Shadow knocks on the door, and Ms Vanilla answers with a smile. Sonic always thought Vanilla was pretty, but today she looks stunning. She's dressed in a dark blue gown, with brilliant gold jewelry on her neck and wrists.
"Welcome, you two! Cream is just about ready to leave, let me just help her gather the rest of her things." With a nod the two head inside.
"You look radiant, Ms Vanilla" Sonic eyes Shadow in surprise. It's not like him to just give out compliments and the sincerity in his voice is a rarity as well. He's right, and Sonic hates that he couldn't say so first.
"He's right, Ms Vanilla! You look amazing! Is there something special about tonight?"
"Oh nothing too special. I'm just heading to the opera with a few old friends."
"You mean that stuff with the people singing in viking helmets?" Sonic snickers when he hears Shadow mumble 'uncultured bastard' under his breath.
Ms Vanilla's eyes crinkle at the corners in good humor. "Yes, dear. The singers with the helmets." She doesn't have an opportunity to lead them past the foyer, as Cream bounds down the stairs.
"Hi, Shadow! Hi, Mister Sonic!"
Sonic doesn't know whether to be glad that he still gets called Mister or not. Shadow snorts, apparently seeing the conflict on his face. Before he can retort Cream rushes into Shadow's outstretched arms.
"I missed you so much! What did you do this week?"
Shadow hums and looks down at her, eyes warm in a way that tugs at Sonic's heart. "Just missions and school. The usual."
Cream nods, ears flapping slightly at the motion. "I totally get you. I'm glad we could hang out today, I know you're busy."
"Never too busy to hang out with my favorite kid."
Sonic can feel his jaw drop. What the hell? Since when is Shadow this affectionate with Cream? Well, he knows Shadow had become a sort of big brother to Cream over the years but still. It isn't fair. He never gets sweet words like that.
"How are you, Mister Sonic?" Cream tilts her head with the question and Sonic bitterly realizes that she hasn't let Shadow go. Shadow never lets Sonic hug him like that.
"I'm good! Just the same ol' same ol'. Kicking butt and saving the world." Sonic winks at her and moves just a smidge closer to Shadow, resting his arm on a black shoulder. It would be great if she would just move already.
Maybe the universe doesn't hate him, because a moment later Cream is stepping back and grabbing a small purple purse from her mom. They say their goodbyes before Cream pushes them out the door. Once they are outside Cream grabs both their hands with a grin.
"Let's do this!"
Sonic wishes Shadow was in the middle. He would love to hold his hand right now. And later. Sonic mentally groans. He's not liking how this night is going so far.
Shadow teleports them in front of the movie theater. The group heads towards the strip of restaurants and stores across the street, making light conversation on the weather and Cream's outfit. She's wearing an olive and white striped shirt under oversized light purple overalls. She looks adorable, and she takes their compliments with a shy grin. Sonic feels a bit better before realizing that Cream and Shadow are still holding hands. No way.
Shadow looks calm and even comfortable. His shoulders are relaxed and his stride is steady. So this must be a common thing for these too.
Sonic wants to hit something.
They hang out at pizza place down by the theater, eating and chatting for over an hour. Well, Shadow and Cream talk. Sonic sits back and watches, that prickley, ugly feeling eating away at his heart. Shadow's smile, his laugh, the way he ruffles Cream's fur. Sonic wishes it was all his, and his alone.
When Cream asks Sonic about his latest adventure, he jumps at the chance to share. He's always loved telling stories, and maybe Shadow's attention will be solely on him. He gets his wish for some time. The hybrid is focused on Sonic, his normally grumpy expression replaced by one of open curiosity and wonder. Sonic eats it up. He's so desperate to see more that he adds on another story as they head to the ticket booth.
Cream starts chattering about how that tale reminds her of the movie they're about to watch. Something about similar circumstances. Shadow buys the tickets for the three of them and Sonic almost forgets to thank him with how distracted he is. Cream and Shadow are holding hands again and it's all Sonic can think about. He really wants to be in her place. It's so stupid but the feel of Shadow's hand in his is all he wants.
"What do you think, Mister Sonic?"
Oh yeah. He's supposed to be talking with these two. "Huh? I'm sorry, kiddo, I have no clue what ya just asked me."
Cream giggles and waves him off with her free hand. "It's alright. I was just wondering what you thought of the first two movies."
Shadow hasn't said anything, but Sonic can feel the annoyed gaze that must be directed at him. He tries not to make eye contact.
"I haven't seen them. Teen romance isn't really my thing, if you couldn't tell."
