Thank you so much to thefowlestofthemall for looking over this chapter for me, and for urban-unease, chanceenyer, phoenixpyres, silyah246, and neveroutoftime for their hilarious support and encouragement. Our nsfw chats were great.
There is a spicy version of the love scene for this chapter on AO3. I won't be posting it to this site, but if you want a sweet and spicy smut fic, you can find it there.
This chapter borders the M rating, but is still safe for teens. This chapter contains explicit language, sexually suggestive content, sexual humor, and sexual implications. Reader discretion advised.
Haven City
Mulberry Row Condominiums
Apartment 224
"Yeah?"
"Hello, Arty. We need to talk, darling."
Artemis lowered his gaze to the counter, blankly staring at the spilled coffee across the surface. He drifted back to when he'd last spoken to his mother. He'd been so dissociated, he'd nearly thrown himself into the spring. If he spoke to his mother now, would it be like back then? Would he spiral into madness? He considered his mental state at the very moment.
If he was being totally honest, Artemis felt great. Alive. Invigorated. In love. He could handle family, he concluded. His sigh fell into a smile, and he smoothed his hair back.
"Hello, Mother."
"Oh? So you can greet me with a 'yeah', but still refuse to call me mum?" Angeline teased lightly.
Artemis scrunched his nose in confusion. "I greeted you with 'yeah'?" He recalled his slip of the tongue when he'd answered the call. "Oh! I hadn't realized it was you. 'Yeah' is yes in Gnommish." Artemis scratched his temple anxiously. "It's just a habit now."
"Ah, I see. Are you enjoying Haven, love? Are things alright?"
"Oh yes, Moth- Mum. Things have been splendid. I'm assuming the twins mentioned that we met up in Tara?"
"They did! I'm so, so, so glad to hear you're socializing with your brothers. We all miss you so much at the Villa. Why don't you come visit?"
Artemis' throat tightened, his stomach in knots. "I… We'll see. My schedule is crammed," he lied, hoping she wouldn't pry. "You must know I miss you all dearly. Much more than I let on."
"I believe you, sweetheart. I just wish you called more."
"I know, Mum. Would you like to video chat? I know how fond you are of those."
"Oh, I'd love to, but I'm currently in Monaco, receiving a wonderful seaweed facial. Perhaps in a few hours."
Artemis couldn't resist a charmed smile. Of course his mother was at a spa in another country. "Mum, when are you ever home?"
"I'm home enough. But anyway-" Angeline sighed dramatically. "I must speak with you, darling. The matter is of the utmost importance."
"Alright," Artemis chuckled, doubting her statement. He finished cleaning the counter, setting his phone on speaker-mode as he recrafted his espresso. "You have my attention."
"Do you prefer brunettes or blondes?"
Artemis nearly dropped the moka pot on the stove. "What?"
"Women, dear. Do you prefer blonde, or brunette women?"
Artemis opened his mouth, became too stunned to speak, and closed it. What was she up to now? "Mum… you're not putting me on a dating site again, are you?"
"...You're right, sweetheart. You're Irish, and I didn't even consider redheads!"
Artemis pinched his forehead in annoyance. "That… That wasn't what I-"
"Well, listen to me for a second." Her manicured nails tapped the phone screen vigorously. "My friend Hilary has a beautiful daughter. Her name is Nicola. She's Irish, single, blonde, 27. She's very smart, Arty, just like you! She owns her own veterinary clinic where she specializes in cattle." Angeline plucked a cucumber from the table beside her. "Doesn't she sound just lovely?"
Artemis frowned. He wasn't comfortable disclosing his relationship with Holly just yet, but he didn't want to outright reject Angeline's idea and fuel her objective more. He bit his lip, pondering a solution. An idea sprouted in his mind, one that halted him completely. Should he try it? How would his mother react? Artemis took a deep breath, deciding to brave the subject.
"Nicola sounds like a very established and sublime woman. However, why've you assumed that my only interest is in women?"
The line was quiet a few moments, and Artemis feared his mother had left the call until he heard her snort.
"Oh! A joke. I didn't know you liked to joke so much."
His mother's denial pricked his heart like a thousand needles from a cactus. He should've known this would be her reaction. Shame bubbled within him, deepening the lines of his frown. Still, he desired one more push. Maybe then, she'd see.
"I'm not joking, Mum. Would it ail you to include affluent men in your search?"
"You're so funny, darling."
Artemis let his confession wither away, his mood less chipper now. But he couldn't get through to his mother at the moment. It would be best to carry on.
"Anyway!" Angeline continued. "I told Nicola that you'd be free on the 7th. So, go ahead and clear your schedule, please."
He furrowed his brows, checking the date on his phone screen. "Mum, the 7th is tomorrow."
"Yes. So, clear your schedule, alright?"
"I didn't agree to this," Artemis argued, his cheeks growing hotter by the second. "I have no desire to date at the moment."
"Artemis, you are nearly 30 years old. What? Are you going to enter thirty single? Childless? Come now, dear. Let's be reasonable. You're of marrying age! You're not an elf, you know. You don't get to live forever."
Artemis gritted his teeth, holding back his tongue as his mother raved on. He always found it impossible to argue with Angeline, even when his boundaries were pushed and crossed. He nearly snapped back, wanting so desperately to remind his mother that he wasn't a child, that he was a man - but he didn't. A sense of calm washed over Artemis instead, dread and desire and depressed depth melding his heart.
"Mother." His tone was serious, but sincere. Firm, but kind. He softened even more, leaning against the countertop, bearing his gaze into the blank wall. "Can we just talk?"
The question threw Angeline off, silencing her before she could hammer another demand into him. She stumbled over her words, trying to find something to retort. But his genuine cry to be heard stopped her. "Arty… Well, of course. Isn't that what we're doing now?"
