven head was floating listlessly above them trying to avoid the evil paint.
The beer cans and wine cooler bottles were lying listlessly around the once spotless dorm room. Tissues were strewn everywhere- mascara streaks prevalent.
Her last night home. She'd be gone. Exploring volcanoes and potentially being fried by lava! Why couldn't she have just worked in a museum! It was safer! What did it matter if it wasn't fun!?
She was not crying!
Okay so maybe she was it was the wine's fault. Blossom had a weakness for strawberry ones.
Oh shut it! She'd miss them! She could deny it all she wanted!
South America was too a long way away!
-l-
Her sister continued to give her an odd look and pound the rock. Her sister's dorm vanished and turned back into her living room.
She wrung her hands.
-l-
So… Blossom finally got that dog eh?
Yes she finally has a doggy. Isn't Artemis adorable?
That was a wolf. And yeah- she seemed sweet. Why Artemis?
She was too a dog! Artemis for the goddess of the hunt: She kept icky men away from Blossom.
… Except the overgrown puppy.
… Except Brick yes. She was rather fond of him.
Who? The wolf dog or Blossom?
… Both.
Sounds like Puppy Love.
Love doesn't exist.
-l-
The banging stopped and her eyebrow rose higher and higher.
-l-
It doesn't. Brick and her… are… very fond of each other is all. He… love doesn't exist.
-l-
More eyebrow raising before her sister twirled the little hammer in her hand and leaned back into the couch with a deep sigh.
-l-
That wasn't the impression she had gotten on the phone with him.
… What!?
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Blossom blinked. Then blinked again. A third time for good measure. She surely hadn't heard that correctly.
-l-
Yep. The idiot called her: six times by the way. He interrupted her dig. Bastard.
… W-When!? W-Why!? Why had he-!?
-l-
Piercing green irises met her pink ones.
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Because.
Because why?
Because he loved her. She was just being a stubborn dingbat who refused to admit it clearly.
No he didn't.
Obviously he does. Stop being dumb.
She's not being dumb! She's being… love doesn't exist! It causes nothing but pain! Extreme fondness- that's the way!
-l-
Another sigh. The hammer went back to pounding the rock. She eyed it nonchalantly.
-l-
What on earth was she doing?!
She told her. Geology things.
… Oh. … Brick was a Geo minor.
She's aware.
She is?
How?
Her business.
… He doesn't love her she should know.
Actually he did. He was utterly crazy about her actually- or did guys normally bring girls to meet "momma and papa" after only three weeks?
…Two. And Technically Will had brought her after a week.
Douchebag was afraid to go potty without getting Mommy's okay.
-l-
She giggled and another wry smile from the raven head at her right.
-l-
That's true… what did she ever see in him…
He was a good looking redhead. Blossom had always had a thing for redheads.
She did?
Yeah. Glaringly obvious why if she'd stop being a dingbat.
-l-
Her eyes hit the floor and she wrung her hands more.
Another sigh- before a slight almost soft touch on her shoulder.
-l-
Question. Did one normally adopt a wolf puppy with boyfriends of only two weeks?
Artemis was a dog- for the last time- and she is her dog! Brick simply came along for company!
Whose arms did wolfie jump in first?
… His. She's a dog.
Whose shirt does wolf pup use as a security blanket?
Brick's. Again. Dog.
Who does wolf puppy follow around begging for belly rubs?
… His- how does she know all this!? And it's a Dog!
No dog's paws are that big. Blossom has a wolf.
Well Artemis's are!
Well Daddy agrees- that's a wolf.
-l-
The smile was smug and annoying. She curled her knees up.
-l-
Daddy doesn't know anything.
On the contrary- he's smarter than Buttercup took him for. And he does love her… she is aware of this correct?
Love doesn't exist. They're merely fond of each other.
Bull. The lunatic's crazy about her. And he's a brave man: bugging Buttercup on her dig with those incessant phone calls despite her threats to neuter the stupid lovesick puppy!
…When… When was this?
-l-
The pounding stopped. Her eyebrow rose before another sigh.
-l-
A few days ago. We were getting ready to pack up- that ole mountain was getting ready to blow: real cool to watch… not right below it. He kept calling- and calling. Threats of castration wouldn't work. After the sixth call she finally listened to him. He insisted she come talk to her. Insisted. Almost begged.
…W-Why?
-l-
The Rock hammer was set down on the cushion and she averted her gaze.
-l-
Because…. Apparently sister dear… missed her. Because maybe not talking to her for almost six months was kind of harsh. Because maybe she was sorry…. Because maybe Buttercup sort of kind of missed her too…
-l-
Silence.
