Author's Note: Thanks again for all the support with the fic you guys. Whether you comment "cringe" or "love", it means a lot! Also, I meant to put this in the last one I uploaded, but I thoroughly apologize if I spammed anyone's inbox with edit messages. I'm still learning the site. Though originally planned to be two separate chapters, in the end I decided to combine them into one. Hope you enjoy part 5!

Chapter 5: Unspoken

Junior stared at the large Grand-Koopa clock intensely. For hours now, he had waited, gazing at the swinging pendulum as it went back and forth behind its glass pane as if expecting something to happen. The minute arm jumping higher and higher up the clock's face reflected in the youngling's small, beady eyes. Other than the unceasing ticking, his only other disturbance was the crackling of the fireplace. Its flames lighting the foyer where various paintings of him, his father, and other household members hung. The only company willing to stay with him until his father's eventual return. In time, the oh so recognizable tune of midnight echoed from the contraption. That was the end. Another night without a parent.

"Young Master Junior?"

Kamek walked over to the lonely Koopa. There was not even a head tilt or anything. Bowser Jr. did nothing to acknowledge the Magikoopa. His blank stare continued.

"Young Master Junior, it's way past your bedtime!" insisted Kamek. His yellow hand nudging the young prince. No matter how he tried though, Junior refused to budge.

"Young Master, please. If we don't get you to bed soon, you'll be grumpy in the morning!"

After a moment, he finally spoke. "Do they always have to be busy Kamek?"

The Magikoopa eyed the small boy worryingly. "Oh. My prince, your father's got responsibilities he needs to tend to. I'm sure he's not doing such things to avoid you."

"And my mama?" he asked hopefully.

Kamek fumbled his words. "Uh, yes well, your mother...I'm sure she too has her own affairs to look after. But rest assured, they think of you on the regular. You needn't worry for them."

Bowser Jr. lowered his gaze to the fire. Its blazes danced in his eyes. He sighed. "I wonder why I never see them together." he muttered resting his chin in his hands. "Like a family."

A gentle hand patted the Koopaling's shoulder. Kamek sat next to his prince. "I understand your sentiments, dear Junior." he nodded in agreement. "It's a sad factor of being royalty I'm afraid."

Junior turned to the Magikoopa. "When I grow up, will I be as busy as them?"

Kamek removed his glasses from his beak, cleaning them with a sleeve. "Well Young Master, for their Kingdom, any Koopa would give everything to preserve it." he answered squinting his tiny eyes. "Even if it meant setting aside his pride."

"What do you mean?"

Before Junior could get his answer, a loud cluttering followed by a familiar voice disturbed the silence from outside. Barking orders were muffled. Something about delivering a package and handling it with the utmost care. Moments later, in came in a tall woman dressed in black. A single tooth poked out her lip. "Sorry I'm late."

"Mama!"

Immediately, Junior rushed over to Bowsette's side, embracing as much of her dress as his stumpy arms could. Bowsette arched a brow, looking at Kamek who was frantically gesturing at the crown atop her head. While this was most certainly not the initial plan, she may as well roll with it.

"Oh, there's my little guy!" she exclaimed, kneeling down to his height for a hug. "And getting bigger and stronger every day I see!"

"Papa said you'd come!" He exclaimed pointing at the fire. "I have so many things to show you! Look! I made that fire all by myself!"

"You did?!" gasped Bowsette. "Lemme see how you did it!"

As Junior geared up for his performance, she strode over to Kamek, promptly explaining the situation and how this whole "helping Mario" thing was going. Her subordinate knowingly nodded. Try as he might to get a few points across, she either dismissed him entirely or refused to acknowledge the question.

"Would it not simply be easier for the two to talk it out?"

"And miss a chance at breaking two Toads with one block? No way!" whispered Bowsette. "And besides, I'm having too much fun with this whole 'girl' thing. You wouldn't believe the things I've gotten away with!"

"What of the threats regarding intruders?" Kamek inquired. "Should we not heed these warnings?"

"Oh, that's just Peach being Peach!" she retorted. "What's a puny little invasion to the raw power of our forces?"

"May I remind you Mario can-"

"Mario's mine now!"

"Oh, darn it!"

The two turned to Bowser Jr. His little display still struggling to get off the ground. "I can't do it! I just can't do it anymore!" he bounced in frustration.

His mother knelt at his side. "What's the matter, sweetie?" she asked.

