Author's note: Before I begin, I wanted to give a quick thank you to all those who have commented/reviewed the fic. I did not expect to get this much attention. You guys are great! Also, I apologize for this chapter having taken so long. Things have been getting a tad busier at work, so I've had less time to do much. Furthermore, this chapter went through three whole changes until I decided on what direction I wanted the story to go. Yes, I am going to finish the whole thing in due time. And, for those of you who want more, here you go!

Edit: I also apologize for the constant changes and edits. I neglected to fix a few mistakes I noticed only after this was uploaded.

Chapter 3: Delfino Delinquency

With so many factors at play, Bowser made all the necessary preparations prior to an ever nearing departure. Unbelievably, "Operation: Love-sick Ling-weenie" as he referred to it was taking longer than a single day as originally predicted, granted Princess Peach had either been all too stubborn or too oblivious to catch any hints. For a short time, he parted from any interactions with Mario in the hopes she would at least seek him out to lay their differences out on the table. Surely she could not stay this bitter forever. Yet such ideas never appeared to cross her royal mind, and on the day she finally departed for her trip, left without so much as a goodbye. On a whim of impatience, Bowser felt he had little choice but to partake in a minor escapade of his own. Maybe take a day or two to cleanse his scales while he was at it. Ruling an entire kingdom of Koopas, Goombas, and alike did take its toll, and this would be about as close to a vacation he would have gotten in a while. His sole regret is that he would be stuck in that wretched fleshy form without being able to wreak any havoc.

Firstly and foremost, he left only his most trusted subordinates in charge, with the promise of keel-hauling them from the Doom Ship should he find anything out of place upon return. Second, and most important, he was sure to let Bowser Jr. know of his absence, giving him the usual reminders about behavior and how to rope others into doing his dirty work, albeit the little Koopa was less than thrilled.

"Will Mama come by to babysit me while your gone?"

There was a light choke in Bowser's throat. "Err...I'll call and make sure she does whenever she has time, alright?"

Junior grumbled. "If she can't, it's ok." A hint of sadness in his tiny voice.

Slowly, Bowser pulled him into a tight hug. "Oh, don't worry sonny. I'm sure she'll do everything in her power to see you again." he said warmly. His massive arms clutching his son. "She loves you dearly, just as much as i do, and until I'm done helping Mario undo his screw-up, I want you to be on your best behavior."

The youngling nodded, pulling away soon after. "Do we at least get to beat him up when you're done?"

Bowser boomed a hearty laugh. "That's my boy! In the meantime, remember to keep practicing that fire breath!"

"Yes sir, papa sir!" Junior exclaimed.

"Now run along, sport. I wanna see progress by the time I get back!"

Bowser Jr. did as instructed, leaving his father to his affairs. Soon, he was back to packing all necessary essentials into a small suitcase, including a change of cuffs and some lady clothes he had so generously bought for Princess Peach years prior. It was painstaking trying to get these specifically into his bag without tearing them in his claws. Tempted as he was to reiterate his favorite powerup, he was not about to do it anywhere near his son's proximity. It sure would have made packing such delicate attire thousands of times easier though. He would just have to use the tips of his claws as gently as possible.

"The final preparations have been made to your Koopa Copter, your malevolence." a magikoopa interrupted his concentration. In the process, accidentally making him tear apart a rather expensive bra. When he realized what he had done, Bowser slowly turned to his subordinate with utmost annoyance.

"Err, should I come back later my liege?"

He shook his head with a sigh. "No, Kamek." he uttered. The anger subsided. Of all his favored minions, he always did know how to lend a helping hand. He smiled. "Where would I be without ya, old chum?"

"Exactly where you'd expect to be, your majesty." the magikoopa replied sheepishly. "Though, I must ask, is the addition of all this feminine attire truly necessary for such a short trip?"

"I'm going to be surrounded by idiots with no idea who I am." remarked Bowser as he held up a green princess dress. "I'll need to blend in as best I can. 'Sides, I can finally put all these old gifts to good use!"

Kamek arched a brow, regarding some of the more scandalous attire inside. "Curious. I never once remember you picking those out for Peach."

Bowser slammed the suitcase shut. His eyes wide with embarrassment and agitation. "It was all they had in my size, okay?!...you have no idea how difficult is to find things when you're a smooth-skin with a tail."

"Oh my." chuckled Kamek with a tug of his collar. "A-A drastic change in your wardrobe, sir?"

His face flushed for a moment. "Not like anyone wants to see that…" He cleared his throat. " I'm not sure how long I'll be gone. Just hold the fort for a night or two. I shouldn't be long. I'll let you know if I am."

Eventually, Bowser stuffed the last of his things into his case. The irony being that a majority of it was specifically for his alter ego. He hammered it into Kamek's mind repeatedly that, while fine for the rest of his troops to know what was going on, none of this was to reach Bowser Jr.'s ears under any circumstances. The last thing he wanted was to break the illusion of a second parent in his dear son's eyes. After giving off his final instructions, Bowser bid the last of his troops goodbye, setting off for his Koopa Copter. His claws grabbed the edges and within moments, off to the setting sun he went.