Her sister still avoided her direct gaze. Her sleeve which had only seemed to grow more and more covered as a new tattoo was obviously added each new trip and-.
Was that a-? On the butterfly… was that butterfly on a-?
Her hand lingered over her collarbone. Where her own butterfly lay hidden.
-l-
Tears. So many tears. It was a shock the shop had allowed her to get it in the first place. Then again three drunk Powerpuff Girls… who was going to argue with them?
Not that anyone would ever know anyway- it was their little secret. Bubbles being on her way to being a teacher chose the smallest most discreet looking one she possibly could and biting her lip endured the ankle needle. Her collarbone tickled and Buttercup- her ridiculously brave spelunker of a sister just took the added sleeve design like it was routine.
Well it kind of was at that point for her but- still. It just seemed so very… naughty what Blossom was doing. Maybe it was the wine coolers talking- hee hee- probably was but if Daddy ever found out Blossom had a tattoo now. Hee hee.
Everything nice: had a tattoo. How deliciously ironic.
The tricolored butterfly was proudly in its place. Surrounded by little bubbles and resting on a flower. A perfect combination of the three of them. Together forever- no matter how many icky jungles separated them.
Yes… it was definitely the wine talking. A butterfly with the three colors and then she giggling like a mad woman had asked for one more final touch that had made her sister roll her eyes and Bubbles giggle.
Amor in mundo per venire.
Love makes the world go round.
-l-
That butterfly was resting on a flower. That butterfly had been perched in midair when that tattoo had been added to the masterpiece of a collage.
Her sister… had added a flower?
…Why?
The she saw the Latin. And her eyes widened more.
Amor in mundo per venire.
-l-
She… changed her tattoo?
… Maybe. Tequila was a powerful type of booze and….she never should have done what she did.
No... Buttercup had been right. She should have listened.
She'd been pissed… she hadn't known what else to do. Blossom throwing herself away like that-.
She was a fool. She had been a fool.
No she wasn't.
Yes she was. She was still angry at herself. She'd always known it… but… Will had… made her feel special. Made her feel like someone… had… loved her even. He was a good actor.
Someone did love her.
Love doesn't exist.
Now she was being a fool. Need she remind her- six phone calls- threatened castration- if he didn't love her than he was obviously some kind of masochist.
But why would he-!?
Because he wanted "his cherry Blossom happy." – Ew. Seriously. New nicknames. Please. – He loved her so much it was honestly nauseating.
He didn't-!
Okay fine. He didn't. Just like she hadn't brought a wolf home.
Artemis was not a-! He… He didn't… he was just… fond… they were just fond of-!
-l-
The door opened and she sprang up as Buttercup stood casually at the same time. She flipped her hammer in her pocket and tossed the rock she'd been mercilessly smacking in her hands listlessly.
The two puppies beamed at them both. Artemis rubbing her nose in Buttercup's stomach- she was getting to be a rather tall puppy. Perhaps she had Great Dane in her?
Her other puppy. The redheaded one wrapped his arms over her shoulders. He seemed to catch Buttercup's eye and gave a small nod. She sauntered over to them both and flipped her backpack over her shoulder.
-l-
Well lovebirds: I have to run for now- see you in a bit at the dinner or whatever- oh you didn't know? Well guess my return and successful escape from being squished by volcanic rocks merits some kind of celebration. Bubbles apparently also has some kind of date for me. Says he's perfect for me. It better not be Butch. If it's Butch I'll kill her.
-l-
She paused at the doorway and then out came the hammer dangerously close to Brick's nose.
-l-
You EVER make my sister cry and I'll show you how good I am with this hammer. We clear Rowdyruff?
-l-
His grip on her shoulders tightened.
-l-
Crystal. He never had any such intentions.
-l-
Better not. Also do me a favor. Think of a new nickname for my sister PLEASE. Seriously. Ew. I'd like to keep my dinner.
-l-
One last rub of Artemis's head and the door closed. His grip remained solid and she clutched him closer.
Why had he… had he really?
But… Why?
There an abrupt knocking and she was back.
Something was pressed into Blossom's hands before her sister threw her arms around her and Blossom's eyes burned but she returned it just as hard.
-l-
I'm sorry. I really am. I missed you. I missed you so much. And just so you know- You're a fool if you let this one go. I'll kill you. Just like I'll kill Bubbles if she's attempting to do what I think she is- she blackmailed me in a goddamn dress. I mean it. It better not be Butch.
-l-
She was released and she wiped her eyes. She met Brick's eyes again and then looked back at Blossom before another small wave and back out the door she went.
He folded his arms and leaned against the wall.
-l-
Well?
Well what?
How'd it go?
….. Why did he do this?
… Do what?
He called her sister. Why?
