Warning: Small lemon.

59 - In Love

Next Day

It felt like a dream.

But they were both convinced this was reality, now. They had no choice, they had to live with everything that's happened. They couldn't play house and act like everything went back to normal. But at the very least, things were steadily becoming better and they were indeed living contently. Or rather, contently enough. Nobody was completely happy, nor satisfied. After all, the world had changed forever. They couldn't forget that. It was evening, now. They did their part in helping out some townsfolk, now they could relax. Amy invited Zonic and Zhadow at Vanilla's home, where they would all share a pie together. Tails was pooped but still excited, as it's been a long time since he's had the woman's delicious baked goods. They got in the VTOL and flew there, only this time, Tails made sure to keep things rather chill. He didn't fly too fast, he didn't make tricks, he just flied the aircraft across the darkening sky calmly.

As they flew, Zonic got a report from Zepsio and Zector via transmitter that they somehow managed to find their prime counterparts. Vector and Espio prime, along with Charmy prime, were a detective agency with Vector being the boss. Apparently despite his appearance and demeanor, he was a pretty impressive investigator and a lot sharper than he let on. He was also a good business man, but was pretty greedy and penny-pinchy when it came to money. However, he donated a lot of money towards the government to help fund mental health facilities and other charities that could help victims of what happened. According to Zespio and Zector, Espio and Vector prime were...a couple. Charmy was just a child, but he wasn't stupid despite his naive nature. They were basically his guardians and virtually his parents. Zonic was pleased to hear that their prime counterparts were practically a family with a child, but then Zespio called in with a private transmission minutes after.

The chameleon begged Zonic not to tell anyone else about this, not even Zhadow and especially not Zector. But he expressed that not only was he curious about the possibility of a No Zone version of Charmy, but that he was very curious about the fact that their primes were in a romantic relationship. There were too many striking similarities among their realities, but it mostly only seemed to apply to Chaos Born such as Sonic or Shadow. In other words, if Zonic and Zhadow were together, should Zespio and Zector be together too since their primes were? As they held this conversation, Zonic was deep in thought. He was great at masking his emotions, but he wasn't a good liar. He had to turn away from his lover and stare out the window as he spoke. There was no where he could go after all, this was an aircraft. He'd just have to respond in a way that would seem vague to everyone else who may be listening in the VTOL.

He cleared his throat as he stared outside. "I...Well, I honestly don't know how to answer that." He spoke honestly. For this next part though, he made sure he whispered carefully. "I believe it's almost prophecy for versions of chaos born in all realities to be together but," He didn't want anyone else besides Zhadow to know that Sonic and Shadow were in a relationship. That was their secret to disclose after all. "I don't know that for sure, it could just be a coincidence. As for you and the colonel, I can't speak for you. Let it be known that despite what's happened thus far, nothing is set in stone. This is still your life, Zespio. And none of what you said should apply unless you truly feel for the colonel. It shouldn't be determined through what others are doing, only you know if you should make that move." He then asked the most important question. "Do you feel something for him?"

"...I," He hesitated. "I...I've, felt small things. Nothing too big or dramatic but, I can't say I don't enjoy myself when I'm around him. He's...He's funny, he's charming in his own idiotic way, and behind closed doors, we actually banter often just like you and the first lieutenant. So I...I suppose I do a little."

"And that's fine," Zonic replied gently. "But don't assume this has to be. Don't rush anything. If what you feel is true, let that grow since it's not official. Besides, you don't know how he feels for sure either, so move along slowly and silently. Alright? Do what you do best in the battlefield," He smiled. "And be my shadow in the sky: Silent, and deadly."

He heard a chuckle on the other end. "Of course sir. Thank you, so much."