Cream gasps. "What? Oh no, Mister Sonic, the movies are about more than some silly love triangle! The books are way more subtle. The movies play on the romance to get more people in the theater."
Shadow nods, fixing Sonic with a look that's a mixture of curious and something else he can't read. "She's right. The themes of the importance of individual freedom and self sacrifice for the betterment of the community seem like your sort of thing. The books are an easy read and enjoyable. I'm actually surprised you haven't read them already."
Sonic shrugs. "Guess I made the wrong assumptions. I heard about some love plot and just didn't bother."
That strange emotion takes over Shadow's expression. "So you say."
Somehow Sonic feels as he's just been a major disappointment.
"Well, if this movie can change your mind why don't you come over to my place tomorrow and we can watch the first two? I can cook for you, as promised."
"Yeah, sure!" Like Sonic would turn down a chance to see Shadow. Alone. "Don't forget about my dessert."
"So demanding," Shadow drawls with a flat look contrasted by playful eyes. The way he says it doesn't sound like a insult. The opposite, actually.
"Oh, that is such a good idea!" Cream gushes. "Well, I should still probably summarize anyway, since we're watching the third today regardless."
Cream lets go of Shadow's hand to instead hold Sonic's arm, explaining the plot of the first two movies and the key differences between those and the books. Shadow walks in front of them, turning every so often to add something to Cream's musings. Sonic listens the best he can, but more than anything he's really glad she isn't hogging Shadow anymore.
After getting drinks and popcorn they head to their seats. Sonic decides to lead the way, hoping that Shadow has the right mind to follow him closely. Sure enough, they sit with Shadow in between Sonic and Cream. Sonic shouldn't feel so relieved.
They chatter through the previews, and Sonic is surprised to learn that Shadow and Cream apparently come to the theaters a lot. They make plans to see more after each trailer, and it grinds at his gears. He's right here but Shadow hasn't invited him to a single outing. It's not fair that Cream gets all the attention.
The movie starts and Sonic watches half interested. The premise is actually good, but even with Cream's information bomb from earlier he can't quite follow the story. Besides, he's way more focused on how Shadow's shoulder is pressed against his, their hands close enough on their respective arm rests that they could be holding them easily.
He half watches the screen, more focused on the intense look on Shadow's face. He looks engrossed in the movie and Sonic desperately wants to tease him for it. Someone so serious shouldn't be so cute, but here they are. He wishes Shadow would look at him.
So he taps Shadow's hand.
Darn it. Sonic panics, not sure how to explain that he doesn't need anything, he just wants to be paid attention. Shadow leans in close to whisper in his ear and he prepares for the oncoming insult.
"This part is a bit confusing, especially if you haven't seen the other movies. Essentially Burch, the protagonist, made a pact with The Witch of the East. Burch didn't know that The Witch was gathering lost souls when she agreed, so now she undermines The Witch to the best of her ability while being bound. So here, she is..."
Um. Oh. Sonic nods as if he understands and tries to look interested. It's hard given he's nearly been turned to putty, Shadow's voice is low and gruff in his ear and doing things to him that are definitely not appropriate right now. He really shouldn't be hot and bothered by this.
But you know what? Screw it. He's going to enjoy this.
Sonic continues to tap Shadow for 'explanations' for the rest of the movie. He really shouldn't take advantage of the ebon's kindness but he just can't help himself. The sound of that gruff voice right there, hot breath ghosting his ear, the feel of a strong arm wrapping around his shoulder... it's irresistible. Sonic's imagination gets the better of him and...
By the end of the film Sonic has to force his body to relax and pretend like he isn't a panting mess. He's thankful that the theater is still dark and the chatter of the other patrons covers the sound of his gasps. He chances a glance at Shadow, noticing that one ear is flicking. But with crimson eyes still fixed on the screen before them, Sonic breathes a sigh of relief. Shadow would call him out if he noticed Sonic acting funny anyway.
The three make their way out of the theater after the lights turn on. Once outside, Sonic is thankful for the chill of autumn air. It cools his still overheated skin.
"Can we get some icecream?" Cream asks, grabbing hold of Shadow's arm. Sonic frowns. He was so caught up in the thrill of arousal that he had forgotten he has to share. It ticks him off way more than it should.
"Sure, let's go." Shadow motions for Sonic to follow them and starts walking towards an ice cream shop across the street. Sonic soon falls in line, walking close enough to Shadow that their fingers brush. Crimson eyes hold a question, but it's not spoken. That's good, because Sonic isn't sure how he would answer.
The shop they enter is small but cozy. The interior is a pastel dream, swirls of pink and green decorating the walls. The chairs are white and baby blue, and the floor is a sparkling white. Amy would love this place.