-l-
He paused and Artemis whined. It was obviously dinner time. He didn't answer her, instead he moved to the kitchen and began preparing their-…. Her dog's dinner.
-l-
Brick?
What?
She wanted an answer.
He did it because he wanted to.
Why.
-l-
Artemis was chowing down. He wiped his hands clean.
-l-
… He heard her crying last week. In the shower… he meant. She… she was all upset because her butterfly… had begun to fade. Remember?
… Yes.
And then she wouldn't tell him why… and he had never gotten the story from her- despite the fact that he kept his end of the bargain- his hair was back after all! … So… he called… Bubbles. Who… told him everything.
-l-
He was studiously avoiding her gaze even when she stepped towards him.
-l-
He'd been expecting… some wild story from college. Lots of alcohol, maybe some streaking, something like Puff gone wild… instead… he hears a story about yes… alcohol… but three grieving sisters who are about to be separated for the first time and… they get this crazy idea to get these tattoos… so they're never apart no matter where they are.
… Brick…
It broke his heart. And the crying that she was just hell bent on hiding from him suddenly made a lot more sense… and yeah… he was sick of hearing her cry and not being able to do anything about it and it infuriated him that it was all that… that… asshole's fault! He wasn't about to let that shithead who had cost her so much cost he, her sister too. Fuck. No.
-l-
That burning in her eyes… it was just dusty in here.
-l-
Sorry… not sorry… he couldn't stand seeing her so fucking upset. He… He can't stand seeing her cry. He cares about her too fucking much to just sit and do nothing while she's in that much pain. So…yeah he acted. Sorry if he overstepped any boundaries but… he just… he just couldn't take it anymore.
-l-
His fingers had clenched into a slight fist and he kept avoiding her gaze. So she turned it instead. His face turned into her palm and she shuddered at the kiss he pressed on it.
And... Those still weren't tears by the way.
-l-
He… he did it for… her?
Course he did.
W-Why?
-l-
His grip on her loosened and he stroked her cheek- thankfully not commenting on the wetness. His eyes… were piercing.
-l-
"Because I love you…Blossom."
-l-
Silence. His thumb remained against her cheek- which was getting wetter by the second. But he still said nothing. Even as he leaned down and pressed a kiss on her brow.
-l-
She ought to get dressed. Six PM reservation at Ludovico's. By the way- yeah it's Butch. He saw that pic from Bubbles- the one of the chick on top of the waterfall and he's been begging since- Bubs and him finally agreed to make it happen to shut him up. Ain't he such a good brother? Heh…. He… He should go. Get changed… and all… he'll be back in twenty minutes or so. She uh… ought to wear that new dress… the red one… they'd uh… match. Heh.
-l-
Another kiss. Though this time it seemed almost tentative. As if he was unsure about something. But before she could say or even do anything.
He was gone.
She stared after him. Where just a few seconds ago he'd stood. Why did… why did this… place suddenly seem so… achingly empty.
It always did… when he was gone after all. Even her hyperactive puppy seemed subdued and whining went to go sit on her nest: his shirt in her mouth as she sulked.
Right… dressed. She... did rather like that pretty red dress and…
She didn't walk into her bathroom. She found the couch instead.
She hadn't been able to tell him because of the pain it caused. She'd come up with excuse after excuse: any reminder of her sister and what had happened between them was just… too painful to deal with and-. Then she'd stepped out of the shower- seen the green had begun to fade slightly and it had just been a torrential downpour.
He'd held her as she sobbed and sobbed: Never even questioning the sanity of this… girl he had chosen to become fond of... and… and...
Buttercup had promised on her trips abroad to always bring back something pretty for her sister. She had a whole shelf of mineral samples hand mined by her after all. This one she had pressed in her hand however… wasn't very pretty.
Served Blossom right of course. The dark stone was ugly. Just like her. Bitterly angry deep down despite the wonderful boyfriend somehow she had managed to snag but it was only a matter of time: How much longer could he keep his patience with her and her… utter insanity.
He deserved someone better. Someone… more worthy of being… fond of. Someone who wouldn't have fallen for honeyed words and a miniscule resemblance to a man she'd been pining for like an insane person. She really did have a weakness for red hair and it was no question why.
Fool. Stupid… fool!
He'd done it for her. He'd braved her sister's wild temper for her. Just like he'd braved Mother in Law zilla. Just like he'd endured his shoes being torn to shreds by hyperactive dog… wolf… oh God her puppy really did have wolf in her didn't she? Those paws were enormous- how had Blossom never seen-!?
… Was she… was she really that blind?
Brick… Brick deserved better. He really did. He'd figure that out soon… and she'd be alone. But... he'd find someone who made him happy and-.