Once he was a fair distance away, Bowser opened his luggage and began rummaging through it. He gave a sigh of relief following the reunification of him and his Super Crown. Without a second thought, he situated it back on its rightful pedestal, creating that poofing transformation he had grown so accustomed to. The lovely Bowsette was returned to her full beauty.

Meanwhile, Mario anxiously awaited the arrival of his date. Peach still had not contacted him in a while, though no doubt she was busy receiving some much needed rest for the time being. A previous conversation with Bowsette two days before still replayed in his mind.

"On-a what grounds do you think I'd-a go with you to Isle Delfino!?"

Bowsette grinned deviously. "Your Pretty Princess Peachy" she sang.

Mario winced. The last thing he wanted was to be labeled a stalker. "Don't-a you think this is-a going-a bit far?"

"Nonsense!" replied Bowsette. "My Koopa Copter can get there and back in a matter of minutes!"

"But-a going through all this-a trouble to harass-a Peach?"

"People do crazy things when they're in love, petal chewer. So, how crazy are you willing to get?"

As always, she tactically manipulated him into contemplating another hair-brained scheme. Either Bowser truly was adamant about getting the two back together or, more realistically, growing impatient. He barely even waited until the day after their date for confirmation on whether or not the ex-couple had spoken, opting to put more pressure on Peach. Now here he was, sitting at a beachfront next to a pipe he previously traveled through. The setting sun reflecting brightly in his bright blue irises. At least the view was nice. A welcome distraction from the absolute malice they were planning on projecting towards the poor princess. Still, Mario did admittedly want to see her return, showing that unbridled affection she always seemed so willing to give. Furthermore, the idea of visiting Isle Delfino for the first time in a while did sound like the perfect getaway from the previous madness, even if it was only for a short period. It was a vacation. Two days tops. That thought sugarcoated what they were really about to do.

Things would be different this time however. He brought a small backpack with three pairs of clothes along with all other essentials needed for travel, including a few powerups should Bowser decide he was done playing nice. Now it was simply a matter of waiting for his dear frenemy. Soon, he made out the familiar silhouette of a horned figure flying through the amber skies in a sphere. It eventually landed in his proximity. A beckoning Bowsette motioned him over in a flurry of insults as customary.

"It's-a nice to see you too, Bowser." he mumbled.

She snarled. "I told you, it's Bowsette! Now hop on, pasta breath! Of all the things I never thought I'd say."

As he prepared a jump, Mario could not help but notice something different in Bowsette's appearance. It was not the dress. It was not the earrings. Something was...off this time around, but he could not place his finger on it.

"What?" she demanded snapping him out of his trance.

He grumbled. "Remind-a me again, what happened-a to 'staying here and-a watching-a Mario'?"

She groaned. "It's been days since she left for her trip and I'm not waiting another for her to come knocking at your door! Now hurry up! We're burning daylight!"

Mario shook his head. A mere copy of Peach was all this was. Nor grace nor kindness where this one's strong suit, leaving him to haul himself into the rounded transport. A hard thud announced Mario's successful entrance. She watched with arms crossed at her chest the entire time.

He rose to his feet, running his gloved hands on the edges of the Koopa Copter. "Huh. I never expected it-a to be this roomy."

Bowsette rolled her eyes, grabbing her edge. A buzzing propeller beneath thrusted them into the air. In a matter of moments, they were high in the sky. Mario peeked his head to overlook the ever expanding scenery. His hair and mustache dancing with the oncoming wind. The weather was cool with the ocean breeze filling his nostrils. They had gained both speed and altitude quickly. The Mushroom Kingdom looked like little more than a glistening coin after some time. In the far distance, the Koopa Kingdom, in contrast, lay surrounded by dark clouds and lava. All of it was quickly trailing off behind them as they flew above the ocean. Its waters too glistening like diamonds with the setting sun. Clearly this was why Bowser wanted that trip over the Mushroom Kingdom before. Such a view was truly mesmerizing.

He turned hack to face Bowsette. Her gaze was lost somewhere in the distance beyond her perfectly curved nose. A single pointy tooth poked out her unmoving lips. Her black dress flapped inside the Copter. Her skin reflected the amber glow of the setting sun as her blonde hair trailed behind. Such determination on her face made Mario temporarily forget about the beast hiding under that Super Crown, and for the briefest of moments, he found himself staring. She however had either not noticed or simply did not care. The novelty wore off fast when Mario remembered why he was here to begin with. Even now, temptation to abort their plan gripped like the crushing might of the Master Hand. He limped over to Bowsette's side. His tone grim. "Maybe it'd be best if I were to talk to her."

"Get off your high horse, will ya?" Bowsette harshly scoffed. Her grip tightened around the vehicle's edges. "Who's ever gained anything from being civil?"

Mario removed his hat. An all too familiar despair gnawed at his head. "I just-a don't-a know if I can-a face her after this."

