Chapter 4: Boiling Over

Sunlight poured in through a crack in the curtains, illuminating the hulking behemoth sleeping peacefully in bed. A snot bubble complimented the small puddle of drool under his snout as his large body rose and fell with every gentle breath. The beam of light would eventually climb to a waiting eyelid. In a groggy groan, Bowser slowly shifted across the messy covers, making little effort to get out of bed. Miserable sun just had to show its face right when the bed was most comfortable. Gradually, his eyes creaked open. Before he could order a minion to close the blinds, he realized this place looked nothing like the quarters of his castle. Of course. The events of the previous night came back to him. So did a light throbbing at his foot.

Bowser mustered the strength to fully wake from his slumber. His feet touched the carpet. The pain from the previous night was still present, but not overbearing. At least now he felt confident enough to start walking. Inching his way off the bed, he slowly made his way to the window, opening the blinds. It was another bright, sunny day on Isle Delfino. Seagulls cawed in the distance. Waves splashed on the shoreline. A random Noki villager screamed at the top of her lungs. Everything was all so peaceful. He scratched his head, momentarily wondering what made the tiny shell dweller run off in a panic.

Something was amiss. The Super Crown was gone. Immediately, he began to panic, ripping the covers off the bed. He was sure he had not removed the thing last night! He even went so far as to lift the bed from its designated spot. Empty.

Clink, clink!

Just when he thought it lost, there bounced his most prized possession out of the sheet pile he had just made. Bowser dove for it and quickly began inspecting it. No scuffs. No damage. He released a sigh of relief, carefully placing it back on his head.

Poof!

Much better. Of all things he never thought about in this form. With the loudest of yawns, Bowsette shuffled to the bathroom. Her long nails scratched at her back, then her belly, and finally her exposed bosom. That stupid bra had been so troubling to sleep in, she decided to yank it off in the end. Making matters worse, she had awoken itchier than ever. Were it not for the fact that she was currently Bowsette and not Bowser, she would have guessed her scales were shedding. Maybe she had gotten eaten alive by mosquitoes after all. Had Mario forgotten to close the sliding doors for her when he dozed off? She would beat the tar out of him for this. Hopefully later while no one was looking. Perhaps it was the salt water she had neglected to wash off last night that was making her itch so much. Eh, she would still beat Mario senseless. First things first, it was time for a long, warm hose down.

Tossing her underwear aside, she gingerly stepped into a snazzy walk-in shower. Her bare feet gripped the tiles while her fingers fumbled with the shower handles, cranking the hot water to its maximum.

"Ahhh." A perfect boiling temperature. She let out a long, satisfied sigh while her eyes rolled up slightly. Her skin broke into goosebumps. It almost reminded her of the seething hot saunas back home in contrast to the icy ocean water. Something she missed already. How strange. While she longed to be her normal, burly self, this form definitely had its pleasantries about it. Her skin, despite not bearing the steel grade scales of a Koopa, still felt arguably as durable, yet smooth as Egyptian cotton by default. Every inch of her with the exception of her back and tail carried this strange, euphoric sensation that made her tingle wherever her soapy fingers stroked. Touch. Pure, soft, unhindered touch. And it was indescribable. She had gotten so used to her coarse plating that now, without distractions, she could really feel what this body was like. Plush like a pillow, delicate as a butterfly, yet still packing enough force to crush coal into diamonds.

The water shut off. Her toes inched out of the steamy shower. A towel draped across her body. She prepared a toothbrush which she swore was much smaller in her normal state. Upon closing the medicine cabinet, she caught a glimpse of her foggy reflection. Soft, rosy cheeks. Bright red eyes with slit pupils. A perfectly curved, pointy nose. Despite so much practice, it was still hard to believe this appearance was all too real. Her cherry blonde locks drooped over her forehead.

"Huh?"

The figure staring back was unmistakably her, but something had drastically changed. What was originally bright, golden locks seemed to have more of a reddish glow. It was still blonde hair, but slightly darker now with thick wisps dangling down either side of her face. Even her thick eyebrows had been subject to the same color change. She did a complete one-eighty. Her shell was still intact with every spike accounted for. Everything else had remained the same.

Strange, but nothing she was immediately concerned about. Perhaps she needed to readjust the Super Crown? Out of curiosity, she pulled it from her head.

Poof!

Bowser stared at himself curiously. Everything remained unchanged. He lowered the crown back to his head.

Poof!

Bowsette still had reddish blonde hair. She plucked off the crown.

Poof!

Bowser frowned.

Poof!

Bowsette moaned.

Poof! Poof! Poof!

She repeated the process until the small space was thick with pink dust. She clumsily stumbled out of the bathroom, still disrobed with a toothbrush sticking out her mouth. Whatever. Maybe the thing was trying to adjust to her normal hair color. Bowsette had heard of powerups losing their potency over extended use, like the cloud flower that would lose its ability to create clouds, but leave its user with an altered appearance. Whatever the case, it was not important. What mattered now is that she got to that breakfast her stomach was demanding. She may not be a massive Koopa anymore, but she still had an unquenchable appetite. Dear Mario figured that out last night with all the treats he bought her. Pity they never quite got to the main course after having to escape Peach.

After failing to find her luggage, she was struck with the realization that she would be out of attire. Of course all her clothes would be caked in sea salt. Everything she packed was ruined after their disastrous drive by! Her only saving grace would be the clothing she stored in her item block. Completely dry, thank goodness. She hastily threw on the black shirt and designer pants, although it was a bit of a struggle getting her tail properly adjusted. Afterwards, she tossed on the leather jacket along with her ruby choker and shoes.