Artemis tensed his jaw despite his airy words, his voice barely above a whisper. "No. I- I just wish to talk to you. As mother and son. I don't…" He expressed a deep sigh. "I don't want to talk about things , or people. I miss you. It's been so long since I've seen you. I don't want to argue, or focus on things that aren't important. Like you said: We don't get to live forever. Despite Myles' research and experiments, my dear brother hasn't discovered the fountain of youth. We aren't getting any younger. I miss my family, Mother. I miss you all. I merely wish to speak to you. To hear about you, hear how you've been; what you and father have been up to. And then, maybe, I'll tell you a little about myself, too. I know you'd like that."
"You've always been secretive." Angeline released a dramatic sigh, one a little too similar to Artemis'. "Just like Timmy. You and your papa are so alike, I have rivers of nightmares about it."
"Rivers of nightmares," Artemis smiled. "I like that."
"Thank you, darling," Angeline smiled back, her voice warm and caring. It was the voice Artemis wanted, the one he needed. "I'm sorry for being so high-strung lately, love. I just want you to be happy. I remember I was so happy when I had you. I was 26, your father 30. It was just… the perfect age to have you."
"...I understand, Mother."
"I'm not sure you do. But I also don't expect you to. I'm getting older, Arty. I just want to see you happy, in your own little family. The family you deserve, because Heaven knows we weren't a good family for you."
There was a mountain of silence that built between them, clinging to the air like a humid storm. Eventually, Angeline was the first to continue. "I just want you happy. Are you happy, Arty? Are you feeling well?"
Artemis grew tired of silence, a tiny smile pulling at the corner of his lips. He answered truthfully. "Yes. Yes, I am happy. Happier than I've been in years."
"Are you really?" Angeline gasped. "Oh… My baby is happy. Oh, darling, you have no idea how relieved I am. I just want the best for you. I'm so glad that you're happy."
"Thank you, Mum." Artemis set the stovetop on medium as he let the espresso roast, wandering over to a window to peek at the bustling city outside. "I take it you and father are doing well?"
"Oh, yes. He's off on a fowl hunt in the north. With discs, of course. They're not shooting real fowl."
"Yes. It would be a foul thing to shoot a Fowl."
"Oh, haha. Someone's a comedian now."
"Anyway," Artemis continued. "I meant, are things going well between the two of you?"
"Why of course, Artemis. We're just as in love as ever. Don't worry about such things."
"It can't be helped," Artemis smiled, leaning his forehead against the window pane. "I worry for you often."
"Artemis, you are my child, not my Papa. Goodness. Sometimes, I really believe you are 28 going on 70."
"Not true. I did go to that music festival where the twins and Lazuli played."
"Good! Keep doing more things like that. They seem to add to your happiness." Feminine voices murmured in the background and Angeline cleared her throat. "It appears that I have to go, my sweet boy. Can I call you tomorrow?"
"Of course, Mum. We'll continue our chat then."
"Perfect! I love you so very much."
A warmth spread across his skin, his mother's care curing any temporary sadness in his heart. "I love you too, Mum. Be well."
"Good-bye, Arty."
The line clicked, leaving Artemis alone with Meowington rolling between his feet. "That could've ended worse," he said, glancing at the furry friend flopped on his back, his white belly and large eyes facing Artemis. "Perhaps you two can meet someday."
"Mraow!"
Artemis smiled, moved by Meowington's adorable response. He plucked the cat off the ground and held him to his chest, reflecting on what his mother had said, about his family not being a good family for him. As much as it pained him, Artemis had to admit that she wasn't wrong. But what Angeline failed to realize was that Artemis already had his own little family: him, Holly, and their cat Sir Meowington in a cozy Haven apartment. What else could Artemis need? Things were perfect, and he was the happiest he'd ever been.
With that in mind, perhaps it wasn't a horrible idea to mention his relationship to his mother. She desperately desired for him to have his own family, so if he just confessed that he already had one, would she be pleased? Would it be enough? Would she be upset that Holly wasn't human? Would his mother press for grandchildren?
Artemis sighed, nimble fingers stroking the soft fur that warmed his skin. Artemis had already decided that he didn't want to father children, a sentiment that upset Minerva many, many moons ago. It was never said, but he was certain the issue was on the long list of cons Minerva had created when she'd broken off their relationship.
But, did his feelings towards the subject change when it involved Holly? He wasn't entirely sure. He hadn't really thought about it. It would be complicated, messy, potentially dangerous for Holly to carry out a hybrid pregnancy. Artemis pressed his lips in a thin line. He was jumping the gun with the possibility, anyway. Holly and him hadn't even been intimate. There was no need to fret about such things yet.
But - what did scare Artemis the most was that he didn't know what kind of father he would be. If Artemis guessed, there was a strong likelihood he'd be an absent father, a father who cared more for his work and business than his wife and child. The father that his own father used to be, the father that Artemis had grown up with. But even now, with his father's transformation into a better man, where was Artemis Senior? Angeline had found the time to contact Artemis, yet the last he'd heard from his own father was months ago, during their heated exchange.
Artemis Senior was still exactly the kind of father Artemis the Second feared to be, and the kind of father Artemis was certain he'd become.
Another fear drifted into his mind, the memory of his dear, adoring mother smashing a lamp at him so many years ago, tormented and haunted by her cracked mind. A cracked mind Artemis himself had inherited, and in many different ways. It would be irresponsible of him to pass that gene on, would it not? Yes, he concluded silently.
So, to save himself, Holly, and any potential children from the grief, Artemis would have to remain firm on his decision. It just wasn't meant to be. Being a father just wasn't in his stars.
Beep beep. Beep beep.
His phone's alarm startled him out of his thoughts, his gaze drifting to the screen in his hand.
Reminder: Go jogging
Artemis groaned, putting it back into his pocket and turning his attention to Meowington. "I don't want to exercise, but Lope won't let me in unless there's an improvement in my physical prowess."
"Meh."
"I know it's a long shot, but Holly runs every day. It can't be that difficult."