"I just can't spark a fire!" he groaned, letting himself drop to his rump. "I did it so well earlier though."

She gandered at the nearby clock. Past midnight. "Well, maybe you need time to rest up before you can do another one." She said offering a hand. The youngling begrudgingly grasped it, pouting at his failure.

"C'mon. I'll tell you a story along the way."

Down the expansive halls of Bowser Castle they strode. All the while, Bowsette explained to Junior while she happily made her way here, her trip took longer due to a fierce battle with an old rival. "Wart" was his name, and he was a mighty frightening opponent who rushed her out of nowhere. Though caught off guard, she fought valiantly against his various magic spells and attacks. Victory would easily have been certain had it not been for the fact that her enemy was a cheater. A no good, stinking, step on your toes before they punch you cheater! That explained her slightest limp. Though she managed to get away, she swore up and down that the next time they would meet, that monster would not have it so easy. Junior sang her praises as they entered his room. What a brave woman she was in the face of danger and how he wished he was there to teach that guy a lesson. How dare he have the audacity to strike a lady! Especially his mama! In return, Bowsette told him what a courageous little Koopa he was, daring to come to his mother's rescue against something so scary. For sure, one day people are going to praise him for being as great as his father! To which Bowser would say no. He would be even greater than his father.

Junior beamed the entire time. His eyes alight with fireworks of joy. He clutched his brush in his hand, holding it up to the heavens like a mighty blade. With the greatest bravado his small voice could muster, he cried out. "I'll make you proud mama! I won't let you or papa down! I promise!"

Bowsette giggled. His enthusiasm always had a way of bringing her joy. Bleak as things sometimes got, the little rascal always made her day that much brighter. Whether it was through mobilizing troops or bouncing around with his paintbrush as he was now.

"Be careful tiger!" she called after him. "Don't fall off the bed!"

"Oh, when I see that big scary guy, I'm gonna give him a one! And then a two! And a buckle my shoe!" exclaimed Bowser Jr. His brush thrust about like a sword. "Give him a big wham, wham, bam- woah!"

A misstep led to him falling to the floor. On his shell no less, making it rather difficult to get back up. Bowsette rushed over to make sure he was alright. A hand on his head brought him onto his rear. Her eyes scanned for any sign of injury.

"I'm fine mama!" he scuffled in place. His tiny arms flailed. "Papa says I'm a big Koopa now! I can handle myself!"

Bowsette grinned mischievously. "Oh? So the big prince learned restoration, hmmm?" She readied her fingers. "But can he defend against a vicious tickle attack?!"

"Ahh! Mama!"

Poor Junior quickly lost himself in the flurry of laughs and giggles, quite literally, at the hands of his mother. He flailed helplessly, laughing while Bowsette squealed in excitement. Eventually, her onslaught stopped, letting her son catch her breath. The youngling stammered to his feet only to let out a long, strained yawn. She chuckled in response. "Alright kiddo, Bedtime!"

Junior rubbed his eyes. His demeanor slowly changed, as if he suddenly had something to say.

Bowsette inched closer. "Something up, sweetie?"

Junior put his hands behind his back. His feet brushing against each other. "Mama?" he asked. "Do you and papa...love each other?"

She blinked in surprise. Her words soft. "Oh, of course! Why wouldn't we?" she replied.

Again the little Koopa shuffled shyly in place. "It's just I never see you two at the same time." he muttered. "Whenever King Dad's around, you're not here, and when you're here, Papa's always busy. A-Are you...doing a divorce?"

That was new. Never before had Bowsette heard him use that word. He really was expanding his vocabulary. It left her momentarily speechless. Regaining her senses, she gently cradled the tiny Koopaling onto his bed. "Junior." she began.

"I'm serious mama!" he cut in. Pleading eyes blinked as she tucked him in. "You can tell me if you are. I won't be hurt."

Her large hands draped the covers over him. Lips struggling to string a proper sentence. She tried again. "Sweetheart, your father and I…" she paused. Thin fingers gently running through Junior's hair. His hopeful eyes idly staring back.

"Think of us like two ships sailing in the moonlit night." Bowsette whispered. "Always passing each other, but never quite meeting. He's got many royal matters to attend to. As do I. But it doesn't mean I love him any less."

Junior yawned a second time, bearing his only tooth. "I just wish you two weren't so busy. So I could have you here night and day."