After some time, Bowsette stepped out of her room. It was deathly quiet other than the hum of the fridge running somewhere nearby.

"Botticelli?" she called. No response. "Hey, Linguini weenie?" Still nothing. Bowsette had ended up in the kitchen. On the fridge face was a note.

"Ice pack in freezer, ankle...a?" she read aloud. Sure enough, a single ice pack lay inside the fridge. On the counter next to it a small roll of medical tape with the price tag still on.

Unbelievable. To think after all she had done to make him hate her, he somehow still had the slightest sliver of kindness in his Ragu clogged heart... Bah, who was she kidding? She was just happy having the ice pack.

Afterwards, she packed the rest of her things and prepared to leave the hotel room. Wherever Mario had run off to, she knew she would eventually find him. He would not be heartless enough to leave her stranded. Unless he decided to abort their little plan? Well, who needed him anyway? More reason to pay him a beating! Oh the possibilities. Such endless methods to get back at him. She could set his rear on fire and have him run around in circles. That always got a laugh out of her. Granted, she endured with him long enough. Maybe it was time she did a bit of exploration of her own. After all, the last time she was here, she was confined to a volcano hidden away from civilization. Locking the door behind her, she set out for the day. This time breaking in her new flats to avoid hurting her ankles further.

The elevator door dinged, opening to the first floor. Miserable hotel staff claimed it only operated during the day to not disturb sleeping patrons. Bowsette could only guess that was the receptionist's way of saying 'don't be lazy and use the stairs'. Regardless, she hobbled to said receptionist's desk and handed over her hotel key. The woman happily took her keys only for Bowsette to stick her tongue out at her when her head was turned. She then made her way over to the main entrance where a lone Pianta entered the lobby. When he noticed her, he promptly went to open the door.

"Oh please, allow me!" he said with a cheery grin.

"Huh?" Bowsette inquired staring at him perplexed. "Oh...uh, thanks."

He tipped his tacky tourist hat. "My pleasure, darling!"

She smiled wearily. What a weirdo. The warm summer heat hit Bowsette like a tidal wave. Her skin absorbing it like a solar panel. Some may have thought such weather would be too hot, but in the wake of the freezing air conditioned hotel, it legitimately felt like heaven. The goosebumps returned. Even her tail quivered. Her slit pupils scanned the perimeter. No sign of Mario. Oh well. Off she walked to make her own destiny.

What a lovely day it was. The sun shone brightly over the cloudless sky above. Birds were chirping atop palm trees. Pianta denizens were once more going about their daily lives. Some had run into the hotel she had just come out of. All of them wearing police uniforms. Odd, but promptly unimportant in the literal heat of the moment. Her nostrils filled with the pleasant morning breeze. Salty, yet sweet. Despite how wrong the night had ended yesterday, today was an all new beginning. No meatball to throw off her groove for the time being. No having to drag along a deadweight. Sure, she would not have her mobile ATM, but oh well. Bowsette strode down the stone streets without a care in the world. For the first time in ages, the thought of having to tend to kingly duties did not once cross her mind. She had all but forgotten what a vacation felt like. It was freedom. It was joy. It was breaking free.

She waltzed over to a fruit stand where she looked upon an assortment of delicious rewards. Eventually, she settled on a cup filled with mixed fruit, handing a small sum to the vendor.

"Here ya go, darlin'!" he smiled.

"Oh, thank you!" she tittered back.

"Pleasure's all mine, gorgeous." he replied.

She continued on, passing Pianta after Noki after more Piantas. All of them going about their own chatter and every so often tipping their hat or saying hello. Idle conversations of people going by. Friends greeting each other. Even a few played music alongside a small jar. Without a second thought, Bowsette found herself chucking a coin into their container, much to the joy of the musicians.

"Thank you so much, pretty princess!" one of them called after her.

"Not a princess, but thanks!" she hollered back.

Wow, even the people were friendly as ever. And giving her compliments this morning no less! Maybe it was the undisturbed slumber she had last night. One unlike anything she had had since undertaking the Kingdom. Then again, this was an island paradise. Or...could it be her appearance? Unlikely. People called her pretty even when she was a massive fire breathing terror. Or at least, mentioned his majesty...What did it matter? Her heart was soaring through cloud nine. Nothing could possibly make this moment horrible!

Bowsette continued down the busy streets, humming a little tune to herself. All the while, working her strut. She had made quick work of the fruit cup and made the vaguest attempt at throwing it in the trash. She missed, but kept going. After all, that was just the appetizer. She could only imagine what amazing entrees they served around Delfino Square!

"Excuse me?" someone vocalized. "I believe this is yours?"

"Keep it! My treat!" Bowsette retorted without turning around.

A clacking of shoes seemed to shadow her steps. "I'll have you know, littering is against the law."

She paused. Her euphoria screeching to a halt. Begrudgingly, she began turning around. "Yeah, yeah. What are you gonna do? Call the cops on me-?"

An all too familiar face poked out of a hood. A set of burning blue irises stared up at her under luscious golden locks.

"Hello...Bowsette."

"Here you go ladies. One omega omelet and one filet mignon. Will this be together or separate?"

"Together! My dear friend here volunteered to pay for our meal!"

"Very well!" the waitress said with a smile. "Just holler if you need anything!"