Her fingers tapped the Koopa Copter's hull. "At least you'll still have me." she encouraged.

Bewildered, his gaze inched up to her meet hers. The gesture was unreturned by Bowsette. "Our relationship will remain the same throughout. I'm mainly losing the thrill of making you squirm like a Wiggler. My favorite part of kidnapping that woman."

Mario rested his head in one hand, contemplating the thought. "What do you kidnap Peach for anyway?"

A slight smirk formed at the edge of Bowsette's lips. Her hair drooping over her eyes. "To spite you." she murmured.

Her words throttled him ever so slightly. A dark aura emanated around her. She continued, raising her head as to make her eyes visible.

"Plus, I need someone to care for Junior when I'm preoccupied. He's the only one who can't fully fend for himself yet."

Her explanation almost made perfect sense. Mario had never truly sat down to think about Bowser's children. It may as well have been news to him that he cared so dearly for his offspring. His gaze shifted back to the setting sun. A gloved hand tapped the vehicle's surface. "Why Peach? Why haven't-a you ever tried-a kidnapping anyone else?"

Bowsette kept her eyes in the distance. "It's not for lack of trying, bonehead. Others are either too shallow or, in Daisy's case, tend to fight back. Peach is different like that. Her gentle touch makes her the perfect candidate." Her smile widened a bit. "And that way, I don't have to go out of my way gathering resources when I can have those numbskull Toads hand everything over in ransom!"

Mario sighed. His bright blue eyes stared down at the passing ocean below. Its breeze fluttering his cocoa-brown hair. From their height, he could still see a faint reflection in the water staring back. Gloomy, beat, lonely. "Doesn't it-a get tiring?" he mumbled. "Doing the same thing over and over again?"

She huffed. "No. Frankly, I'd hate it if anything changed between us."

He shifted his gaze towards her again. Mario prodded her for more. To him, if felt like she was keeping something. "You enjoy being-a feared by the Mushroom Kingdom?"

"Is that a problem?" Bowsette answered with an eye roll. "What's not to like about being a big, fire-breathing terror?"

"Doesn't-a that-a get-a bit lonely?"

After what felt like hours, Bowsette finally acknowledged his passenger. "Why would you say that?" Her tone gruff, still refusing to meet his eyes. Again, her gold locks had shadowed a portion of her face. "I've got hundreds of minions who cater to my every whim. Plus, my dear children who are always there for me…What reason have I to be lonely?"

The last of the sparse sunlight continued creeping away, leaving only amber streaks upon the cloudy skies overhead. Mario nodded in agreement. In a hush voice, he said "Yeah...you're right."

Soon, the last drop of sunlight vanished in the horizon. In its place was a brightly lit landmass fast approaching. Isle Delfino had come to view at long last. Truth be told, it was never clear to either what time they planned to be there. It was simply a matter of arriving and teasing their elusive target. If Mario was willing to go along with it, surely there would be no reason for their objective to backfire. At long last, they were over the all too familiar island. A once sun bathed landmass was now draped over by darkness. Manmade light sources littered the entire dolphin-shaped isle with blasting music reaching them clear as day upon descent. In time, the unmistakable scent of bonfire food infiltrated both their nostrils with the promise of an oh so delicious meal. It alone made the two drool with hunger. Bowsette's sight darted to and fro in an effort to find a suitable place to land her Koopa Copter. In the end, she settled on parking inside a mountain cave at the edge of the sandy beach where no one would dare search.

Leaving their luggage behind, they set out to the heart of the town. An eerie silence reigned through most of their walk. Their only disturbance the sound of crashing waves and shuffling of sand beneath their shoes. At least there was the light glow of a waning gibbous provided suitable light. Though it took a few minutes, eventually they arrived at a line of torches that soon led them to the all too familiar Delfino Square. The night life was truly alive on the island, with Pianta people surrounding them from every angle. With cheerful laughs and grunts, they went about welcoming the new guests. A number of them even called out Mario's name, beckoning him to gander at their shops.

Bowsette wasted no time in reaching for Mario's hand. He jumped in his shoes. His eyes locked with hers. All she did was raise her eyebrows and flash a toothy smile.

Needless to say, he was a tad confused "Did you see Peach, Bowser." he whispered.

She giggled. "Oh, relax. What's say we let rumors spread amongst the locals, eh melon nose?"

A second or two went by before Mario fully registered what she was implying. Their faux relationship would be better solidified if seen not just by Princess Peach, but by others too. Furthermore, it would serve as a simpler alternative rather than constantly flaunting their affections specifically in her face at every corner. A woman wants to be shown off. That was the way Bowsette thought about it. So began their date. Both were clear on the idea that, should Peach be encountered, this time it would be without getting too close. Now it was only a matter of where to begin.

Bowsette suddenly yanked at Mario's arm out of nowhere, leading him to one of the stands.