"Of course, Zespio. Zhadow and I will be alright, I wish you both a good night." And with that, the transmission ended. Zonic exhaled and leaned back in his seat, his mind still heavy in thought. It wouldn't surprise him if all versions of Sonic and Shadow prime were predetermined to get together no matter what. After all, the medieval reality of a royal version of Sonic is with his own personal knight, a version of Shadow. The anti-Shadow was apparently a breeder for the anti-Sonic, and both he and Zhadow were just another example. Perhaps they're fated to be together eternally. That sounds like something the spirits would set up. Almost all versions of Shadow prime or Sonic prime were best fitted for each other and no one else. And reproduction wise, they were the best combination the Gods could get. It was almost like a pure-blooded royal family, it had to be those two versions specifically. How curious. He didn't know whether that was scarily romantic or absolute entrapment. Probably both.

After nearly twenty minutes due to the slower speed of flying, they made it to Vanilla Rabbit's house. Tails landed the mechanical beast many yards away, and everyone got out to walk to the isolated home. It was pretty much in the middle of nowhere, with a single road leading towards it and follows back to a local market town. And they didn't see a car, meaning the woman would have to walk every single time to get groceries or go out. Granted they could fly, but as a flyer himself, Tails knew their ears would get tired of flapping after a while. It was a quaint little home, a place that Zonic and Zhadow were unfamiliar with. They've never seen a place so small, yet so welcoming. In No Zone, it was just skylights and hi-tech towers. But this home was so rustic, so comfortable, so filled with warmth. They had a nice feeling wash over them just but staring at the small building.

Amy knocked on the door, and rung the door bell. After less than a minute, the door opened to reveal a small six-year old Mobian rabbit. She looked up at all the taller adults, minus preteen Tails, and made a big smile. "Hello everyone!" The second she opened the door, the sweet aroma of pie filled their noses. "Mother is almost done with dessert, come in!" She jogged back in the house, while everyone almost sprinted to get through the doorway. No one had eaten an actual meal, they were all starving. Amy and Tails casually walked in while greeting both Cheese and Vanilla who was in the kitchen, while Zonic and Zhadow were too busy staring at the decor. Everything was so simple. Not modern, but classy in a strange rural way. They certainly weren't used to this. Maybe they should get their apartment styled like this. It seemed more appealing and it had more emotion, like someone really cared for this place. Seemed like a nice change, instead of having that modernized yuppie style that was more for promoting your status than having an actual heart to the home.

Meeting Vanilla on a much more formal and calmer occasion was a delight, the soldiers noted. She was charming, hilariously air headed to what was 'hip' with the kids nowadays, and she was just as sweet as her name. She obviously raised her daughter well, as the little one was polite, honest and just as compassionate as her dear mother. And despite seeming so docile, Zhadow could see in their eyes that at heart, they were strong willed people who didn't like going down without a fight. Even their little chao named Cheese seemed like he'd be willing to tussle with a Zone Cop or two if it meant protecting his family. They all sat at the dinner table, awaiting the delicious meal cooking up in the oven. As everyone talked amongst themselves, Zonic and Zhadow felt really comfortable here. Almost like...They were apart of their family circle. It felt so strange, being so close to people who they still didn't know that well. It felt so good, and they never thought being this social would be like this. Maybe they should stop working so hard and connect with their fellow colleagues and citizens more back at home.

Buuut, they got a little too comfortable, because they kept giving each other passionate stares or moving closely to whisper sweet nothings in each other's ear to pass the time. As they would do this, they'd end up nearly getting caught, and they would have to move an inch apart and act like nothing happened. They didn't like hiding their relationship, but if they didn't, the others would suspect that Sonic and Shadow were together, and they didn't want to out them like that because they couldn't keep their hands off of each other. Sometimes they'd be teasing each other while the others were talking, only to be interrupted when someone would directly look at them and ask them a question about the topic they were talking about. They'd have to smoothly improvise, acting as if they were paying attention when they clearly weren't. If someone wanted to kill one of the soldiers, they could do so now since being together like this made the two laughably incompetent.