Peach nodded happily to the departing server, adjusting a napkin over her elegant traveling attire, much like she had worn the first time on the isle. She stared across the table. Bowsette fumed at her seat. Still, she bit her tongue as the server parted. Of all the tables this woman had chosen, it was the one away from any prying eyes. "And here I was thinking you were above playing dirty."

The Princess smirked. "I may not have been able to expose you in the Mushroom Kingdom, but I can most certainly do it here. Now, I thought you said you were still hungry."

An unexpected growl came from Bowsette's direction. The large omelet mocked her ever so. Before she knew it, she was happily chowing down, staring at her rival with the coldest of glares. "For va record, dif if noffing lie how I pictured for our firff dae to go." she muffled through her chews.

"Very funny." replied Peach. Her delicate hands slowly cutting small bits from her meal.

She swallowed hard. Her eyes unyielding. Something about Peach also looked a tad off. Mostly the fact that her hair was not as perfectly done as usual and worse still, she had a bag or two under her eyes. Bowsette knew they were putting strain on her feelings, but she never once figured it would be to such extent. A clawed finger tapped the lacy table. "Listen Toadstool, if you're waiting to be kidnapped, prepare to be disappointed. I ain't in the mood."

The Princess huffed. "Oh, I'm not planning on being kidnapped any time soon, Bowser. I just thought I'd invite an old buddy of mine to breakfast."

Bowsette smiled fiendishly. She kicked back in her chair, raising her foot on the table. "How do you like my new shoes, Peachy? Mario bought 'em for me." The princess frowned, but remained silent attempting to ignore such an obvious flaunt of her ego. With no response, Bowsette kept talking. "Lemme guess. You couldn't find that giddy goofy plumber and settled for me instead, right?" Another shovelful went in her mouth.

Peach squinted her eyes. "No Bowser. I've been looking for you from the very start."

She arched a brow in surprise. Her chipmunk cheeks still full of food. "Err...me?" she asked as small crumbs leaped out the sides of her mouth.

"Yes you!" scolded Peach. "And please don't talk with your mouth full. It's disgusting!"

"Whahever." she muffled. A large bulge sliding down her throat. Her leg came off the table, restoring her proper position. "By the way, what do you people have an additional finger for? You really only need three." She flailed her pinky.

Peach rolled her eyes, sipping at her tea. Her pinky finger outstretched. "Ahem…as I was saying. I don't know what this whole thing with that Super Crown is, but I insist that you cease and desist this instant. That powerup isn't compatible with Koopas. I take it you've started realizing that now, correct?"

Bowsette eyed her peculiarly. A reddish strand dangled over her nose.

"And don't even get me started on that tacky horn and tail combo!"

"Okay, so maybe some things are off." cut in Bowsette. "So what? Not like it's gonna stop working out of the blue."

"Maybe enough for your hair to turn red." Peach replied. "But what I don't understand is why you of all people are trying to fool others into believing you're a woman. By the great Power Star, you're nowhere near ladylike! Not even in that form!"

"Mario thinks I'm ladylike." contradicted Bowsette. A pinky digging at her nostril. She plucked out a small lint ball. Likely a result of her sleeping as Bowser. Without much thought, her fingers chucked it off into some poor soul's food unknowingly. "Speaking of which, what's the deal? I thought you would've snatched him up by now."

Peach averted her eyes from her companion's repulsive displays. She clutched her fork in her fingers. Her eyes shut, forcing her emotions down inside. "I'm only going to tell you this once: dispose of that crown and release him from whatever spell you've cast."

There was a pause. Bowsette stared at the princess incredulously. "Wait...Do you seriously think I put Mario under some sort of spell to make him like me?"

She met her eyes. Their blue irises burning with their window's incoming light. "Don't play dumb Bowser. Either he doesn't know who you are, or you put him under a magic spell. Why else would he go around wasting money on the likes of you?"

Bowsette shrugged. A sarcastic smirk upon her lips. "Not my fault he's so dang generous." she chuckled, leaning in closer. Her hands clutched the edges of the table. "And just between us girls, he's fully aware of who I am."

Peach followed suit. "Then I suggest you release him from your hex. Or else."

"What?" leered Bowsette. "You're gonna save him from my evil spell? Please, you can't even lose a soccer match without crying like a brat! You're no plumber! You need an umbrella to get anything done!"

The Princess rubbed the bridge of her nose. Her emotions struggling to contain themselves. "Look, I don't want you pushing the envelope as it is. Not with the recent rumors of invaders in surrounding kingdoms." she scolded.

Bowsette slowly slumped back in her chair. A pout of annoyance on her face. "Rumors? Aren't you above that, Princess?"

A long sigh escaped Peach's nostrils. Sure, they were off in an empty corner of the restaurant, but she could not help but look around to ensure no one was listening in to their little discussion. Her chair screeched closer, lifting a menu to her and Bowsette's faces. Peach whispered. "Rumors about someone trying to infiltrate royal lines in the absence of a leader! That's why I'm cutting this trip short as of tonight! And this thing, whatever you and Mario are doing, has only rocked my boat further!"

Bowsette arched a brow. Her mind slightly diverted by the scent of Peach's intoxicating perfume. "Oh Peachy, who else but me would want your kingdom?" she spoke semi-dreamy eyed.

She rolled her eyes. "You big oaf, your last siege had the most devastating blow to date! Don't you ever stop to think of the clean-up I have to go through?"

"Mm, clean up?" she muttered. "Wait, is that why you look like you ran through a field of Piranha Plants? Ha! Here I thought it was me flirting with Mario that had you all jumpy!"