It was a challenge trying to force her smile with trembling lips. Her hand caressed his forehead. "Maybe someday." she agreed. A finger softly ran across his cheek.

His beady eyes looked up at her one last time. "Do you promise to be here when I wake up?"

She leaned in to kiss his forehead. In a voice warm and soft, she replied reassuringly. "I promise." With that, the lamp at Junior's bedside clicked off. Slowly, Bowsette made her way back to the dimly lit doorway. She took one last look at her son before whispering. "Goodnight sweetheart."

No response. The little guy was already fast asleep.

Not long after, Bowsette strode back down the halls of her mighty kingdom. Someone was already waiting for her at the end of the hallway.

"My liege? A word with you, if you please?"

"That's what you're scared of? Bah, ye have little faith in your own king, Kamek." Bowser grumbled as his shell was waxed down.

"I simply don't want this whole 'Bowsette' thing going to your head your majesty." Kamek continued at the throne's armrest. His wand waved about while nail filers and scrubbing sponges flew around the massive Koopa. "I know how much you despise the appearance of smooth skins, so it's only natural of me to worry about how you've faired thus far."

"I'm fine, old chum." groaned Bowser. He blew on his free hand after his nails were properly filed down. "I mean, I'll admit, I've been getting eyed like no one's business. Everyone genuinely seems to like me as a smooth skin. And you know how much people outside my kingdom dislike me."

The Magikoopa let out a chuckle. "Oh, come now your grace, surely there's someone out there who…"

He stopped. The Koopa King's piercing red eyes glared at him under bushy brows. Bowser truly was hated amongst those outside his control, if not, one of the most hated fiends to grace the Mushroom Kingdom. And he knew it. Kamek promptly changed tactics.

"W-What of the young master? He adores you, my liege." he reminded. "As do the rest of us subordinates along with your children busily building their own lives as we speak. Is there really anything greater?"

Of course he was grateful his children respected and looked up to him. In his heart however, something always felt empty despite his best efforts to ignore it. He sighed a puff of smoke.

"I'm just worried about Junior." he sighed. "He's fallen for the whole 'Mom' thing, but I don't know what he'll say if he finds out." A palm to his chin. "Truth be told, I've always wanted someone else to be there in my absence for my baby boy. To give him someone else to rely on other than his old man."

Kamek knowingly nodded. His magic wand continuously commanding beauty product after beauty product. "As such, how long are you prepared to keep this ruse with Mario? Obviously you can't keep it up fore-"

"What are you implying?! I'll drop him like a bob-bomb as soon as that lousy Peach gets back together with him!"

Turtle wax, brushes, and Kamek tumbled away at his powerful roar. The Magikoopa scrambled for his hat, visibly shaken. Bowser had already risen from his throne. His mouth steaming.

"Whaddaya think this is, a lost episode of 'Dream Daddy'?" Bowser huffed. A light red tinge on his cheeks. "I know perfectly well what I'm doing Kamek!"

The Magikoopa adjusted his glasses, picking up his wand. "You know I'm not one to question your rule, great one...albeit I do find it concerning that you've been curling your hair for the last ten minutes."

Bowser froze. His fingers really were still stuck in his hair. He immediately stopped, hiding his hand behind his back. His face now redder than ever. For once, not at the hands of a burning fireball waiting to deploy.

Kamek sighed. "Just so we're clear, I'm not talking down to you Bowser." he continued. "I'm simply saying we'll accept you the way you want us to accept you. King or Queen."

"I'm sorry, what?" the Koopa King asked again.

The Magikoopa busily picked up the scattered beauty products. "Bowser, I simply want you to understand that no matter what shenanigans you pull, you are still our king. After all, we know better than to question your authority."

Bowser blinked in surprise. Everything his subordinate was saying was indeed true. It was because he was ruthless, fearless, and merciless when it came to taking charge. Whatever he said was unchallenged law. Even if it meant something truly ridiculous. Something like bringing no harm to a sleeping Mario he had so unwittingly brought to the kingdom. No matter how ridiculous the request, they always followed through. The question remained however.

"Why ever not?"

A smiling Kamek waved his wand in the air, making his tools disappear. "We've gotten so use to your tyrannical rule around here. It is the only way we see fit to operate."

Silence. Eventually, the robed Magikoopa bid his master farewell for the night. There was no response. Bowser watched his most trusted subordinate walk out the throne room doors. In the lightest tone, he whispered.

