Credit for this chapter goes to Energy witch for her suggestion back in chapter two. :)
Thank you to Insert Name Here, ImpossibleJedi4, BILL CIPHER, Energy witch, Darkness Legends, Nom, Ella Le Hissy, Firefox, TheConManAndTheGhost, Catgirl PA, Invader Ash, and Dum Dum for your reviews on chapter three.
Firefox: That he does. Do you have any suggestions from the cast, or would an OC work better?
Invader Ash: You're actually the second person to ask. Yes, the Shapeshifter will show up in a later chapter. I'm going to wait until the twins return for summer break so Dipper can be involved in that adventure.
There is major BillFord in this chapter. It's not quite M rated, but plenty is suggested.
Also, the song in this chapter is my own original composition.
"Thank you for looking after Bill," Ford said to McGucket.
"I'm not some child or lost puppy, Sixer," Bill snapped.
The shorter man laughed, neither one paying attention to Bill's comment. McGucket waved his hand and said, "Just me an' the triangle makin' up fer lost time."
For a moment Fiddleford wondered how things would have been different had Ford discovered a way to bind Bill into human form back in the days of their research. Of course that would have been near impossible since Ford thought his muse could do no wrong until the truth was discovered too late.
However Fiddleford understood there was no use dwelling on what could have beens of the past.
"Actually I had some hours ta kill 'fore I met with this man from Washington who wants ta take a look at the blueprints fer somma my inventions," Fiddleford said. He slipped his hand through his beard and produced three rolled up sheets of paper. "I reckon they can use a few of these things more than me."
Ford nodded. He himself had been the reason Fiddleford abandonned his dreams to make personal computers (which baffled him how successful the product sold), so he hoped his old friend managed to sell one of his other inventions. It would be a shame for McGucket's potential to go to waste.
"Then we'll take up no more of your time," said Ford. He turned then remembered his friend's invitation for the next night. "We'll see you tomorrow night."
Fiddleford waved them off. Ford and Bill headed in the direction that they witnessed Wendy and her friends leave.
Only after a few minutes of surveying the area did Bill notice the group of teenagers sitting in the grass with a few others listening to a man play the guitar. Wendy smiled at Ford and waved him over. Ford and Bill complied, but neither one sat down.
"We're actually about to leave," Ford announced.
"Is it because of Robbie?" Wendy asked. She clicked her tongue. "I don't know where that douche is and I don't really care." The redhead stared down at the long grass blades. "I don't know what I ever saw in that creep."
"My thoughts exactly," Tambry commented from a few feet over.
"You're not really leaving are you, Cipherbomb?" Lee asked.
"Yeah," Bill replied, holding out the word. He ran a hand through his hair. "We just got back in town and it's been a long day."
"Later then," Wendy said. "I'll hitch a ride with Thompson." She leaned back on her hands and let her gaze fall back on the aging musician who sang of a happier time.
As they left they heard Lee say, "What do you expect, he's an old man. Probably need his afternoon nap."
"Whatever, you take more naps than anyone I know," Wendy replied.
"That's just 'cause I'm lazy," Lee argued making the others laugh.
The two made their way to the parking lot. For a second Ford considered stopping at that one booth to purchase another book on the mysteries of Gravity Falls, but elected to forgo a useless expense.
They reached the car.
While throwing on his seatbelt Bill asked, "So back to the shack?"
Ford opened his mouth to answer when he glanced over at Bill. The absent smile on his face combined with his golden hairs nearly glowing in the sunlight reminded him that their days were numbered until Kryptos returned. With Bill's knowledge still trapped in forbidden sections of his mind they stood little chance for victory.
"I have a better idea," Ford said. He turned on the car and drove into town.
Bill watched as the car passed the turn that would lead them to their home. With a smile he faced ahead, bouncing in anticipation of wherever Ford chose to take them. Apparently there was a sweet shop on the outskirts of town Soos once told him about; however, since Ford never cared to go, Bill was denied access as well.