Peach facepalmed. Her hand slid slowly off her face, locking eyes with the she-Koopa. "How does this not affect you?! You're a king too, you Neanderthal!"

"Pffft." Bowsette blew a raspberry, backing out from behind the menu. "What idiot would be stupid enough to try overshadowing the might of the Koopa Kingdom?" Her fist slammed on her fork, strategically sending the last bite of her omelet into the air and down her waiting mouth. "No one, dash who!" she continued speaking between chews. "I'd rather...be here sh-pending time...wiff my new boyfriend than worrying about shome shtupid rumor!" She swallowed, letting out a small burp. A towel softly wiped her lips before turning her attention back at Peach. "It's so much more fun than acting a scared little puppy, but I guess you must feel pretty defenseless without your precious plumber, right? But hey, at least there's always Luigi!"

Peach's face went red with fury. Her composure cracking ever so slightly. "Why the sudden interest in how I feel? Since when do you care about anyone feels?" She lay the menu back down. "You never care about anyone but yourself! Face it bub! You're no princess! You're a bully and a liar! Now release poor Mario from your evil spell!"

"Oh, you want him? Come rescue him!" Bowsette grinned excitedly.

Peach finally snapped. Her fists balled. Had it not been for her royal nature, one would have assumed she would have already thrown a punch. "I don't have time for these childish games Bowser! Bowsette! W-Whatever you are! You might not care about my kingdom's economic well being, but I do! Why do you think I've kept avoiding this...this...whatever it is between you and Mario?! I've not had a break, even while on this trip! All it's been is working 'round the clock to fix my kingdom's crisis and keeping my people safe from invaders!"

Bowsette pouted glumly. "What about Mario?"

"What about him?!"

The two abruptly stopped. Silence bore down on them both like a Thwomp. Bowsette was stunned. Even Peach had a hard time believing such a phrase came out her own lips.

The Koopa Queen slowly let out a breath. A hand stroking her horn in disbelief. "So, that's it, eh?"

"W-Wait, no, that's not what I meant, I-!"

"Harsh, Peachy. Real harsh." Bowsette slowly rose to her feet. Her height reaching just above the Princess'. "He's come through for ya time and time again, and that's really how you're gonna treat him?" she said wagging a finger. "Tisk tisk, no wonder the dumb dwarf came to me in his hour of need. He must've truly been desperate for affection."

"N-No! It's not that way at all-!"

"Isn't it though?" pressured Bowsette. "You never did reciprocate his feelings. Poor guy's been chasing a lost cause this whole time. Someone should really break it to him-"

"No!" cried Peach. Her hand already around Bowsette's arm. Her pleading eyes staring into her fiery pupils. "D-Don't tell him, please!"

A disheartened Bowsette shook her head. "Princess, Princess, Princess...I'm not gonna tell him. But, if that's how you feel, maybe I should just keep Mario to myself."

Peach clenched her fists. She scowled through her despair. "You release him from your spell this instant, you horrid monster!"

Bowsette towered over her smaller foe. Her glowing red eyes stared intently at her. "I already told you. Come rescue him."

The Princess was floored. The pieces of her composure struggled to reform. "You know darn well I can't abandon my kingdom. Especially in these grave times." she huffed.

"It's your precious kingdom or his heart." she uttered turning away. "But I guess we as figureheads both know which is more important." She cocked her head over her shoulder. "Don't worry. It's not all bad, Peachy. Take comfort knowing I feel bad for the little munchkin. And always know...I'll treat him well."

With that, a smug Bowsette sashayed out of the restaurant, leaving Peach to contemplate the challenge she had just been set. Her anger slowly turning to sorrow. It took the longest of minutes trying to wrangle her emotions back to that perfect princess-like state. She stared at her unfinished breakfast. Surprisingly, there was a large sum of coins left on the table. That hulking demon astonishingly kept true to his...or her word.

Hours later, Bowsette still found herself pacing the streets of Isle Delfino. Late afternoon. For all intents and purposes, she should have made at least a full lap around the entirety of the island. She had not even noticed her ice pack from before had long since fallen off. Both hands intertwined behind her back, thinking over and over about the previous conversation with Peach. Everything was supposed to fall into place so perfectly, and yet, it seemed Bowsette had put herself in hot lava via her own arrogance with the Odyssey events. She bit her lip anxiously as she walked. Maybe had she not forced her feelings on Peach, she would have no reason to be acting this finicky. Perhaps if she had no longer kidnapped her, none of this would have happened and she would still be with Mario...

No. That could not be it. Her plan was perfect. It was all dumb Peach's fault for deciding to have such a weak kingdom that she constantly had to oversee. If her forces were stronger, maybe she would more easily be able to chase tail after Mario! This entire plan was falling through all because of her stupidity! And yet, she still needed to address the biggest dilemma; what the heck was she going to tell Mario? That Peach is too busy to be meddling in such affairs? In a horror, she clutched the sides of her face. It felt so much simpler breaking him like that, but what would be the repercussions? Would he lose his fighting spirit? What if he gave the reins to someone like Luigi? Lu-i-gi?! What kind of star-awful spin-off would that be?!

"Bowser?"

"Guahh!"

Bowsette yelped into fight mode. Her claws bared. Her mouth sparking. Her intruder made no effort to dodge, as if expecting such a reaction.

"It's-a me."

"Mario?" she asked. The fireball in her mouth promptly extinguishing. "Don't sneak up on me like that, you boob! And...How'd you know where to find me?"