After a few more minutes, the pie was finally done. Vanilla, with some fluffy oven mitts, carried the golden brown beast out of it's heated home and presented it to her guests. She placed it on the dining table, and her guests stared in awe. Once again, beautifully golden brown, dazzling with powdered sugar and sweet whipped cream. It was like a dream-Err, sorry, it was ravenously beautiful. Zonic could barely contain himself, and his leg shook at how much his impulses screamed at him to just steal this pie and run out while devouring it so no one else could have it. Amy clasped her hands together and smiled brightly. "Wow Vanilla! It's beautiful!"

Tails blinked at the size of the thing. "It's huge. How did you make a pie so big but still had it look so good?"

The rabbit woman placed a finger to her lip and winked. "It's a family secret, I'll never tell." She cut into the dessert, handing a slice to everyone at the table before serving herself and sitting down beside her daughter. She even gave Cheese his own miniature piece, and there was enough for everyone since the pie was so large. She handed out forks, butter knives and napkins, before giving everyone the okay to dig in. "Alright everyone, dig in-"

And immediately everyone went to town.

Zonic was obviously finished first, but the moment he took a bite, he made the most adorable face Zhadow's ever seen. His chaos energy skyrocketed in pure joy, and his eyes became big glossy green gems that stared up into the ceiling in wonder at the taste. He only hummed loudly in delight, vacant of words. His cheeks were even pink, and he looked up at the ceiling as he asked an unknown deity how this pie was so delicious. After he finished eating it, all he could do was sit back against the chair with his fork still stuck in his mouth as he attempted to savor the taste in joyful silence. After laughing at his reaction to the meal, everyone else continued to eat.

They all had a good time, talking about nothing and making jokes. The others gave the No Zone soldiers some information about their world, enlightening them on how they all became friends or how they all met Sonic. Sure they already knew their stories in one way or another thanks to them keeping records on all Mobians, but it was still interesting to hear from their perspectives. It was almost like hearing their stories for the first time, and this fascinated them. Their stories were filled with adventure, mishaps, fun and nostalgia. They seemed so happy even when talking about the most trying times in their lives. After a few hours, Vanilla stood up to clean up the table, but Zhadow insisted that he and Zonic do that for her. Zhadow would handle dishes, and Zonic would clear the table while everyone else could relax in the living area.

As everyone huddled in the living room around the TV to watch action movies, Zonic and Zhadow were alone in the kitchen. As Zhadow wiped some dishes clean, Zonic handed over some dirty silverware for him to clean next. Once he cleared the table entirely, Zonic helped dry the dishes after Zhadow was done cleaning them. Since they were by themselves, the room was silent despite the faint noises of explosions and cars screeching in the background from the other room. Then, Zhadow paused in wiping a plate, and he stared at the soapy water in the sink. "...Zonic?"

"Yes, sir?"

"Do you," He was slow in his sentence, which was unlike his superior. "Do you wish life in No Zone could be like this? This simple?"

That question made Zonic looked up at his lover, and he stopped in wiping down the wet plates with the kitchen towel. "Err," He didn't know how to answer that at first. "I'm not sure. I love my job, and I love working with you. Protecting Sonic prime and aiding our other brothers is basically what I live for. But I've long since realized that I have a purpose beyond that," He looked back down and continued wiping. "I have a life that I have to live for my own, too. I have you, I have my comrades, and I still have Sonic prime not just as an ally but as my...family. Fighting to protect my brothers is fulfilling, but," He blinked. "I do wonder how things would be, if our lives were as simple as this." He said. "Technically I quit when I ripped my badges off at Zobotnik, but since he's no longer in power, we can do what we want. I don't have to be a soldier to be an Overseer, I could live a normal when we return home. Still," He added. "I don't think I want that."

Zhadow glanced at his commander. "Really?"

Zonic shook his head. "I don't like sitting around doing nothing, it's why I neglected my studies for so long. Being an active member of something grand makes me happy. I like helping people, I like saving people, and I like being in action. Perhaps it's the Chaos Born in me, but I refuse to be idle and patient while the world moves." He placed the plate down, and moved on to dry another. "Maybe one day when we retire, we can have a life like this. Of course," He looked back at Zhadow. "If, that's what you want, sir."