The majority of the town had been repaired after the last armegeddon. A few condemned buildings were left to rot, and others that no one owned, or didn't have the insurance to rebuild never saw any improvement. Bill slumped at the thought that in another few months they'd be faced with possibly even worse than the damage he left in his reign of terror.
Another twelve minutes of driving and Bill saw them approaching the vaguely familiar edge of Gravity Falls. Both men stared in the direction of the small road that led up the forbidden trail. Other than falling off the cliff, or facing possibly animal attacks, the trail no longer gave hikers a reason to fear for their lives.
"Are we checking up on Cavemouth?" Bill questioned.
Ford shook his head. "There's nothing left to see, but even if there was, I wouldn't recommend it," he answered. "Not until the investigation is over." So far the police had only questioned him and Bill once. As far as he knew they were satisfied with his and Bill's story.
A few minutes later and the car pulled into the parking lot for an enormous hotel. It had been constructed back in the 1960s, but its design was based more on the architecture of hotels built in the early 1920s.
Bill's eye caught the sign as they drove by. He took a double take out the window then looked over at Ford with a raised brow. According to all the magazines, travel shows, and documentaries the Livingrich hotel was considered the fanciest resort in the state.
"Question Mark mentioned this place once," Bill said as Ford pulled into a parking spot near the entrance. Once the car turned off Bill asked, "What are we doing here?"
"After a long trip I thought we could rest in style," Ford answered. He offered Bill a smile before instructing him to stay in the car while he checked them in.
Bill watched Ford walk into the lobby. Palm trees decorated either side of the limestone pathway that led to the front door. He leaned back in the chair with his arms behind his head. From what he gathered from the Ford and Stan's conversation he overheard, Ford had perhaps a year's worth of money left and wondered why he wanted to blow a a few hundred to lodge in a place like that.
Seven minutes passed and Bill considered running inside to rescue Ford from whatever monster held him captive. Before he had the chance the human crossed over to the car with a room key card in hand. The car was relocated to guest parking and the two headed on inside.
The interior was impressive. Although Bill had seen plenty of grand hotels before, it was his first time experiencing it in a corporal form. The place smelled of lavender and lilies. The floors were gray marble and the walls ivory with intricate vines and plants etched along. Six enormous golden chandeliers hung from the ceiling.
Over to the left stood the entrance to a luxurious lounge in which a musician sang while accompanying himself on the piano. The patrons watched, some whispering among themselves. Next to the lounge was a coffee shop that served only the best brands and brews. The coffee shop was furnished with plush antique seating, each one an original.
A footman approached them with a tray of glasses containing only the finest water. Bill accepted one, but Ford politely declined the drink then urged Bill to move on. Bill winked at the server who only blushed in response.
"A guy can get used to this," Bill commented.
"Don't get too comfortable, we're only here for one night," Ford said from where he walked in front of Bill.
Bill snatched a brochure from the front shelf all while keeping up with Ford's strides. The two stepped in the elevator that lifted them to the fourth floor. Bill read over the twenty dining options alone in the hotel. Of course there was the spa, four pools, the tenth floor mall, and plenty of entertainment.
The elevator announced their floor. Ford led the way with Bill in tow. All the while the blond kept his eyes on the paper, his heart desired to do everything listed.
Ford inserted the card into the door. The light blinked green twice and he turned the knob to fill their faces with a sweet aroma. Ford pushed the door open then turned on the light to illuminate the spacey quarters. The empty water glass clanked as it was placed atop the dresser. Bill rushed ahead and jumped on the plush king size bed draped with a heavy cyan comforter.
The six fingered hand reached into one of his coat pockets to grab the cell phone. Quickly the memorized number was dialed and Ford waited for his brother to pick up.
"Hello, Stanley," Ford greeted. "I'm just calling to inform you that Bill and I won't be back in until sometime late tomorrow afternoon." From the other line Stan inquired more details, but Ford ensured him there was nothing interesting about their impromptu trip. As he sat the phone down next to the empty cup Ford dreaded Stan finding out they visited one of the fanciest places in the state without inviting him.
"This is the comfiest bed I've ever laid on," Bill sang. He snuggled against the pillow breathing in the fresh scent.