Mario nodded disapprovingly, tossing something over his shoulder. To her surprise, he still retained the "No. 1 Boyfriend" button pinned to his hat. "All I had-a to do was ask around for-a pretty Koopa lady. You're-a not-a that hard to find."

His words made her freeze in place. Had she seriously just heard those words correctly? "Pretty...Koopa...lady?"

He shrugged. Again, showing little emotion. His eyes faintly looked her over. He then presented what he had been carrying. Neatly wrapped in a plastic coverage was her dress, held before her as if being the world's finest sword. "Here. This is for you." he stated. "I did not want it-a to get-a ruined in-a the hotel's-a washing machine."

Bowsette gasped slightly, slowly taking her dress back. It's dark face shimmered with the orange sky above. Silver linings sparkled with even the sparsest of light. Even its cuffs looked like they had been waxed and shined so bright. Tattered holes where absent now, apparently resewn with a most tender hand. Though difficult to believe, it looked even more beautiful than the first time she transformed. Whoever Mario had taken it to must have had truly loving fingers to pull off such impressive craftsmanship. Bowsette was speechless.

"I-I...This is...nice." She uttered softly.

After not getting a reply, she lifted her gaze to find Mario idly walking away. She ran after him.

"Hey hey, where do you think you're going?" She asked.

He refused to meet her sight, lightly brushing against her jacket. "To find-a Peach. The deal's off, Bowser."

Bowsette stared incredulously. "I'm sorry, did my ears deceive me?"

He still did not stop walking. "It's-a done. I'm-a go talk to her."

Flabbergasted at what she was hearing, she immediately ran to cut him off. "Are you crazy?! You can't do that!"

"Why not?" Mario glared behind his hat.

"Because!" Bowsette paused momentarily to think of an excuse. "Because-because…she's supposed to come to you! When she's ready! Plus, we overwhelmed her, remember? What happened to 'giving her space'?" she quoted with her fingers.

Mario pressed on, never once slowing his pace. His eyes hid under the brim of his cap.

"Oh, you're not still mad about me pushing you off the bed, are ya?" she prodded. "C'mon, don't be that way! I was hurt last night, remember? Cut me some slack, Barrel-bellied Bucko! Old chum? Friend-o?" She made a grab for his shoulder. A piercing sound of her hand being slapped away cut through the air like a bullet.

"Don't-a you 'friend-o' me Bowser! I've had enough of your games!" lashed Mario.

Bowsette took a step back. That fire in his eyes had returned.

He continued. "I'm-a do things my way! We've-a done it yours long-enough!"

"Hey, hey, don't be stupid bonehead." retorted Bowsette. "We both know she's busy with her own little shindig to pay you any mind! That's why we're trying to make you top priority in the first place!"

"No! You've-a stalled me long enough!" he rebutted. His face straining to get up in hers. "And-a you're-a not-a getting in-a my way any longer!"

She raised her arms defensively. "Woah, tone it down, shrimp! We're a team, remember?"

Mario gritted his teeth in an unforgiving scowl. "Only the-team-a when it's-a convenient for you! I'm-a sick of it! I'm-a sick of being your-a dog, you big bossy jerk!"

Oh, how this little bug tended to dig under her skin! Her cheeks soon bore a red tinge of aggravation. "Oho, a little flustered there, you tortellini-gnawing twit? Why don't you take it up with someone who cares? You're beneath me! Get used to it!"

"I've been doing-a everything to keep-a this idea-afloat! Ever since we started this, I stayed-a hopeful!" insisted Mario. "Hopeful that maybe this could-a work out, but all you've-a done is-a treat-a me like I'm-a dirt!"

All the commotion was causing a scene. Neither of them had noticed the murmuring crowd of people gathering to watch their little exchange.

"Then why keep going?" huffed Bowsette. "Why'd you continue putting up with my antics if that's how you feel?!"

"Because I believed in you!" he cried.

There was a long pause.

"Y-You...what?"

He shoved a finger in her face. "I thought-a maybe you were truly doing-a this for us three! For-a you, me and Peach! But I see now you only do it-a for your own-a sadistic pleasure! You never cared about us! You don't-a care about anyone but yourself!"

She growled. "I'm evil you Pretentious Pastafarian! You dare think I would change because of a couple of meaningless gifts?! In fact!" In a rage, she tossed the bagged dress onto the stone street. Her black shoes stomped repeatedly on its face.

Mario gasped. His patience shattered. His eyes began to water. He could only stare as Bowsette stepped all over the dress. After a moment, he shakily spoke up. "F-fine! Maybe we should just-a forget-a this whole idea!"

"You're seriously tossing my generosity into the trash?!" she scowled.

"You would-a know a lot about-a that since it's all you know how to do!"

"Oh! So that's how it's gonna be?! Fine! Then we can just stay stranded on this stupid island for all I care!"

"Fine!"

"Fine!"

Not a second later, Mario stormed off in a huff. His fists sparking with flames as he clutched them tightly. Bowsette was left to her own devices. Her claws extended. Flames crackling between her teeth. She expected him to come barreling her way in a flurry of kicks and punches. Surely he would rush her with his million degree might!

Yet Mario did no such thing, soon disappearing down the distant street. At long last, she registered the clamoring crowd around her. They all stared, whispering amongst themselves. Pianta and Noki alike. One of them silently piped up. "Lover's quarrel."

"Didn't think pretty on the outside meant ugly on the inside." Bowsette overheard another.

She roared at the top of her lungs. "Go away!"