"Prrrp," Meowington trilled, climbing out of Artemis' chest and crawling up his shoulders. "Maow."
"I won't break my leg," Artemis replied with a roll of his eyes. He turned from the window, leading them into the bedroom and into the walk-in closet. "Not with the special design I created." Artemis bent down to retrieve the sleek, 3D-printed running shoes. Since he didn't own athletic shoes himself, and Haven wouldn't carry any in his size, Artemis had taken it upon himself to manufacture the perfect shoe. He showed off the black soles to Meowington. "See? I added hydraulic protective guards for the ankles called adaptor pistons. The adaptive support is five times more responsive than the human reflex, and prevents twisting by balancing the equilibrium between the ground and the foot."
"Meh."
"I could sell the design, you're right. It's not a business venture I intended to delve into, but I'll consider it." Artemis scratched Meowington's white chin, smiling at the melted bliss on his kitty's face. "Thanks, Meow."
"Meh."
Artemis geared up for his run, starting the timer on his Faetek watch. "Alright. Let's get on with it." A burnt aroma wafted by him, his noise tickled by the strong scent. "Is something... burning?"
"...The espresso!"
Nearly four hours later, Artemis finally made it home. Made, meaning that he had survived the run. Or, jog, which eventually became a walk, which inevitably ended with the dragging of his feet along the cobblestone. Artemis had only managed to run for about a solid minute. A whole sixty seconds. He had managed to travel along a jogging speed, all of which lasted about four minutes from each hour.
He wiped the piling sweat from his brow. He felt absolutely disgusting as the hemp t-shirt stuck to his skin. He couldn't remember the last time he was so desperate for a refreshing cold shower… and then he remembered the meteor shower in Mars' orbit, when he was coated in vomit and blood.
With that in mind... Yes, yes. This was just fine.
He rounded the corner of the elevator's foyer, emerging onto Holly's floor, had the sight at the end of the hallway not frozen him in his tracks. Holly was in her shimmering, emerald jumpsuit, struggling to shove a covered object half of her size through the apartment doorway, angrily swearing to Frond under her breath.
Artemis arched an intrigued brow, approaching his flustered love as quietly as he could. His gait slowed behind her, a tiny snort escaping lips as he dared to ask, "Holly, wha-"
"AHHH!" Whack! Holly's elbow lunged outwards and slammed straight into Artemis' groin, crushing his family jewels under her blow. Holly, both alarmed and full of guilt, spun around with panicked eyes. "Oh- Oh gods! Oh fuck!"
Artemis reeled backwards into the wall, sliding down in paralysing pain and nausea. "Oh."
"Oh gods, I'm so sorry!" Holly exclaimed, pressing her hands to his chest. He flinched under her touch but she persisted anyway. "Heal."
The first thing he noticed was a relief from the pain, and then his body relaxed under her magick touch. He breathed a sigh of relief, sparing a grateful glance at her. "Have I ever told you how eternally indebted I am to your magick?"
"That sounds like a really fancy way of saying ' thank you'," Holly smirked, giving him a quick kiss. "It's my fault, you know. I hit you by mistake."
"What are you doing, anyway?" Artemis asked, looking past her at the blanketed object.
"What were you doing?" Holly retorted, crossing her arms with a grin. "You're all sweaty and smell like a stinkworm."
"I smell like victory, thank you."
"Why am I having a slight déjà vu?"
"I went running," Artemis said quickly. He pressed his hand to the wall, pushing himself to his feet. "Well, no. The truth is that I jogged for a few minutes, grew exhausted, and then proceeded to walk the rest of the way."
"You…" Holly knitted her brows together. "Went exercising? Willingly?"
"If I want to be a scientist for the LEP, I have to start somewhere, correct?"
"How long did you walk for?"
"About… four hours?"
Holly ran a hand through her hair nervously. "You went walking… for four hours?"
Artemis blinked. "Yes?"
"Holy Frond," Holly breathed, her forehead falling into her hands. "Artemis… You need to gain weight. Not lose it." She threw her hands up in frustration. "I mean, you're a doctor! You're telling me you don't know anatomy?"
Artemis flashed a vampiric smirk. "I know plenty about anatomy. Would you like me to demonstrate?"
Holly's frown deepened. "If you weren't my boyfriend, I would've smacked you."
"I thought it was clever."
"Pervert."
"What's this that you've got here?" Artemis nodded at the cumbersome item behind her.
"Nothing."
"Nothing?"
"Nope. Don't worry about it." Holly gave it another shove when she noticed Artemis watching her, lifting her hands in a panic. "Don't look, either! It's a secret."
"Okay. Well, while you figure this out, mind if I access the shower?"
"...Sure." Holly stepped to the side, waving a hand over the blocked entrance. "If you can crawl over it without breaking it… Or you."
"I won't break," Artemis laughed, lifting his ankle a few feet to show her his shoes. "Custom printed shoes, adaptive ankle guards, reflexive piton-"
"-Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't realize your shoes would also prevent your arms from being clumsy," Holly droned, crossing her arms.
"I don't need your sass, thank you," Artemis said, approaching the doorway.
"You-" She paused, watching him easily step over the mysterious object and continue into the living room. "That…That's not fair."
"I'd help, but you've shooed me away."
"Yes. Go away."
Artemis gave a playful bow. "At once, my beautiful and terrifying girlfriend."
Holly snorted, "I didn't awaken Orion, did I?"
"I will ease that burn with a cold shower now, thank you."
"Go now, stinkworm. Be rid of you!"
"Stinkworm and swear toad: a match made in Haven."
"Oh my gods, no you did not-"
"Au revoir, chérie," Artemis grinned, waving goodbye to her as he disappeared through the bathroom door.
"I think you forgot which girl you're dating," Holly huffed, ramming her shoulder to dislodge the large item. "I am not Minerva!"
"Thank gods," Artemis' muffled voice snickered from behind the closed door.