"But that's all you've ever known…"

"Mama Mia."

Mario stirred awake as tiny glimmers of light hovered over his eyelid. Wherever he was, it was dark. Unpleasantly dark. And just as cramped. It was difficult to even stretch his legs. A bag! He was trapped in some sort of bag! He immediately began to panic. His frantic fingers felt around for the opening.

"Bingo!"

He burst out of the potato sack to the fresh outside air. At least, that was what he expected. This was most certainly not his house. It barely even looked like the hotel they had stayed in. His eyes darted from side to side. He had awoken on the most lavish bed. Its greens sheets remarkably undisturbed. This room was a light yellow in color with the occasional green décor. A small dresser at the foot of the bed, a small table the opposite side. Such a simplistic little design, but the materials everything was crafted from looked rather pricey. And the scent. Such a succulent, sweet, scent of honeysuckle. Birds chirped happily outside an open window. The warm sunlight bathed him in a welcoming, homey heat behind yellow drapes. Strange. This place looked rather familiar, but from where he was unsure. His only company was a lone question block sitting at his side.

Puzzled, he carefully pulled it to his lap. There was a small sticky note attached to its face. Such lovely handwriting. He read aloud.

"Dunno where you live. This is for you. Next time, I WILL-a drop you. 'Heart'-a Bowsette?"

A strange way to end the letter for sure. And what was up with the item block? That nefarious Koopa probably had the thing booby trapped with a Piranha Plant or a Bob-omb for sure. He jumped off the bed, setting the block on a soft green carpet. Slowly, gently, he jabbed it with a knuckle.

Ba-ding!

He hid under his hat. A moment later he peeked an eye out. Not a single hazard came out. No explosion. No toothy vegetables. Not even an angry mushroom. Just the sound of a coin. He hesitantly nudged it a second time, taking a step back as soon as he did.

Ba-ding!

"Oh?"

Ba-ding!

"Hmm…"

Ba-ding, Ba-ding!

More coins jumped out the block. The thing must have been full of them. And Bowsette said this was for him? This had to be some kind of joke! Maybe he finally got through to that girl. This was a victory in his court for sure! Forgetting where he was, Mario threw caution to the wind and set the block right above him. With the widest of smiles, he jumped repeatedly into it, all the while screaming "Wee-Hoo!"

Up and down, up and down.

Ba-ding, Ba-ding, Ba-ding!

The coin supply seemed endless! From ground pounds, to punches, to kicks. Every impact brought with it more money! In all the commotion, he never registered the door clicking open. Suddenly his body was dragged into the doorway. His nose abruptly caught inside the nozzle of a Poltergust 3000. A hauntingly panicked voice called out his name.

"Mario!"

"Wahh!"

His large nose clogged the vacuum, threatening to suffocate the poor plumber. He screamed as he vainly struggled to pull himself free. On the other end was his brother staring with eyes the size of saucers.

"M-Mario?!"

"Luigi!" came out in a nasally scream. "Turn this thing off!"

The noisy machine clicked off, leaving a disheveled Mario in a daze.

"Bro, are you crazy?!" cried Luigi as he rushed over. "How did-a you get into my house?!"

The older plumber did his best to regain his bearings. "Ugh. I must've fallen-asleep last-a night while on-a my way home!" he replied. "Bowser must've dropped-a me off here."

Luigi's face flooded with fright. "Huh?! How does-a Bowser know where I live?!"

Mario shook his head, adjusting his cap. "Next time, I suggest you don't-a put-a banner with your emblem on-a the roof."

"Oh...heh heh." chuckled Luigi. His cheeks turning red with embarrassment.

The older brother picked his block back up. He then explained the events leading to his unwarranted intrusion on his brother's privacy. Dear Luigi was still in his pajamas from leaping out of bed after hearing his brother's excitement. At first, he assumed it was a ghost coming to retake his mansion. Either that or the likes of no-good Nabit. Truth be told, he would have kept the machine running just to see if Mario's mustache came off. Both laughed at the circumstances soon after with Luigi offering breakfast and a chance to listen to his brother's woes.

"Sounds like you had-a fun vacation!" laughed Luigi. He tossed an egg over. Mario caught it on his arm, rolled it over his shoulders, and snatched it out of the air with a twirl before cracking it on a frying pan. He skillfully flipped it about until it hit that perfect caramelized color.