Some quickly bolted from the scene tripping over each other. Others recoiled in fear. Those who stayed gave her the most displeased stares. They surrounded her from every angle. These were unphased by her threats. Everywhere she looked was one cold stare after another. Despite her efforts, she could not cling to her boiling anger for much longer. Something about being the center of attention suddenly made her feel weak. Like a child being stared down by a parent. Accused. Guilty. Vulnerable.

In time, they all did as told, leaving Bowsette to her own devices. Her hair drooped messily over her face. Her crown skewed. Her jacket drooping at the shoulders. Alone again. In the middle of an empty unfamiliar square. The setting sun casting thin shadows upon Delfino's streets. What once was a bustling tourist spot suddenly felt like a barren wasteland devoid of life. And she was the cause of it. She was always the cause of it. Just like she always was. Just like she liked it.

But...why did something feel empty? Was it because she did not have her precious castle to crawl back into? She was so far from home. After making the mess, it was customary for her to escape to her quarters for a day or two of sulking. Yet, nothing of the sorts was around. Not for miles and miles of ocean. All Bowsette had was the setting sun to bring her some warmth and comfort. Even that would soon fade too. Its amber heat just barely scorching the top half of her face. Her glistening eyes no longer burned with anger. Frustrated from not having a proper place to hide, yet unwillingly soft. If only Mario had not tarnished her Koopa Copter, she would not be in this predicament. Forced to feel a most detestable sensation. Sure, the denizens' eyes were long gone, but she still felt them surrounding her. From buildings to rooftops. Her arms wrapped themselves around her torso. Even now, she still felt them coldly staring her down. She had not even moved from her spot because of it. No use summoning that raging inferno within to extinguish the icy sting of their stares. No barrier to be seen, yet she felt stuck.

Her eyes slowly drifted downwards to the tattered dress, inching down to inspect it. Despite her efforts to ruin it completely, the plastic covering had performed its duty well. Not only had it not ripped, but her dress had remained largely unscathed it seemed. Everything was still perfectly preserved excluding a few folds and indentations. A weary hand lifted its hanger. An irate Bowsette moaned.

Loud screams erupted from a rollercoaster roaring nearby. Elsewhere, a machine pinged after someone struck their target. Blinding lights pulsed on the side of a massive Ferris Wheel. Their glow polluting the stars of the night sky. Friendly chatter and happy faces paced from one side to the other. Every other corner of silence was filled in with cheery music emanating from loudspeakers. Another lovely night at Delfino pier. With its recent opening of all new themed rides, there would not be a single sad face to be seen anywhere. Such was not the case for Mario however, who had been staring out into the ocean for hours now. His gaze witlessly focused somewhere in the horizon. In one hand a bottle of Koopa-Kola. In the other, the "No.1 Boyfriend" button he had been given.

It was a struggle trying to persuade a throw. Such an act would surely suffice to convince him this whole ordeal was over. That would cement a reason to confront Peach about his feelings. Still, he continued fumbling the button in his fingers. It was hopeless. As hopeless as it had been trying to co-op with Bowser. Sure, he passed these ideas previously in his mind throughout most of the day, but now he had all the more of a reason to call it quits. He gave her so many opportunities, each meeting the bitter wall of reality. He really had gone on a wild goose chase having his greatest enemy help with a problem he may have been able to solve on his own. It was destined to fail. He set down the bottle of soda, recoiling his arm back as far as possible. Nothing. Why could he not fire? His body continuously tensed every time he tried to release the catapult. Mario relaxed his body and groaned. His blue irises staring helplessly at the button. What was going on? His eyes ran across the trinket with such intensity that he did not even register the tapping of shoes approaching his location.

"Hey." a familiar voice called.

Mario spun around. Bowsette stood just a few feet away clutching her arms tightly. Gone was the leather jacket, shirt and pants combo, replaced with the same dress he believed defaced. It sparkled in the lights of the pier, glistening like some sort of gothic Christmas tree. So much so that she almost seemed give off an angelic glow from tail to horns. A breathtaking sight for sure. One Mario currently had no interest in witnessing. He shifted back around, doing his best to give the cold shoulder.

It seriously would have been so much easier to turn back the way she had come, yet she could not bring herself to do so. Be it guilt or some other non-observable force nailed her in place. Bowsette steadily inched to a distraught Mario. Her thin fingers clutching the railing. His eyes staring at the ocean waves beneath. Hers staring the opposite direction. Neither said a word. The obnoxiously loud roar of the coaster did little to ease the tension. Bowsette did her best forming some sort of cut to breach the blanket of silence. Mario however beat her to the punch. "You shouldn't-a be here."

Bowsette's nail tapped the metal railing. Her teeth nibbling at her lip. "Too bad. I'm here anyways." she said sternly.

Another silent pause. She exhaled. Her grip on the metal bar tightening. "You talk to Peach?"

Mario remained quiet for the longest of moments. He may as well have turned into a Tanooki statue at this point.

Bowsette tried hard to relax. Her teeth still biting her lips. "Look, it's fine if you don't wanna talk. But at least tell me off or something."

A gruff sigh came from Mario's direction. "Why are-a you here?" he said at last. His vision still transfixed on the water.

That same question had been gnawing at Bowsette's mind. She did come here on her own free will, but an answer refused to escape her mouth. "I...It's those stupid villagers." she muttered leaning her arms over the railing. "I swore they were stalking me at every corner."

Mario dug his head into his arms still refusing to face her. She continued prodding at him. "Listen, you didn't think I was gonna be any different all because of some magical crown, did ya?"