Holly shook her head with an annoyed smile, not bothering to reply this time.
By the time she'd finally wedged the mysterious obstacle through the doorway and into their living room, she heard the shower fizzle out. "Mkay," Holly muttered under her breath, sliding the item across the hardwood floor and against a side wall, beneath a large paned window. Sim-lights highlighted shimmering dust like diamonds, clinging to the red velvet blanket that draped over the surprise. "All done."
"Meh."
Holly whipped around and spotted Meowington perched on the kitchen table. "Hey, bud," she said lightly. "Don't tell your dad, okay? Shhh."
"Raow!"
"Good boy," she grinned, tickling his ears when she felt a larger presence beside her. Holly diverted her gaze, locking eyes with Artemis, who wore nothing but navy pajama pants and sopping wet hair. Holly gulped, her eyes drifting over his broad chest. "Hey…"
"What?" He raised a brow, looking around.
"Nothing."
Crash!
The pair winced at the sound of smashed glass, their attention turned to Meowington at the edge of the table. The kitty stared down at the shards, pleased with his results. He reached his paw sideways and swatted at Artemis' Faetek phone, tossing it to the floor with a thump. "Meh." Meowington reached for Artemis' tablet next, swatting it curiously until it ultimately flew off the table with a crack!
"Fascinating," Artemis breathed in awe. "He's studying the aerodynamics of glass and density."
Holly glared at him. "...You're just gonna let him do that?"
"Are you suggesting that I prevent my cat from carrying out his scientific research?"
"Your cat?"
"...Our cat." Artemis plucked his devices off the ground, strolling to the wall to activate the apartment's floor suction vacuum. The floor and walls rumbled to life as they sucked in any remaining glass, dirt and water, leaving the wood floor spotless like before. Artemis glanced at the blanketed object beside him, tapping the top gently. "So. Are you going to show me what you're up to here?"
"Oh! Right." Holly stood beside the bulk, a nervous smile taut on her face. "I did something."
"Yes. I can see that."
"I might be a little selfish when I say it's for me as much as it is for you, but I hope you really like it."
Before Holly could lift the velvet cover, Artemis backpedaled. "Wait!" he yelped as he strode towards the bedroom. "At least let me dress first."
"Oh, I don't mind." Holly wiggled her brows, scanning his bare chest. "Trust me. I really don't."
"Now who's the pervert?" He was glad when she laughed in response, disappearing behind the wall. "I'll just be a moment." Artemis selected a cream-colored sweater, cozy in the smooth cashmere that slid over his skin. He strolled back into the living room but Holly got to him first, blocking the doorway.
"Wait!"
Artemis rolled his eyes in jest. "What now?"
"Close your eyes."
"Oh, just let me se-"
"Arty!" Holly yelped, jumping onto her tip-toes and slapping her palm on his mouth, the furthest up she could reach. "Close them!"
"Okay. Okay." Artemis shut his eyes, the world dark and warm. He could feel Holly's hand in his, the pulse of her heart beating against his palm. He entwined their fingers, wanting her closer. "I'm ready."
She led him past the living room and beside the dining room wall, lifting his hand to rest it on a smooth, glossed surface.
"Okay. Open."
Artemis did as she requested, his jaw dropping as wide as his eyes. "You-" He glanced at her in disbelief. "You didn't."
"I did."
"You are just full of surprises, aren't you?" Artemis was staring at a small, upright piano. Pale fingers stroked the ivory keys and ran along the distressed wood top, enthused eyes memorizing each and every detail. "How… Where did you even find this?"
"I reached out to one of the museums after work, and they had a spare in storage that hadn't been seen in decades. I gave them some money for it, and-" Holly poked his arm, "-because I know you'll ask, I transported it with Traffic's hover-truck." She winked. "Perks of being a commodore."
"This is Chickering and Sons. I'd guess it's not too old, maybe late '80s? The keys are modified, and there's a string missing, but, I'm- This is beautiful, Holly," Artemis said with an ever-dizzying head. How could he deserve someone so loving? It stupefied him that he'd won the heart of such a wonderful person. "It's almost as beautiful as you."
"Aw," Holly cooed, leaning her head against his arm. "You don't mean that."
"Holly Short," Artemis sighed, setting himself down on the bench. "I'm not getting into this with you." He patted the empty space beside him. "Would you join me?"
Holly nodded. "It'd be an honor." She sat beside him and tapped a key gently, letting the note flood the room. "It's so pretty. I thought you'd like to play some more, and I'd love to listen."
"You could play with me," Artemis offered, tapping the key beside hers.
"I cannot play piano, Arty," Holly said, scooting closer to him. "I'll leave the talents to you."
"You don't need to know how to play to play with me." Artemis tapped his knee. "Come here. I'll show you."
Holly licked her lips, suddenly feeling a little dry. "You want me to sit on your lap?"
"Trust me," Artemis grinned, leaning his forehead into hers. "Do you trust me?"
Holly narrowed her eyes at him for a second, but pressed a light kiss on his forehead. "Of course I do," she whispered against his cool skin, inhaling the familiar scent of cedar. "More than anyone."
"Then?" He pulled away, patting his knee again. "Come."
Holly almost giggled as she settled into his lap, feeling extra small as his arms reached around her. She leaned into him, nuzzling his broad shoulders, her nose brushing his neck. "Now what?"
Artemis ignored the shiver of his skin beneath her breath. "Align our arms, and rest your hands atop mine, liiike-" He demonstrated for her, "-that." He shifted his weight, nudging her forward. "Comfortable?" Holly nodded against him, but she appeared so relaxed, he wasn't sure she was listening anymore. "Awake?"
"Yeah. I just love being close to you."
"You're too sweet." Artemis kissed the auburn curls atop her head, nestling his cheek against hers. "Let's tune it quickly, then we'll play."
Holly curled into him as she watched him tune each key and string. Eventually, her curiosity arose. "What will you play?"