Bill's eyes widened when he realized the treat waiting for them on the table. Giggling he sprung from the bed and picked up the fresh pot of hot cocoa along with an assortment of candies and sweets to top off their warm beverage. Without waiting for Ford's response he poured the drink into the two porcelain mugs. Bill then used his teeth to open the marshmallows and chocolate sprinkles to add to his cocoa.
Ford held out his hand to stop Bill from adding unnecessary sweeteners to his cup. He took the warm mug between his hands and slowly sipped the bittersweet beverage. Bill downed the entirety of his chocolate in five heavy gulps. He then poured a second cup that he planned to savor.
"Forget the Mystery Shack, I'm moving in here," Bill said and sat down on the white Queen Anne chair accompanied by a cyan cushioned seat and back.
"Then you'd better find you a richer boyfriend," Ford replied.
"You could be richer if you just did what I said," Bill said with a wave of his hand. Ford raised his eyebrow. Bill continued, "Write your book. Make your millions."
"That's not an option," Ford said and sat down across from Bill.
Bill snagged a few marshmallows from the bag and popped them in his mouth. "Anything's possible, Sixer. You got all this research and nothing to do with it." He pointed at Ford with his pinky. "Adventure books. Make Shooting Star and Pinetree the main characters. I guarantee it'll sell."
"Honestly, Bill, who is going to be interested in a story where twins visit their great-uncle in a lumber town over the summer and encounter the supernatural armed with only a mysterious author's journal for defense?"
"Oh, and don't forget to add me as the main antagonist," Bill added.
Ford shook his head. He took a long sip from his drink. "I'll pass. I don't think it'll generate much of a fanbase." Ford placed his empty mug back down on the table. "But enough of that. We didn't come out here to argue."
Bill nodded. He finished off the rest of his hot chocolate.
"So what would you like to do?" Ford asked.
Bill only smirked which made Ford instantly regret asking his boyfriend's opinion. Bill picked up the brochure and looked over all the pages once more. The gloss paper was suddenly squeezed in Bill's hand before he hurled it in the trashcan.
"To be honest, we got this huge bed," Bill said and jumped backwards on the soft mattress. With the aid of his feet to kick off his shoes. Bill sat up with his legs tucked underneath him then grinned at his boyfriend while slowly unbuttoning his own shirt. The garment was tossed to the floor. Bill leaned forward with his hands down on the mattress, his back curved, and his eyes full of desire. "How about we really test it out?"
Ford rolled his eyes. However it had been two weeks since the last time they were intimate. More than once he had yearned for Bill's touch. Ford removed his jacket then pulled off the turtleneck sweater revealing his scarred arms and torso.
Bill then jumped on Ford and wrapped his legs behind the taller man's back. Bill lurched forward and bit down on the crease in between Ford's neck and shoulder. Ford gasped at the sudden sting. Bill gently let go, careful not to break the skin. His tongue lapped at the pink spot left behind from his teeth.
Without warning Ford threw Bill on the bed. Grinning, Bill let Ford pin his hands down on either side of his head. Each of Bill's fingers were snug in between Sixer's twelve. Ford climbed atop of Bill and lowered his face atop of the other man's. Bill parted his lips to allow Ford access to the inside of his mouth.
Ford gripped at Bill's hips causing the smaller man to throw back his head in ecstasy. The large hands crept up Bill's torso, caressing and grasping the lightly toned flesh all while their mouths hungrily engaged in battle.
At last Ford gripped Bill's shoulders. Gold eyes met with brown ones and in that moment Bill gave his boyfriend permission.
After an hour of passionate lovemaking the exhaustion of the recent trip finally took its toll on the two. Deprived of clothing the two lie in each other's embrace with the comforter over them both, allowing sleep to take them away.
Three hours later Bill was the first to rise. He smiled at his slumbering boyfriend then leaned over to peck him on the cheek. Ford wrinkled his nose, but didn't wake.