He tapped his shoulder, ever so slightly raising his head. "I'm-a just...disappointed." he said, glumly averting his eyes to the distance. "I thought maybe there was more to you than just King Koopa."

Bowsette rolled her eyes. A brow arched. "Look, I think I'm starting to get your deal. You're a nice guy, but you don't gain squat going around being nice to everyone."

Mario turned slightly. "Do you want-a me to be mean to you then?"

She huffed. A pair of smoke puffs escaped her nostrils. "No." she whispered. "Look...I'm not gonna lie, I kind of like being pampered by you of all people. If you ain't careful though, one of these days that little nice guy attitude is gonna nip your tail." Her chin rested on her palm. "Look at me, feeling bad for an imp."

He shuffled in place. "If-a you're-a so mean, why'd you come to tell-a me this?"

She pulled back on the railing. "Just so you ain't too heartbroken about me or Peach I guess. It's not as fun breaking you emotionally as it is breaking you physically."

"Bowser?" he asked softly. "Do you...trust-a me?"

Bowsette blinked in surprise. The question left her unsure of what to say. Having dragged on in silence too long however forced her to say something. Anything.

"I...I...I'm trying to."

The pier's games pinged behind them, followed by a Pianta's hearty laughter. Mario did nothing to acknowledge her answer. Nerve-racking as it was, she kept trying her luck.

"It's not you, tubby...it's just...people in general I don't trust."

His eyes turned in her direction, though did not meet her directly.

"I'm still here because I've become numb to outsiders." she continued. "They'll leave you hurt. Heartbroken. Milk you dry for their own gain. Why do you think I played the part making you buy all that useless junk? Though I'll admit, I may have gone overboard with the lady act." She stuck out her tongue. "I'm still losing my lunch at the thought of that faux kiss."

His cheeks turned a light red as a finger scratched his cheek. "W-Why did you-?"

"Heat of the moment. Nothing else." blurted Bowsette. Her cheeks too flushed.

Mario knelt down to take a sip of his soda. His mustache catching some fizz. The bottle went in his pocket to be recycled later. At long last, he met her eyes. The roller coaster sped by again, making Bowsette's cherry blonde locks fly up subtly. A sigh. "I guess I thought-a things would-a be different with that-a crown. Maybe I expected too much-a from you."

She turned to face him. "Well, I ain't no sexy lizard maiden, that's for sure." A finger lightly tapped the railing. "Listen, I already talked to Peach. She's starting to budge, but's apparently too busy being paranoid about some nutcase going around trying to seize kingdoms."

Mario quickly perked up. "What? Is it-a serious?"

"Eh, doubt it." she replied. "If you ask me, she's just scared because she doesn't have her little plumber at her side anymore." Her hands clutched his shoulders. Both stared eye to eye. "All the more reason to try harder, right?"

He looked up at the tower of a woman. A weary half smile crossed his lips. "Yeah...harder."

Bowsette's ears drooped sadly. "Hey...If there was a chance we could not get her back with you, you'd still come to her rescue, right?"

He nodded. Of course he would. Never could he leave anyone in a state of need.

"Then...we still on?" she asked.

Mario shook his head, wiggling out of her grasp. "Bowser."

"C'mon! We're so close!" she persisted.

He gently tugged at her arm. His eyes locked onto hers. It was clear how badly she wanted this to work. Admittedly, Mario too had begun getting impatient. He heard it in his own outburst. This whole thing had drained them both, but holding his breath, he stuck out a hand. "Retry?"

Bowsette stared at the gloved hand. She wanted to tell him the rest. She really did. Ironically she genuinely felt bad for having Mario chase what could be a hopeless endeavor. Yet even if there was the slightest possibility of Peach coming back after her paranoia settled, maybe there would still be a way for this to all come together. She reached for the gloved hand, tightly squeezing it in her own.

"Retry." she muttered not expecting much of a response. After shaking hands however, she noticed a warm smile crossing Mario's lips. It was not smug at all, but fully genuine, as if he really was delighted to have her stay. His outstretched arm lightly tugged hers.

"C'mon. There's-a something I wanna show you."

With that, he led her away from the ocean view into the crowd of people. Never once did he let go of her hand.

It was getting to that point where everything was beginning to close for the night. Shop lights were turning off from one corner to the other. If it was a late night dinner date Mario had in mind, it would most certainly not be happening tonight. But not restaurant nor store did they pass that caught his attention. Instead, he led her on down the streets until they arrived at some sort of mom and pop vehicle repair shop. A lone Pianta was at the front gate busily locking up.

"Yoo-hoo! Lorenzo?" Mario called.

The Pianta looked over his shoulder. His arms spread out. "Mahaha, Mario!" he cried. "You're just in time! I almost closed everything for the night!"

Mario happily shook the pink denizen's hand. "If it's-a too late, I can-a come back tomorrow."

"Oh, heavens no!" cried the Pianta. He waddled over to one of the unlocked gates, prying it open with his large arms. The hinges groaned in protest. "I worked too hard on the darn thing for you not to get it out of my shop!"

Bowsette cocked a bushy eyebrow. "What's this about?"

"You'll-a see." insisted Mario as he followed the Pianta inside.

The three passed one contraption after the other. Unfinished boat here. Deconstructed car there. Bowsette had to maneuver very carefully simply so her dress would not brush against the dirty debris. Eventually, they arrived at a large tarp which the Pianta promptly wisped off. Instantly, Bowsette's eyes lit up like fireworks.