"I'm unsure," Artemis replied, focused on slowly adjusting a taut string. "Any requests?"
"Can you play an original again? Since you're alert and sober now."
"Shall I make another song for you?"
"No. I want you to play how you feel." She pressed a palm to his pectoral. "What your heart feels."
Artemis was certain she could feel his heart pound against her hand. "My heart feels for you, but I'll see what happens." He finished the last key and sat up straight, pressing himself against Holly's back. "Are you ready?"
"I'm really excited," she smiled back at him, giggling when he kissed her nose. She turned back to the piano, resting her hands atop his once more. "Okay. I'm ready."
Artemis inhaled a huge breath, exhaling slowly through his mouth, sharp eyes studying the keys. What did his heart feel? All Artemis could think about was Holly. Her lemon sage aroma, her warmth, the feeling of her body against his. He wasn't sure if she was any less intoxicating than the alcohol had been. At least with alcohol, he could sober up. Stop thinking.
So, Artemis did. He selected a higher note first, eventually meeting in the middle with both hands.
Holly followed every movement, leaning with him and allowing him to lead her. She was soon overwhelmed, her heart and ears and skin bursting with joy. His fingers glided across the keys, producing the most careful and flawless sound until he picked up the pace, tossing Holly back and forth between the contrasting deep and high notes. She felt like she was in a whirlwind of music, spun in a web as bright as gold and sweet as honey. The music was in her bones, reverberating in her soul. It told her a story, a story of love.
Artemis soared across the keys so delicately, so expertly that it shocked Holly when she realized how fast they were actually moving, until they weren't. She felt as he ramped up intensity just to drop it, falling into a smoother grove when he'd surprise her with another glide of his long pianist fingers, a rush of adrenaline and gorgeous sound exciting her. She felt his story, even if he hadn't told her. He was hopeful. He was getting stronger, transforming from a broken man into a whole one. He was ready to take on the world, ready to embrace love, no matter how much it terrified him, and oh - did love terrify him. She felt it in the little off moments when he dropped it, barely stroking the keys, though the notes it left behind chilled her. But he never gave up.
He increased speed and volume, music pouring into every corner in their home. Their home, he realized. The idea swelled his heart, and he desired to be close to Holly. He nudged her cheek affectionately as he shared his heart with her, unsure of his direction, but uncaring either. He trusted his ability to feel the music; to trust the rhythm in his head. He didn't know the song's outcome, but did it matter when playing provided him so much joy? It was a metaphor for life, he realized. The end product didn't matter - it was the journey of how he got there. He was alive.
A stray kiss graced Holly's cheek as he slowed the tempo, eventually bringing his fingers to a trickling end, traveling up the keyboard for a final few high notes, offering one final bass tone, letting the song drift into the air, until it was replaced with nothing but shaky breath.
Holly edged closer, their faces still pressed together. She scanned the features she loved about him, hovering over his lips to whisper, "I…" She couldn't finish the sentence, taking his lips fully into hers instead, kissing Artemis with gentle need and desire. She was craving him, needing more of him, she realized. She stood off the bench as she kissed him, turning so she could straddle him carefully, wrapping her arms around his neck to pull him even closer. Her skin shivered with chills when his fingers held her waist, holding her close.
Holly groaned in frustration. She wanted more, but she wasn't ready for that. But, she wanted him so badly. By gods, what else could she do?
But he was so gentle with her, as if afraid he'd break her with a mere touch… Or perhaps he was afraid of being punched across the cheek. Holly figured the latter was warranted. But she needed more. Not because she desired him physically (though, if she was honest with herself, she did desire him that way, too), but she just needed to show him how much she cared. She needed him to know just how much she loved him, even if she hadn't spoken the words to him yet. She nipped Artemis' bottom lip greedily, testing his own need for her. She smiled in relief when he grunted, burying her tongue past his lips and taking his mouth into hers.
Artemis was alarmed, but pleasantly so, groaning as he pressed himself even further into her. She seemed… eager? As if requiring more and more of him. He traced a hand up her hip and past her waist, pulling her ribcage closer. Her jumpsuit was thick beneath his fingers, restricting any enjoyment to be had of her smooth skin. But being so intimate with her - the simple fact that they pined for each other more than anything - elated his heart to a heavenly place it hadn't reached before. He loved her with his whole heart, to the point where love simplified him into a mush of pure desire and instinct. An instinct to bond, and he wanted to bond with no one else but her.
Sparks escaped her lips and illuminated his own as she broke away slightly. Holly looked over all the bits she loved about him once more. "Arty," she panted, brushing their noses together. "I- I know I said I wanted to wait, and I do. But…" She caught his gaze, desperation lingering between them. "You can still touch me."
Artemis was suddenly very alert, watching her carefully. He was touching her, but the dangerous glint in her hazel eye suggested more. He kissed her gently, whispering against her lips, "Where?"
"Anywhere."
Was this real? Was Holly really giving him permission to be with her? He smiled, kissing her deeply in response. And just for extra clarification, he pulled away to ask her seriously, "Are you sure?"
Holly rolled her eyes, pressing a palm to his flushed forehead. "Don't make me beg," she groaned, when her demeanor stiffened. "Unless you don't want to? Do you want to?"
It was Artemis' turn to roll his eyes now, leaning his smug grin into her. "You're serious?"
"Yes!"
"Holly."
"Hm."
"Kiss me."
So she did, until their kiss was no longer an innocent display of love, but a raw need to be entwined. Until his fingers peeled off her shimmering jumpsuit, and her fingers tore off his soft sweater. They enjoyed each other until the sim-sky turned dim, rays of golden sunset pouring through the breaks in the curtains that blinded them.
The wood floor was a cold and hard surface beneath fragile, nude skin, but the couple entangled in each other's arms didn't notice. To embrace the other was comfort on its own. The lovers caressed each other reverently, Holly's fingers trailing over Artemis' dusting of dark chest hair, his fingers tracing her faint combat scars.