"Ooh, pretty!" she said picking up a choker. A gleaming insignia of the great Koopa King himself had been elegantly etched upon its silver ornament. Its surface surrounded by a transparent red gem magnifying the brilliantly crafted image. Everything else had been embroidered with a set of silver bolts. It was the only one of its kind atop the vendor's table. With the giddiness of a child seeing a favorite toy, she asked "Is this real ruby?"

"What, that old thing? Sure is!" replied the vendor.

"How much?" she replied.

"One twenty even."

With the most devious of leers, Bowsette turned to Mario with the most innocent, coy eyes she could muster. He stared at the pricetag of the trinket. No way something this small was worth this many coins! Back to the sparkling jewels that had replaced the eyes of his date. It may have been the streetlights or the glow coming from behind her irises, but Mario found himself being slowly lost in the fiery gaze. Something about it became eerily hypnotic, making it almost impossible to look away. Despite his consciousness gnawing at every corner, Mario begrudgingly stepped up to the vendor, handing him the hefty sum of coins.

"All yours!" gleamed the vendor.

Bowsette squealed, giving her date the hardest of tugging squeezes to his cheek. A bright red imprint of her thumb remained on his face. "Thanks honey!" she exclaimed as she wrapped the trinket around her neck.

Mario rubbed his cheek. It would be a miracle if it did not swell. He glanced at the shopkeep now happily counting his earnings. He winked in the plumber's direction. "Bubbly and beautiful! Treat her well, 'cause she's quite the bombshell!" chuckled the Pianta.

Mario smiled through gritted teeth. "Oho, you have-a no idea."

Bowsette's attention then shifted elsewhere before promptly grabbing Mario's hand to lead him on.

Clack Clack Clack!

Her shoes clapped on the busy stone streets. Past food stands, gift shops, and alike while at times coming narrowly close to bumping into some oblivious patron. Mario did his best to keep up with the fast feet of his fake date with the intent of apologizing when possible to those they almost struck. A hand to his head held his hat in place. Soon, she was no longer just casually yanking Mario along. She was full on running. And in the same set of high heels that matched her black dress too.

"B-Bowsette, slow down!" he cried. "You'll-a twist an ankle if-a you run in-a those-a shoes!"

"What's that? An invite to buy me new shoes?"

"Err-"

"That's so sweet! Let's go!"

Off she led them into a side entrance of the well-known Coconut Mall, almost colliding with its set of sliding doors.

"W-Wait! Bowser!" Mario called after her.

An excited Bowsette laughed back. Her glee echoed in the massive store. "Better hurry up while the night's still young, dear!"

Despite the sun going down, the mall was still very much alive with Pianta people just as much as on the outside. Voices bounced off walls from patrons both near and far. Even more wonderful was the scent of tasty rewards coming from the food court somewhere beyond. Mario's eyes darted from side to side. It was far different from what he remembered when hosting kart races. Now one could actually enter stores without risk of being chased by Lakitu or becoming someone else's hood ornament. With Bowsette leading him along however, it almost felt like he may as well have been in a race for the moment. Most other details remained recognizable, with banners hanging from the ceiling, posters littering the walls, and the mini palm trees growing in the middle of it all. The second floor was filled with tourists and locals bustling about. Surprisingly, this was by far the busiest local they had come across.

On and on, she tugged her little lover along, never giving him a proper moment to rest. She on the other hand was having the time of her life. This new body was so much more nimble than her original one, albeit still very much clumsy due to the dress. Still, she ran to her heart's content, once more happy that she was getting away with being out in plain sight. Not even the Piantas questioned her tail or horns. For the time being, she was normal. Absolutely and utterly normal. Bowsette did not stop running until she found what she was looking for.

"Hammer Bros Handmade Attire and Shoe Emporium!" she exclaimed. Mario's face lost color. Of all the places she picked, it had to be the more lavish one. Reluctantly, he followed her in. Her clacking shoes announcing her presence to the awaiting owners.

It did not take long for her to start ogling all the different clothing articles in the store. All the while pursued by her partner from isle to isle, eventually losing him in one. To Mario's luck, if the shelves were not too tall for him, the clothing isles certainly were. All he had to guide him were the jovial hums of Bowsette, though even those were difficult to trace with the loud classical music playing overhead. When he finally spotted her after a moment, she was at the end of the next isle sizing up a pair of pricy looking leather boots. That was enough reason to stop. It was Mario's turn to pull at her arm, dragging her down to his height.

He met her eyes. "Since when does a Koopa wear shoes?!" he huffed attempting vainly to intimidate.

Bowsette glared."The moment she became a girl! Now…" she held up a set of shiny, meticulously built leather flats to his face. A sparkling red jewel adorned what would have been the buckle. In that same innocent beckoning manner, she begged. "Pretty please?"

"Bowser." Mario glowered back. A hint of blush came to his cheeks.

"Pretty pretty pretty please?" Her lashes fluttered with a puff of her bottom lip.

Minutes later, she burst out the double doors with a paper bag in one hand and a winded Mario in the other. In contrast to a giddy Bowsette who was now smiling ear to ear, he looked absolutely horrified at the amount he had just spent on such basic looking footwear, constantly checking the receipt for even the slightest miscalculation. There was none.