This made Zhadow laugh a little. "Of course it is. I'd want nothing more than to be by your side, rookie. Besides," He placed the plate down that he was washing and leaned his elbows against the sink. "Who else is going to take care of you when you run yourself ragged again?"

Zonic scoffed. "Please, you'll be the one with a walking cane by the time we retire. I'll probably have to drag you out of the building."

"Oh?" Zhadow cocked an eyebrow. "Says the workaholic, I don't think so."

Zonic smiled a little placed down the towel and plate. "Well," He stepped closer and raised his hand upwards against Zhadow's torso. "We'd have to retire together. Otherwise I couldn't fathom the thought of you working there all alone, with all those soldiers giving you those hungry eyes." His eyes became half lidded, and his fingers lightly played with the collar of Zhadow's military top. "And I don't like having that big bed all to myself at night."

Zhadow placed a hand behind Zonic to pull him closer, their noses touching as they leaned forward and their voices deepened. "I only have eyes for you, I'd never dare set my sights on anyone else.

"Did you get a room in Station Square?" Zonic whispered.

"I sure did. A single bedroom, all to ourselves." They closed their eyes and shared a soft kiss.

After they broke apart, Zonic advised that they should probably stop while they were ahead. "Mmn, we should stop before someone sees us..."

"I almost want them to."

Zonic chuckled. "Stop it..."

They heard footsteps, and immediately increased their distance. They went back to cleaning, momentarily glancing at each other.

Vanilla walked by the sink to go to the refrigerator. "Thank you boys so much for volunteering."

Zhadow nodded. "Of course, ma'am. It's only right." He nudged Zonic playfully. "After all, my second lieutenant did have seconds, and then thirds. If anything, he should be cleaning this mess all by himself."

Zonic whipped his head at him with a pout. "You act as if I'm just a glutton."

"You are, Zonic."

"I am not!"

"Your mouth became the size of our HQ when you had your second helping, and you devoured all three helpings in three minutes. FYI, I counted."

"You keep talking and I'll give you a nasal septum with this fork."

Vanilla couldn't help but laugh out loud at their banter, her hand holding a carton of milk, She walked closer towards them to reach up to the cabinets. As she opened them, she grabbed a cup and placed the cup on the counter to pour. "You two are just adorable together."

The two halted.

They slowly turned to her with narrowed eyes. Then, Zonic spoke first. "...Together?"

Vanilla nodded with a smile. "Yes. You two are together, aren't you? You're dating, right?"

They both blinked a few times with their pupils widening. Zhadow was caught off guard obviously, but attempted to laugh this off. "Heh...Ma'am, no offense, but I think you're mistaken-"

The rabbit woman scoffed and flagged them off. "You boys don't need to hide anything from me. I may be old," She said as she placed the cap back on the milk. "But I'm not narrow minded, nor am I stupid." She added slyly with a peculiar tone. As she walked back to the fridge to return the milk, she continued. "Now if this was back in my folks' day, yes, they'd probably kick you out of the house. But I'm not like them. I believe that way of thinking is quite harmful and toxic." She closed the fridge and returned to the counter to look them in the eye. "I believe everyone should love whoever they want, so long as they aren't hurting anyone. After all, what you do in a bedroom isn't really my business, now is it?" She giggled at their shocked and embarrassed expressions. "It doesn't take rocket science to see that you two are a couple. Anyone, especially a woman as old as myself, could see that you're a lot more than just friends. I can see it in your eyes, the way you speak with each other: You're in love." Her smile became pure. "And I think that's wonderful. I hope one day my little girl can find someone who can complete her as well as you both do each other." She grasped her cup, signaling she was about to leave. "If you two are leaving after this, I thank you so much for sharing dinner with us. You two have been a great help to all of us since we've met, and I wish you both the very best. You are welcomed any time, both in my home, and in Mobius."

She gave them a reassuring and approving nod, before turning and walking out of the room.