"My Koopa Copter!" She did not care whether or not she knocked anyone over. Her arms immediately grabbed the hull of the vehicle. It looked like new! A fresh coat of paint, a new propeller, even the devilish grin had been carefully repainted. Were she not keeping things professional, Bowsette may have started bawling right there in front of them.

"Ta-da!" the Pianta waved his hands.

"B-But...how?!"

Mario scratched the back of his head nervously. "It-a wasn't easy. After getting up early morning to fish it out, I had-a to find someone who could-a fix it. I spent-a most of the day checking on its-a progress."

Bowsette wrestled to regain her composure, rising to her feet. "You nitwit! You've already spent so much on me! Why would you-?"

"We needed it fixed." he cut in. "And...you're also my only ride home. I still can't-a believe it was cheaper to have-a this-a fixed than a ticket off-a the island."

"Oh...right."

The Pianta stepped up to Mario. "You sure you wanna take her out now? Late night flying's kinda hazardous, my friend."

Mario smiled back wearily. "We'll-a see about-a that." he said with a yawn.

"Suit yourself." shrugged the Pianta. "You got my bill. I'll be awaiting the payments. Gate's staying open till you two leave."

He grinned. All the while, Bowsette was already fumbling her way into the Koopa Copter. Her tail jutting out like some sort of periscope. Her head popped out soon after. Mario was already making his way, leaping aboard when he was close enough. Bowsette's fingers caressed the edges of the transport. Her grip tightened, activating the propeller beneath them.

"Oh yeah! Listen to that purr!" she bellowed. Her gaze shifted to her passenger, who was now looking more wiped out than ever.

"So...you ready?"

Mario nodded. "Let's-a go."

With that, off into the night sky they went. Bowsette hollered like an animal the whole climb.

The Koopa Copter pressed on over the ocean. Its headlight eyes brightly beaming into the darkness. Its occupants blissfully soaring in the night air. Bowsette felt every tingle, every whoosh of the wind caressing her soft skin. How she had missed being able to fly. Now she was finally headed home to her beloved son and mighty militia. While she did acknowledge it was Mario's fault her vehicle had been sunk in the first place, she could at least admit it had been rather thoughtful of him to take it where he did. At least now they had the means of getting back home.

Admittedly, she had contemplated setting her date ablaze for his mistakes, but this by far had made up for a good portion of his sins in her eyes. It was the happiest she had ever been in his presence since everything began. He did all of this simply so they could get back to solid ground. Maybe his selflessness really knew no bounds. It almost made her regret some of the actions she took against him. Truth be told, she had begun to feel somewhat guilty earlier. After a period of flying, she began to speak.

"Hey...pipsqueak?" she asked.

"Mm-hmm?" replied Mario resting his chin on his palm.

"I uh...I've been thinking." Bowsette continued. "Maybe the whole stepping on my dress thing wasn't the best."

"Mm, no." muttered Mario.

"No, seriously." persisted Bowsette. "Here you are doing all these crazy things for me, and I'm here giving you nothing but trouble. Don't think I'm apologizing or anything."

She paused. Her focus remained in the distance as her hair trailed behind. Thick wisps waving at her sides. He did not say anything. That feeling of the Piantas bearing down on her slowly resurfaced.

"I-It was smart of you is what I'm saying!" she prolonged. "You know what? Maybe I'll take back some of the crud I launched your direction. Not all of it, just some! I mean, I still think you're a dumb plumber who doesn't know when to quit, but this was one of the better things you've done! Frankly, I almost wish I had people as obedient as you in my ranks! And I don't say that to just anyone!"

Still, more silence. Perhaps her words had not yet swayed him? And that stupid sensation of guilt still rumbled in her belly.

"Numbskull, I...you're not totally useless. I'm not sorry. I guess I'm just seeing how much effort you're putting towards getting Peach back. It's...admirable. And...know...I am grateful to have my Copter back."

The awkward hum between her banters was becoming bothersome. Maybe he really wanted her to feel guilty.

"Uh...Fuzz face?"

A nudge at her arm. Mario had somehow drifted off in the middle of her rant only to end up reclining on her shoulder. It was by some sort of miracle he had not yet toppled over to the floor.

"D-Did you seriously just conk out on my arm?!"

Bowsette found herself fuming at not having her words heard. Still, there he was. Nonchalantly napping away on her arm. It sure would be an inconvenience for her to accidentally shove him into the ocean…

The Koopa Copter slowed to a stop. Her fingers wrapped around his overalls, lifting him over the edge. The sleeping plumber being none the wiser. About as heavy a sleeper as he was a nuisance. Judging by the hour, the waters below would be freezing cold. It would be a painful wake up call for sure. Although there was the possibility of him not waking up at all. A malicious grin smeared across her face. Her hand ready to release at a moment's notice.

Such a moment never came. For one reason or another, Bowsette's fingers simply would not release their vice grip. It was the perfect plan. Utterly simplistic. This pesky plumber may never bother her again. Still, her hand refused to obey commands. Each digit felt as if it had been glued to Mario's clothing. Making things stranger was how he appeared to be glowing in the sparse moonlight. Defenseless. Weak. He looked completely harmless in such a compromised state. And his snores. How could something this fragile have been such a thorn in her side? Her arm must have remained outstretched for the longest time. The dastardly flames behind her ruby red eyes slowly dimmed. Topping it all of was her grin, once wide and wild like the crescent moon above, had all but melted. She reasserted her hands on her vehicle's edges. The Koopa Copter sped off into the night.