"So…" Artemis peered down at Holly, flashing her a cheeky grin. "Did my knowledge of anatomy suffice?"
"Oh gods-"
"I thought it went rather well myself."
Holly poked his clammy cheek. "Your accent is cute."
"My Irish accent?"
"Yeah, when you speak in Gnommish. Your accent is super cute."
"Guess you could say I'm a cunning linguist."
"Oh my gods."
"Oh, come on," Artemis grinned ear to ear, booping her nose. "That was a good one."
"You and your jokes lately. My gods. You really are changing."
"I think it's your influence on me." He lifted a factual finger. "I've developed a finer appreciation of the comedic arts."
"Uh-huh."
"You've changed slightly too."
Holly perked up in puzzlement. "I have?"
"Have you noticed you haven't been swearing as often?"
Holly mulled it over. "Didn't I just scream 'fuck' a thousand times?
"Making love doesn't count."
"Of course it doesn't, because if it did you'd have to include yourself," she mocked, brushing her nose against his. "I've never heard you say 'fuck' until today."
"Like I said: making love doesn't count," Artemis huffed.
"But, yeah. You're right," Holly sighed. She buried her face into his collarbone, mumbling, "I hadn't even realized. Guess you're rubbing off on me."
"Could have worse things rubbing off on you."
"Yeah. You could be Mulch's behind."
"That is not a mental image that I'm fond of."
"I'm sorry my boobs are small," Holly blurted suddenly, her face still hidden in his neck.
Her outburst was certainly not what Artemis had expected. He reeled back a little, confused brows knitted together. "…What?"
"I know Minerva's are kind of big. Anyone with able eyes can see that."
" …Uh-huh."
"And mine are not like that."
Artemis released a hearty cackle against her, prompting Holly to smack his shoulder. "Don't laugh at me!"
It couldn't be helped. Her lack of confidence astounded him. Holly was normally so sure of herself, grounded and headstrong. He kissed her forehead quickly. "I'm sorry. I, er, hadn't realized you were insecure." He moved to her lips with a soft tenderness, taking his time there. "You are absolutely perfect."
"I'm not," Holly insisted.
"You are. Besides, it's not as if I have the muscle tone of Trouble. I'm wafer thin, and paler than paper." He cupped her heart-shaped face into his hands, absolutely hypnotized. "And, if I'm being honest, you are quite literally the most beautiful, fierce, and inspiring living being I have ever met. I don't want you to feel conscious around me. I may be the new and improved Einstein, but I am no Romeo."
"…Very humble of you."
Artemis shrugged smugly. "I try."
Holly snorted, fuming playfully against him. She couldn't resist an annoyed smile, beguiled by his demeanor and compliments. She had to admit it - she was charmed, smitten, even. Holly leaned into him, granting him a quick kiss. "Thank you."
He rushed forward before she could, taking her lips desperately into his, the desire to pour his affection into her clouding his mind as nothing else mattered. It was her, it was them. It was all he needed. Their kiss deepened, growing from a wholesome place into another passion-fueled frenzy. Artemis could barely breathe. He flipped their positions so he was above her, his full weight on her as her nails dug into his back, aching for him to be closer. Gods, he was so overwhelmed. He needed her warmth, and never wanted to let her go. He loved her. He loved her so much, he broke their kiss and stammered, "I lo-"
Artemis hesitated, eyes wide at his fumbling words. He rested on his elbows, breath catching up to him, panting for air as fervent ardor lingered between them. He'd nearly confessed his love for her. Simple and ordinary, just like that. How stupid, Artemis thought, hitting his forehead to the wood floor. He couldn't confess his love for her here, like this. Despite her humor about the subject, she had been correct when she suggested he be more romantic when pursuing her. He'd already made the mistake of asking her to be his partner in a lazy fashion. If he was going to confess his love for her, confess the only ever-burning love he'd ever felt? He'd make sure it was spectacular, but in a way she would like. In a way that was as equally her as it was him.
Artemis cupped her cheeks again, kissing each before moving to her nose, and then her lips. He asked quietly, "Do you remember the willow tree in the cavern at the weather park? In the spring attraction?"
"Of course," Holly said, bright twinkles in her eyes. "My favorite spot. The one where you can watch the surface."
"Do you have time tomorrow? If I wanted to take you there? I only want to go if you won't get into trouble."
Holly chewed her lip. "I have to see. Lope is on my ass right now, but I can try to take a half-day. Is that okay?"
"Anything you can manage without issue is perfect."
"Arty?"
"Hm?"
"I love this."
Artemis nearly shut down, his heart racing. He met her gaze, his breath slow against her skin. She loved him, even if she waited to tell him too. It was as close to a confession as they could give for now, but they both knew what it meant.
"Holly."
"Mhm?"
"I love this too."
Upper Levels, Haven City
Midway Nature Trail and Overlook
Physical activity was not something Artemis Fowl enjoyed, and anyone who knew him knew that. But, anyone who knew him also knew that when Artemis Fowl the Second wanted something, he would stop at nothing to get it.
So, Artemis found himself along an obsidian cliffside just off the beaten path of a nature trail. At least, it was as close to a 'nature trail' as the People could get, being thousands of feet below the surface. The bubbling magma cavern that Haven nestled in was still a part of the Earth, however, and still very much worth exploring.
Grey cristobalite inclusions ran alongside the sleek cliff like a rail, providing Artemis a safe view of the bubbling spring below. Although the hike consisted of strenuous cardio, he was able to work his quads, ankles, gastrocnemius, amongst other leg muscles. Artemis didn't need perfect scores, or even top scores to pass the LEP's mandatory physical exam. He just needed to pass. If he could overcome this physical barrier, his lack of athleticism, well… What was there he couldn't do?
His phone buzzed in his pocket, and he pulled it out to check the caller ID.
Mother.