This made the two hedgehogs slowly look back at each other, still stunned by what just happened.

Wow. "I wonder if, that's how it is to have a mother." Zhadow said.

"Um-" This made both soldiers flinch and turn back to the entryway. There was Amy, who had a very unsure expression on her face. Jesus, these women were like ninjas. She cleared her throat nervously before taking a few steps in the room, placing her arms behind her back. "Is that, is that all true?" She asked quietly. The room once again became silent, with background sounds of gunshots and crashes faintly playing. The pink hedgehog's feet shifted on the floor anxiously, her face worried about something. "About you two, being a thing?"

Oh no.

Zonic stammered. "Um," He tried to remain calm. "Did you...Hear all that?"

She nodded. "Yeah. I'm sorry, I was eavesdropping a little. But," She looked down. "So it is true?"

Damn it. There was no denying it now, and they couldn't just lie to the girl's face when she heard everything. Zonic sighed heavily, Sonic prime was gonna hate him for this. "Yes, it's true." Zonic glanced at Zhadow and hooked his arm into his own with a small smile. "First Lieutenant General Zhadow, my boss, he's...He's my lover." He looked back at Amy. "We've been together for years, and we live together."

She nodded again, a more solemn smile gracing her muzzle. "Yeah, okay, so I wasn't just imagining it." She laughed a little. "Vanilla was right, you guys do kinda make it obvious. You're head over heels for each other, anybody with eyes could see that." Then, she asked the question they've been waiting for. "So that means, Sonic and Shadow are probably a thing too, aren't they? I mean, they both act just like you two when they're around each other. It makes sense."

Zhadow ruefully confirmed this. "Yes, they are. They just got together, only weeks after all this madness started. Right now they're probably at Sonic prime's home, alone."

Amy nodded once again, a third time. "I thought so...Well," She bowed her head at them. "Thank you for being honest. I know I caught you both on the spot, but you still could have lied for Sonic, and you didn't for my sake. So, thank you."

"Miss Rose," Zonic said, knowing her harsh crush on his Champion. "Is-Is this okay? I apologize if I'm getting beside myself, but weren't you in love with Sonic prime?"

She shook her head. "No. Well," She scratched behind her head. "Kinda? Once I actually grew up, I kinda always knew Sonic would never have me. I did love him, but most of that was just a childish crush. The part of me that actually had love for him, well, I don't think it's as deep as Shadow's. As much as I wish he'd walk up to me and ask me out, knowing how close he and Shadow are, it wouldn't feel right at this point. I mean, they both saved each other." She said. "Sonic stopped Shadow from hurting himself really bad. Shadow always fought by our side when we needed him, and to be honest, no one understands Sonic better than he does. And vice versa. Them being together, it makes too much sense not to be real. After everything they've been through, and after beating Scourge together, I can't be too mad about that, now can I?"

Her words, though they were somber, they could hear some sense of pride.

"They understand each other in a way no one can else can. And honestly, I don't think I'm able to love Sonic in a way Shadow can. They can keep up with each other, they know each other, they've fought besides each other, they've nearly died for each other..." She shook her head while closing her eyes. "I can't compete with that. Shadow deserves Sonic, and thanks to everything that's happened up to this point, I know Sonic will be happy with him. Because," She quickly wiped her left eye with the back of her hand. "If I truly, truly loved Sonic, I should be happy with the fact that he's found his soul mate. Seeing him act like you two with someone, even if it's not with me," She sniffed as she made a pained grin. "Is better than anything I could ever hope for from him. Being in love is amazing, and with how crappy he is with relationships, the fact that he's finally found someone to keep, it makes me so proud of him!" She said a lot more cheerfully. "I...I want this to happen, I want them to be happy. Sonic's my best friend more than anything, so the best way for me to show my love is to support them both. And you know what," She made a more confident expression, her eyes sharpening in excitement. "When those two dorks get married, I'm gonna plan the wedding, and I'll be the Maid of Honor!" Then, she blinked. "Though, I...Don't know how that works for two guys, but whatever! I'm gonna be there for them all the way!"