"If-a by fun you mean-a losing an entire month's worth of 1ups." replied Mario shaking his head. "And he's not-a giving-up until me-Peach is-at my door."

The younger brother busily flipped through his phone. "Why not-a just talk-a to Peach?"

Mario set his plate at the table, preparing to join his brother. "I want to. But you know Bowser. His way or-no way, especially when it-a comes to deals."

"Well, at least she hasn't-a set you on-a fire yet." He said patting the red plumber on the back. He then made a twin gun gesture with his hands. "Although now, I'd-a be more concerned-about what flowers I'm-a gonna bring on my next date, Casanova."

The fork in the older brother's hand rocketed out his hand like a bullet into the ceiling. His face went completely red. Mustache stiff. Eyes peeled back with his pupils shrinking to near nonexistence. "Luigi!" scolded Mario in a comedic mixture of flustered disgust.

Luigi shrugged meekly. A coy grin crossed his lips. "Do you like her?"

Mario jumped right out of his chair. "Mama Mia, are you crazy?!"

The green missile went on teasing him. "It's-a simple 'yes' or 'no' question." he stated smugly.

"That's still-a Bowser! And he hates me!" Mario cried throwing his arms up.

"What about this Bowsette?"

"W-what-about her?!" Mario crossed his arms. It was far too obvious he was getting more and more flustered by the minute.

"I'm-a just saying. You're sure trying hard to change him." Luigi laughed setting his phone to the side.

Steam puffed out of Mario's ears. "I'm-a not-a trying to change him!" he wagged his finger in his brother's face "And there's-a nothing between-us!"

Luigi's eyes idly inched to the side. "Then what's with-the 'number one boyfriend' button? Hmm?"

Mario's hat was still on the table with that same button stuck to it. By now, Mario himself had gone cherry red in the face. His words no longer materialized in his throat. There was none. His mind empty with nothing but a branded image of his former foe turned admirer. At least, by his mocking sibling's standpoint. Without so much as a finger, Luigi pushed Mario back on his seat. His body tense like a statue.

"Hahaha! I'm-a just-a pulling your leg bro!" he laughed cheerfully. "Now eat! Your eggs are getting cold!"

Mario snapped from his trance. "Y-You are?"

Luigi picked up his phone again. His smile reassuring. "Of course! This is just-a for the time you embarrassed me in front of-a Daisy."

"O-Oh." Of course Luigi was joking. What in the world made him think otherwise? It was just his brother being his brother. Nothing else. Still, Mario admittedly felt silly for getting up in arms about the situation. Usually this only happened when poking at one another about the princesses. Why Mario had any reason to think this was similar he could not yet comprehend. He slowly let himself slump back in his chair saying nothing. Silent. He reached for his fork. It was gone. Still stuck to the ceiling.

Luigi let out one final tease. "Kootchie Kootchie!"

"No!"

"Ooh hoa ha!" he laughed as Mario chased him around the kitchen table.

With Bowser's "absence", Queen Koopa made it a point to contact Mario soon afterwards. A quick message announced a temporary break from their little escapade so Bowsette could have some quality time with Junior. She felt she owed it to her youngling after his spell of sadness while she was off on business. Mario agreed. He too had to get back to work for a while to make up for recent events, despite Bowsette's patronage. A subject she promptly hung up on when asked about it.

Over the coming days, Peach's paranoia seemed unending. What little public appearances she did make typically involved going to different parts of town to ensure nothing was amiss. Going around acknowledging patrons with her loyal Toads at her side became much more mainstream, albeit her trips outside the kingdom no longer had any merit of fun. No more sports events she would invite the Mario brothers to. Not even her usual walks down the Mushroom Kingdom's streets to let off some steam. Rest assured, she repeatedly told her subjects this would only be temporary, at least until the rest of her beloved kingdom got back on its feet. If others did not know her better, they may have assumed she was turning into a hermit.

Talk about invaders became so prevalent, even the townsfolk began spreading rumors. Some going so far as to claim Daisy from Sarasaland had been under fire from the mysterious invaders, but was able to flush them out with minimal effort. Early detection was key some whispered, going as far as to properly inspect each and every individual who came into the Kingdom. Bowsette was no exception, with guards checking under her shell when she visited after a while of absence. Thus, it felt all the more satisfying smacking those who wanted to inspect her "undercarriage".