"And how is-a this gonna help-a me get-a Peach back?" he protested.

Bowsette snickered. "Oh, it'll show the world how much you care about your dear Bowsette, duh! Just wait 'till Peach sees this!"

Mario's face scrunched. He looked to the bag, realizing she never even bothered to change out of her heels. "You know, I got-a those-a flats so you wouldn't-a have to wear the-!"

Once more, she jerked his arm in a different direction. This time, she went towards a candy stand with various tropical treats. From there, she dragged Mario along from one place to the other, seemingly forgetting the whole thing was nothing more than an act. All over the mall they tread, stopping only on occasion to look at or purchase something that even remotely caught Bowsette's eye. It was becoming painfully obvious she was taking advantage of the situation simply to get free gifts at Mario's expense. This time, he was the one tending to her every whim. For all intents and purposes, she was indeed used to being thoroughly pampered day and night by minions. The fact that it was Mario of all people just made the feeling ten times as exhilarating. All these years of wanting him under her foot had always felt like a distant fantasy. This was about as close as she had ever gotten thus far, and anyone could bet she was going to milk it for all it was worth. She was enjoying herself no doubt. Perhaps a little too much. By the end of it, Mario had racked up a sizable bill. His only solace was that payday would be in the next three hours.

Eventually, the two strode down to the food court for some much needed refueling. Bowsette beamed with glee as she pulled an item block from her bag, stuffing her purchases into it. Mario still appeared very much forlorn. For the smallest of moments, she looked down in the slightest grain of pity.

She scoffed. "Oh, chin up you portly parmesan plumber, I got you something too!"

Mario lifted his gaze. His eyes lit up with surprise at his date. "R-Really? Aw, me-Bowser, I didn't-a think you'd actually- Ow!"

"There we go!"

She had stuck a small button to his overalls that pinched his chest. He looked down. "No.1 Boyfriend?" he inquired in a wince of pain.

Bowsette nodded. "I stole it off some loser who left his belongings out in plain sight. Poor sucker didn't even know what hit him!"

Mario grimaced with pain and disappointment. The only thing she had contributed the entire night and it was stolen. Granted, it was the nicest gesture she had shown since their misadventure began.

Suddenly, Bowsette stopped completely in her tracks, making Mario bump into her rear. He instantly tensed up, lurching backwards with his face turning tomato red. She however did not so much as even flinch. After the initial shock, he followed her sight to see what was the matter. There, strolling down Coconut Mall's food court, was the unmistakable face of Princess Peach. She had just gotten out of her seat and was already surrounded by a group of Toads. It seemed she was also busy enjoying some time at the mall before it closed for the day. Her eyes shifted in their direction and the two immediately turned around and began walking away.

"Attention shoppers!" said a voice on the intercom. "Just a friendly reminder that Coconut Mall will be closing in the next five minutes!"

Mario looked to Bowsette quizzically. "I thought we were supposed to be making-a her jealous!" he whispered.

"That's the plan!" retorted Bowsette. "I wanna see if she follows."

The pair moseyed along back the way they had initially come. Sure enough, Bowsette spied occasional reflections of pink and yellow. Every so often, she would glance over her shoulder as well to catch the slightest glimpse of Peach stalking them. The princess had even gone the extra mile to wrap a hood around her head as to not attract too much attention. Bowsette pressured Mario to walk calmly, not wanting to make it seem as if they knew they were being followed. How ironic. All those decades of her stalking Peach only to have her return the favor right back.

In time, the couple came out into the cool air of Delfino's night. With the mall closing soon, no doubt the rest of the stores, shops, and restaurants would be locking up shop as well. There was nothing left to do but to make the parting gestures to her artificial lover. She whispered a few things in Mario's ear, then pulled him down a brightly lit street. The moonlight gleaming down on them. Once they were a fair distance away and she was sure Peach would be watching, she began to pour on the sugar.

"I had such a great night!" she began with a giggle.

Mario smiled back. His gloved hand clutching hers. "Me-a too!"

"You wanna do this again sometime?" she asked sheepishly. Her shoulders rocking back and forth.

With the warmest grin, he replied. "I would-a love to." He took his partner's other hand in his, squeezing it ever so gently.

Bowsette's eyes glanced to the spot where Peach had been hiding. Though she could not see her, she knew full well she could hear them. When she noticed the princess leaning out to take another peek, Bowsette seized the opportunity to pull Mario into a hug.

"How jealous do you think she is right now?" she whispered in his ear. Her breath the scent of lighter fluid.

Mario did his best to hold her close. His throat tight. Obviously he would not be able to tell since he was facing the other way. "Hmm. P-Pretty jealous I think." he managed to utter. Most of his chest was being pressed against by her bosom.

Bowsette's eyes wandered up to Peach's vicinity. They locked eyes. Peach's intense glare strong enough to melt ice. Her nostrils flaring in anger. Yet she did not act. All she did was stare.