Cream orders something called a Tropical Twist, Sonic orders a classic banana split, and Shadow orders a single scoop of rum raisin.
"Pfft that's such an old man flavor, Shads."
Shadow simply rolls his eyes, taking a lick from his cone. They sit in a booth, Sonic taking the opportunity to sit next to Shadow. He scoots close enough so their thighs touch. He's lost for most of the conversation, because he really didn't retain enough and he just feels far away.
Sonic hates that he can't say more, since Cream gets the hybrid all to herself. But Shadow does try to include him, nudging his arm and even placing a hand on his knee from time to time when the conversation turns into something he can join. It leaves Sonic feeling warm in all sorts of ways.
"Oh look! There's a photobooth! Should we?"
Sonic turns to look where Cream is pointing behind him. Sure enough there's a photobooth tucked away in the corner, painted a mint green with gold stars. He grins, actually excited at the prospect of getting Shads into there.
"Let's do it!"
They finish what's left of their icecream before squeezing into the small space. Cream seats herself in the middle while Shadow places several bills into the machine.
"Let's make these super cute! Sonic, you already know what to do. Shadow, can I please get a smile? Pretty please?"
Sonic cackles while Shadow just nods at Cream's request. The machine counts down and Sonic poses as charming as he can, glancing at Shadow between each photo. He's actually really looking forward to how these come out. Shadow's smile is adorable.
After the last click they scramble out, and Cream grabs the slips that come out the side. "Aww! These are awesome!" She hugs Sonic and then Shadow, gushing. "You guys are the best! Sonic! You look so cute in these! Shadow looks so handsome, don't you think?"
Sonic moves so he can glance over her shoulder. He grunts in agreement. Shadow looks very handsome. In each photo his smile barely there, but it is there.
In the first photo ruby eyes bore straight into the camera, while Cream and Sonic have opted to glance at each other. The second and third, Shadow looks at the others while they pose with peace signs and hands curled into hearts. In the last - and this one is Sonic's favorite - Shadow seems to be looking at Sonic, the faintest bit of fang peeking out from tan lips. Sonic doesn't remember looking at Shadow for a photo, but there he is, caught in a laugh. Cream has her arms thrown around the both of them, the sweetest grin on her face.
"You're right, Cream. These are great!"
She passes a copy to Sonic and one to Shadow. "Sorry boys, I'm gonna take two copies." They wave her off, not minding.
"I'm glad we did this. I have, like, no photos of us together."
Shadow looks up at him, a strange look on his face. It's almost hesitant. "We could take more. If you'd like."
Sonic grabs his arm, dragging him into the booth. "Oh yeah, let's do it! Yo, Cream, come on."
She stays put, turning slightly to point at the cash register. "Actually, I think I might get another snack. I'll meet you guys right here, ok?" She sends a wink their way, and Shadow sighs and rolls his eyes. What the...?
"Come on, let's get started." Shadow tugs on his arm and gets him seated. Shadow feeds a few bills into the machine and gets comfortable. His arms are crossed and face is blank, though the tap of his fingers says he's thinking of something pressing.
"So are we gonna make these the best pictures ever or what, Shads?"
Shadow snorts, uncrossing his arms and leaning in close. There's the playful side Sonic has been waiting for. "Oh, you know I'm the best at everything, hedgehog."
"Sure, that's why your pictures all looked the same, loser."
Shadow smirks, turning to face the camera. "You want to see great pictures? You got it."
They pose on sync, somehow. First finger guns, then peace signs, and then wide smiles as they wrap their arms around each other. Something shifts in the air, and when Sonic turns to Shadow he finds the hybrid staring right back. As if pulled by some invisible force Sonic is drawn in, brushing his nose against Shadows. Crimson eyes dart from Sonic's lips to his eyes and suddenly nothing else matters.
Sonic could close the distance, if he wanted to. He could taste Shadow on his tongue, he just needs to move forward. But he shouldn't. Should he? Shadow's not backing up... Does he want this too? Maybe if he just--
"Hey, are you guys ok?"
"We're fine, Cream. We'll be out in a second." Shadow replies smoothly, not breaking eye contact with Sonic. He still hasn't backed away and Sonic really doesn't know what to do with himself.
"We should go."
Sonic nods but he really doesn't want to. He wants stay here and just be. But if he must. "Alright."
He steps out first, not missing the expectant look from Cream. He's not sure what that's about. Glancing to the side, he notices two slips on the side of the machine. Oh. Yeah.
He grabs them and feels a bit faint. In a good and bad way.