Artemis sighed, dropping to the rocky floor to take a rest along the cliffside. He adjusted his wireless earbuds before accepting the call, and slid the line open. "Hello, Mum," he greeted cheerily, observing the steaming spring below. "How is Monaco?"
"Oh, Arty! I'm so glad you answered," Angeline's jovial voice filled his ears. "Monaco is beautiful, darling. The sky is clear, and the sun is shining. Would you like to see? I am free at the moment. Are you?"
"I can arrange that," Artemis chuckled. He switched to video chat mode instead of his usual holo-projector, opting to be normal for once. He rested his arms across his knees so he could face the front camera. A pale man with damp hair and flushed cheeks looked back at him as he waited for Angeline's feed to appear. "Apologies for the sweat. I'm hiking at the moment."
"There is my baby dear!" Angeline's stunning features popped on the screen, blonde highlights in her brunette hair framed her face gracefully. She was outside on her hotel balcony, blue waves crashing in the distance. One of her perfectly shaped brows arched high, her red-wine lipsticked mouth in a slight gape at him. "Hiking? Darling… has something happened? Is someone in danger?"
Artemis scratched an itch at his temple, hiding an embarrassed smile. "No, Mum. I'm hiking willingly."
"I see… My, let me look at you."
Artemis lifted the phone even further, giving his mother a better view of him. "You're glowing, Mum. You look as healthy as ever."
"I sure hope so! You speak of me like I'm an old woman already."
"I assure you I didn't intend it that way."
"You better not have. You haven't even given me grandchildren yet!" Angeline clicked her red nails together, her eyes scanning him. "Oh… My baby boy. You've really grown into such a handsome man, haven't you, dear? You look so happy."
"I am, Mum," Artemis nodded. "Haven has been good to me."
"I'm glad. So, darling, speaking of Haven and the surface and all that, that's actually why I'm calling you." Angeline broke eye contact, scrolling through her planner, diamond earrings swaying in the Mediterranean breeze. "I told Nicola you'd meet her in Dublin at 18:00. You have reservations at the Beetle and Bard Inn. Look it up. They have fine dining in the garden with these beautiful lights- Oh! It's so romantic. You'll love it, Arty."
Artemis' smile fell. "Mum… I thought we talked about this."
"Yes? And you're meeting her tonight. What is that pouty face for?"
"Mum. I cannot meet with Nicola tonight."
"Okay. Well, how about the twelfth? I can look through her sche-"
"No, Mother," Artemis interrupted sternly. "Not the twelfth, not ever."
Angeline grimaced with a shake of her head. "What? Artemis, you are not staying a bachelor forever. I absolutely refuse it."
"I'm not a bachelor, Mother." Artemis hadn't meant to expose his relationship status, but the damage was done. But, his mother was very fond of Holly. If anything, she'd likely be thrilled when he told her. So, Artemis prepped himself, taking a large breath. He'd had this conversation in his head, and it went swimmingly. What was the worst that could happen?
"What do you mean you're 'not a bachelor'?" Angeline questioned. "Are you saying you're already involved with someone?"
Artemis lifted his gaze, meeting his mother's familiar blue eyes. "Yes. I have a girlfriend at the moment. I didn't tell you earlier because I wasn't comfortable disclosing our status just yet."
Angeline blinked twice, and then a massive smile lit up her face. "Oh?! Arty! That is wonderful news! But, who are you dating, my love? Have you been visiting the surface and ignoring me?!"
"Of course not."
"Then? It's not one of those online dates, is it?"
Artemis laughed. "No, it's not an online relationship."
"Well, whoever she is, I must meet her at once. She must be a wonderful girl to snag my little genius. You only have the finest taste, dear."
"Thank you." Artemis fidgeted nervously against the rockface. "You'd love her. Really. She's sharp, and has wit. She's one of the strongest people I've ever met. She's absolutely heart-stopping, and she cares about me, Mum. She really cares for my well-being. And I'm happy. I am very much on Cloud 9, as that saying goes."
"Wow. My little boy is in love," Angeline swooned. She twirled excitedly, her sunshine yellow robe flowing with her. "You must introduce us!"
Artemis took another steady breath. Now, or never. "Well… er… You've already met."
Angeline tilted her head. "Have we?"
"Yes. You know her quite well."
"Don't tell me you're back together with Minerva," she groaned. "She's a smart woman, but she's not right for you-"
"No!" Artemis interjected. "No. It's not Minerva."
"Oh, goodness," Angeline sighed. "That's a relief. Well? Who else have I met?"
"It's Holly, Mum."
"What's Holly?"
"My- I'm- We are together."
"Ha! Well I hope you're together. You're in Haven with her after all."
Artemis studied his mother intently. Why was she running him in circles? Was she in denial? "I'm dating Holly," Artemis pressed on. "We're together. As a couple."
But Angeline was amused, throwing her head back with a few giggles. "Oh, darling. That's not funny."
"I'm not joking. I am with Holly. And I am happier than ever before."
In an instant, Angeline's expression shifted from cheerful to incensed. Her nostrils flared with every heavy breath, the sparkle in her eyes lost to an inky ocean storm. "… What?" she hissed. She clutched her forehead, pinching the bridge of her nose. "I'm sorry." She peered at him through her hand. " What? You- What do you mean you're dating Holly?"
"It is as I said, Mum."
"No," Angeline rasped, shaking her head. "You're not. That's- That's not…"
"You don't seem pleased," Artemis said, a ball of uncertainty tightening in his gut.
"You can't date an elf, Artemis," Angeline snapped. "And Holly? I mean…That's… that's not right."
"What's not right? That she's not human?"
"She's a hundred years old. She's not only too old for you, but she's not even the same species! You're meant to be best friends, not lovers," Angeline spat in disgust. She waved a hand in the air. "Absolutely not. I refuse this information."
"Mum…" Artemis' frown deepened. "I thought you'd be thrilled. I thought you loved Holly."