"She's just gawking like an idiot!" scorned Bowsette. "Dumb Peach. Maybe we're just not trying hard enough…"

On a whim, Bowsette pulled Mario away. She lifted his hat and landed what may have been the most convincing kiss on the short plumber's forehead. While no physical contact was made, the sound made it look like a legitimate embrace from afar. Mario froze as she pulled his hat over his face. She giggled. His face flushed almost to the hue of his outfit not quite realizing if she truly had just kissed him.

Bowsette leered as she watched Peach storm angrily away. This time, without even trying to hide her furious presence.

"Shoot! She still didn't interfere!" hissed Bowsette. Still, with her handiwork done, Bowsette sashayed away leaving a confused Mario to contemplate what just happened. In a hush whisper, she murmured.

"C'mon, dummy."

Perfect. Absolutely perfect, the night went. Despite Peach's absence, she had to do her absolute best to keep from cackling maniacally. No doubt she would be fawning all over Mario soon! With much of the inhabitants now headed towards their respective homes, Bowsette saw it as the perfect time to find a place of her own. Hotel Delfino for sure! Though hard to truly admit, she was having the time of her life agitating Peach to such an extent. It may have been even more exhilarating than getting under Mario's skin! It was wonderful! All she had to do now was wait until morning for things to finally go back to normal. Only a victory drink fit for a king would make the night complete.

In the heat of the moment, she had not realized she was twirling, dancing, singing enroute to her Koopa Copter the whole time. Oh joy, it felt like she was under the influence of an invincibility star! So much so, that it took her a bit to perceive a grotesque popping sound echoing with the night air. Seconds later, she was down on the ground screeching at the top of her lungs.

"Gahhh! My foot!"

Her screams broke Mario's wandering mind. In his daze, he had not registered Bowsette's absence. Much to his favor, she had not gotten that far, estimating she should be somewhere beyond the town square's boundaries. Without hesitation, Mario bolted over to the cries of an injured Bowsette, finding her on the sand wailing incoherently while clutching her leg. Mario knelt down to inspect the damage. She however did her best to smack him away.

"D-Don't touch it, don't touch it!"

"I'm-a not-a gonna hurt-a you, I just-a wanna see!"

She eventually was forced to give up the fight as Mario refused taking no for an answer. His gloved hands gently held her leg with the lightest touch. What had been mentioned previously about her high heels did indeed come true. Her ankle had twisted, though luckily not to the extent where she would need urgent medical attention. An ice pack however would be most ideal. Unfortunately, Dr. Mario was relatively useless without his office, so treating her here and now was out of the question. Worse still, everything else on the island was either closed or closing.

"I think it's-a best if you don't-a try anything until-a the morning. It's-a really swelling." he advised, removing her shoes. Curiously enough, even the nails on her toes were sharp.

"Good for nothing fleshy body! How am I gonna get around now?!" she cried.

Mario nodded, but offered his hand. "You need-a ride?" he asked. A warm concern in his voice.

"Eh?" she asked puzzled. "And what do you expect to do, fatty? Carry me?!"

Clouds were beginning to roll in overhead. The air moistened. Moonlight slowly became sparse. Even in an island paradise there was at least some spooky element around the further they parted civilization. In her entire career as the prince of doom, this had to be an all time low. The mightiest of all Koopas. The fire breathing terror of the Mushroom Kingdom. Now here she was. Being carried by the very plumber/doctor hybrid she had set out to destroy. This was far past the realm of humiliation. Her only grace was this was all happening away from prying eyes.

"You didn't have to do this." she muttered.

"Of course I did." His head cocked back. "It wouldn't be right to just-a leave you."

At least she no longer needed to hobble all the way to her craft. That much she was grateful for. Her mind rejected it, but she was grateful. A light blush creeped its way onto her cheeks. "You're an idiot."

Mario tittered. "You're-a welcome."

After a minute or two of walking, the pair arrived at the cave housing Bowsette's awaiting chariot. A modest Mario carried her inside as she gingerly disembarked.

"Heh, I'm guessing you're gonna head to a cozy hotel for the night, right?" she chuckled.

He shook his head. "Wouldn't it-a be best if we stay in a hotel-a room so you can-a properly rest?"

"And wake up to the sight of plumber's crack? Pass." wretched Bowsette. She leaned against one side of her Copter, letting out a long, strained sigh. "'Sides, I've got plenty of remedies at home I can use to fix this instantly. Just leave me here, I'll get home fine." She grabbed at the edges of the vehicle, positioning herself for take-off. Each time she tried setting her injured foot down however, she would jolt in pain. No matter what position she tried, she simply could not get comfortable.

"Uh, Bowser? Are-a you sure you're-a okay?"

"I'm fine!" she scolded gripping the edges of the Koopa Copter. Over and over, she tried making the contraption work. Regardless of what she did however, the blasted thing would not budge.

Mario stood by watching her in her fruitless endeavor until she finally gave up. Her fists striking the outer hull repeatedly in a rage.