Meanwhile, Mario had emerged from his home after tending to an emergency plumbing job. With no princess to rescue, work had been piling up like mad as of late. So long as the money kept rolling in, little else mattered. After all, a job was a job, and it always brought him warmth seeing the smiling faces of patrons after their repairs were complete. His favorite part.

As he made his way down the path that would lead him to the kingdom's square, he could not help but think of that oversized Koopa who had brought him both pain and laughter. It was bizarre. Despite their long history, she had managed to bring a smile to his face on occasion. Granted yes, that had occurred at his expense, but it was a start. He still wanted to believe. Holding hope that there was some good in that old evil king's heart.

Not long after, he arrived at his destination. Despite everything looking relatively normal, he still heard the fear in the air. It reminded him of the days leading up to an invasion from Bowser himself. Yet, he was too busy either ruling his kingdom or spending time with Mario. Unless he was up to his old antics again? If that was the case, he would keep watch next time he would encounter Bowsette. Dropping some coins into a donation basket, he heard an all too familiar voice entice his eardrums.

"What's that they say? 'No good deed goes unpunished'?"

Speak of the Shadow Queen. His beloved Koopa Queen had been leaning against the donation stand, watching him the entire time. A pink bubble popping at her lips while dark sunglasses hid her eyes. The rest of her however remained unchanged. The same, silky black dress. The same spiny green shell at her back. Mario found himself slowly turn red again. "W-When'd you get here?"

She sighed. "Just now. You generous gun-of-a-son, up to giving your hard earned cash to some stupid helpline?"

He spun on his heel to walk away. She followed suit.

"How's-a Junior?"

Bowsette mumbled under her breath. "He's fine." she said softly. "I see everyone's been jumpy as of late. I haven't been planning anything to cause this."

Mario shrugged. "I know." he replied.

The two continued on. Their hands behind their backs. Their eyes avoiding contact with one another. Neither said a word.

"So…" Bowsette spoke.

He looked up at her shyly. "So what?" he asked.

She nibbled the inside of her lip before stopping mid-street. Mario turned to face her. His hearing straining for a response.

"You...gonna take me out on a date or what?"

It may have been the way she said it, but a cheerful smile began to cross Mario's lips.

Another day went by with the two spending time together. First beginning with a walk across the Mushroom Kingdom's main square, looking from shop to shop with Bowsette surprisingly not asking for anything. The thought of her wanting to go window shopping caught Mario by surprise to say the least, though he was content knowing his wallet would be safe from her clutches. At least for the moment. The two eyed trinkets, oddities, and some strange glass globes that made the other individual look like they had shrunk or grown on the other side. That one got a laugh out of both of them. It did not take long for Bowsette to get back to her usual mischievous ways however. At one point, she tried asking the clerk to lean in closer, complementing how silky smooth her hair was and how she just had to hear her beauty secrets. That being said, she was simply using it as an excuse to get rid of her gum in some innocent shopkeeper's hair. Fortunately, Mario quickly put a stop to it, inching them both out the door when he realized this. She was less than amused, promising she just wanted to look at her luscious hair. Mostly.

Hours later, they went into a smoothie parlor where Bowsette eagerly asserted herself to the front of the line, much to her date's distaste. Before he entered however, he noticed a lone denizen sitting idly alone. She looked glum, sighing deeply to herself. Eventually, Bowsette came out with two drinks for her and Mario. He tapped his chin, then took one of the cups, offering it to the lone girl. Her eyes lit up in surprise. He tipped his hat, saying it was on him. In returned, she thanked him, recognizing him as the famous Super Mario, to which he simply chuckled before bidding her goodbye.

Bowsette sat down at a table, glaring at the little plumber's actions. She had bought that smoothie specifically for him. When he refunded her however, he quickly explained his reasoning behind his madness. Predictable Mario. Always giving random things to strangers. Yet, her expression changed ever so slightly, almost questioning if she should even feel any resentment towards him at all. When asked about why he would do such a thing without any manner of gain, he simply stated.

"It's-always nice knowing you made-a someone's day."

Of course he would say that. Bowsette knew what to expect but could not help asking anyway. Typical selfless Mario. That phrase echoed in her mind as she took a sip, gulping down a good part of her smoothie. She stared off at the other patrons in their vicinity, not really paying mind to her date. Without realizing it, both her and Mario unwittingly went to wrap their lips around the same straw only to bump cheeks. Both locked eyes. Their flushed faces eerily close to each other. Seconds later, they pulled away with a loud "HEE-YUCK!"