And why did that icy knowledge hurt her more than anything Will in their two years… had done. IN the almost six months she'd been with her Rowdyruff… why did she feel more alive than… she ever had in those two wasted years.
The idea of Brick leaving her… however justified simply… hurt.
And she couldn't… she couldn't… figure out why damn it!
Damn it… why was this apartment so… so damn dusty!
She played with the stone in her hands. This ugly… black stone that was a perfect representation of Blossom and-.
It shifted… hmm? Rocks didn't shift. They were solid and oh… oh damn it! Now she'd gone and broken it and-!
… What?
It… it wasn't a rock at all. Well okay it was a rock but… it was a pretty rock. The crystals within were a deep burgundy color- some more orange… others more red. She stared at it. It was a geode. Ugly on the outside… yet so pretty on the inside.
Ugly and hurtful on the outside… but within it promised…wonderful… beautiful things.
She didn't realize how long she was staring at it until she heard the lock shift and he was back. A very cheerful wolf pup bounded to greet him and-. He raised an eyebrow but then his face fell and not a second later he was by her side.
-l-
Blossom? Babe… everything okay?
-l-
She continued to stare at the rock. His gaze fell on it.
-l-
Shit… that's a pretty one. She give her that?
Yes….
If… if she's still upset and would rather skip tonight… he understands. They could always order in and then the four of em' could just come here and-.
-l-
The tears wouldn't stop. Why wouldn't they stop? His eyes had widened more and he cupped her cheeks.
-l-
Babe! What the-!? Shit. He just… he just wanted to see her happy but… clearly he fucked up.
No… No he didn't…
Then why is she?!
…. She…. She doesn't…she doesn't hate him… in the slightest. He… He should know… she's… actually… rather fond of him… she… she likes him… very much actually.
-l-
He seemed to freeze in place even as he brushed her cheek again.
-l-
Well… That's good news. He's glad to hear it.
-l-
She jumped up and he scrambled after her.
-l-
He… He brought her sister back.
… Well technically an erupting volcano brought her back but he left a few voice mails.
He brought her sister back. He braved Motherzilla's lair for her just so she could get her Grandpa's necklace back. He lets her play with his hair all day long like some kind of crazy person. He deals with her erratic mood swings. He's her personal space heater without a complaint. He let her leave the pound with a goddamn wolf because she loved it so much. He allows said wolf to turn his things into chew toys- he's never getting that shirt back he should know.
-l-
He blinked and then chuckled before he shrugged.
-l-
He's aware. It's just one of the risk factors in raising a hyperactive wolf pup.
Oh God she really is a wolf isn't she?
Glad to see she's come to terms with it. Not to worry though, for all her chewing she's still a good pup. He wouldn't trade her for the world. Now… is she up to going out tonight or not? If not he'll order a pizza or something-.
-l-
She… She loves him.
-l-
He froze. The phone he had just pulled out went crashing to the floor.
-l-
… What was that?
-l-
She clasped her mouth. His mouth was wide open.
-l-
She… loves…
Say that again?
-l-
She continued stuttering like an insane woman. He just kept looking at her. Looking at her as she couldn't even choke the words out… choke those… words out that… meant… so much… in such a little package.
She… She did… She… despite… all the hell that could come with it. Despite how ugly it could be and was… deep down… it was the most… beautiful… thing in the world and… looking at… looking at this… man who had found her sitting at a bar weeping her heartbreak over an asshole and who had looked at her like she was the most beautiful girl in the world…. Who had brought back her smile and restored her laughter: Who continued to look at her in the same way now… as he had then…?
The tears continued. There was no dust in the air. Her tears flowed and wouldn't stop.
She cupped his cheeks this time, pulled him to her and his arms wrapped around her waist.
Her breath was shuddering as he kissed the tears away but she took another shuddering gasp of air.
-l-
"I… I….love you….Brick."
-l-
His smile was huge. His eyes were wide before with a loud bellow of a cheer her feet were off the ground and she was being spun around by an insane person with a loudly barking wolfdog jumping at both their feet.
Sanity was overrated anyway! They could just be… just be a bunch of crazy loons in love together!
Because she was… he was… she was in love… he… he had been in love… and…
Well…
Amor in mundo per venire.
Love… makes the world go round.
Well. That's about it. The plot bunnies have more or less been rounded up.
One more part to this. But its more an easter egg of an epilouge of sorts. If anyone is curious as to what Artemis actually is: She is indeed a breed of dog commonly known as a "Wolf Dog" - Where the pound got her though... no idea. It is indeed a mystery.
Thanks for reading my lovelies, as always any thoughts are welcome treats for the plot bunnies.
-Carrie