"Obey me you stupid pile of scrap!" she roared. Then she turned to Mario. "...I thought I told you to leave me here!"

He shook his head in disagreement. "Are you sure you can-a drive like-a this?"

In a defeated wail, Bowsette slumped down to the floor of her vehicle. "N-No!" she admitted. "I need all four fully functional limbs to fly this thing! And with a swollen ankle, I can't plant my feet firmly on the controls!"

Mario sighed. He stepped into the Koopa Copter, laying a hesitant hand on Bowsette's shoulder. They locked eyes. Softly, he said. "My offer-a still stands."

Bowsette's eyes widened. Her brows furrowed. "No!" she bellowed. "For the last time I'm not spending the night with you!" Her pupils scanned her unmoving transport. Admittedly, there would be no possible way for her to make the Koopa Copter work. Unless..."I...I can't believe I'm saying this, but...take the wheel."

Not a single word came from either of them afterwards. If she did not know any better, Mario dot exe may as well have stopped working. "Uh, hello?! Bowsette to dimwit! I said take the wheel!"

Silence. Mario slowly turned to her quizzically. "You...you're-a not-a serious, are-a you?"

Bowsette grumbled. "Look, the circumstances are dire and the last thing I want is to be a tasty snack for a bunch of hungry mosquitos! Now take me home where I can rest properly!"

"But Bowser-!"

"C'mon! It's just like playing Mario Kart!"

Of course it was. The blasted thing did not even have any pedals. Not even a steering wheel. It was literally just a big round half-sphere! Whatever means she used to drive this thing were completely unfamiliar!

"Did you down Waka-bump juice or something?!" scolded Bowsette. "Just grab the edges and plant both feet firmly on the floor!"

Hesitatingly, Mario cautiously did as instructed. His head peeked out like a Monty Mole. "Okay, now what?"

"Just think of where you wanna go. Easy as that!"

He followed her instructions to a tee. Quiet. Not even the propeller buzzed. For a brief moment, he breathed a sigh of relief. "Guess-a you're-a the only one who can-a fly this-a thing-"

The Copter suddenly roared to life, sending the two zipping out of the cave. Mario screamed as the transport darted back the way they had come lifting sand all over the place. His fingers clutched the edges for dear life. Bowsette stammered up attempting to pry him off.

"Ahh! Give me back control! You imbecile!"

Seconds later, they were back in the town square trailing a bit of flame. Bowsette screamed, kicked, tugged for Mario to let go. At such a high velocity, it would be impossible for him to do so. Weaving through markets, buildings, palm trees, every mundane object suddenly became a hazard. He was more afraid of crashing than he was of her! They rocketed into a fruit stand, immediately being pelted in the face by melons and pears. A set of banners ripped as the Koopa Copter whizzed by. The two then found themselves headed into a wall. Bowsette steered with just enough clearance to hit a pile of sewn baskets instead. One of them conveniently landed on Mario's head, obscuring his vision as she continued wrestling him for the controls. Eventually, she managed to do just that. With her injured foot however, the Copter suddenly jumped skyward into a barrel roll that left the pair hanging upside down. Both their luggage flew out in the process. They had long since parted from the main town, now dangling over the beach.

Mario screamed in fear. Bowsette yelled in a panic. With no secure pilot, the Koopa Copter immediately lost altitude. In a flailing frenzy, dropping them into the ocean. Two loud splashes signaled their hard landing. Though frightened, neither was hurt. She scowled and flailed, looking to Mario who was already swimming towards her on one side. To the other, her beloved transport had begun sinking underwater.

"My Koopa Copter!"

"Very well, Mister Mario and Miss, uh...Bowsette. The keys to your room."

The two dripped with saltwater. Mario's hat was still plenty moist despite his various attempts at squeezing it dry. His shirt and overalls still soggy with excess fluids. Even when grabbing the key from the Pianta receptionist's desk, his shoes made a persistently unpleasant squishing sound each time he took a step. Bowsette on the other hand had lost all puffiness in her dress, now dragging behind her like a heavy dampened robe. Her expression burning with a red hot fury ready to explode at any moment's notice. Injured, humiliated, and tired. When Mario finally lifted her up in a piggyback position, she refused to relent.

Bowsette protested all the way to their room. Never once did her complaints cease. If it was not about the disastrous way he ruined the Copter, it was about how his negligence led to him completely tarnishing her hair. The rudest comment was about this not being anywhere near the standards of Hotel Delfino where she hoped to stay, calling this place a four star accommodation not worthy of her royal presence. How degrading. After all, he went out of his way to meticulously recover their luggage as a means to mend his mistake. Perhaps it was karma that led to her things landing in the water while his backpack safely dangled from a tree.

It would have been so easy for Mario to just drop her in the middle of the hallway. He never did. Instead, opting to continue putting up with her rambling. Hopefully a good night's rest would calm her down. While she was not even an actual girlfriend, Bowsette was most definitely beginning to sound like one.