Her words slowly made Zonic smile.

"So thank you again so much for being honest with me," She repeated. "I needed to hear that so I could move on, too." She had a more proud posture, a different light shown on her. A strong aura resonated around her, as if she was more powerful than she ever was before. "Oh!" She grinned brightly and clasps her hands together. "Don't keep me in the dark about you two either! If you both get married, you gotta invite all of us to the wedding! I'll never forgive you if you don't! Tch, what am I saying, you two are all over each other-Of course you'll get married!" She made a squeal and hopped from left to right. "I can't wait! I can see you both now in the best tuxes! Blue roses, red bouquets at every table-!"

"Miss Rose..." Zonic said.

"Yeah? Ah..!"

Suddenly, Zonic went over and pulled the girl into a strong hug. Holding her close, he thanked her as well. "I must thank you for your words. Now I don't feel as guilty for revealing my Champion's secret." He could feel her heartbeat rush faster. "You are an amazing friend, and I'm positive Sonic prime adores you as such. Please, you must tell him this. Everything you've told us, it would make his day."

Blushing with a shocked expression, Amy then made a smile and hugged him back. "No problem! You have my word, seeing him smile is all I live for, and I know that's the case for you too." She peeked behind Zonic's shoulder to glance at Zhadow. "I'm so glad you guys are our friends now, it's been an honor meeting you both."

Zhadow nodded with a smirk. "Alright rookie, I think you've done enough smothering."

With a frown, Zonic turned to his superior. "What, are you jealous?" He could hear Amy snort a giggle underneath his embrace at the retort. "I can hug other women if I want."

"Yes, true, but I do believe ten minute hugs should be reserved for me."

"Ten minute hugs-It's been three!"

"I beg to differ."

"You are impossible!"

Amy laughed even harder in Zonic's embrace, her tears now not out of sorrow, but of happiness.

"Ahh, ahh...ahh..."

There was a constant thump against the glass barrier, the water running down the surface. Along with this thump, was the consistent sound of squeaking from the glass surface, flesh rubbing against it over and over. With gasps and moaning echoing in the shower, being slightly masked by the spraying water of the shower head. Foams of soap rushed down their bodies, along with the water. From the outside, the silhouettes of two Mobians were moving and pushing back and forth against each other in the shower. Limbs were tangled, a hand was firmly pressed against the shower wall. Another sound of slapping skin was heard repeatedly, soon quickening. The pattern of moans also became faster.

"Yeah...Just like that..." The hero moaned under his breath. "Mmn, yes...Fuck yes..." Sonic's legs were wrapped around Shadow's waist, and he was being held up against the shower wall as he was penetrated. His arms were around his neck, gasping and mewling in the biohog's ear. Shadow had one hand against the wall with the other holding Sonic up, his hips thrusting roughly against him which was causing the thumping and squeaking. "Nnm...Mmhm..." He cried out. "Ah! Holy shit...!" His fingers gripped against him tightly, his eyes clenching. "So close...Oh my fucking God, Shadow..." When he felt his tan lips press and suck against his neck, Sonic knew he couldn't hold out anymore. "Ah!" His legs were trembling, he was beginning to release. "O-Oh fuck...God...D-Damn it...Ahh.."

White dripped down below from between them, running down the shower drain along with the soap and water. Shadow made a stern growl as he released as well, pressing himself even harder against Sonic, who released a long drawn out moan. He climaxed a bit inside, but then pulled himself out soon afterwards. After all, it was rather counterproductive to do that if they were in a shower. He might as well stayed clean. Then, Sonic pressed a kiss on his cheek, before shakily getting down from his hold. He then got on his knees in front of Shadow's legs and placed his member into his mouth to clean up his mess. As Shadow watched him suck him off, he soon tilted his head back while closing his eyes in bliss.

Ten minutes later, they were in Sonic's bedroom, now dry and still fully nude while kissing in his bed.