Bill threw the covers from him and headed to the bathroom. He nearly fell down at the size of the bathtub that looked as though it could comfortably fit seven people inside. For a moment Bill wondered if all the rooms were as luxurious as theirs or if Ford splurged.
After a minute of contemplation Bill opted on a bath in the marble tub. Cherry blossom bubble bath was added to the tub. Bill selected a tiny bottle of chardonnay from the mini bar and ripped off the cork with his teeth. He filled his wine glass with the light gold liquid.
One foot into the tub followed by a second and the glass was placed on the side. With eyes shut Bill leaned back in the hot water and allowed the steam to rise about him.
Time moved without notice. For the first time he truly appreciated silence. The pleasant smells accompanied by comfortable water temperature nearly soothed him into a second nap.
The quiet ended when the bathroom door opened to reveal Ford wrapped in one of the complimentary satin robes. He leaned against the door with a smile at the surprised look on his boyfriend's face.
Bill sat up with a grin. He wiped away the water from his forehead then gripped the edges of the tub.
"Come join me, Sixer," Bill called.
Not having a proper bath in two days Ford accepted Bill's offer. The discarded robe was hung on the marble counter and with Bill's help Ford stepped into the tub. Bill reached across the way to grab a second glass from the tray. A puddle formed from the hundred droplets plummeting from Bill's boy. The remainder of the wine was poured in Ford's glass.
Each held a wine glass and the drinking vessels clang as they toasted their relationship. The openings tilted towards parted mouths. Ford chugged his entire beverage in one go. The empty glass was discarded and Ford nestled into a comfortable position.
The added weight caused him to open his eyes only to see Bill leaning against him. The nimble fingers on Bill's left hand ran through Ford's hair while his right hand rested on Ford's chest.
Ford almost forgot to breathe. A massive hand gently stroked Bill's shoulder. For a moment Ford felt like he was in his late twenties again.
Back then Bill promised he could take human form once the portal was completed and they were allowed to exist on the same plane. There was a time when he fantasized the very scene he lived out at the present moment. After three decades of suffering at least one dream had been granted a reality.
"The water is warm, but not nearly as warm as your arms," Bill said softly.
The tone of his voice combined with the fact that his eyes were shut gave Ford reason to worry that Bill would fall asleep in the tub. Ford gently took hold of Bill's chin and tilted his head up. Gold eyes opened just as Ford pressed his lips against Bill's. Again the gold eyes closed and Bill kissed back. Ford pulled away then laid his head back.
After the long bath the two dressed and made their way downstairs to enjoy a nice meal in one of the many restaurants. It was their first real meal alone in months. In that moment Ford considered Bill's request of wanting to stay a little longer. However his bank account reminded him that he had to be careful with his funds.
When the meal ended Ford decided to grab a coffee in the store next to the lounge. The sign by the performance room showed that no one was scheduled to play for another hour. Bill glanced back at Ford who still had five people ahead of him, then returned his gaze to the vacant piano. How his fingers itched to dance along the keys.
On impulse Bill stepped over to the baby grand bereft of a player. Bill shook his head at the shame of the beautiful instrument not being allowed to show off its sweet melody for those resting a spell.
Bill sat down. His fingers wiggled in the air for a few seconds and then he allowed himself to freely play. At first it was a slow and calm melody. Those in the lounge all perked up to see the strange man not on the schedule for the evening's entertainment trying his hand at the piano.
Not seeing Bill waiting outside the cafe Ford heard the music and peered into the lounge to see his boyfriend seated atop the piano bench, his fingers nimbly stroking the delicate keys. It had been close to thirty years since the last time he listened to Bill play. Albeit it was different to see it in real life as opposed to the Mindscape where Bill used illusions to manipulate the instrument.
Ford moved closer to where his boyfriend played. The others in the crowd seeing Ford move towards the musician gave them a reason to copy. Ford slightly gripped his cup when the strangers dared to stare upon how swiftly and smoothly Bill's fingers danced along the ivory.
In that moment Bill glanced up to see the crowd surrounding him. He looked to his left to gaze upon Ford who greeted him with a smile. Even after all that time Ford still watched him play with that same hint of admiration. The same love still present in his eyes.