"I do love Holly, dear. That is why this upsets me."
"Mum, this isn't what I-"
Angeline's finger sliced through the air, stopping him. "Silence, Artemis. I may love Holly, but this isn't right. She met you as a child. You were only twelve when you met, and how old was she? The same age she is now? I mean- Artemis-"
Artemis' own nostrils flared now, deep lines framing his mouth. "What are you insinuating?"
"She met you as a small child! I mean, darling. Is this not a form of grooming if she's with you this way? The audacity of this fairy, my god!"
Angeline kept raving but Artemis didn't hear her. All he could hear was his own heartbeat thumping. He was shocked. Flabbergasted. Livid. "How could you say that?" he glowered. "I can't believe you would say that about Holly."
"Artemis Fowl. You listen to me," Angeline warned. "You stop dating Holly this very instant and come home immediately." She shook her head in frustration again, manicured fingers twirling her locks madly. "I should've never hired her to heal you."
The second half of her outburst was a throwaway statement, but it was that very statement that paralyzed him. Artemis felt his entire body tense, as if his blood had frozen solid. He struggled to ask, "H-Hire her? Heal… Heal me?" He peered closely at his mother on the screen. "What are you talking about?"
Angeline released a heavy sigh. "I know it sounds bad, dear, but it was Holly's whole idea. After Ibiza, when you'd gone to space, she came to me frantic about your mental health. She said you'd had these panic attacks? And that she was concerned for you." Angeline let out another exhale. "She proposed to house you and heal you when you returned, at least until you got better. She requested I pay her for her efforts, and to cover your expenses. But this has gone too far."
Artemis felt numb. There was nothing to describe how he felt. "I don't believe you," he said, his voice as empty as his eyes.
"You don't need to believe me, darling. The facts are all there. Why do you think she had a visa ready for you so quickly? Or that nice apartment? Did you know that I paid for it? I can show you the paperwork."
"Stop."
"Why do you think I sent you away to France to meet with her, darling? Remember? When you returned from Mars? Whu do you think you're happy now? It's not love, it's mag-"
"STOP!"
It was the first, and perhaps only time Artemis had ever yelled at his mother. He could only stare at her wildly, once frozen blood now soaring through his veins like wildfire. He sucked in a breath, and in a short burst uttered timidly, "Why are you doing this?"
Angeline was offended, taken aback, and hurt in her own way. She truly did love her son. So why did he make her out to be a villain? Sure, she was twisting the truth, but only slightly. It was for his own benefit. "All I want is for you to be happy, Artemis."
"But I am happy," Artemis replied shakily, blinking back the billowing tears in his eyes. He couldn't be weak in front of his mother. Not like this. "I am happy. So, why are you trying to take that away from me?"
"Artemis. You need to be with someone your own species-"
"The only person who's ever actually held me and listened-"
"Someone your own age-"
"-The only person who's ever actually loved me. Loved me, and cared for me more than my own parents did-"
Angeline had enough of Artemis' cut-ins, slashing her hand through the air. "If she did, then why did I have to pay her?"
Artemis snapped. He hadn't meant to, nor did he ever want to. He'd never lost his temper with his mother, never disrespected her. Never ever wanted to harm her. But he couldn't handle it. Hecouldn't do it.
The Faetek phone was smashed into the obsidian cliffs before Angeline finished her sentence, clips of her robotic voice in a static until fizzling out.
Artemis panted deeply as he glared at the crushed device. His emotions were scrambled. His heart was heavy. His mind cracked. He reached out and grabbed the device, smashing it into the ground twice more through gritted teeth, before ultimately flinging it far through the neon sky and into the bubbling spring below.
He stared at the spot where the phone had been, eyes glued to the bits and pieces of hardware left behind, his mother's words on repeat in his head.
'She met you as a small child! Is this not a form of grooming?'
'I should've never hired her to heal you.'
'I can show you the paperwork.'
'Why do you think you're happy now? It's not love, it's-"
Magick. She'd wanted to say magick.
Artemis set his jaw, resting his head back on the rocks. No. His mother was wrong. Holly loved him. He felt it when their eyes met, when he held her close, when she kissed him. He felt it when they'd always save each other. They'd die for each other, and had done so before. Not even death had been enough to keep them apart.
And neither would Angeline.
Artemis stood slowly, dusting off his sweatpants. He caught the hot spring's roiling waters, Haven's sunrays glittering along the turquoise surface. He couldn't recover the phone now. No use in lamenting on it.
Artemis started back down the beaten path, going back the way he came through a steep tunnel. The sapphire comm ring on his finger buzzed halfway back, breaking Artemis out of his turmoil. A microscopic smile formed on his otherwise sullen features, fond of hearing his lover's voice after the duress he'd endured. He clicked it on, lifting the finger to his lips. "Hey."
"Hey! Good news!" Holly exclaimed, totally unaware of Artemis' dilemma. In a way, he was thankful for it. "Guess who got the rest of the day off?"
"You."
"You're right. As always," she chuckled. "See you at home?"
"I'll be home soon."
"Okay. You don't sound very excited." And just like that, his cover was blown. "Is everything okay?"
"Yes. Of course. I'm hiking, is all. I'm a bit out of breath," Artemis lied smoothly, his mouth falling back into stoic numbness. "I'll be home soon."
"Okay… Still down for Weather Park?"
Her glee stirred up a series of depressive feelings inside him. She was so delighted, so excited to finally confess their feelings, and Artemis shared none of it. He felt nothing but despair and darkness. It wasn't fair to her. None of this was fair.
His long-desired happiness was stripped straight out of him. Stolen away. Taken before he'd even gotten to really enjoy it. Artemis stopped walking, clamping his teeth together, eyes shut to prevent tears from spilling. Calm down, he told himself. Don't panic.
Artemis took three deep breaths, forced a smile on his face, and replied as cheerily as he could, "Of course. I can't wait."