They tossed and turned, rolling from right to left all across the mattress. Laughing and giggling, wrestling each other down and giving tight embraces with sneaking kisses. Soon Shadow rolled on top of Sonic, his forehead pressed against his. They shared another laugh together, their hands and fingers intertwined. Their noses nuzzled, their tails wagging and their throats making a low purr. Shadow trailed kisses from his muzzle to his neck, down to his collarbone and his chest. Sonic made a few playful gasps, smiling through every single tingling peck against his body. After the biohog was done giving little kisses, he rose back up on Sonic's body and continued to hold his hands. He leaned down to share another kiss with their lips, before grinding his hips against Sonic's. The hero moaned in the kiss, bucking his hips back against the ultimate life form. As they rubbed their legs between each other's thighs, they started to flip over again.

This time Sonic was on top, and he broke the kiss with a heated pant. He simultaneously chuckled and moaned at the feeling of Shadow's knee still rubbing against his crotch. "Mnn, come on stop it..."

"Why? You like it."

"Heh, yeah I do..." Sonic straddled him down, then rose his hips over Shadow's knee. He then pressed himself down against it, before moving himself back and forth against it. He rubbed his arse and his member against his knee, causing him to moan louder. "Ahh...If you wanna go another round," He murmured. "I could ride your knee instead...Ohh...Ah..." The look on Shadow's face at the sight of Sonic pleasuring himself on his limb was hilarious. All he could do was gape. "H-Haha, what? You started it...Nmm..."

Then, Shadow smirked. "Do it faster."

The hero wasted no time to do as he was told, thrusting his hips against his knee faster. Sonic had to hold onto Shadow's shoulder blade as he did so, his mewls becoming louder and desperate. "M-Mmn...Like that?" Oh that's it, he couldn't take it anymore.

Shadow tackled Sonic down against the bed and pressed a firm kiss against his cheek. Hungrily groaning against him, Sonic made another laugh as he hugged Shadow closely as he huskily whispered against him. "Just looking at you, I can feel myself lose my mind. I just want to ram you against this bed nonstop..."

"Heh, don't tease me like that." He rubbed his hand against his chest, feeling his white chest fur underneath his bare peach fingers. That's when something dawned on him, and he mentally face palmed himself. "Shit," He mumbled. He gently pushed Shadow away to sit up and leaned over to look at his nightstand. He crawled closer and reached around the surface for something. Seeing this, Shadow stared in confusion. What was he looking for? "I know I put it here somewhere."

"What are you looking for?"

"Tablet that Zespio gave us in No Zone. Damn it, wasn't it right-Oh." He leaned back against the headboard with the smart device in his hands. "I gotta talk to Tails," He was going to push a button to turn it on, but then he stopped. No, that wasn't right. He should see the kid in person, stay with him for a while after everything that's happened. It was only right. He sighed and placed the tablet down. "Actually," He glanced at Shadow. "We already took our shower so," He rubbed his hand behind his neck. "Wanna go out and see the others?"

Shadow took that suggestion thoughtfully. "Are you sure? Are you, ready to see them again?"

Sonic nodded. "Yeah, I think I am. Besides, I can't keep hiding in here. It ain't me."

"Good." Shadow then moved over and snaked his arm around his waist. "Shame I can't have you all to myself for the rest of the day, but I suppose I can share you for a while."

"Ohoho," Sonic smirked and nudged Shadow with his elbow. "I may be yours, but I still belong to no one, mister." He replied sensually while sharing another short kiss on the lips. "That is, unless..." He trailed off while looking away briefly.

"Unless what?"

The smirk on Sonic's face began to falter, a sense of conflict glinted in his eyes as he no longer kept his eyes on Shadow. "...Nothing." He then returned the smile and hopped off the bed. "Come on, get dressed."