In the end, they arrived at their hotel room. Soggy, disheveled, and above all, exhausted. Mario's legs gave out by the time he dropped Bowsette on the couch. He collapsed on the carpet. No way he would be getting up any time soon. His breath labored. Having to carry her all the way up two flights of stairs had taken a greater toll than expected. The room itself felt like it was spinning.

Eventually, Bowsette hobbled over to a set of sliding doors, opening them up to let in the cool night air. She snorted. "Well, at least we got a scenic overlook." Afterwards, she went out of sight, dragging her wet luggage along with her.

It took some time, but Mario managed to will himself back up. He could barely even stand. In a wobbly daze, he trudged towards the washer and dryer. He promptly undressed down to his boxers, tossing the clothes he wore inside to be washed the next day. With little care, he slogged into the bedroom, eying the bed with the warmest of sights. Such atmospheric lighting with small lantern-shaped fixtures. Dim. Quiet. Just the way he liked it. A dresser on either side that might just go unused. A welcoming, intricately crafted wooden bed frame. Its mattress appearing fluffier than the softest clouds.

"Bed."

Nothing mattered now. The day was over, and now it was time for some much needed rest. His stumpy arms dragged him to an awaiting pillow, possibly the most beautiful thing he had seen all day. It glowed a heavenly glow. He could swear he even heard an angel's chorus as he approached. Without a thought, he dropped onto it. Such a plush surface. Such a warm set of sheets. It was only a matter of drifting off now.

"Whaddaya think you're doing?!"

Mario felt a foot shove him off the bed to the floor below. It was Bowsette.

"I'm the one with the swollen ankle here! Bed's mine!" she declared.

Mario bounced back up only to be met with a nearly nude Bowsette. She had stripped down to her underwear as well with nothing but a silky red bathrobe to obstruct the rest of her body. It would have been much more significant if Mario was not so darn tired.

"What?! And-a where am I gonna sleep?!" he argued groggily.

Bowsette pointed out the door to the couch he had laid her on earlier. "Isn't that great Mario? An entire luxury couch to yourself!" With that, she dropped to the bed and pulled the covers over herself. Her tail dangled out from one side. "Well, Goodnight!" She rolled to her side pretending to be asleep.

Mario was at his limit. To think this is how he was going to be repaid after all his efforts? He refused to be shunned off the bed regardless of how bad Bowsette's ankle was! His exhaustion temporarily subsided enough to pounce onto the bed.

She gasped. "Hey! Get off me you idiot!"

"I paid-a for this room! I think I should-a get-a piece of the bed!"

Despite their weary states, they still made the vaguest attempt to fight. Granted, it may have been more of a wrestle than anything. Not a single punch was thrown. Bowsette was mainly trying to throw Mario off while Mario clutched at Bowsette's arms to prevent it. In the slyest of moves, she rolled him to the bottom, pinning him down to the covers. Mario was caught completely by surprise. He stared up. Her ruby red eyes blazing with fury. Gleaming gold hair cascaded down her shoulders, teasing his large nose. She bared her teeth in an agitated scowl.

"Don't make me break you, you insignificant little imp!" she growled. Saliva pooled at her lips.

He furrowed his brows. His sky blue eyes seeing through her challenge as her hands cuffed his own. "Go ahead and-a try! It'll-a be the last-a thing you ever-a do!" he threatened.

"Is that a challenge, pint sized pipe cleaner?!" she clenched his wrists harder.

"Take it as you will!" he scolded back.

A knock at the door followed by a creaking.

"Miss Bowsette and Mister Mario?"

They stopped. It was a Pianta. One of the room service operators no doubt. "I'm not sure if you can hear me, but I heard you needed towels! I'll just uh, set them at your door." Some minor shuffling was followed with an "Alright, Goodnight!"

The door squeaked closed. All manner of tension gradually faded, leaving only a half disrobed Bowsette looming over a boxered Mario. Neither said a word. Mario's face slowly began to turn a bright red upon realizing the situation. Bowsette's face flared a similar hue.

"I-I said off!" she cried. In a fury, she pulled Mario from under her and flung him off the bed. He struck hard, landing on his back in a daze. His senses rekindling as he watched a bright red Bowsette scurry under the covers. "Now Goodnight!" She huffed.

Mario rubbed his head. Momentarily stupefied, but fortunately unhurt. It was almost too predictable. Under what circumstances would the great Koopa King relent, regardless of how much his appearance changed? After some time, Mario hopped up and mosied over to the couch. Without so much as a huff, he slowly closed the door behind him.

Bowsette was left alone. She shuffled under the covers trying to get cozy. Whatever that was, it sent the strangest sensation surging through her body, if only for a split second. The nerve of that little plumber tackling her in such a manner! She should have burnt him to a crisp right then and there! Why...did she find herself hesitating in the first place? Was it out of respect for the deal they agreed to? They were still on a mission together after all. Yeah. That was it. Out of respect. An awkward respect. For whatever the reason, her cheeks remained red the rest of the night. In her weakened state, she had even forgotten to remove the bobby pins keeping the Super Crown on her head.