Moments after, the pair treaded down one of the kingdom's many public gardens. It was a scenic path lined with flowers on each side that ran for a good few yards. Their petals blazing brightly in the orange sunlight. Some flew about in the wind. Such a romantic scene did little to impress the Koopa Queen however. Just when it seemed Bowsette was beginning to get bored, Mario pulled her to one of the telescopes overlooking the guard walls. He inserted a coin without a second thought. Trying to get up to the looking hole however was a challenge in itself, as he had to jump to even grab the eyehole. Any chance to see into it however was promptly thwarted by gravity. His short legs flailed about as he struggled.

Bowsette scoffed. Summoning some of her courage, she slowly dug her hands under Mario's armpits, lifting him up to the telescope. He cocked his head back at her in surprise, only for her to look away in shame. Mario chuckled sheepishly before looking through the device. Happily naming off different sights and stars he witnessed, it was only a matter of time before his date got impatient and wanted a look for herself. She gently set Mario down and took the telescope for her own. Bowsette pulled away minutes later with a most mortified expression. Her skin in goosebumps, she claimed "the moon had a freakishly angry face". Mario laughed out loud at her ridiculous claim, with her persisting over and over again that she was serious.

"Good-a one, me-Bowser! That's-a funny-!"

"I'm serious, you idiot! That thing's freakin' me out!"

Later, the two ran into a group of parents trying to light sparkling fireworks for their kids. Bowsette overheard neither of them had a lighter, then promptly looked to Mario who happily nodded, waltzing over. Bowsette took the sparklers from the kids, hid them from sight, then presented them fully alight with a "Ta-da!", much to the joy of the children. They cheered, exclaiming thank you to the heavens. Mario looked up at her face. She was smiling. It was not maniacal, vicious, or hungry either. Her eyes were glistening like rubies with no sign of that destructive flame he was so accustomed to seeing. She looked positively genuine. And...unbelievably pretty. Even more curious was when Mario sat down to watch the family play with their sparklers, she sat right next to him. If only for the smallest second, he swore he felt the faintest sensation of her leaning her chin atop his head. And yet, there was no Princess Peach to be seen. There never was...

By the end of the night, they were walking outside the Mushroom Kingdom's walls. Having strayed off the main path, they began traversing the various grassy hills that lined the Kingdom's walls. Both smiled ear to ear, continuing a conversation from earlier.

"So." asked Mario. "What-a made you refund-a me for Isle Delfino?"

Bowsette moaned. Her smile unfazed. "Well, I didn't want to ring you completely dry, you dunce. You wouldn't be able to take me out anymore if that was the case, now would you?" She jabbed his arm playfully. "Think of it as...more money to spend on me."

He rolled his eyes, letting out a light chuckle. She in turn grinned menacingly. Throughout the entire day, she had not even realized they had never caught wind of Peach. They never saw her in public, in hiding, nothing! Surely she was eavesdropping on them though. They merely missed it. Yeah. That was it. With her memory however, Bowsette slowly recalled their little talk back on Delfino. Surely she would have to break it to Mario eventually. Her glee slowly began to diminish.

"Hey, red nose?" she asked rubbing her arm. "If uh...if Peach didn't see any of what happened today...would you, I dunno...wanna...do it again some other time?"

Mario stopped in his tracks, turning to her curiously.

His gaze immediately made her tense. "Err, I mean, after all, we're still on a mission, right? Not that I'd want it for anything else!"

He eyed her from horns to toes. Never had he expected to hear such a phrase come out from her of all people. "Bowser?" asked Mario. His voice soft and smooth. "Yes."

An awkward silence filled the air. In a mixture of assertiveness and nervousness, she nodded. "G-Good! I'd expect nothing less."

A light sigh came from the plumber's lips as he continued on. He smirked. "It's-a nice of you. Asking me this time instead of-a just saying so."

"Nice?!" Bowsette exclaimed. "Pbbbt! Not in the slightest! I'm evil! I reek of evil!" She hissed.

Mario grinned over his shoulder. While bizarre, it seemed she nearly became an entirely different person when cornered.

The Koopa Queen reached for her precious crown. "I mean, I can take this stupid thing off right here and now if I so wanted! I'd like to see you make those goo goo eyes at me without it!"