"Right." Shadow nodded as he watched the hero jog into the bathroom that was connected to his bedroom. He frowned, something still didn't seem right with him. What was going on? He tried reading their wavelength, but Sonic's brain was so clouded and shrouded with this unknown emotion that he couldn't recognize, that he couldn't read anything. His mind was still in complete disarray about something, and he didn't know what the hell it could be. It didn't feel like it could be Scourge, was it perhaps the deities? He didn't know for sure. He didn't want to ask him about it, because he was sure that was the last thing Sonic wanted to talk about. Maybe he could bring it up the next time they had some alone time, maybe when they returned from visiting Tails. He just hoped that there was nothing seriously wrong. After all, things just got back to normal.

He didn't want things ruined all over again.

A bright smile appeared on the ivory bat's face, everyone was gonna flip at the news. She was currently standing against the thick bark of a tall tree, cat walking her way down a path of branches. She then spread her wings and gracefully ascended down onto the ground before jogging over the lush bright green grass. As she jogged, she made sure to dodge any vines or tiny chao who may have strayed away from their homes. She even picked one up to boop on the nose before placing it back down and letting it go on it's way. Running in heels was no challenge for her, she wore these shoe-jails every day of her life and it practically a hobby of hers at this point. She was running because she was so excited. For one she was just excited to see the looks on everyone's face, but she was mostly excited for how Tails would react.

After everything that's happened, she found herself becoming yet another unofficial guardian for the fox whenever Sonic wasn't around. Everyone had gathered up on Angel Island again today for a get-together, as this was Zonic and Zhadow's final days on Mobius prime before their next visit. The two officers decided they'd make annual visits to every well-known reality to keep better tabs on their other Sonics, and to create a better relationship with their fellow Chaos Born. Since Sonic was their champion and since Mobius prime was still in a state of repair, it was only right that they stay a little while before leaving. It didn't take her long to reach the altar, where the bunker lied. She saw that Knuckles and the others were already coming out of it. Good, this was almost too perfect. She finally made it, skidding to a stop in front of the group while panting.

With her hands on her knees and her head low, the Mobians wondered why she was in such a hurry. Knuckles rose a brow and walked to her side to pat her back. "Everything okay?"

She nodded, grasping his hand and turning to him cheerfully. "I just got a call from Shadow!" She announced, making everyone's eyes widen. They all crowded around her instantly. Tails, Amy, Knuckles, Zonic and Zhadow all closed in, impatiently waiting for whatever else she had to say. She glanced at Tails directly. "Mr. Sunshine said they were gonna come here to see us."

With his baby blue eyes twinkling with hidden joy, Tails slowly smiled. "R...Really?"

Amy squealed in delight. "Awesome! It's about time they showed their faces."

The echidna crossed his arms with a huff. "About time is right. When do they plan on showing up?"

"Shadow said they wanted to get here before sunset, and it's four right now, so probably-"

A whoosh of wind blew against all their faces. Speak of the devil and he shall come. They all turned slowly behind Rouge to see their guests of honor, walking in their direction. A black furred and red striped hedgehog stood beside their hero, sapphire blue with those unmistakable shoes. Standing by each other like a true unbeatable tag team, the No Zone counterparts looked on in pride. Seeing their surprised faces were starting to make him grin, but Sonic did his best to hold it back. Instead, he just gave a simple wave and his commercial charming smile. "Hey guys," He says. "We miss the party?" Then, his eyes went lower and caught just the person who he was looking for. This time, he couldn't hold back his grin and opened his arms in a welcoming embrace. "Tails, buddy," He said, his tone softening gently. "Come on, don't leave me hanging."

In sheer seconds, Tails sprinted towards his big brother. "Sonic..!"

He collided with him so hard, that he knocked the taller Mobian down to the ground, his bone breaking hug nearly suffocating the hero. Tumbling down with pure laughter, Sonic didn't mind this at all. He just continued to hold the small fox close as he joyfully mumbled his name into his chest.

The others watched this with smiles on their faces, as the sky began to fade into a strange light pink.

END - 59

Everyone, please be safe.

And if you're ignorant, educate yourself.