The first three are just as he remembers. Finger guns, peace sign, best friends pose. But the fourth? He doesn't remember the camera flashing but he remembers that moment. The fourth is... good. But he's nervous of what Shadow will think.
The two of them are gazing at eachother, heads slightly tilted as if leaning in for a kiss. Shadow's eyes are half lidded and Sonic likes that he can now see it from another angle. On himself he sees what can only be called a nervous smile. Their arms are wrapped around each other. He appears to be pulled in, Shadow's large hands resting between his shoulder and on his lower back. It looks so... intimate. As if they were meant to be.
"So what do you think?"
Shadow's voice startles him, making Sonic jump and ready for attack before he can stop himself. Thank goodness Shadow is as fast as he is, because he narrowly avoids being impaled.
"Jesus! You could've fucked me up, you idiot!"
"Hey!" Sonic knows it's true but Shadow doesn't have to be so mean. "Chill out! Maybe you shouldn't be sneaking up on people, you creep."
"I wasn't sneaking! I called your name like four fucking times! You were zoning out, like you've been doing all night!"
"I wasn't--" Sonic stops when he sees Cream scrunch up her nose. He turns to her and she looks down, fiddling with her purse.
"You have been distant all night..."
"Oh come on, it hasn't been that bad." Looking between Cream and Shadow he suddenly isn't so sure. "Has it?"
"I'm sure you have something on your mind. We don't have to talk about it if you don't want but... it just seems as if you're... upset about something." Cream says so carefully, tucking loose strands of fur behind her ears.
"I'm not upset." Sonic knows his voice is stilted, so it won't take much for them to see he's lying. Great.
"Can I have my copy, or are you going to crush it before I get the chance to take it home?"
Sonic looks to his fist, where he is absolutely crushing their photos. "Shoot! I'm sorry. Here."
Shadow grabs it from him, his cold expression chilling Sonic to his core. He didn't mean to make things awkward. The hybrid studies their photos before his face softens the slightest bit.
"These are nice."
Shadow places the slip in his head quills to join the other one before stepping up to Sonic. He jabs at a peach chest a bit forcefully, words stern but not nearly as angry as before.
"I don't know what your deal is, but it's whatever. We all got stuff going on and sometimes it shows and I'm not going to stay angry with you over something like that." He pauses, crossing his arms over his chest with narrowed eyes. "Just take it easy and get yourself home. It seems like you need some time to yourself."
Sonic starts to protest but Shadow just lifts up a hand to stop it. "I've got Cream. You go home or run or whatever. Figure it out. It's ok."
Sonic feels devastated. He was having fun! Sort of. A bit. Mostly when Cream wasnt touching Shadow. Or talking to him. So... not most of the night. Darn.
"I'm really sorry, you guys." He rubs the back of his neck, bitter about his own actions. "I didn't mean to be weird."
"It's fine! Really! Get some rest and just let us know if you need to talk, ok?" Cream steps in between him and Shadow to give him a warm hug. It saps away some of his anger, but not all of it. Shadow uncrosses his arms to place hands on his hips.
"Text me when you're ready. Let me know if you're still wanting to come over tomorrow."
"You still wanna hang out with me?" Shadow nods. "Oh geez, you must really like me, huh?" Sonic teases with a wink.
Cream giggles behind a glove and Shadow looks like he's going to pop a vein.
"You think you'd know that by now, but yes. Obviously."
Cream laughs even harder, snorting and wiping tears from her eyes. Even now Sonic is out of their loop.
"Come on, Cream. Let's get you home."
They head out, leaving Sonic standing by the booth. Alone. He sighs and hits his head with a fist. He really screwed up this night. He pulls put his phone, pulling up his messages with Shadow.
Me «im sorry :(»
Shadz 3 «It is ok. We understand.»
Sonic grits his teeth. They don't, they can't, but they still forgive him. He looks up at the ceiling and sighs. Maybe he should go for a run. His phone buzzes again, and it actually makes him smile.
Shadz 3 «Text me when you get home safe.»
Sonic avoids home for some time. He runs late into the night, texting Shadow before collapsing into bed. To his surprise Shadow texts him back immediately.
Shadz 3 «I'm glad you're safe. Are we still good for tomorrow?»
Sonic grins, glad that Shadow still wants to see him. He knows that he got on Shadow's nerves. Shadow said he wasn't going to stay angry, but he was definitely feeling irritated if the way he was clenching his jaw was any indication. Sonic is just glad Shadow kept it to himself. That's new. Sonic texts back, sending a yes before curling up and falling asleep.
He dreams of a date with just the two of them - hand holding under the stars, loving words spoken in his ear.