"Go ahead. I'm-a not gonna stop-a you." he replied nonchalantly. Once more beginning his stride.

"I-I mean it, fatso!" she threatened. Her fingers wrapped around the Super Crown. Then she squinted suspiciously. "Wait, I see what you're doing!" she cried rushing over in front of him. "You're trying to convince me to take off my crown by telling me not to take off my crown. Ha! I figured you out! I'm not falling for your little ruse!"

He laughed as he stared up at her. Her brows furrowed. Her claws bared. Yet, for whatever reason, she no longer came off as threatening. Perhaps it could be that embarrassed blush across her face that simply vanquished all manner of terror. She groaned, but made the faintest attempt to follow him.

"I don't-a get you, Bowser." said Mario. "Why do you always-over-a think things?"

It was a trait she hated admitting to herself. One of the reasons why it seemed no matter what she tried, she never could come out on top. She gazed up at the starry night sky. Her gaze sad. "I guess I jump to conclusions way too quickly when I panic."

Mario giggled. "Is that-a why you jumped onboard with the idea of-a dating me?"

She winced. Her cheeks went deathly red. "I-It was on a whim, okay?! I mean, you easily could've said no, so obviously you wanted some Koopa kissing!"

He gasped. His face too went red. "N-No. It's-a just...you're-a Bowser! And I didn't-a wanna do anything rash!"

"Uh-huh. Sure." she teased.

This was the greatest hero of the Mushroom Kingdom? Not that she was never witness to his bravery in the face of peril, but here, now, in the presence of a woman, it seemed almost comedic seeing him so unsure of himself. Dare she say...it was almost precious. Soon, Bowsette stopped walking all together.

"W-Wait." she called.

Mario was already inches away from a nearby pipe. When he noticed she was no longer following, he turned around. "What?"

She hesitated for a second before smiling. A light giggle escaped her lips. "Am I the only one who noticed we've talked for almost a whole hour?"

Mario blinked in surprise. Strange as it sounded, Bowsette was right. Throughout a good portion of the day, the two had somehow managed to keep an ongoing conversation. It was not by accident either. While hard to believe, both seemed to have generally been enjoying each other's company for once. Come to think of it, this was perhaps the longest time either of them had spent talking to each other, willingly having continued from one topic to the other without once resorting to punches. It was a record to say the least. One neither of them ever saw set or even less expected to be broken.

Bowsette chuckled. "And this coming from a guy who's entire dialogue consists of 'Woo's, 'Hoo-Hoo's, and 'Wah-ha's!"

"Oh? You're-a the one who communicates-a through growls and-a groans!" Mario shot back.

For a moment, they both went quiet before erupting into a hearty laugh that knocked them both onto the grassy hill. They laughed atop their green mound without a care in the world. Not only had they had the longest non-violent conversation, but now they were rolling with bliss like two lifelong friends barely meeting each other for the first time. In time, their laughter died down. All they were left with was an orchestra of chirping crickets and an inky backdrop of glistening stars. Their eyes locked onto each other. Neither said a word. For the longest of times, they lay on the grass. Mario stared into her glistening red eyes that twinkled like rubies with the light of the moon. Bowsette stared at his sky blue ones, shining like some cobalt gem. The heavy air both of them had previously felt in each other's presence was long gone. In its place, a comfort. A warmth. A trust. Neither of them registered their pinky fingers had since intertwined together until Bowsette looked down and pulled her hand away. Her face turning redder than ever before. Mario stood up, shyly scratching his cheek. To say the cool summer air suddenly went unbearably hot was an understatement. For them at least.

Bowsette was the first one on her feet. "Ahem. Well...I do have to get home and make sure Junior's asleep."

Mario nodded. "Yeah...and I gotta get-a home and make sure Yoshi hasn't-a eaten-all the groceries-again."

Both shuffled in place. "So...same time next week?"

He stared dreamy eyed. "Of course." With the biggest of smiles, Mario jumped to the edge of the pipe. With one last look at his date, he uttered. "Well, Goodnight, me-Bowsette!"

She perked up. "W-Wait, what-!?"

By the time her hand reached out, he was long gone. Bowsette stood alone before the evening glow as the pipe sunk back underground. Her hand must have remained outreached for the longest time until gravity outmatched her endurance. The stars twinkled in her ruby red irises. The air around her electric. She smiled. A soft, almost non existent whisper escaped her thin lips.

"Goodnight...Mario."