The melody suddenly switched to a livelier one. Much to Ford and the rest of the audience's surprise Bill began to sing:
A hardened heart.
And a proud and reckless fool.
A second start
And neither of us knew
A mistake has led us together.
A mistake has led us together.
Once the shock wore off Ford felt his mouth form into a soft smile. It had been so long since he heard Bill sing. Back then it surprised him how well the triangle could sing, but hearing that same voice come from the lithe human made it even better.
Infected with pride
Bursting from inside
Harmful words, we took our aim
Oh, how we used to claim:
I will never love you.
No, I will never love you.
It didn't take long for Ford to realize the inspiration behind Bill's lyrics.
Bill played faster as he reached the refrain.
But I conquered your world
And I changed your heart,
When I played my part,
I made you love me.
I made you love me.
You fought back
And you won.
When you were done,
You made me love you.
You made me love you.
Bill played four more measures to end the song. His hands hovered over the piano as he sang that last line a third time in ritardando. "You made me love you."
Bill folded his hands in his lap causing the surrounding audience to loudly applaud. Bill turned to the others and bowed causing them to clap harder. He flashed them a smile before turning to the reason for his song.
Seeing a security guard make his way towards the lounge Bill jumped up and brushed off his shirt. The audience dispersed, some returning to the lounge furniture while others fleeing the room altogether. Bill smiled up at the guard who gave the musician a warning glare before heading back to the front of the hotel.
"As much as we're paying, you'd think one song on a piano would be a given," Bill grumbled.
Ford didn't respond.
The two opted to step outside and tour the outside of the resort.
The waning crescent moon provided sufficient lighting along with the lampposts every six feet down the pathway. The crisp evening wind made its presence known. Bill tightened his grip on his arms. He glanced over at Ford who walked unaffected due to the large coat protecting his arms.
"So, did you like my song, Sixer?" Bill asked with a smirk. "I wrote it for you, you know."
"It's decent," Ford answered if only to see the blond man scowl. Ford laughed and then said, "It's wonderful, Bill." He stopped forcing Bill into a halt. The two stared in silence for a few seconds. "I'd forgotten how much you like music."
"Everyone in my dimension hated my singing voice," Bill mumbled.
They continued to walk along the path lined with trees and colorful flowers. Freshly cut grass provided an evening scent. The stars shone brightly above them. For a moment Bill felt homesick for the universe he once promised himself he would conquer.
Gold eyes stared at the other man. How much had changed since he became Ford's ward. He now wondered if he was offered the choice if he'd even take it. Bill sighed, chalking it up to another side effect of being human.
"Hey, Fordsy," said Bill. Ford took a glimpse at his boyfriend before returning his attention to the path. "What made you bring us here?" Bill slightly shivered from the sudden gust of wind. "I mean, we just got back, and it was out of nowhere."
"I wanted to have a few good memories with you," Ford answered.
Bill stared at the taller man. "What an odd train of thought, we have plenty of time together," Bill replied. He chose not to mention the fact that he knew Ford was gradually running out of funds.
Ford sighed. He clamped his hands behind his back. "Look, Bill, we haven't had much progress on your mind," Ford said staring down at the ground. "We know Kryptos is coming, but we don't know when."
Ford sighed and suddenly stopped along the cement path. An evening jogger pushed in between the two to continue on with his route. The wind tousled Ford's hair.
"I had history with you," Ford said. "But I don't know much on these others." He locked eyes with Bill. "What little you remember won't do us much good when they do show."
"So you've already accepted defeat?" Bill questioned.
"No, but I am anticipating the worst," Ford answered. He put his hand on Bill's shoulder. The latter moved in closer. "If by chance we do fail..." Ford elected not to share the high probability of their failure. "I would like us to spend our last days together happy."
Bill nodded, but kept quiet. He wondered how long Ford had plagued himself with those thoughts. No doubt Ford felt responsible for the safety of everyone in Gravity Falls, and possibly the world.
After a few moments of silence they continued on with their walk. Ford didn't even protest when Bill locked their arms.